Arnica is an herbaceous plant native to North America and most of Europe. Some arnica species grow in Japan, India, and parts of Russia. It’s been used in traditional herb medicine for hundreds of years. Today, the Arnica montana species is commonly used in topical skin treatments for bruises, aches, and pains.
What Is Arnica Used For?
Early studies suggest that topical homeopathic arnica gels and ointments can help with arthritis symptoms in the hands and knee s, such as pain and swelling. But research is mixed on whether arnica skin treatments can help ease muscle pain.
If eaten, the actual herb is toxic to the liver and can be fatal. However, some oral supplements contain highly diluted arnica. These are considered homeopathic treatments. These low-dose arnica tablets have been studied for muscle pain, diabetic eye damage, and swelling and pain after surgery. More research needs to be done to establish arnica's effectiveness for those problems.
Because of the risks of pure arnica, the FDA classifies it as an unsafe herb. Doctors who practice complementary medicine generally advise against using arnica in any form other than in a highly diluted homeopathic form.
Arnica Dosage
Arnica is usually taken by mouth or through ointments and fresh plant gel applied on the skin.
Homeopathic treatments are usually individualized based on the specific symptoms of the patient.
For topical treatment of conditions such as osteoarthritis, it is suggested that you should use an arnica gel product and rub it on the affected joints two to three times daily for three weeks.
Make sure you only use diluted homeopathic preparations because pure arnica can be toxic to your liver if taken internally. While there appear to be no risks to using homeopathic arnica, it is important to consult your doctor before taking it.
Is Arnica Found in Food?
There are no natural food sources of arnica besides the plant itself. Arnica is used as a flavoring in some food products.
Arnica Supplement Information
Arnica can come in the forms of tablets, tinctures, ointments, gels, and mouth rinses. Like any supplement, keep arnica in a cool, dry place, away from humidity and direct sunlight.
What Are Side Effects of Arnica?
Side effects. The pure arnica herb is poisonous. Homeopathic doses are generally considered safe to use. But homeopathic arnica creams or gels can cause burning and skin irritation.
Risks. Always talk to a doctor before using arnica. When swallowed, pure arnica can cause rapid heartbeat, gastrointestinal problems, kidney and liver damage, coma, and death. Don’t use arnica topically on broken or sensitive skin.
Interactions. If you take any medicines regularly, discuss them with your doctor before you start using homeopathic arnica supplements. They could interact with drugs including painkillers, steroids, blood pressure drugs, blood thinners, and herbs such as Ginkgo biloba, garlic, and saw palmetto.
Given the lack of evidence about its safety, arnica is not recommended for children and is considered unsafe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Takeaways
Arnica is a perennial herb in the sunflower family that’s been used for generations in traditional herb medicines. It’s often used topically for pain, swelling, and bruising. It should not be taken by mouth.
Arnica FAQs
How does arnica work to reduce bruises and swelling?
It targets your inflammation response to internal bleeding by interfering with the inflammatory pathways in your body.
Are there side effects?
Allergic reactions to arnica may include redness, itching, and increased pain and bruising. If you have any of these, or other concerning symptoms, stop arnica immediately and see your doctor.
Can you take arnica by mouth?
No. The FDA has classified it as unsafe when taken by mouth. Also, the Canadian government has completely banned its use in food.
How long does it take for arnica to improve a bruise?
It depends on how deep the bruise is. But some evidence suggests arnica can speed up the healing process by several days.
Which arnica product is best for bruising: gel, cream, or tablets?
Some research studies suggest arnica gel is the most effective arnica treatment, but more research is needed.