The Use of Arnica: Benefits and Contraindications

The use of arnica to relieve muscle pain and bruising dates back to ancient times. We'll tell you more about the benefits of this plant as well as its contraindications.

According to popular literature, the benefits of arnica vary greatly.

This is a plant from the family Asteraceae that’s native to Central and Southern Europe, but it’s also present in Asia and North America. You’ve probably heard of it because it’s a common ingredient in creams or ointments to relieve bruises and muscle pain. While the most common use of arnica is to treat certain inflammatory conditions, some say it can be beneficial for hair growth as well.

Do you want to know more about the benefits and contradictions of this plant?

In this article, we’ll you all about it.

The uses of arnica and its benefits

As we mentioned, the use of arnica, which is similar in its appearance to the daisy, dates back to ancient times. Generation after generation has used it to treat bruises and muscle aches.

Below, we’ll offer you details regarding the properties and health benefits of arnica.

1. It helps to relieve pain

Arnica is popular for its anti-inflammatory properties. This is because, according to a review published in The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, it contains several chemical compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids. Because of this, it supposedly decreases inflammation and relieves pain.

Also, research published in The Cochrane Library on the topical use of herbs to treat osteoarthritis showed that arnica extract gel can produce effects similar to those provided by ibuprofen. Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug useful for the pain of people with osteoarthritis.

However, it is worth noting that studies are inconclusive regarding the effectiveness of the plant’s pain-relieving properties. Also, there is no detailed and accurate information regarding the current dose.

2. It helps to reduce bruising

Bruises appear as a result of a blow or trauma to any part of the body. They originate when blood vessels on the surface closest to the skin break as a result of the impact.

Arnica could help to reduce these marks thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects. In this regard, a review published in the American Journal of Therapeutics indicates that this plant would be more effective than a placebo for the treatment of various conditions. For example, post-traumatic and post-operative pain, edema, and bruises.

On the other hand, a study published in The British Journal of Dermatology showed that 20% arnica gel was more effective than 5% vitamin K and a placebo given to people with small hematomas created by the use of lasers.

3. It helps prevent hair loss

In addition to the benefits mentioned above, arnica may have properties to promote hair growth and prevent hair loss. It seems that the use of the oil of this plant helps reduce irritation and inflammation of the scalp.

In this case, several sources of anecdotal data validate the effectiveness of the use of arnica for this purpose and in popular in hair care routines. However, there is very little scientific documentation of it.

The main uses of arnica and how to prepare it

One of the most popular uses of arnica for its benefits is topical. However, you can also use it to prepare infusions. We’ll tell you how to prepare both of these two options.

Gel

Topical use is the most suitable for treating inflammations and bruises. For this reason, and due to its absorption capacity, the gel form is a good idea in these cases.

To make your own ointment, follow the steps detailed below.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of coconut oil (400 ml)
• 1/2 cup of dry arnica (50 gr)
• 1/2 cup grated beeswax (62 gr)

Preparation:

• First, pour the coconut oil and dried arnica into a pot and simmer for about 1 hour.
• Then, strain the remains of the preparation and put the pot back on the stove. Next, add the beeswax and continue to simmer until it melts.
• Remove from the heat and wait for a few minutes.
• Now, pour all the ingredients into the blender and blend until you get a smooth mixture.
• Finally, store the ointment in a glass jar with a lid in a cool, dry place.

Infusion

This way of consuming arnica is very easy to prepare. You just need a few ingredients and its elaboration will take you a few minutes. In addition to drinking it, you can also apply it directly if you have a bruise or any muscle pain.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of water (250 ml)
• 1 handful of arnica leaves
• Honey (optional)

Preparation

• First, pour the water into a container and heat to medium temperature.
• Before it reaches boiling point, add the handful of arnica leaves and let it steep for 10 minutes.
• If you’d like, you can sweeten it with honey.

Possible side effects of the use of arnica

Although this is an herb that serves as a natural alternative to treat the conditions already mentioned, it’s important to consider the possible side effects of the use of arnica. In high doses, arnica leads to nausea, vomiting, and digestive problems.

At the same time, some people are allergic to the components of this plant. Also, pregnant or lactating women should avoid it because it would have negative effects on the health of the baby. Therefore, it’s necessary to consult a doctor if you have any questions or before using it.