Arnica
Arnica montana
About Arnica
Arnica (Arnica montana) is a herb used in the Western Herbalism and Latin American Curanderismo traditions to help with Pain, Inflammation, Muscle Recovery, and Wound Healing, among 4 other conditions it addresses. The flowers are the part traditionally used, applied topically.
Botanical background
Emilia fosbergii is a species of plants in the sunflower family.
Source: Wikipedia, via iNaturalist
Parts used
Conditions addressed
Tea / Infusion
- Steep 1–2 tsp of dried Arnica in freshly boiled water for 5–10 minutes.
- Cover while steeping.
- Strain and drink.
Tincture
- Pack dried Arnica into a jar and cover with 40–60% alcohol.
- Seal and steep for 4–6 weeks, shaking daily.
- Strain and store in a dark dropper bottle.
Powder / Capsule
- Grind dried Arnica into a fine powder.
- Fill size 00 capsules or stir into smoothies or honey.
Topical / Poultice
- Mash fresh Arnica or mix the powder with a little water to form a paste.
- Apply to the affected area for 20–30 minutes.
Infused Oil
- Fill a jar with dried Arnica.
- Pour over a carrier oil until submerged.
- Leave for 4–6 weeks, then strain.
- Use topically or as a salve base.
Herbal Bath
- Brew 4–6 tbsp of Arnica in 1 litre of hot water for 15 minutes, strain, and add to a warm bath.
- Soak for 20–30 minutes.
Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Children
Pregnancy
Use CautionTopical use on unbroken skin (creams, gels) is widely used for bruising/muscle soreness in pregnancy; oral/internal arnica is toxic and always contraindicated regardless of pregnancy status.
Breastfeeding
Likely SafeTopical use on unbroken skin is considered compatible with breastfeeding; avoid the chest/nipple area. Oral arnica is always contraindicated.
Children
Use CautionTopical use on unbroken skin is commonly used for children's bruises; oral/internal arnica is toxic and must never be given to children.
As a member of the Asteraceae (ragweed/daisy) family, this herb carries a real chance of cross-reaction in anyone allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, or daisies — introduce cautiously if there's a known allergy.
Contraindications
Warnings
⚠️ Allergic Reactions
Discontinue immediately if you experience rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
⚠️ Not Medical Advice
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal remedies.
Drug & herb interactions
Blood thinners (topical use)
Even topically, high-dose or broken-skin use can have systemic anticoagulant effects; oral use is not recommended at all.
Where to find in nature
Native region
Europe, North America, Australia
Climate
Temperate
Habitat
Meadows, hedgerows, woodland edges, and cottage herb gardens
🌿 To see Arnica growing, visit botanical gardens, university plant collections, or specialist herb nurseries near you. If foraging in the wild, always work with an expert identifier — never consume a plant you are not 100% certain of.
Where to buy
In store
- Health food stores (Whole Foods, Natural Grocers, Holland & Barrett, GNC)
- Naturopathic clinics and integrative medicine practices
- Specialist herbal apothecaries and herbalist practices
- Farmers markets with herb vendors
Online
iHerb
Wide selection of standardised extracts, capsules, and powders with lab testing
Mountain Rose Herbs
Premium bulk dried herbs — certified organic, ethically sourced
Starwest Botanicals
Large selection of certified organic bulk herbs and powders
Herb Pharm
High-quality liquid extracts and tinctures, rigorous quality standards
Amazon
Convenient — verify brand certifications and check third-party testing
Etsy
Small-batch artisan herbalists, hand-harvested and wildcrafted herbs
Quality tips
When buying Arnica, look for: certified organic labelling, clearly stated country of origin, third-party lab testing for heavy metals and pesticides, and a batch expiry date. Standardised extracts offer consistent dosing; bulk dried herbs are more economical for regular use. Avoid very cheap, unlabelled products — quality varies enormously.