Magic of Arnica
June 19, 2009
For several centuries, extracts from the vibrant yellow blossoms of Arnica plant is widely used in traditional German medicines, including Homeopathic medicines, for treating various ailments. Arnica plants grow largely on the hills of Europe and North America. They are also known as leopard’s bane or mountain tobacco.
Curing injuries
Arnica plant is packed with pytochemicals, such as sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids, tannins, thymol, carotenoids and inulin, noted for their anti-inflammatory property. They quickly reduce inflammation and pain. This well-known property of Arnica herb is utilized in treating wounds, bruises and injuries. The anti-inflammatory ingredients activate the white blood cells, which speed up the healing process by eliminating the blood and fluid locked at the site of the injury. No medicine can work as fast as Arnica-based medicines in reducing pain. Arnica can also be taken by arthritis patients to reduce joint pains.
Rejuvenating tired muscles
Arnica is capable of preventing muscle stress and stiffness. It also helps to rejuvenate tired muscles. According to a study, by applying arnica-based topical creams on their body, Marathon runners experienced less muscle pains or stiffness after the end of the race. Bathing in water to which few drops of arnica oil has been added, helps to relax the tired muscles. To cure foot ache, add few drops of arnica tincture or few dry arnica flowers in lukewarm water, and immerse your feet for ten to fifteen minutes in the solution.
Treating skin conditions
Arnica is often used for treating inflammatory skin diseases, such as acne and eczema. This herb is also used for curing burns. This herb can also be used for treating sunburns, chapped lips, insect bites and nostril irritation. The anti-bacterial property of the organic chemicals present in this herb reduces swelling, redness and fights infection. Due to its antibacterial property, arnica is an essential ingredient in skin and hair care products.
Arnica is not recommended for external use, because it can be unusually harsh on the stomach. Nonetheless, this herb is used in homeopathic medicines, as extremely diluted solution, to treat epilepsy, colds, fever, bronchitis, seasickness, and chest and heart pains.
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