Arnica

According to Swiss scientists, arnica gel inhibits inflammation just as effectively as cortisone. Some key facts: Real arnica, also known as mountain arnica, belongs to the daisy family and is a protected species. It prefers nutrient-poor, lime-free, acidic meadows and is a biennial plant.

It was chosen as Flower of the Year in 1986 and as Medicinal Plant of the Year in 2001. Arnica is still considered a poisonous plant (especially as a potent cardiac poison), so it should be used carefully and not ingested. One of its main active ingredients, helenalin, is produced in significantly higher quantities in arnica flowers found in the Alpine region than in Spanish arnica, for example. Helenalin is a natural anti-inflammatory with anti-tumor effects. Due to the higher helenalin content, the allergenic potential increases. A small application test on the inner forearm can show whether the arnica preparation is tolerated or not.

Collection note: Only a few petals are taken from each flower head to ensure that the plant population can be preserved and continue to grow!

Arnica Tincture: Fresh arnica flowers are placed in a screw-top jar (filling it 3/4 full) and then covered with 40% alcohol. Let it steep for 4–6 weeks, strain, and pour into a dark bottle.

Arnica Oil: Place arnica flowers in a small screw-top jar (filling it 3/4 full) and cover with high-quality olive or linseed oil. Leave in the sun for 4–6 weeks until it turns bright yellow, then strain and pour into a small bottle with a dropper. Arnica oil is better suited for treating injuries in children than the tincture, as it doesn’t sting.

Arnica Salve with Beeswax: For a trial batch, add 2 tablespoons of beeswax granules to a saucepan (use enameled cookware), heat slowly on the stove, then remove from heat. While stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, add the prepared arnica oil one spoonful at a time. This allows the mixture to cool very gradually, letting the beeswax contract and blend with the oil. Keep stirring until the desired consistency is achieved (some prefer it creamier, others firmer). If the beeswax does not mix well enough with the oil due to insufficient stirring, briefly reheat on the stove and repeat the process. Practice makes perfect.