Arnica montana

Common Name: Arnica

Family: Asteraceae (Aster family)

Parts used: Fresh whole plant or flower heads

Constituents: Sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids

Taste/smell: Light and flowery

Actions

• Vulnerary

• Analgesic/Anodyne

• Anti-inflammatory

• Anticoagulant

• Counterirritant

• Antibacterial

Uses

Topical Vulnerary and Anodyne:

• Small wounds

• Skin ulcers

Topical Analgesic/Anodyne, Anti-inflammatory, and Anticoagulant:

• Bruises

• Sprains

• Strains

• Rheumatism

• Varicose veins

• Myalgia

Internal Anodyne:

• Angina

• Trauma to tissues

• Mental trauma

Contraindications

• Internal use in pregnancy and lactation

• Application over large areas of broken skin

• Large internal doses

Adverse Effects

• Gastroenteritis

• Nervous disturbances

• Tachycardia

• Bradycardia

• Hypertension

• Muscular weakness

• Dyspnea

• Collapse

• Death

• Contact dermatitis (rarely)

Toxicity

• Internal use may cause cardiac damage

Interactions

• None