Arnica (Arnica Montana)
Arnica is a genus of perennial plants in the sunflower family (Asteraceae). Arnica flowers are often used in natural medicine to ease bruises and muscle aches and pain. They contain anti-inflammatory and toning properties. When used in skincare they can help reduce puffiness around the eyes. Arnica extra helps to boost circulation and stimulate blood flow which in turn helps revitalize the skin complexion.
Arnica is used topically for a wide range of conditions, including bruises, sprains, muscle aches, wound healing, superficial phlebitis, joint pain, inflammation from insect bites, and swelling from broken bones. More recent studies suggest it may also be helpful in the treatment of burns.
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NOTE: Arnica is toxic and should not be confused in any form.
Plant Flowers Contain Carotenoids
Carotenoids are a plant form of Vitamin A and antioxidants known as flavonoids. These are responsible for arnica’s anti-inflammatory effects.
The macerated oil is helpful externally in treating bruises and topically for skin disorders. The oil is typically used in the bath to promote circulation and rejuvenate aching joints.
The flowers can be added to soaps or bath salts as it is calming to the skin and help to relax muscle pain. The extract from flowers can also be added to a lotion for external use.
Make Your Own Arnica Macerated Oil
- Sterlize a jar and fill in with dried arnica flowers
- Top up with a vegetable oil. Olive oil is suitable and packed with anti-inflammatory properties
- Store at room temperature making sure you shake the jar vigorously every day for the next two to six weeks. This will help to infuse the oil.
- As time goes by the color of the oil will change to a dark golden one and the scent will take on a “woody” aroma when the flowers have been fully diffused.
- When ready to use, strain the oil using a muslin cloth into a sterilized bottle or jar.
- Make sure to store in a cool, dark place.
Arnica Flowers: A Natural Solution for Skin Bruises, Cuts, Scrapes and Burns
AVOID USING ARNICA ON BROKEN SKIN.
Arnica oil can help bruising, wounds, cuts, scrapes and burns. It improves circulation and supports fast healing.
It can help with:
- bruising
- burns
- wounds
- scrapes
- cuts
- grazes
- muscles aches
- joint pain
In cases of skin irritation, where localised itching occurs, arnica oil can be applied to the affected area as it will soothe the discomfort by reducing inflammation.
Arnica is traditionally used to ease bruising and wounds by applying it topically. Arnica works well for any area of the body that has been bruised or injured.
AVOID USING ARNICA ON BROKEN SKIN.
Arnica and the Healing of Scars
Massage oil infused with arnica flowers onto scarred skin in circular motions. It will help reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks.
Arnica Flowers as Anti-Inflammatory
Arnica tincture possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce redness and inflammation also when caused by the sting of insects.
Arnica Flowers and Pain
You can use arnica oil to relieve pain caused by rheumatism and arthritis.
Arnica Flowers and Skin Benefits
Arnica oil promotes healing with a high content of anti-inflammatory compounds, making this an ideal remedy for skin disorders such as acne, psoriasis and eczema.
Arnica macerated oil can also help reduce redness and swelling from insect bites.
1. Soothes and Conditions Skin
Skincare with arnica in it can help to soften rough patches. You can also apply the oil neat on your lips in the winter months. It will help prevent chapping.
2. Improves Skin Tone
The oil that has been infused in arnica flowers can help prevent the appearance of spider veins. Apply by massaging the area using circular motions. It can also help in a massage to reduce the pain and swelling of varicose veins. The oil can have a mild skin lightening effect.
3. Conditions Hair & Scalp
Arnica flower oil can help improve hair and scalp health. Just use the way you would use a hair conditioner. You can treat dandruff by mixing arnica tincture diluted in water and rinsing your hair with it. Ayurveda medicine uses arnica as a treatment for the loss of hair.
Summary
Always consult your doctor before you start to use any new products.
Arnica oil is an effective remedy for bruises, inflammation, wounds, scrapes, cuts, grazes, muscle aches and joint pain. It helps to reduce swelling and speed up the healing process.
