Herb
Arnica
A mountain daisy used in creams and gels on unbroken skin to ease bruises, sprains, and muscle soreness — for external use only.
📊 How it ranks (our editor score)
🥄 How to use it
Apply arnica cream, gelA cool, jelly-like preparation that soothes and moisturizes skin. How to make a gel →, or ointmentA soft, spreadable skin preparation, a little thicker than a cream. How to make an ointment → to the sore or bruised area on intact skin, two or three times a day. It must never be swallowed in herbal (non-homeopathic) form.
How much: Topically, apply a thin layer of cream or gelA cool, jelly-like preparation that soothes and moisturizes skin. How to make a gel → to the affected area two or three times daily. It is for external use only — never swallow the herbal preparation.
Show full details & how to prepare it
Arnica is a cheerful yellow daisy of mountain meadows, and for centuries its flowers have been turned into creams and ointments to rub on bruises, sprains, and aching muscles. Its compounds, applied to the skin over a fresh bruise or strained muscle, are traditionally used to ease swelling and tenderness.
The one firm rule with arnica is direction: on the skin, yes; swallowed as an herbA plant, or part of one, used for flavor, food, or gentle health support. More →, never — it is genuinely poisonous taken internally in herbal strength. (The tiny homeopathic pellets are a different, extremely dilute product.) Keep it to unbroken skin, away from open cuts, and stop if it irritates.
Ways to prepare it
⚖️ Cautions
- Do not take arnica internally as an herb — it is toxic when swallowed; only homeopathic pellets, which are extremely dilute, are meant to be taken by mouth.
- Never apply it to broken skin or open wounds, and stop if a rash develops; avoid in pregnancy.
📚 Why we trust it
- A traditional topical herb for bruises and strains
- Used on the skin for muscle soreness
🔎 Learn more
Reputable, independent sources for further reading. These open in a new tab.
🕊️ A word of encouragement
Bumps and strains are part of an active life. Tend them kindly, and let your body do its faithful work of mending.
💬 Ask Remy about Arnica
📚 Resource confidence
Based on mentions in health references
Source endorsement totals come from books and studies (+7 per book, +5 per article). In this preview your vote is saved on your device only.
💬 Comments & experiences
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