Homeopathic arnica — a highly diluted form — has been used for centuries as an alternative medicine to
treat hair loss, arthritis, inflammation, bruises, infections, and muscle and joint pain
( 1 ). However, the herb itself is highly poisonous and considered unsafe.
Is arnica and arnica the same?
The scientific name for arnica is Arnica montana. It’s also known as:
Mountain tobacco
.
Leopard’s bane
.
How does arnica homeopathy work?
Homeopathic arnica is widely believed to
control bruising, reduce swelling and promote recovery after local trauma
; many patients therefore take it perioperatively. To determine whether this treatment has any effect, we conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial with three parallel arms.
Because of its ability to prevent clots from forming, Arnica should not be taken with other medications or herbal products that can thin the blood like aspirin, clopidogrel, warfarin, enoxaparin, apixaban, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, ginger, garlic, or ginseng, to name a few.
What is arnica and how does it work?
The reason arnica works is because, like many plants, it has
antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties
, says Anderson. When arnica cream or arnica gel is applied, it stimulates circulation, helping the body’s own healing system react—which encourages some speedy relief.
Can you take arnica daily?
For topical treatment of conditions such as osteoarthritis, it is suggested that you should use an arnica gel product with a 50 gram/100 gram ratio and rub it into the affected joints
two to three times daily for 3 weeks
.
Does arnica oil regrow hair?
When used topically, it can help
unplug hair
follicles and increase hair growth.
Does arnica raise blood pressure?
High blood pressure:
Arnica might increase blood pressure
. Don’t take arnica if you have high blood pressure. Surgery: Arnica might cause extra bleeding during and after surgery. Stop using it at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Is it safe to use arnica under eyes?
Use caution when applying arnica near your eyes
In addition, while
arnica is safe on the skin
, it could cause serious injury if it gets in your eye. Be careful when applying it near your eyes.
What are the benefits of arnica?
Its flowers and roots have been used to
treat bruises, sprains, arthritic pain, and muscle aches
. A highly diluted form of Arnica is also used in homeopathic remedies. In vitro studies show that arnica has antimicrobial
( 1 )
and anti-inflammatory
( 2 )
properties.
Is arnica good for joint pain?
Arnica gel can relieve osteoarthritis pain
, and may be able to reduce rheumatoid arthritis pain, but more research is necessary. Arnica gel can also treat sore muscles following exercise or surgery.
Is arnica good for inflammation?
Arnica is well known for
its anti-inflammatory properties
. It contains a wide array of inflammation-fighting plant compounds, such as sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids, and phenolic acids. As such, it’s believed to help with pain management ( 1 ).
What is the best homeopathic remedy for inflammation?
- Aconitum napellus. This remedy may be helpful for pain and inflammation that comes on suddenly after exposure to cold wind and weather. …
- Arnica. …
- Belladonna. …
- Bryonia. …
- Calcarea phosphorica. …
- Ledum palustre. …
- Pulsatilla. …
- Rhus toxicodendron.
What does arnica do for your skin?
People use arnica as a cream or gel for
soothing muscle aches and inflammations and healing wounds
. When applied to the skin, it may improve healing by decreasing swelling and pain and speeding blood reabsorption. People also apply arnica to the skin for treatment of acne, boils, and rashes.
Can arnica help with nerve pain?
Arnica is commonly marketed by homeopathic drug manufacturers as an effective treatment for: Osteoarthritis. Post-shingles
neuralgia
.
Diabetic neuropathy
.
Does arnica interact with any medications?
When used topically or in a homeopathic remedy,
arnica does not interact with any conventional medications
.
