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Other Names: Mountain Tobacco, Lepard's Bane
History
Arnica has been used extensively as part of European folk medicine. It is indigenous to central Europe, though it has been found in England and Scotland. North American colonies used arnica, though they favoured the flowers over the root.
Parts Used
The flowers are harvested when in full bloom. The rhizomes are harvested after the plant has died back in autumn.
Cultivation
Arnica grows in mountain woods and pastures. It thrives in a mixture of loam, peat and sand. It can be propagated by root division and by seed. Divide roots in spring and sow seeds early spring in a cold frame or outside in mid-spring.
Description
Arnica is an aromatic perennial herb that grows to 30cm. It has downy egg-shaped leaves that form a flat rosette and bright yellow/orange daisy like flowers. The rhizome is dark and cylindrical, usually curved and bears brittle wiry rootlets o�n the under surface.
Indications:
Arnica is best known for its use as an effective ointment and compress for bruising, sprains and muscle pain. It helps healing and increases the blood supply to the affected area. Arnica is used externally for dermatitis and bruising.
Its anti-inflammatory action increases the rate of reabsorption of internal bleeding. The plant is often taken in homeopathic form for shock injury and pain. If it was taken internally it stimulates the circulation and can treat angina or a failing heart. It is very toxic, even at a low dose; hence it is not used internally now. For sore and tender feet use 1/2 oz of the tincture in a foot bath of hot water to bring relief.
Louise Plant
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Medicinal Herbs
Herb Teas
