Dr. Samuel Hahnemann published his results of using Arnica as a homeopathic remedy in 1821, and Arnica continues to be used in homeopathic forms to promote healing and control bleeding. In "Discovering Homeopathy," Dana Ullman reports that Arnica has been called the "homeopath's aspirin." Well known for effectiveness in soft tissue injuries, it may also have some benefits for treating flu symptoms. Be sure to consult your health care professional before attempting homeopathic remedies at home.
Origin
Arnica is a perennial herb also known as leopard's bane, mountain tobacco and sneezewort. In "The Complete Homeopathy Handbook," Miranda Castro reports that the homeopathic form of Arnica most likely to be used for flu-like symptoms is prepared by pounding the whole plant and flowers into a pulp. The pulp is mixed with alcohol and left to stand for several days before it is prepared from this tincture form into the appropriate potency.
Aching Bones and Joints
Miranda Castro describes Arnica as helpful for sore joints or muscles, particularly if touch of any kind increases the pain. Castro explains that the person needing Arnica may deny he is ill, even when he appears very sick and is complaining about his pains. People who want to be left alone when they have the flu, do not want to be touched anywhere and complain of aching bones and joints may benefit from Arnica.
Cough
Arnica may be helpful when a cough is so painful that the person holds her chest, and for children who cry before coughing in anticipation of the pain. If flu-like symptoms include a painful cough similar to whooping cough, Arnica may provide relief.
Fever
According to Frans Vermeulen in the "Concordant Materia Medica," Arnica may be indicated for fever accompanying the flu. Arnica may be beneficial if the fever is intermittent and accompanied by a headache, yellowish face and shivering over the whole body. For the person with febrile symptoms, including heat and redness of the face with coldness in lower parts of the body and an aversion to touch of any kind, Arnica may provide relief.
Precautions
The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that homeopathic doses of Arnica are extremely diluted, with no detectable amount of the plant in them, and are therefore generally safe when used appropriately. The Center does however warn against internal use of other herbal remedies containing arnica, as they can cause dizziness, tremors and heart irregularities.
References
- "The Complete Homeopathy Handbook"; Miranda Castro; 1990
- "Discovering Homeopathy"; Dana Ullman; 1991
- "Concordant Materia Medica"; Frans Vermeulen; 2000
- University of Maryland Medical Center
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