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Arnica is an herb that primarily grows in central Europe, Siberia, and temperate climates in North America. It has a long history of use in various traditional medicines.
The flowering heads of this plant have been used both orally and topically in European and North American traditional medicine. It has been used for fevers, sore throats, circulation, acne, bruises, sprains, rashes, and wounds. [3]
Today, arnica is most commonly used topically for pain relief. Creams containing this plant extract are used for osteoarthritis, bruising, sore muscles, redness and swelling, sprains, and minor wounds. [2]
Two separate clinical trials have found it to be effective when applied as a topical gel in people with osteoarthritis of the hands and knees. [2]
It is typically only used on the skin, but there are some homeopathic remedies where the plant material is diluted and it is ingested by mouth.
When used orally, arnica is considered to be a poisonous plant. Consuming it in large doses can cause serious side effects, including heart attack and death. [1, 2]
This article will discuss what arnica is, common uses, and health benefits as well as the possible side effects and safe ways to use this herb.
Joints
Aches & Pain
Infla-mmation- Blocks inflammatory histamine and prostaglandins
- May exhibit pain relieving effects
- Used traditionally for bruises & muscle pain
Top Arnica Products* ❯Arnica Plant Description
Arnica is a member of the Asteraceae family. This botanical family contains more than 32,000 accepted plants including dandelion, marigold, daisy, and chamomile. [1]
One of the most common species of arnica is Arnica montana. Other species include A. fulgens, A. sororia, A. cordifolia, and A. latifolia. [2]
Indigenous to mountainous regions in Siberia and Europe, and some parts of North America, arnica is now cultivated in other suitable regions around the world. It is a perennial plant, meaning it returns naturally each year until its lifespan expires. [2]
The University of Maryland Medical Center states that arnica grows up to 2 feet tall and has round, hairy stems that branch into 1-3 flower head stalks. It develops bright yellow/orange, daisy-like, 2-3-inch flowers. [1]
While the flowers are the parts of the plant that primarily are used medicinally, some herbalists also use the root and rhizome of this plant. [1]
Arnica is sometimes called “wolfsbane” or “leopard’s bane”. These are common names of another plant, Aconitum napellus, from the Ranunculaceae plant family. It is important not to confuse these two plants. [1]
This plant (also commonly referred to as aconite) is not related to arnica. While both are considered poisonous, in research arnica has been found safe for topical use. [2]
Aconite is considered unsafe for both oral and topical use because even very small amounts of its toxic alkaloids are poisonous and can cause paralysis and death. [1]
Uses for Arnica
The UMM says that arnica has been used for numerous medicinal purposes since the 1500s. [1]
According to Drugs.com, both oral and topical preparations of arnica flowering heads have been used medicinally for centuries. [3]
Settlers in North America used this herb for poor circulation and sore throats. They also used it as a febrifuge to reduce fever. [3]
Because of its known toxicity in oral doses, it is primarily used in topical creams, ointments, liniments, tinctures, and salves. [1]
According to the UMM, “Oral homeopathic remedies do contain arnica, but they use a diluted form that is not considered dangerous. If you have any question about whether you have the herbal or homeopathic form of arnica, talk to your doctor.” [1]
The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database (NMCD) and state that people use this plant topically for:
It is also applied to the skin for myalgia (muscle pain), inflammation, chapped lips, wounds, abrasions, and insect bites. [2]
While not as, arnica is sometimes used orally in homeopathic medicine preparations.
The UMM states, “Homeopathic doses are extremely diluted. They have no detectable amount of the plant in them and are generally considered safe for internal use when taken according to the directions on the label.” [1]
The NMCD states that arnica is used orally in some homeopathic preparations for:
- Bruising
- Diabetic retinopathy (retinal damage due to diabetes)
- Insect bites
- Myalgia
- Pain after surgery
- Stroke
- Superficial phlebitis (blood vein wall inflammation)
- Throat inflammation
- Tooth extraction pain [2]
The NMCD states that this herb has also been taken orally as an abortifacient to cause miscarriage during pregnancy. [2]
How Does Arnica Work in the Body?
