Contents
WHO MUST NOT TAKE ARNICA
What side effects arnica has?
Ingestion of arnica is TOXIC. Arnica is used on the skin, so that all effects described here are related to the external use of the plant:
– Eruptions on the skin by using preparations with arnica: Although the dermal use of arnica is very effective for blows or bruises due to the potential of the plant (caffeic acid and chlorgenic acid have rubefacients properties), or because the plant is generally used little diluted, erythematous skin reactions have been observed.
– Hypersensitivity and allergy. Especially in very sensitive skin, arnica can cause skin lesions such as dermatitis or blisters.
Can you use arnica during pregnancy and lactation?
It is not advisable to use arnica during pregnancy and lactation. Because of the potential toxicity of the plant, its use is not recommended during pregnancy and lactation.
Dose of arnica
– Ingestion is totally contraindicated since it is toxic. Infusions or any kind of intake are discarded.
External use of arnica
– Tincture of arnica or “water of Our Lady of the Snows”: It is prepared with 85g of dried arnica inflorescence (28g if fresh flowers) and 1 liter of alcohol. It is left to macerate for a wee. Strain, squeezing well flowers, as they use to retain much liquid. The dye is passed through a filter of paper and stored.
Before application, the tincture should be diluted. 9 parts of water is recommended for 1 dye. With this water, we will wet some compresses to apply on battered or bruised areas without blood or open wound.
It should be borne in mind that arnica is a toxic plant and its internal use is not allowed (do not ingest).
– Plaster. Plasters plant can easily be irritating and cause skin rashes, so it is not recommended..
More information on arnica.
