Arnica
Other Names: Arnica montana, Leopard's Bane, Mountain Snuff, Mountain Tobacco, Wolf's Bane, Wolfbane
Should I take it?
Small perennial bushes with daisy-like yellow flowers, most arnica species are native to Europe and eastern Asia. They also grow in the mountains of Canada and the northern United States. For medical use, the flowers of the plants are collected in the summer and dried. The dried flowers are used externally in liniments, washes, and ointments. Other products that contain arnica include cosmetics and other hair-grooming products. In the United States, small quantities of arnica are approved for use as a flavoring in some bakery items, beverages, and gelatin-based desserts. Dried arnica roots have been used in some folk remedies, but preparations of arnica root are not currently recommended for any use. Because arnica is an endangered species in many areas of the world, it may be difficult to obtain. Supplements claiming to contain it may be made from other, similar plants.
Dosage and Administration
Note: Taking herbal arnica by mouth is not recommended because it may cause a sudden, potentially dangerous increase in blood pressure. In addition, it contains varying amounts of chemicals known as sesquiterpene lactones that can cause possibly serious irritation of the mouth and gastrointestinal (GI) system.
Topical arnica preparations should contain no more than 15% of arnica oil or 25% of arnica tincture, because higher strengths are more likely to irritate the skin. Application should be limited to once or twice a day and arnica should be used only for as long as needed.
Summary
Although it is approved in very small amounts as a flavoring agent, arnica is not considered safe when taken orally. Herbal arnica should not be taken by mouth. As a topical agent, arnica may help to relieve the pain and swelling of sprains, bruises and similar injuries. Its slightly antiseptic and antibacterial properties may help acne and minor skin abrasions, but it should not be used in high concentrations, for prolonged periods, or on raw skin.
Risks
If it is taken internally, arnica can affect heart function, damage mouth tissues, cause or worsen high blood pressure, produce shortness of breath, and irritate the esophagus, stomach, or intestines. Very large amounts taken by mouth can cause death. When used topically for long periods, in high concentrations, or on raw skin; arnica can cause major blistering, irritation and scarring. Long-term use may result in allergic dermatitis.
Side Effects
Oral arnica may cause:
- Heart damage
- Irritated mucous membranes
- Stomach irritation
- Sudden increases in blood pressure
Topical arnica products may cause:
- Contact allergies
- Dermatitis
- Irritation at the site of application
Interactions
Taking arnica by mouth at the same time as aspirin, a prescription drug that lowers blood clotting, or an anticoagulant herbal may increase the risk of excessive bleeding. No interactions between topical arnica and prescription drugs, non-prescription drugs, other herbal products or foods have been reported. People who take drugs for heart conditions, however, should not use any form of arnica without a doctor?s knowledge.
Last Revised April 4, 2008
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Should I take it? 
