Arnica montana

Arnica montana is in flower. This sunny flower is a member of the daisy family and native to the mountains of Europe where it flourishes in the Swiss Alps. This and its American cousins, that are native to mountains in the US, are considered at risk in the wild so it is advised to grow and pick only from what you have in your home garden. The plant grows from rhizomes and trails under the soil. The flowers have no discernible scent.

🚫This is a herb that is ONLY for topical (ie. external) use due to the sesquiterpene lactones, especially helenalin. This has such efficacy topically yet may be toxic if ingested. The side effects of internal use include nausea, difficulty breathing, ulceration of the gut and even death. It is also UNSAFE to be used on broken skin (this means it would have direct access to the blood stream). Take care with this herb!

🌼Arnica is one of the best known homeopathic remedies. It is indicated for accidents, bruising, strains and shock. Many people attest by its results and it's generally considered safe taken orally in this way.

🌼Topically, arnica as a cream is considered to be anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antiecchymotic (reduces bruising). It may be used topically for bruises and strains, varicose veins, muscle pain and arthritis, only on unbroken skin.

I am wilting the flowers to infuse oil and make a cream with it. It is best dried upside down to prevent it all turning to seed. There are lots of flower buds so fingers crossed I have enough to make something with this year.

Arnica montana