Who hasn’t heard of putting Arnica cream on an injured or sprained ankle? Probably the most well-known homoeopathic and herbal remedy in the whole complementary medicine toolkit, Arnica is a tried and trusted remedy for a whole range of trauma-related injuries.
Who hasn’t heard of putting Arnica cream on an injured or sprained ankle? Probably the most well-known homoeopathic and herbal remedy in the whole complementary medicine toolkit, Arnica is a tried and trusted remedy for a whole range of trauma-related injuries. It's also completely underrated as to its uses and effectiveness, some of which need a lot more investigation.
Arnica is a herbal extract or tincture and must be treated with great care. It should only be used externally, as it could cause internal bleeding and irritation of the mucus membranes.
In the form of a cream or liquid application, it can be applied to any areas with bruising, pain, swelling or inflammation, but can still occasionally cause an allergic reaction.
However homoeopathic Arnica can be taken internally as well as applied externally, and very rarely causes any bad effects. It can be used for all the same problems as the concentrated tincture.
Circulation problems like varicose veins and the discolouration of the skin around these veins, as well as swollen legs and overall water retention can be gently and effectively treated with Arnica.
Bruises, sprains, strains, over-used muscles, deeply inflamed joints and soft tissue will all benefit, even if only used a few times shortly after injury or after a surgical procedure. Arnica will shorten the recovery time and also allow the discolouration and bleeding to disperse faster.
As an added benefit, homeopathic Arnica helps to treat shock and general trauma and can be used to steady someone after an accident or a traumatic event.
On an emotional and also a physical level, the homeopathic version will treat over-exhaustion and trauma. It can be used as a tonic and a general pick-me-up, especially during and after a flu or cold, any illness or surgical procedure.
Patients who typically benefit from Arnica feel bruised all over but usually won't acknowledge that there is a problem. They usually refuse to see any type of doctor until they are forced to or are unable to carry on and ignore the problem any longer.
* Dr Marianne Baasch is a homoeopath in Grahamstown.
