Pain management isn’t simple. The side effects of prescription painkillers can actually make this option less appealing for many individuals.
There’s also the very real possibility of becoming hooked on the drugs, as underscored by the current opioid crisis. This means that it makes sense to find alternative, nonaddictive ways in order to manage pain as well as avoid taking prescription pain medications in the first place.
Arnica is utilised topically for a wide range of conditions, such as bruises, sprains, muscle aches, wound healing, superficial phlebitis, joint pain, inflammation from insect bites as well as swelling from broken bones.
In foods, arnica is a flavour ingredient in beverages, frozen dairy desserts, sweets, baked goods, gelatines as well as puddings. In manufacturing, arnica is made use of in hair tonics as well as anti-dandruff preparations. Arnica oil is used in perfumes and cosmetics.
Where Does Arnica Come From?
Arnica comes from the perennial Arnica Montana, which is a yellow-orangish flower which grows in the mountains of Europe and Siberia. It’s sometimes called the “mountain daisy” as its color and petals look like the familiar flower.
How Much Arnica Should You Use?
Arnica ointments used after the most fun races usually contain up to a limit of 25% of the tincture or up to 15% arnica oil. For maximum relief, you should apply it between three and four times daily. Arnica may be applied topically in gels, salves as well as creams. It should not be taken internally except in cases where a homeopathic remedy is in the form of tablets, liquids in addition to sprays.
Is There Something You Have To Watch Out For When Taking Arnica?
- Arnica is only for topical use. On rare occasion, arnica may cause contact dermatitis. This means that if there are any signs of skin irritation you need to stop using the treatment.
- Do not use arnica on broken or burned skin.
- The Asteraceae/Compositae family are well-known for causing an allergic reaction in individuals who are allergy prone.
The following plants are just a few instances of other members of this plant family, so if you are sensitive to these plants, there is a very good chance that you can add arnica to the list as well:
- Ragweed,
- Chrysanthemums (the flower given on mother’s day),
- Echinacea,
- Chamomile,
- Marigolds, as well as
- Daisies
Arnica is not advised during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. This is likely to be considered unsafe.
Arnica may irritate the digestive system. Don’t take it if you suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcers, Crohn’s disease, or alternative stomach or intestinal conditions.
Arnica might very well increase your heart rate. This means that you must not take arnica if you have a fast heart rate (or tachycardia).
Arnica may serve to increase blood pressure. So, you must not take arnica if you suffer from high blood pressure.
Arnica might very well cause extra bleeding during as well as after surgery. Stop using it at least 14 days prior to a scheduled surgery days.