How to Use Arnica for Health
The arnica plant is a member of the daisy family. Arnica's bright gold flowers contain curative compounds. Accounts of its use in herbal preparations and home remedies date back to the sixteenth century. Follow a few simple steps to use arnica in the same manner as early herbalists and reap its health benefits.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Dried arnica flowers
- Rubbing alcohol
- Pint size glass jar
- Mesh kitchen strainer
- Funnel
- Four 4 oz. glass jars
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1
Consider possibilities for improved health. Arnica is used topically to heal bruises and treat pain and inflammation in muscles and joints. Use it for athletic injuries, including muscle strains, sprains and pulls. Apply to arthritic wrists, fingers, knees and ankles. Keep it handy as a first aid measure for minor bumps, blows and knocks.
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2
Appreciate how arnica works. Arnica is called a warming herb. Apply it to unbroken skin to promote blood circulation and improve health of the underlying area. The increase in blood flow produces a sensation of warmth. The blood carries oxygen and important nutrients to aid in healing and repair. It also carries white blood cells to fight infection and wash away any fluid byproducts of injury or illness. This action decreases swelling and pain.
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3
Make a liniment. Place 4 oz. of dried arnica blossoms in a pint size glass jar. Add 16 oz. of rubbing alcohol. Tighten the lid. Store at room temperature for 14 days. With the lid intact, gently swirl the contents once daily. After two weeks, filter the liquid through a mesh kitchen strainer. Use a funnel to pour the liniment into 4 oz. glass jars for easier dispensing.
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4
Apply the liniment liberally to affected areas. Repeat every five hours as needed to restore health.
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5
Massage the area to enhance the effects of the liniment. Start with broad, smooth strokes to promote relaxation. Follow with a kneading motion to improve flexibility.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Buy dried arnica flowers in health food stores and nutrition centers.
Arnica is sold under the names mountain daisy, wolf's bane and leopard's bane.
Arnica contains toxic compounds and should not be used internally.
Do not use arnica on cuts and sores that are open.
If allergic to daisies, do not use arnica.
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use arnica.
