Arnica oil is derived from the flowers and roots of the Arnica montana plant, native to the alpine regions of western and central Europe. The plant is now widely cultivated in North America. Other names for arnica include leopard's bane and mountain tobacco. Arnica has been used medicinally for centuries, both internally and externally, throughout Europe and North America. Salves and ointments made with arnica oil are believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Arnica also is believed to help heal minor wounds.
Massage Oil
Arnica oil or arnica tincture can be diluted in a carrier oil such as sweet almond or olive oil. Used as a massage oil, arnica might relieve the swelling and aches of muscles and joints inflamed from sprains, strains, and rheumatism. Arnica oil can also be applied to muscles and joints before strenuous exercise to prevent pain from over-exertion.
The American Cancer Society points out that arnica oil should never be applied undiluted to skin because it can cause irritation and blistering. Many arnica oils are sold already diluted, but make sure the arnica content is no more than 25 percent. If you are mixing tincture with oil to make homemade massage oil, the mixture should contain no more than 25 percent arnica tincture. Arnica may cause blisters, rashes and inflammation if used regularly on the skin for more than three weeks.
Salve for Bruises
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, arnica salve may be applied to skin to lessen the pain, swelling and discoloration from bruises and soft tissue trauma. Applying the salve before the bruise appears may reduce the amount of discoloration and the size of the bruise. Arnica should never be applied near the eyes or mucous membranes, and avoid using it on open wounds. Arnica can cause serious irritation to the nose, mouth and eyes. It can also inflame open cuts.
Compress
Arnica oil or tincture can be used in a warm or cold compress on painful bruises, and on aching muscles and joints. Put arnica oil into a washcloth that has been wet with warm or cold water, then press it to the sore area. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends diluting arnica with 3 to 10 parts water.
Internal Uses
Arnica's traditional uses as an internal medication include pain prevention, pain relief and fever reduction. The American Cancer Society warns that arnica oil should never be used internally for any reason because it can cause nausea, vomiting, internal bleeding, muscle weakness or coma. These possible effects of arnica oil also contraindicate its use on open cuts. Arnica may be taken internally in highly diluted homeopathic doses.
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