Ever wish an ugly, purple bruise would disappear quicker? Next time, try the herbal remedy arnica (Arnica montana). Applied topically as an ointment, cream, salve or tincture, arnica may help speed fading of bruises as well as soothe muscle aches, ease inflammation and promote recovery of wounds.
Also called leopard’s bane, wolf’s bane and mountain tobacco, Arnica montana is a perennial plant with bright yellow, daisy-like flowers. Its active ingredients—sesquiterpene lactones—were found in a German study in 1981 to be “counterirritants”, meaning they produce a stimulating sensation that boosts circulation where applied. The active ingredients may also have mild pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial effects.
For best results, look for arnica products containing 15 percent arnica oil. Apply the ointment to affected areas (excluding open wounds), every three to four hours. Do not ingest arnica internally unless under the direction of a homeopathic health care provider.
I agree! Arnica is really effective for saying goodbye to bruises. Sure, a bruise immediately appeared especially for such hard trauma but applying arnica hastened its healing.
-Kris
Posted by: homeopathy | October 24, 2007 at 10:15 AM