Arnica Oil
Relieving bruises, muscle pain and sprains
Arnica oil, made from organically grown flowering tops infused in extra-virgin olive oil, is a natural herbal treatment traditionally used topically to soothe sore muscles and inflammations due to sprains, bruises, dislocations, and wounds. Arnica oil is also traditionally used for rheumatism affecting the muscles and joints.
According to Andrea Peirce, arnica has been much revered in the Western herbal tradition: “For centuries, arnica equalled royalty among medicinal herbs of the West.” She explains that arnica is very popular among Europeans for pain, inflammation and as a counterirritant: “Arnica formulations have been rubbed into countless swollen ankles, dislocated shoulders, muscle aches, arthritic joints, bruises, abrasions, insect bites, boils, inflamed gums, and acne eruptions.”
Peirce adds that modern research has corroborated traditional uses: “In the early 1980s, German investigators made a breakthrough when they identified two critical substances in arnica – the sesquiterpene lactones helanalin and dihydrohelananin and their derivatives – both of which help reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and fight bacteria, albeit mildly. Many of the traditional uses for this herb make sense in the light of this discovery, especially given previous knowledge about counterirritant chemicals in arnica. Just as millions of Europeans suspected, arnica may indeed help soothe scrapes and aches. German health authorities approve of using arnica externally as an antiseptic, an anti-inflammatory, and a numbing agent for pain.”
A 2002 study found the efficacy of the sesquiterpene lactones described above to be similar to that of a reference anti-inflammatory for reducing inflammation. Both substances act to reduce the expression of inflammatory cytokines, notably Interleukin-1 (IL1) and TNF-a, which inflamed tissues over-produce. The topical use of one of the lactones was in fact more than twice as effective at suppressing inflammation than was a reference drug, indomethacin.
A clinical trial using arnica applied externally to varicose veins showed a significant improvement in pain and swelling, not to mention other objective measures, in those individuals using the arnica as opposed to placebo after three weeks of use.
Combinations to consider: The (oral) anti-inflammatory properties of Flacoxin™ complement the use of arnica in topical applications. Combine Arnica Oil externally along with Veinasis orally for varicose veins and haemorrhoids.
Administration: apply as needed.
Contra-indications and Cautions: Discontinue if hypersensitivity such as oedematous dermatitis and eczema occurs. Do not take internally. Do not use on open wounds or broken skin. Do not use if allergic to the Asteraceae family. Do not use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Ingredients:
Certified Organic
Arnica (Arnica montana)
Gargano Gold®
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Testimonials
My patients have experienced such dramatic results from your products.
"I have been in practice since 1991, and I believe that I have been a customer of St. Francis Herb Farm for that long as well. My patients have experienced such dramatic results from your products, that I have never had a reason to even consider another supplier for tinctures. I wouldn't even know where to begin in choosing a particular favorite product. When products are high quality, patients get results, and that makes me a very happy naturopath. Thank you."
Darlene Gustin BSc, ND
Bronte Naturopathic Clinic
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