Arnica Flowers (Arnica montana) - External Use

Dried whole flowers of Arnica montana, Mountain Arnica, the classic European herbal for external applications on bruises, sprains, and minor closed-skin injuries. Arnica has one of the most universally recognized reputations in Western herbalism for topical use - it appears in homeopathic remedies, topical gels, salves, and infused oils across pharmacy and wellness markets worldwide.

Important: External Use Only

Arnica is for external topical use only. Internal consumption of significant amounts can cause serious cardiotoxicity. Even diluted homeopathic preparations are not the same as direct internal use of the herb. Use externally on closed-skin injuries only.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Arnica montana

Family

Asteraceae

Common names

Arnica, Mountain Arnica, Leopard's Bane, Mountain Tobacco

Native region

European mountains (Alps, Pyrenees, Carpathians)

Active compounds

Sesquiterpene lactones (helenalin, dihydrohelenalin)

Use category

External topical only (infused oils, salves, poultices on closed-skin injuries)

What is Arnica?

Arnica is a perennial herb of European mountain meadows with bright yellow-orange daisy-like flowers. Traditional European use centers on external preparations for bruises, sprains, and minor closed-skin injuries. The traditional preparation is an infused oil or salve applied to the affected area. Wild Arnica montana is now protected in many European countries due to overharvesting, so most commercial Arnica is now cultivated.

How to Use Arnica (Externally)

Infused oil: cover dried flowers with olive oil, set in sunlight or warm spot for 4-6 weeks, strain. Apply directly to bruises and sprains on intact skin. Salve: combine arnica-infused oil with beeswax to make a salve. Poultice: rehydrate dried flowers briefly, wrap in cloth, apply to affected area. Do not apply to broken skin or open wounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Arnica used for?
Externally for bruises, sprains, and minor closed-skin injuries.

Why "external use only"?
Internal use of meaningful amounts can cause serious cardiotoxicity from the sesquiterpene lactones.

Should I apply it to open wounds?
No; only on closed skin. Open wounds are not the appropriate application.

What's the difference between herbal Arnica and homeopathic Arnica?
Different. Herbal Arnica is the actual herb; homeopathic Arnica is a heavily diluted preparation.

Is wild-harvested Arnica sustainable?
Wild Arnica montana is now protected in many European countries due to overharvesting; commercial supply is mostly cultivated.

Can I make arnica salve at home?
Yes; infuse dried flowers in olive oil for 4-6 weeks, then combine with beeswax.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.