Arnica Dosing

Arnica is commonly found in topical creams and ointments to help reduce pain associated with bruising and strains. It is also a popular homeopathic medicine for treatment of a variety of disorders, including bruising and infections. Taken internally, except for homeopathic medicines, arnica can be fatal. External products containing arnica should never be used on broken skin. Before using an arnica product, you should first speak to your physician or homeopath.

History

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, arnica has been used medicinally since the 1500s. The native Americans and Europeans would use it internally and externally to treat inflammation and for wound care. Its benefits have been written about in the late 1700s by Johann Goethe, the German scientist and writer, as well as Swiss naturopath Alfred Vogel in the 1950s.

Descrption

Arnica montana is a tall perennial herb that is almost leafless. The top few leaves are toothed and hairy. Arnica has large flowers that bloom in summer that are yellow to orange in color. Arnica is native to Europe and Siberia in the mountainous areas, but It is currently being cultivated in North America. The flower heads are used in making medicinal formulations, either fresh or dried.

Topical Uses

Arnica is used topically to treat sprains, bruising, and strained muscles. It should not be used on broken skin, to avoid absorption. Research published in the April 20, 2010 issue of "The British Journal of Dermatology," by S. Leu, J. Havey, L.E. White, N. Martin, S.S. Yu, A.W. Rademaker and M. Alam, showed that topically applying a cream containing 20 percent arnica reduced the healing time of external bruises.

Homeopathic Uses

Arnica is used in homeopathy for treatment of conditions that have the appearance of contusions or external bruising, septic conditions, and when there is a pus infection. It is also suggested for use after traumatic injuries and for the relief of overused organs. According to homeopaths Stephen Cumming and Dana Wilman, arnica is called for if a patient is suffering back pain, dental troubles, dislocated joints and shock. A study published in the January 2007 issue of "Homeopathy: The Jjournal of the Faculty of Homeopathy," by A. Robertson, R. Suryanarayanan and A. Banerjee, showed that taking homeopathic arnica after a tonsillectomy reduced pain.

Dosing

According to Drugs.Com, you should use the less concentrated strengths of homeopathic arnica, such as 200 C, 1 M, and 10 M, before and after surgery. (See reference 2) Tinctures used should be made as 1:10 tincture mixed with 70 percent alcohol. Creams and ointments should consist of a maximum of 15 percent arnica oil, made from one part dried arnica and five parts carrier oil. If you buy prepared products, it is important to follow the package directions.

Cautions

The use of topical creams is generally considered safe, when applied to unbroken skin. Prolonged use may cause skin discomfort such as eczema and blisters. Taking arnica internally, not in the form of homeopathic medicine, may cause tremors, arrhythmia and even death. Homeopathic remedies are considered safe because it is extremely diluted. (See reference 1)