Homeopathy is a medical system developed over 200 years ago that employs very minute doses of remedies or medicines made from plant, animal or mineral materials. The remedies trigger the body's natural response to an irritant or outside stimulus, which forces the body to heal itself in response. One of the best known remedies is arnica, which is sometimes referred to as "homeopathic aspirin" because of its ability to relive such a wide range of symptoms. Consult your doctor before using homeopathic remedies such as arnica.
Bruising
Arnica, which is indicated for soreness, aching and swelling after an injury, is especially useful for treating muscle aches and pains and bruising. The site of the injury may be red, warm and extremely sensitive. The patient doesn't want to be touched; and this refusal to allow oneself from being touched is a guiding symptom indicating the need for this remedy.
Shock and Acute Trauma
Arnica is effective for the treatment of shock from trauma, according to homeopath Dr. William Boericke in the "Materia Medica and Repertory." Arnica can be used to treat head injuries such as stroke, concussion or a "goose egg" from a hard bump on the head. Arnica may offer relief for any type of shock, such as an automobile accident, where it may prove to save the victim's life, adds Boericke. This does not mean that the accident victim does not need conventional medical attention. Arnica can be used in conjunction with conventional medicine in cases where an person's life may be at risk.
In cases of shock, the victim may not want to be touched, may refuse treatment and say he feels fine, or complain that his bed feels too hard and hurts his back. These are all guiding symptoms indicating the need for this remedy.
Bleeding
Arnica is indicated for internal bleeding that is related to shock, according to homeopath Dr. Roger Morrison in "Desktop Guide." It may stop or slow the bleeding of a victim of an auto accident or stem the bleeding after having a tooth pulled. Arnica may be helpful after surgery to reduce swelling and protect against bleeding during recovery.
Topical Applications
Most of the time arnica is either taken as an oral dose in homeopathic pellets or used topically. It is an ingredient either on its own or in combination with other remedies in first aid creams and ointments. These are meant to be applied either to sore, bruised muscles or injuries requiring arnica or other remedies for swelling and pain.
In some instances, arnica can be purchased as an herbal extract or in tincture form. A homeopath will provide you with the herbal extract and specific directions for its use. The extracts and tinctures of arnica should never be taken internally.
Precautions and Dosing
Arnica should never be used on an open wound. In the case of shock, medical treatment may be necessary. Arnica can be given in conjunction with conventional treatment to stabilize a person on the way to the hospital. Consult your homeopath or a homeopathic first aid book for dosing guidelines.
References
- University of Michigan Health System: Athletic Performance -- Homeopathic Remedies
- NYU Langone Medical Center: Stroke
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Arnica
- "Desktop Guide"; Dr. Roger Morrison; 1993
- "Materia Medica and Repertory"; William Boericke; 1998
- "Everybody's Guide to Homeopathic Medicines"; Stephen Cummings, F.N.P. and Dana Ullman; M.P.H. 1984
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