The name Arnica probably derives from the Greek; arnakis, meaning "skin of lamb" due to the soft texture of iit leaves. There are known about 30 species of Arnica in a whole world, and all of them are perennials that spread by rhizomes. With its cheerful golden flowers, arnica has long been used for sprains and bruises as well as homeopathic treatments.
Gardening Herbs
Arnica montana is an aromatic hardy perennial that forms a basal rosette of leaves. From late spring to late summer, it produces flowering stems up to 2 ft. (60 cm) high, and each terminates in a single, golden, daisy flower.
Varieties - Most varieties are native to subaltern areas. European arnica (A. montana) is also known as mountain tobacco and leopard's bane (not to be confused with the ornamental perennial leopard's bane. Doronicum orientale, which is also poisonous, from the family Asteraceae. Native to the northern Iberian peninsula northward to Scandinavia, its natural habitat is low, ferte meadows to an altitude of about l,000 ft. (3,000 m). Arnica montana is becoming rare, due to over-collection and the inroads of agriculture, and wild collection is being curtailed.
Consequently, the American species A. chamissonis is sometimes used in its place in herbal treatment.
Position - Arnica requires a cool climate and full sun as well as slightly acid to slightly alkaline free-draining soil. In areas with wet winters, grow it in raised beds to prevent fungal attack.
Propagation - You can raise arnica from seed but you'll need a period of moist cold. In climates with cold winters, sow the seed outside in autumn. In milder winter areas, stratify the seed by mixing it with a little damp vermiculite or sterile sand. Seal it in a plastic bag, and place it in the crisper tray of the refrigerator for about 12 weeks before sowing. Propagate mature plants by division in spring.
Maintenance - Arnica is a slow grower and resents competition from pasture weeds such as white clover. Mulch well and weed regularly, or grow plants in weed mat.
Pests and diseases - Fungal rots occur in wet winters.
Harvesting and storing - Gather the flowers when fully open and dry them.
Herbal Medicine
Flowers of Arnica montana (
A. chamissonis) are the part used as
medicinal herbs. Arnica flowers have significant
anti-inflammatory and
mild analgesic properties. They are applied topically in the form of infused oils, ointments and creams to bruises, sprains and strains to encourage healing and to reduce the discomfort of pain and swelling. The
pain relieving effects of arnica also make this a suitable tropical remedy for the treatment of
sore and
aching muscles and
rheumatic joint problems.
Internally, Arnica montana is taken as a homeopathic remedy, in a very dilute preparation of the herb. It may help with the emotional effects of trauma as well as shock resulting from injury. It may also help to alleviate the physical complaints described above.
Please be notices, do NOT use arnica if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Arnica has been ruled unsafe in some countries.
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