The benefits of arnica are varied in their description in popular literature. It is a plant from the Asteraceae family, native to central and southern Europe, although it is also present in Asia and North America. You've probably heard of it because it can be used in ointments or ointments to relieve bruises and muscle pain.
Although its most common use is to treat certain inflammatory conditions, it is also attributed with properties that could be beneficial for hair growth. Do you want to know more about the benefits of this plant? In this article we tell you everything.
Arnica, what are its benefits?
As we mentioned, this plant, similar in appearance to the daisy, has been used since ancient times as a natural alternative to mitigate bruises and treat muscle pain. Below we detail the properties and benefits that arnica offers for health.
Arnica is a plant from Europe that has beneficial health properties.
Helps relieve pain
Arnica is popular for its anti-inflammatory properties, since according to a review published in The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology it contains several chemical compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids. For this reason, it is said that it may have benefits in reducing inflammation and relieving pain.
Furthermore, in research published in the Cochrane Library on the topical use of herbs to treat osteoarthritis, it was shown that arnica extract gel would produce effects similar to those provided by ibuprofen. The latter is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug useful for the pain of people with osteoarthritis.
However, it is worth mentioning that studies are inconclusive regarding the effectiveness of the plant's pain-relieving properties. There is also no detailed and precise information regarding the doses that should be administered.
Promotes the reduction of bruises
Bruises appear as a result of a blow or trauma to any part of the body. These occur when the blood vessels found on the surface closest to the skin break as a result of the impact.
Arnica could help reduce these marks thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects. In relation to this, a review published in the American Journal of Therapeutics indicates that this plant would be more effective than placebo for the treatment of several conditions, such as post-traumatic and postoperative pain, edema and hematomas.
On the other hand, a study published in The British Journal of Dermatology showed that 20% arnica gel was more effective than 5% vitamin K and a placebo administered to people with small bruises created through the use of laser.
Helps prevent hair loss
In addition to the benefits mentioned above, arnica would have properties to promote hair growth and prevent hair loss. Apparently, the use of the oil of this plant has positive effects in reducing irritation and inflammation of the scalp.
The above would represent an ideal environment for the health of hair follicles. However, although several anecdotal data validate its effects for this purpose and its use is popular in hair care routines, there is very little documentation on the matter.
Main uses and ways to prepare it
One of the most popular uses of arnica to take advantage of its benefits is topically. However, it can also be prepared as an infusion. We tell you how to make these two options. Take note!
Gel
Topical use is the most suitable for treating inflammation and bruising. For this reason, and because of its absorption capacity, the gel presentation is a good idea in these cases. To make your own ointment you must follow the steps detailed below.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of coconut oil (400 ml)
- 1/2 cup of dried arnica (50 gr)
- 1/2 cup grated beeswax (62 gr)
Preparation
- Pour the coconut oil and dried arnica into a pot and cook over low heat for about 1 hour.
- Strain the remains of the preparation, put the pot back on the stove, add the beeswax and continue cooking over low heat until it melts.
- Remove from heat and wait for it to rest for a few minutes.
- Pour all the ingredients into the blender and blend until you get a homogeneous mixture.
- Finally, store the ointment in a glass jar with a lid in a cool, dry place.
Infusion
This way of consuming arnica is very easy to prepare, since only a few ingredients are needed and it will take a few minutes to prepare. In addition to drinking it, you can also apply it directly if you have a bruise or muscle pain.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of water (250 ml)
- 1 handful of arnica leaves
- Honey (optional)
Preparation
- Pour the water into a container and heat to medium temperature.
- Before reaching the boiling point, add the handful of arnica leaves and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- If you wish, you can sweeten with honey.
- Macerated arnica montana.
- The use of this plant in gel and infusions is easy to prepare and can be applied to bruised skin.
- Possible side effects of arnica
- Although it is an herb that serves as a natural alternative to treat the conditions already mentioned, some adverse effects that its consumption could cause must be taken into account. In high doses, arnica causes nausea, vomiting and digestive problems.
On the other hand, there are some people who are allergic to the components of this plant. In addition, pregnant or lactating women should avoid it because it would have negative effects on the baby's health. Therefore, it is necessary to consult with your doctor if you have any doubts about its effects, depending on your case.
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