Arnica contains numerous phytonutrients that contribute to its pharmacological effects. Some of these include:
- Amines including betaine, choline, and trimethylamine
- Carbohydrates, such as mucilage and polysaccharides
- Coumarins including scopoletin and umbelliferone
- Flavonoids like luteolin, patuletin, spinacetin, tricin, kaempferol, and quercetin
- Palmitic, linoleic, myristic, and linolenic fatty acids
- Sesquiterpenes including helenalin (and derivatives) and dihydrohelenalin
- Terpenoids including arnifolin and arnicolide [3]
According to Drugs.com, “Other components found in arnica include bitter compound arnicin, caffeic acid, carotenoids (alpha- and beta-carotene, cryptoxanthin, lutein), phytosterols, resin, tannins, lignans, and anthoxanthine.” [3]
The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) states that sesquiterpene lactones in arnica have anti-inflammatory properties including the “binding of transcription factors AP-1 and NF-kappa B to DNA.” [4]
Other anti-inflammatory effects have been observed in research as well.
MMP1 (collagenase-1) and MMP13 (interstitial collagenase-13) are both enzymes that are believed to play roles in joint inflammation and degeneration commonly seen in the autoimmune disease rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis (cartilage/bone degeneration), and osteoporosis (fragile, brittle bones).
In an in-vitro (cultured cell) study using human chondrocytes (cartilage cells), an arnica flower tincture suppressed mRNA levels of both MMP1 and MMP13. [4]
The MSKCC states that a sesquiterpene lactone tincture extracted from this plant also can:
- Have immunostimulatory effects when diluted
- Inhibit platelet function by interacting with platelet sulfhydryl groups
- Suppress NF-kappa B activation and IL-12 production in dendritic cells at high levels [4]
Some animal research has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects of sesquiterpene lactones. It is thought that this effect may occur because of decreased neutrophil activity in the body. [2]
Effects on the Immune System
One of the traditional reasons for taking this plant extract was to boost the function of the immune system and stimulate the body’s natural defense mechanisms.
The NMCD states, “Arnica contains a group of polysaccharides with 65% to 100% galacturonic acid that can inhibit the complementary system, thereby modifying the immune system response.” [2]
Other sources report enhanced phagocytic activities. This means that large immune system cells called phagocytes are better able to engulf and absorb harmful bacteria and other small particles. [2]
In in-vitro studies, it has been observed to stimulate immune system macrophages to upregulate secretion of a cytokine (cell-signaling protein) called TNF (tumor necrosis factor). [3]
In mice, sesquiterpene lactones isolated from arnica have been shown to affect some immune system markers – including natural killer cell stimulatory factor (NKSF), also called interleukin-12. [3]
Immune-stimulating effects have not yet been studied in humans, and clinical research is needed to validate preliminary findings.
Arnica Health Benefits
The NMCD rates the effectiveness of herbs and supplements in specific health conditions based on available clinical evidence.
The NMCD rates arnica as Possibly Effective for osteoarthritis. There have been two clinical trials that have evaluated an arnica-based gel in patients with knee or hand osteoarthritis. [2]
One open clinical study examined the effects of A.Vogel Absolüt Arnica Gel manufactured by Bioforce AG in Switzerland. The cream was applied twice daily for three weeks to subjects with osteoarthritis.
At the end of the treatment period, study participants using the gel reported decreased total symptom scores including pain, stiffness, and restriction-of-function. [2]
In another trial, the same product was shown to be as effective as ibuprofen for reducing pain intensity and for improving hand mobility. [2]
These results show that topical arnica gels may be beneficial for osteoarthritis, but the number of studies is limited. More research is needed to fully determine the therapeutic efficacy of arnica gels, or other preparations, for osteoarthritis.
Creams containing this herbal extract are also being studied for:
- Bruising
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Myalgia
- Postsurgical pain
- Stroke [2]
Some promising results have been seen in trials using arnica for diabetic retinopathy and postsurgical pain. However, more research is needed to determine the therapeutic efficacy for these and other uses.
If you are interested in learning more about arnica uses it is recommended that you speak with your doctor to help determine if this product is right for your needs.
Effects on Inflammation
Some research suggests that arnica has anti-inflammatory properties, but other studies show no effect. [3]
One clinical trial found that compared to placebo, arnica treatment showed no difference in swelling or wrist circumference following carpal tunnel surgery. [3]
Two clinical trials using this gel for postoperative swelling following arthroscopy and artificial knee joint implantation surgery showed a trend towards less swelling compared to placeb. However, the results in these studies did not meet the standard of statistical significance. [3]
A third trial on swelling following cruciate ligament surgery of the knee found a significant improvement in the arnica group compared to placebo. [3]
One clinical study compared oral arnica to oral diclofenac sodium, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for effectiveness in reducing wound irritation and improving wound healing following foot surgery. [3]
It was found that both compounds were equivalent for reducing wound irritation and swelling and for improving patient mobility. Arnica was also significantly better tolerated than diclofenac. [3]
Some of these results are promising; however more clinical research is needed to fully determine what anti-inflammatory effects this plant may have in humans.
