Don’t be fooled by arnica’s pretty face. The attractive daisy-like flowers of this mountain herb contain toxic compounds that could send blood pressure sky high and cause permanent heart damage. So neither distilled oils from arnica nor infusions made from its dried flowers should ever be taken by mouth. But for external use, arnica is surprisingly effective for muscle soreness, bruises and sprains. So if you’ve had any sort of minor accident or sports injury, arnica is a good herb to turn to for relief.
What’s it good for?
- bruises
- bruises and tendinitis
- carpal tunnel syndrome
- foot pain
Banish bruises, eliminate aches
Arnica has received the stamp of approval from Germany’s Commission E – regarded as the world’s leading authority on the safety and effectiveness of herbs – as an external treatment for bruises as well as muscle aches and pains. Never take arnica internally (unless as a homeopathic remedy when it is too diluted to cause any harm), or use it near the eyes or mouth, or near an open wound: It’s poisonous.
