Arnica Montana, best known as simply arnica, is an herb that is popular for the treatment of muscle aches, swelling, sprains and bruising. Native to the mountains of Siberia, arnica has been used for more than 500 years. Arnica is now cultivated in North America because of its medicinal value for relieving pain, as an antiseptic, as an anti-inflammatory and for speeding up the healing of bruises. Arnica gel, oil, cream, tincture or salve all work well on bruised skin tissue.
Step 1
Read the directions on the label. Arnica creams, oils, salves and gels come in a variety of strengths, so different brands offer different recommendations on how often and how much to apply as well as precautions. When choosing an arnica product, tinctures tend to be more concentrated than gels and creams.
Step 2
Apply a small amount of arnica to the bruised area and gently massage it into the skin until it's completely absorbed. Make sure the skin is not broken before you apply the arnica. It should not be used on cuts or open wounds.
Step 3
Rest the area or muscle injured. For example, put your leg up and let it relax if that's where your bruise is located. Or don't type or use your hands for a while if the bruise is on your arm.
Step 4
Discontinue use of the arnica if you notice skin irritation or peeling. Although this is a rare side effect, it can happen to some people.
Tips and Warnings
- Store arnica creams and gels at room temperature. Keeping the product in the refrigerator can reduce its effectiveness.
- Do not take arnica internally, as it can be highly toxic.
Things You'll Need
- Arnica cream or gel
