All About Arnica

Arnica (Arnica montana) grows in high mountain regions of Northern Europe, Siberia and is also cultivated in North America. The German folk name for arnica means “mountain of well-being.” Arnica montana is from the Asteraceae/Compositae family.

The Arnica montana plant grows one to two feet in height with vibrant flowers similar to daisies. Stems are round and hairy, ending in one to three flower stalks, with flowers two to three inches across. The upper leaves are toothed and slightly hairy, while the lower leaves have rounded tips.

Arnica has been used for centuries medicinally to reduce pain and inflammation. The active components of Arnica montana include sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids, known to reduce inflammation and ease pain. It also contains thymol, an essential oil component that fights infection, and carotenoid, a powerful antioxidant. The flowers are processed in an infusion to be used as a carrier oil, while the plant roots are used for homeopathic remedies.

Medicinally, Arnica montana is available in many forms: infused oil, tincture, homeopathic ointment, cream, salve, and pills.

Arnica Infused Oil is a wonderful addition to any first aid kit! You can use it for injuries, sprain, and bruises with unbroken skin. Arnica speeds up the healing process, prompting your body to send more white blood cells to clean up and repair the bruise.

Main Uses:

• Areas of pain and inflammation

• Fractures and sprains

• Bruises

• Strained muscles and tendons

• Contusions

• Swelling

• Add to massage blends

Pain Relieving Blend In 1 oz. Arnica (Arnica montana) infused oil add: 5 drops Helichrysum (Helichrysum italicum) 5 drops Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis var. decumbens) 5 drops Ginger (Zingiber officinale) 4 drops Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Shake well and use a small amount as needed. If not in use, it is best to refrigerate to extend the shelf life. This is a 3% dilution blend and should be reduced to 1% during pregnancy and for children (to be used only for children over 10 years old) (Helichrysum italicum).

Many suppliers carry arnica infused oil, or you can also easily make your own Arnica montana infused oil.

STEP 1- Dry the flower heads, herbs, or plant material for a day or two.