Effects on Bruising
Creams containing this herb are sometimes promoted for reducing bruising and improving wound healing. It may work by influencing blood coagulation.
Drugs.com states, “The sesquiterpene lactones helenalin and 11-alpha, 13-dihydrohelenalin have been shown in vitro to inhibit platelet aggregation by interacting with platelet sulfhydryl groups.” [3]
At this time, clinical research has not shown benefits from using arnica for bruising.
In one randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial, a cream containing this ingredient had no significant effects on blood coagulation parameters in healthy volunteers. [3]
In other trials, there was no difference found between placebo and arnica treatment in preventing or treating bruises caused by surgical lasers. [3]
More research is needed in this area to determine if this herb has effects on bruising in humans.
Effects on Muscle Stiffness and Pain
Topical formulations containing arnica extract are commonly promoted for soothing muscle pain and stiffness.
Two clinical trials involving marathon runners evaluated the efficacy of this plant for muscle soreness and cellular damage.
Although no differences were noted in levels of cellular enzymes that indicate muscle damage, statistical significance was observed in regard to muscle soreness. [3]
A subsequent clinical trial reported no significant difference in muscle soreness in marathon runners. [3] More research is needed to determine whether arnica works for reducing muscle stiffness sand pain.
How to Use Arnica
According to the UMM, “Arnica is available in topical creams and ointments. It is most commonly found as a tincture, which can also be used as the base for compresses and poultices. Arnica oil may also be used in topical preparations.” [1]
Some homeopathic preparations made with this plant extract are available in topical, oral, and injectable forms. [1]
The NMCD reports that there are 458 products currently sold that contain arnica. Read labels carefully to know which plant parts are used in these products, and in what amounts. [2]
There are no standardized dosage guidelines for arnica. It is recommended to read the label of specific products and use them as directed by the manufacturer or by your doctor.
Topical products should specify how frequently to apply that particular product as well as how much to use.
Arnica should not be applied to broken skin or open wounds without medical supervision. [1]
The UMM warns that oral use of the arnica herb is known to be poisonous and can cause severe side effects.
You should not consume it orally except for in certain homeopathic preparations. Homeopathic remedies are diluted and contain only very small amounts of the plant. [1]
The UMM warns, “Follow the dosage instructions on the product label or consult a licensed homeopath. Use only in homeopathic formulations. DO NOT use the herb itself.” [1]
Safety and Side Effects
The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database has rated arnica as Possibly Safe when used in amounts found in foods. It is also rated as Possibly Safe when used topically on unbroken skin for short periods of time. [1]
It is rated as Likely Unsafe when used orally, except in certain homeopathic products. In some cases, arnica has caused severe and fatal poisonings.
Oral use of this herb can cause increases in blood pressure, heart irregularities, dizziness, tremors, paralysis of muscles (including heart muscle), heart damage, and shortness of breath. [2]
This plant is also known to irritate mucous membranes in the gastrointestinal tract, and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. [3]
Homeopathic arnica products are not likely to cause these adverse side effects because the amount of active ingredient in each dose is very low. [1]
According to the NMCD, “These formulations are often diluted through a homeopathic process resulting in little to no detectable active ingredient. These extremely diluted forms of arnica would not be expected to cause significant side effects.” [2]
Oral use of arnica supplements in larger amounts is strongly discouraged. Large oral doses can cause organ failure and death. [1]
In general, when used topically arnica is well tolerated. In some cases, it can cause skin irritation, rash, itching, eczema, peeling, blisters or other skin problems. It should not be applied to broken skin, ulcers or wounds. [1]
Allergic reactions are possible in people who are allergic to plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family, including marigolds, daisies, and ragweed. [2]
Drug Interactions
The NMCD reports that arnica supplements might interact with antiplatelet/anticoagulant drugs, herbs, and supplements. Using them together could cause increased bleeding and bruising risks. [2]
Some common antiplatelet/anticoagulant drugs and supplements include:
- Aspirin
- Angelica
- Clove
- Clopidogrel (Plavix)
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Ginkgo
- Heparin
- Panax ginseng
- Ticlopidine (Ticlid)
- Turmeric
- Warfarin (Coumadin) [2]
It is recommended that you speak with your doctor before using this product to determine whether it is appropriate for you.
Consult with a qualified healthcare professional before taking this supplement if you have an inflammatory gastrointestinal condition, hypertension (high blood pressure), or if you are scheduled for surgery within the next two weeks. [2]
(No Ratings Yet)Article last updated on: June 26th, 2018 by Nootriment