Arnica (Arnica montana) is a perennial herb that grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet. It is generally found in the mountainous parts. Arnica grows from a cylindrical, hairy rhizome with a creeping underground stem. Arnica flowers, fresh or dried, are used medicinally. Many herbalists consider Arnica to be a specific remedy for bruises, sprains, and sore muscles. The active components in Arnica are sesquiterpene lactones, which are known to reduce inflammation and decrease pain. Other active principals are thymol (an essential oil), flavonoids, inulin, carotenoids and tannins.
Studies have determined that Arnica has properties that act as an immunostimulant. The extract of Arnica has been shown to stimulate the action of white blood cells in animal studies, increasing resistance to bacterial infections, such as salmonella. Arnica works by stimulating the activity of white blood cells that perform much of the digestion of congested blood, and by dispersing trapped, disorganized fluids from bumped and bruised tissue, joints and muscles. Arnica is known to stimulate blood circulation and can raise blood pressure, especially in the coronary arteries. The plant is used externally for arthritis, burns, ulcers, eczema and acne. It has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities that can reduce pain and swelling, improving wound healing.
Arnica is approved for external use as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antiseptic by the German Commission E, an advisory panel on herbal medicines. There are over one hundred medicinal preparations using Arnica extracts commercially available in Germany. In the United States, Arnica is widely used in topical application for bruises, aches, sprains, and inflammations. Arnica was listed in the U.S. Pharmacopeia from the early 1800s until 1960. Arnica is used as a remedy for the followings: diaphoretic, diuretic, emollient, expectorant, stimulant, vulnerary, reduce pain and swelling, promotes the healing of wounds, bruises, and irritation, and to relieve abdominal pains, when used as a poultice. Arnica contains a compound known as helenalin, an allergen that may cause contact dermatitis in some persons. If a rash develops discontinue use of the herbal preparation. The internal use of Arnica is not suggested. It can cause vomiting, weakness, increased heart rate and nervous disturbances.
References:
Herbal Information Center. http://www.qni.com/~gic/herb/arnica.htm
Answer.Com. http://www.answers.com/arnica
