Arnica - Arnica Montana

Arnica is a mountain plant used for relief of bruises, stiffness and muscle soreness.  It is widely used as a salve for bruises and sprains and sometimes as a tincture for the same anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving purposes.  It is most commonly used in a gel form to be applied to the affected area.

The active components in arnica are sesquiterpene lactones, which are known to reduce inflammation and decrease pain. Other active principals are thymol (an essential oil), flavonoids, inulin, carotenoids and tannins.

The plant is used externally for arthritis, burns, ulcers, eczema and acne. It has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities that can reduce pain and swelling, improving wound healing.