Arnica

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By Natural Health+

Arnica is a very strong acting medicinal plant. Arnica flowers contain essential oils and flavonoids which could act as anti-inflammatory ingredient, decongestant, and antiseptic.

Because of its potency, arnica could stimulate a certain irritation. Some people even have allergic reactions to arnica. Therefore, arnica should be diluted before consumingit internally.

Benefits

Arnica has many medicinal uses. It is used as an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and diuretic agent. It helps alleviate respiratory complaints such aphthae, cold, fever, stomatitis, tonsillitis, and more.

The medicinal plant also heals digestive organs malfunctions, stomach cramps, diarrhea and seasickness. It is also said to improve metabolism. People with rheumatism and gout also use arnica.

Another use of arnica is in the regulation of cardiovascular diseases in people with heart problems and heart failure. Taking arnica would improve the performance of thecardiovascular system. It is even effective to clear eczema.

Assessment

Extracts of arnica flowers are used mainly to treat blunt injuries, such as contusions, bruises and sprains, superficial phlebitis, inflammation of the mouth and throat, rheumatic complaints and insect bites. Preparations of arnica flowers should only be applied topically to intact skin! Just monitor, as the intake can cause local irritation of the stomach-intestinal tract, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

The same substance can also be found as an additive in hair lotions, toothpastes and other cosmetic products. Because of the sensitizing potential, cosmetic preparations should not be used uncritically.

There are plenty of preparations: from extracts of arnica flowers alone or in combination with other substances present in the form of ointments, mouthwash, and tinctures. For internal use, homeopathic dilutions are recommended.