Arnica
Arnica montana
Personality:
Arnica flowers are a bright yellow burst of sunshine amongst mountain pastures.
Sources:
Because Arnica is used widely in both herbal and homeopathic medicine it can be found in herbal apothecaries, health food shops and homeopathic pharmacies (the ‘mother tincture’ is required for external use).
Anecdotes:
I know of no tradition of using Arnica added to bath water, but by experimentation, have found this useful for easing aches and pains in tired muscles and joints. I normally slosh in an indeterminate amount of tincture (probably about 20mls). Remember that Arnica should not be used on broken skin.
Uses:
Mainly used externally, for bumps and bruises. Arnica is a classic herbal medicine-chest remedy, that every home should have. It reduces inflammation in sprained joints.
Actions:
Locally healing and anti inflammatory.
Preparations:
I normally apply arnica as a tincture on a piece of cotton wool but a good cream or ointment will work just as well. You can mix a little arnica tincture into another cream (such as Comfrey or Chickweed) to combine the actions of the two herbs. Tinctures are generally incorporated easily into creams (but not into ointments). Apply as soon as possible after the injury has happened.
Safety:
Do not use internally unless in homeopathic dosage and do not use on broken skin.