What is Arnica flower?

Arnica grows up to two feet in the mountainous regions of Europe and western North America (Foster, 1998; Grieve, 1979; Schulz et al., 1998). American arnica species include A. fulgens, A. sororia, and A. cordifolia. In Europe, A. chamissonis is cultivated in addition to A. montana to fill the demand for the estimated three hundred arnica-containing tinctures, ointments, and homeopathic remedies manufactured for the German market (Foster, 1998). Dried orange-yellow flower heads supply a therapeutic volatile oil, that contains fatty acids, aromatic terpenes, flavonoids, tannins, and sesquiterpenes of the helenalin type (Leung and Foster, 1996).

Arnica soothes sore muscles and reduces pain and inflammation. Europeans and Native Americans, who referred to arnica as mountain tobacco and leopard's bane, used it for sprains, bruises, and wounds (Grieve, 1979). Eclectic physicians, alternative medical practitioners of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, recommended it for contusions and bruised muscles, mastalgia, and chronic sores or abscesses (Ellingwood, 1983). Rubbed on the head, arnica tincture was said to stimulate hair growth (Grieve, 1979). Some physicians recommended internal use for depression, dyspnea, typhoid, pneumonias, anemia, diarrhea, and cardiac weakness (Felter, 1922).

Contemporary studies demonstrate in vitro antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, positive inotropic, respiratory-stimulating, and uterine activities (Schulz et al., 1998). Experimental trials suggest further potential uses. Arnica enhanced immune response in laboratory animals against Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella typhimurium (Leung and Foster, 1996). One trial found that bile and liver enzyme levels improved when rats with carbon-tetrachloride-induced hepatic toxicity were administered phenols obtained from arnica (Marchishin, 1983). However, internal use of tinctures and fluidextracts is not recommended. Cardiac toxicity has been demonstrated, and arnica's effects on respiration and the uterus require further study. Oral administration of arnica is often accompanied by severe side effects. For this reason the monograph refers to the herb's external use only, in contrast to the comment section in the German Pharmacopoeia that refers to the internal use of a tea infusion of arnica for circulatory disorders of the heart and brain (DAB 8, 1978).

External use is also risky. Individuals sensitive to sesquiterpenes of the helenalin type may develop contact dermatitis from topical applications of arnica preparations. Edematous dermatosis and eczema have been reported following long-term use (Schulz et al., 1998). Arnica should not be applied to broken skin (McGuffin et al., 1997).

Arnica is a common homeopathic remedy. Arnica in a dilution of 6X is given to epileptics, and Arnica 3X may prevent seasickness (Grieve, 1979). However, its predominant place in homeopathy is now being questioned. A recent study determined that Arnica 30X was ineffective in reducing muscle soreness in long-distance runners (Vickers, 1998). Also, a literature review of available articles discussing applications of homeopathic arnica found no supportive evidence for use (Ernst, 1998).

Chemistry and Pharmacology

The Commission E reports that when applied topically, arnica preparations have antiphlogistic (anti-inflammatory) activity. In cases of inflammation, arnica preparations also show analgesic and antiseptic activity. In animal studies, helenalin and dihydrohelenalin were found to have analgesic, antibiotic, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity (Vanhaelen-Fastr, 1968; 1972; 1973). In vitro experiments concluded that helanalin also works as an immunostimulant (Leung and Foster, 1996).

Uses

The Commission E approved the external use of arnica flower for injuries and for consequences of accidents, e.g., hematoma, dislocations, contusions, edema due to fracture, rheumatic muscle and joint problems. It is also approved for use in inflammation of the oral and throat region, furunculosis, inflammation caused by insect bites, and superficial phlebitis.

Side Effects

Prolonged treatment of damaged skin, e.g., use for injuries or ulcus cruris (indolent leg ulcers), often causes edematous dermatitis with the formation of pustules. Long use can also give rise to eczema. In treatment involving higher concentrations of the preparation, toxic skin reactions with formation of vesicles or even necroses may occur.

Dosage and Administration
Unless otherwise prescribed:
Infusion: 2 g of herb per 100 ml of water.
Tincture: For cataplasm: 3-10 times dilution.

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