Since 1821, arnica has been used in homeopathic forms to promote healing and control bleeding. It is prepared from the plant known as leopard's bane, mountain daisy or mountain tobacco in various strengths and formulations. Arnica can be obtained in health food stores, pharmacies and on the Internet as a holistic approach to health. In "The Complete Homeopathy Handbook", Miranda Castro recommends arnica for bruises and muscle pain, sprains and strains, head injuries and eye injuries as well as following dental treatment. Be sure to consult your health care professional before attempting naturopathic remedies at home.
Muscle Pain and Bruising
Herbs2000.com reports arnica in herbal form was used over 400 years ago in European folk medicine as an anti-inflammatory to promote tissue repair. Elixirs.com lists homeopathic arnica as the "overworked muscle remedy" that is useful for helping the body heal from injury by reducing swelling, pain and bruising. Use arnica for any injury that results in marked soreness and tenderness. Elixirs.com recommends arnica for muscle pain caused by overuse, a sports injury or arthritis.
Sprains and Strains
In "Homeopathic Remedies," Asa Hershoff recommends arnica for sprains and strains caused by overstretching of any joint, including in the back. Hershoff suggests arnica for restlessness, exhaustion or weakness that continues as an aftereffect of a sprain. Hershoff explains arnica is indicated if motion, touch or dampness makes the pain worse and if the pain is relieved by cold compresses.
Head Injuries
Castro recommends you take arnica anytime you fall or bang your head. She says that arnica applied before a lump on the head has discolored will reduce the swelling. In the "Concordant Materia Medica," Frans Vermeulen recommends arnica for head injuries when the patient wants to be left alone, maintaining nothing is wrong despite obvious injury. Home treatment with homeopathic remedies should never replace qualified professional assessment and treatment.
Eye Injuries
Castro recommends arnica for any bruising to the eyeball or surrounding area. Castro suggests arnica be given before discoloration if possible and whenever there is swelling to the area. Vermeulen states arnica is indicated for eyes that feel sore or tired after close work or when sensitive to light.
Toothache
Herbs2000.com reports arnica is often prescribed for pain in the teeth or bleeding gums following an injury or after dental work. Castro recommends arnica for pain after a tooth filling. Vermeulen suggests arnica for toothaches or painful gums, particularly if the pain occurs after eating and if the gums are swollen.
References
- "The Complete Homeopathy Handbook"; Miranda Castro; 1990
- Herbs2000.com
- Elixirs.com Homeopathy for Health
- " Concordant Materia Medica"; Frans Vermeulen; 2000
- "Homeopathic Remedies"; Asa Hershoff, N.D.; 2000
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