HEALING PLANT: ARNICA Discover the Natural Healing Properties of the Arnica Flower  | WHAT IS ARNICA? Arnica is an excellent first-aid remedy and is used most commonly for both physical and emotional shock. It promotes healing, controls bleeding, and reduces swelling. Arnica grows primarily in the western mountains, from the Yukon and Northwest Territories in the north to the southwest of America, but it can also be found in small areas as far east as Lake Superior. | | | ARNICA FLOWER HISTORY Arnica was first used in poultices of Arnica to soothe strained muscles and bruises. Settlers from Europe recognized that North American Arnica was closely related to a familiar European medicinal plant, Arnica montana, which was also used to soothe minor aches and pains, as well as to treat wounds. According to a European folk tale, the medicinal value of Arnica was discovered by shepherds who noticed that injured sheep and goats were attracted to the plant. TRADITIONAL ARNICA USES While this herb should not be taken internally as it is potentially toxic, it provides us with one of the best remedies for external local healing and is specifically helpful in healing bruises and sprains. As someone who bruises easily, Arnica has become a Godsend for me; I use it in the form of a cream. The homeopathic preparation is entirely safe to take internally, especially when taken according to homeopathic directions. The herb itself, used externally, will help in the relief of rheumatic pain, the pain and inflammation of phlebitis and similar conditions. It is currently being investigated for possible pain relief for arthritis. Because it is poisonous, it may be used wherever there is pain or inflammation on the skin only if the skin is not broken. | | ARNICA AND OPERATIONS I was lucky enough to go to a pro alternative health hospital when I underwent a recent surgery. The surgeon at this hospital advised me to take arnica tablets two weeks before the operation and two weeks after, in order to reduce the amount of bruising. I did not end up receiving any bruises (which I am assuming I can attribute to my use of Arnica), and so I am naturally very pleased with the results of this herb! TYPES OF ARNICA EXTERNAL PRODUCTS | - Arnica cream: Essential for every first aid box for bruises & sprains.
- Arnica lotion: Use as a compress after injury. The lotion form is easily absorbed and fast-acting.
- Arnica heat rub: An anti-inflammatory with heat for chronic joint and muscle ache.
| MAKING ARNICA REMEDIES AT HOME | You can prepare your own tincture of this herb as follows: - Pour 500ml/1pt of 70% alcohol over 50g/2oz of freshly picked flowers (collect the arnica flower heads between early summer and late summer). Seal it tightly in a clear glass container and let it stand for at least a week in the sun or a warm place. Filter it, and it is ready for use.
- To store it, put the tincture in a sealed container and keep it out of direct sunlight. For a lotion it may be combined with distilled Witch Hazel.
Disclaimer: In very rare cases, allergic skin reactions may appear. Test a small amount on your skin before applying it all over, and discontinue use if irritation occurs. | | More Healthy Living Tips! | | | | | Also Try... | | | | | | Article Written By: Nicola McGeorge; Nicola was born in London, England and is a freelance writer and model. She covers a wide range of topics, and has been published worldwide. |
