Severe injuries need a trip to the doctor, but you may be looking for a natural treatment for bruises, aches, and minor sprains. Consider looking into arnica gels, tinctures, or homeopathic remedies. Arnica is a daisy-like mountain flower with several studies to prove its effectiveness against inflammation and pain. Always consult your physician before beginning a new supplement or herbal remedy, and do not use topical arnica on broken skin.
Types of Arnica Species
Arnica has several species, the most widely known being Arnica montana, which can be found in topical gels and homeopathic remedies. Other species are A. chamissonis and A. longifolia, both of which share some of A. montana's anti-inflammatory capacity according to a study published in 2008 in "Planta Medica."
Arnica and Inflammation
The 2008 study in "Planta Medica" also discovered that the three particular species of arnica contain sesquiterpene lactones of the helenanolide type, which are substances known to inhibit NF-kappa B. NF-kappa B is involved in regulating the creation of certain inflammatory substances according to an article published in a German-based journal in 2003. This article found that sesquiterpene lactones "attack inflammatory processes at a very central point by inhibiting the transcription factors NF-kappa B and NF-AT at micromolar concentrations," making arnica a powerful and precise mediator for pain.
Topical Arnica
Arnica montana can be found in gel or tincture forms at health food and drugstores across the nation. When applied directly to the unbroken skin of a bruise, an achy join, or any other type of pain, arnica can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Dr. Andrew Weil recommends trying a topical arnica gel or tincture for a natural bruise, sprain, or sore muscle remedy. It is not common, but some people may be sensitive to the constituents in Arnica montana. If a rash develops, discontinue use and consult your physician.
Arnica Compress
To make a compress with arnica, Dr. Andrew Weil recommends mixing one tablespoon of arnica tincture in one pint of purified water. Dip a gauze pad in the mixture, then put it on the arthritic joint or bruised area. You can wrap a bandage around the gauze to hold it in place.
Homeopathic Arnica Pills
Health food stores will often carry homeopathic remedies, which are pills containing diluted substances and typically taken under the tongue. Arnica montana comes in different dilutions, and Dr. Weil recommends the 30x dilution for pain and bruising. He says that the pills can be taken every two hours for the first 24 hours after the injury, but not within a half-hour of eating.
The Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) website says homeopathic arnica pills are sometimes used before dental surgery and childbirth to "...help reduce the severity of any expected soft tissue injury." If you are sensitive to the constituents of a topical arnica treatment, it is not recommended to use the homeopathic remedy. The CAM website also cautions you to follow dosing instructions carefully, and as always, check with your doctor before using arnica.
References
- "Planta Medica"; Screening for anti-inflammatory activity of 12 Arnica (Asteraceae) species assessed by inhibition of NF-kappaB and release of human neutrophil elastase; Ekenas, C et al; December 2008
- "Forsch Komplementarmed Klass Naturheilkd"; Arnica: new insights on the molecular mode of action of a traditional medicinal plant; Merfort, I; April 2003;
- Dr. Wei's Website, Arnica for Bruises
- Complementary and Alternative Medicine Website, Homeopathic Arnica
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