September 27, 2002

ARNICA

Latin Name: Arnica montana

Alternate Names: Leopards Bane, Sneezewort, Mountain Tobacco, Mountain Daisy Tumblers Cure All

Family: ASTERACEAE

Parts Used: Flowers, leaves, root.

Properties: Anti-inflammatory, Antiphlogistic, Diuretic, Immune Stimulant, Nerve Stimulant, Rubefacient, Vulnerary.

Internal Uses: Angina, Arteriosclerosis, Catarrh, Concussion, Fever, Gout, Inflammation, Post-traumatic Stress, Postsurgical Trauma, Stroke

Internal Applications: Homeopathic remedy

Arnica improves coronary blood flow and aids in the reabsorption of fibrin, a blood protein resulting from internal injuries. It is also useful for dealing with post traumatic stress disorder resulting from exposure to violence, terror, death, disaster, or hysteria.

Arnica is most popular as a homeopathic remedy where it is administered for epilepsy, injury, seasickness, shock, trauma and vertigo. Used homeopathically before and after surgery, it can help minimize post traumatic stress.

Topical Uses: Bruises, Chilblains, Foot Soreness, Laryngitis, Phlebitis, Rheumatism, Sore Throat, Sprains, Varicose Veins

Topical Applications: Use as a compress, liniment, salve or oil for bruises, chilblains, plebitis, rheumatic pain, sprains and varicose veins. Gargle for laryngitis and sore throat. Footbath for sore feet.

Energetics: Sweet, Neutral.

Chemical Constituents: Essential oil (thymol), sesquiterpene lactones (arnicin, arnicolides, helenalin), flavonoids (eupafolin, pattuletin), polysaccharides, mucilage, bitters, carotenoids, inulin, tannin.

Contraindications: Use internally with caution as it can cause irritation to the kidneys and digestive tract. Can cause dizziness and trembling. It is best used homeopathically or topically. When using topically, only use on unbroken skin; it can cause skin irritation, as can repeated applications.

-- Cheryl in KS (klingonbunny@planetkc.com), September 27, 2002

Answers

-- Cheryl in KS (klingonbunny@planetkc.com), September 27, 2002.