From the Research
Arnica montana should be used topically for bruising, swelling, and pain relief, with caution and under medical supervision, due to potential interactions and toxicity, as evidenced by the most recent and highest quality study 1.
Guidelines for Use
- For topical use, apply arnica gel or cream to unbroken skin 3-4 times daily, avoiding open wounds, eyes, and mucous membranes.
- Homeopathic arnica tablets or pellets are usually taken by dissolving under the tongue, following package instructions for dosage (commonly 30C potency).
- Treatment duration should generally not exceed 1-2 weeks without medical supervision.
Precautions and Contraindications
- Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and those with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family should avoid arnica.
- Internal use of non-homeopathic arnica preparations can be toxic and should be avoided.
- Always consult a healthcare provider before using arnica, especially if you're taking medications, as it may interact with blood thinners and increase bleeding risk.
Mechanisms of Action
- The herb contains helenalin and other compounds that may reduce inflammation and improve circulation, potentially helping with bruise healing, as reported in studies 2, 3.
Safety and Efficacy
- Clinical trials have shown that arnica extract or gel/cream containing arnica extract has promising effects for pain relief, with potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-microbial activities 1, 3.
- However, the safety of arnica preparations is still a concern, with reports of toxicity and adverse effects, highlighting the need for further research and caution in its use 4, 5.