Latin name: Arnica MontanaGenera: Asteraceae, protected folk name: Description: Knee-high plant with orange-yellow flowers whose marginal leaves have three teeth which are an important distinguishing feature. The leaves with longitudinal veins face each other in pairs. The plant grows in the mountains of Europe and North America, flowers in early summer and is protected.
Medicinally used plant parts
flower heads Blütenko
Ingredients
Essential oil, flavonoids, choline, procyanidins (also contained in hawthorn blossoms), bitter substances and, as the main active ingredient, helenalin.
Healing effects and use of arnica
Anti-inflammatory, promotes blood circulation, disinfects wounds and promotes healing, beneficial influence on heart activity. External use for bruises, contusions, pulled muscles and tendons, poorly healing wounds. For gargling in case of inflammations in mouth and throat.
For internal use to improve the blood circulation of the cardiovascular system and the cardiac output, we recommend ready-to-use preparations with a constant active substance content. In homeopathy also used before operations to prevent excessive bleeding and promote healing. It is considered the most important wound healing remedy in homeopathy.
It is also indicated as a homeopathic remedy especially for injuries that one suffers in the mountains (but also elsewhere) such as sprains, strains, bruises, bruises, sore muscles, etc. Arnica is also used for rheumatism and gout, cardiac insufficiency and arteriosclerosis. Commonly used (D2,3,4,6 ) as globules, drops, tablets, arnica essence.
Preparation of arnica
Arnica infusion for gargling and rinsing (not suitable for drinking): 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried arnica flowers are poured over 1⁄4 l boiling water and strained after 10 minutes. This infusion can also be used as a compress for poorly healing wounds. Arnica tincture: 1 part dried arnica blossoms with 9 parts (mixture 1:10) 70% alcohol and let stand for 14 days.
Then drain through a gauze cloth. Can also be bought ready made at the pharmacy. Envelopes: 2 teaspoons of tincture on a cup of water to soak compresses. Gargle: 1⁄2 teaspoon of tincture to half a glass of water.
Side effect
External use of arnica preparations can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions such as itching, blistering, burning and other skin changes. The internal use of arnica preparations should be avoided because damaging effects on the mucous membranes of the stomach and intestines cannot be excluded. Exceptions are homeopathic medicines because the active ingredient is present in high dilution.
