Arnica is a member of the Asteraceae family, more commonly known as the daisy variety of plants. This European plant has been used medicinally since the 16th century to treat bruises, muscle sprains and inflammation. Its use is largely restricted to topical applications since the plant contains helenalin, which is poisonous in large doses. While generally safe, there are some potential side effects of arnica pellets.
General Considerations
The Sloan-Kettering Institute states that homeopathic medicines, like arnica pellets, are generally safe and free of negative side effects. However, the company also points to the fact that more than 100 clinical trials have produced mixed results, with some even suggesting that the substance tested was no more effective than placebo. The institute also advises that you should avoid homeopathic medicines, including arnica pellets, if you regularly consume chocolate, mints, spicy foods and caffeinated beverages, such as coffee and tea.
Adverse Side Effects
Generally, homeopathic arnica pellets are considered safe and free of any health hazards because they contain extremely minute amounts of the plant's active chemical compounds. It's conceivably possible to experience adverse side effects if enough arnica pellets are taken orally at once, although it would take a tremendous effort. In this hypothetical scenario, the effects associated with the internal consumption of excessive amounts of raw plant material, or arnica alcohol extracts, might apply. High doses of arnica compounds are associated with gastrointestinal distress, difficulty breathing, dizziness, fainting and irregular heart rhythm, or tachycardia. In rare cases, organ failure, coma and death have been reported.
Again, these kinds of side effects are usually attributed to the ingestion of the herb, not homeopathic arnica pellets. However, it should be noted that an increased risk of bleeding might exist while taking arnica, even in homeopathic form.
Drug Interactions
Drug interactions are not generally associated with homeopathic preparations of arnica. However, the repeated ingestion of ipecac combined with taking arnica pellets may lead to heart problems. In addition, due to the presence of coumarins, caution is advised if you are taking certain medications. For instance, arnica may increase the effects of anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs, as well as medications intended to decrease blood pressure. As a general rule of thumb, you should consult with a qualified health practitioner before taking any homeopathic medicine, including arnica pellets.
References
- US National Library of Medicine: Homeopathic arnica therapy in patients receiving knee surgery: results of three randomised double-blind trials.
- US National Library of Medicine: Homeopathic Arnica montana for post-tonsillectomy analgesia: a randomised placebo control trial.
- Sloan-Kettering: Arnica
- HerbalRemediesInfo.com: Arnica Medicinal Uses
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