Today I thought I would shed some light on a useful plant for pain relief and inflamation: Arnica. Arnica is a perennial daisy-like flower that has been used in homeopathic medicine for hundreds of years. It has proven to be so beneficial of a plant for topical uses that it has been added to salves, lotions and oils and is used during many of my massage sessions.

It can be used for a variety of skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and burns (used in it’s most dilute form). It is also widely used for bruises, arthritis low blood pressure, swelling and sprains.

Personally, I love arnica so much I use it on a regular basis as I tend to somehow or another bruise myself often. For those clients not suffering from hight blood pressure, I also apply arnica generously to hypertonic muscle tissue and arthritic joints during our sessions. If you’re curious, you should be able to find arnica at your local natural food store. Otherwise, suggest its use to your massage therapist the next time you’re feeling exceptionally sore.

Of course even with good things there can be a flip side. Arnica may not be right for everyone and can have some negative effects if over used. According to the Vitamins-supplements.org website, the following are known side effects and possible interactions caused by using arnica:

When used frequently or for long periods, arnica can cause contact dermatitis or eczema. Some people may experience stomach discomfort, including nausea and vomiting. Liver and kidney damage has also been reported. Other side effects may include muscle weakness, organ damage, coma and death. Overdose of arnica extract has resulted in poisoning, with toxic symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and hemorrhage, even death. Use externally with caution, and only in dilute preparations. Arnica should not be used on broken skin, such as leg ulcers. Also, people who are hypersensitive or allergic to the herb should avoid it. Oral use of arnica (Shelley’s note: though safe homeopathic oral formulas are available) and topical use of arnica on broken skin and open wounds is considered unsafe because sesquiterpenoid lactones in arnica, such as helenalin, are intensely poisonous and cardiotoxic.


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