Arnica

Mountain arnica or mountain tobacco – Arnica montana

Arnica or mountain tobacco is most often found on slopes, mountain and forest meadows, and the humic and sandy soils. Its taste is bitter and tart, but it has a pleasant resinous smell. It blooms from June to August. Arnica can be used internally or externally. The tincture is most often prepared for internal use from the root itself, while the flowers are used in preparations for external use. One should be very careful when using mountain arnica internally, because it is poisonous; it should be taken only in agreement with a doctor and under his/her supervision. The tincture must be highly diluted, and taken every 2 hours. In external use, care should be taken where it is applied so as not to burn the skin. It is good to have it diluted with glycerin and water. Allergic reactions are possible – urticaria in persons sensitive to arnica. Arnica is also used to make teas and oils, and has given good results when applying compresses in case of abdominal pain. It is used to treat the respiratory organs, lower blood pressure, heal muscle and tendon injuries. In case of gout and ostealgia, the undiluted tincture is used for rubbing.