An herb that grows mainly in Siberia and central Europe, as well as temperate climates in North America.
The flowers of the plant are used in medicine.
It has been used orally for sore mouth,sore throat, pain, insect bites superficial phlebitis, bruising, muscle pain, vision problems, stroke, and for causing abortions.
When applied to the skin for foot pain, swelling associated with bruising, aches and sprains, insect bites, arthritis, muscle and cartilage pain, chapped lips, and acne.
It is used to flavor ingredient in beverages, frozen dairy desserts, candy, baked goods, gelatins, and puddings.
It is used in hair tonics and anti-dandruff preparations, perfumes and cosmetics.
It may reduce swelling, decrease pain, and act as an antibiotic.
Arnica gel reduces pain and stiffness and improves function in people with osteoarthritis in the hand or knee.
Arnica gel is reported to work as well as the painkiller ibuprofen in reducing pain and improving function in the hands.
Possibly ineffective for pain, swelling, or complications after wisdom tooth removal.
Taking homeopathic arnica by mouth or applying arnica to the skin does not reduce bruising.
Although one study showed that taking 12 doses of a specific arnica product (SinEcch, Alpine Pharmaceuticals) might reduce bruising under the skin in women following face-lift surgery.
Early research shows that taking homeopathic arnica 5C by mouth for 6 months reduces vision problems in people with vision loss due to diabetes.
There is inconsistent evidence on the effects of arnica on muscle pain.
Taking homeopathic arnica by mouth does not prevent muscle soreness., nor does applying an arnica cream.
Other research shows that applying an arnica gel on the leg muscles immediately after running and then every 4 hours while awake for 5 days might reduce muscle pain or soreness after 3 days.
Most research shows that taking homeopathic arnica by mouth slightly reduces pain after surgery.
Some research shows that taking homeopathic arnica for 5 days does not reduce pain following surgery.
It does not benefit people who have had a stroke.
Possibly safe when taken by mouth in the amounts commonly found in food or when applied to unbroken skin short-term.
The Canadian government, prohibits its use as a food ingredient, for safety reasons.
Orally it can also cause mouth and throat irritation , stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, skin rashes, shortness of breath, tachycardia , an increase in blood pressure, heart damage, organ failure, increased bleeding, coma, and death.
It is considered unsafe to use in pregnancy.
May cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to the Asteraceae/Compositae family, including ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, and many others.
It should not be applied arnica to damaged or broken skin, as too much could be absorbed.
It can irritate the digestive system, cause tachycardia and hypertension.
May be associated with increased bleeding with surgery.
May exaggerate bleeding affects of antiplatelet and anticoagulant agents.
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