Awesome Arnica
History of Arnica
The history of Arnica being used medicinally harkens back to the early 16th century, when it was a popular German folk remedy, used to treat bruising, inflammation, skin lesions, and blunt injuries. There are several species of Arnica, but the most common species used for medicinal purposes is Arnica Montana.
Arnica Uses
You’re probably most familiar with arnica as an ingredient in a cream or ointment that is used to reduce swelling, inflammation, bruising, and for pain reduction. This large yellow flowering plant that grows in the mountains of Europe and Siberia is commonly used to buffer pain caused by osteoarthritis, post-surgery, and other conditions. It also can have antiseptic and analgesic effects.
Arnica for the Skin
Arnica petals are packed with nutrients that are beneficial to the skin. It contains flavonoids, volatile oils, sesquiterpene lactones, carbonic acid and coumarins. That’s a mouthful, but what it means for you is that it can help soothe and rejuvenate your skin! Arnica can also be applied to the skin for the treatment of acne, boils, and rashes, as it can reduce the redness and inflammation. It is said that it can even help with difficult acne, like cystic (hormonal) cases. Arnica can also help reduce the appearance of stretch marks when rubbed into the skin several times a day.
Arnica for Hair and Scalp
Arnica can be applied topically as a treatment for hair and scalp conditions, and is a popular holistic treatment for dandruff. Some say that applying arnica oil to your scalp can improve its texture, relieve itching and inflammation, and strengthen the hair strand from root to tip.
Arnica for Muscle Soreness and Joint Aches
Arnica has long been used to relieve muscle soreness and joint pain. And that is why it is a star ingredient in our Organic Aloe & Arnica Massage Lotion. Aloe, mango butter, and essential oils nourish the skin while arnica helps relieve muscle fatigue in this deep tissue massage cream. Great for an all-over massage or for concentrated spots that need special care.
Speaking of Massage
While we’re on the subject—let’s briefly talk about the benefits of massage. Massage can relax muscles, improve joint movement, and increase circulation. According to the Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals, it can even promote tissue regeneration! Amazing, right!? We carry a myriad of products made especially for making your next massage amazing. From massage oils to massage candles, from massage lotions to care baskets, we can help you recharge, relax, and rejuvenate!
Customize a Heliotrope Product with Arnica
At Heliotrope we provide essential oil blending and customization! We offer skin care products without added fragrance, and then consult with each client to create custom, individualized aromatherapy blends. And, we use all-natural, undiluted essential oils. And, yes, we can add Arnica to your product!
What’s your favorite way to use Arnica? Let us know in the comment box below!
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