• Basic Info

Tradition

WARNING: DISCLAIMER: The below uses are based on tradition, scientific theories, or limited research. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. There may be other proposed uses that are not listed below.

Dosing

Adults (18 years and older)

Arnica is toxic if taken internally except when diluted into homeopathic preparations. Homeopathic treatment is usually individualized to correspond specifically to the patient's symptoms. Typical homeopathic dosing uses either 5C or 30C potency tablets sublingually (under the tongue) three times a day. Doses can be taken for 24 hours or up to six months, although a qualified healthcare practitioner, including a pharmacist, should be consulted before making decisions about dosing.

Other forms of arnica dosing include tinctures, ointments and fresh plant gel. There is not enough scientific evidence to give specific doses or times for these forms.

Children (younger than 18 years)

There is not enough scientific information to recommend the use of arnica in children.

Safety

DISCLAIMER: Many complementary techniques are practiced by healthcare professionals with formal training, in accordance with the standards of national organizations. However, this is not universally the case, and adverse effects are possible. Due to limited research, in some cases only limited safety information is available.

Allergies

Avoid in individuals with known allergy or hypersensitivity to arnica or any member of the Asteraceae or Compositae families. Possible cross-sensitivity can occur in those allergic to the Asteraceae or Compositae family (Achillea millefolium, Ambrosia species, Anthemis cotula asters, calendula, chamomile, chrysanthemum, dahlia, daisy, dandelion, dog fennel chicory, Matricaria chamomilla, mugwort, marigold, May weed, sunflower, tansy and yarrow).

Side Effects and Warnings

Arnica is likely safe when used short-term in oral or sublingual (under tongue) homeopathic doses. It is possibly safe when applied topically/externally to unbroken skin for short-term use. Arnica is likely unsafe when taken by mouth in doses higher than homeopathic dilutions. It may also be unsafe when used topically (on the skin) long-term. Using full strength tinctures on hypersensitive or broken skin is also not recommended.

Ingestion of arnica extracts has been known to increase heartbeat and increase bleeding time.

Allergic reactions may occur when taking arnica in full strength preparations or when handling the plant. Reactions including Sweet's syndrome, facial eczema, oral lesions, itchy erythema (reddening of the skin) of the legs, trunk (torso), and face, and dermatitis have been reported.

Taking Arnica montana-containing extracts by mouth has caused severe gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach), including gastrointestinal problems due to mucosal irritation nervousness, nausea and vomiting.

Arnica may also cause muscle weakness, collapse and death. High doses may impair urine flow and damage the kidneys and liver. There is also the potential for organ damage, coma and death with the internal use of arnica.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Internal use of arnica is not recommended in pregnancy due to the potential for uterine stimulation and toxicity.