Arnica cream

Arnica creams are a form of salve that is derived from the arnica plant and have been in use for many generations, since the early 1500s. This cream is generally used to relieve stomach illnesses and curing skin conditions like rashes. It is also very useful in easing muscle pains, bruises and sprains as the active ingredient present in arnica creams are extremely efficient in treating tissues.

The arnica plant is similar to the sunflower as it looks much like it, growing two feet tall with bulky stems. Following similar suit, the arnica plants have sizeable yellow petals which actually contain the ingredients that are used in the arnica cream. The flowers are usually dried before being processed to make the cream but in some cases, fresh flowers may also be used. The cream produced from the flowers is made of 25% arnica tincture. This contains 15% oil that is extracted from the petals.

The ingredient that makes arnica cream so specialized at healing muscle pains is sesquiterpene lactone helenalin which is a renowned anti-inflammatory agent. Whenever any part of the body is bruised, our immune system automatically sends more blood to the area for treating the injury. The cream helps the blood move to the injured area quicker and also out of the area to remove the harmful pollutants as well as the additional tissue and blood before they start to pile up. By aiding the blood circulation in this method, the swelling and pain is reduced all the while quickening the healing process.

Arnica creams are generally produced in two different forms: Homeopathic and herbal. The homeopathic cream is safe to be used for almost anyone, without any possible contraindications or side effects. It is diluted with plenty of water so that it does not cause any adverse effects, but still be effective in treating the injury. Herbal arnica creams are noticeably stronger than homeopathic creams. It is one of the best creams for treating skin and muscle ailments, but it must also be used with care as it may cause irritation in rare cases.

The dosage of arnica creams is very limited. They are safe enough to be used three times a day at most, and for as long as ten days. If the necessity arises, it is recommended to ask the dermatologists whether the cream can be applied for a few extra days, especially because prolonged use of arnica cream has been known to inflict adverse effects on the user. If rashes, itching or blisters appear on the skin while applying the cream, it is an indicator that the body cannot handle the cream anymore and it is time to stop.

In most cases it has been noted that those who are allergic to arnica cream or the sunflower family in general, suffer from unpleasant effects such as rashes and irritation. Also, some people have also been known to suffer from heightened eczema; usually over the area of the skin that the cream has been applied on. It has also been warned that arnica cream should never be used on any broken skin or any fresh, open wounds. It also must never be consumed orally, since the concentration of the ingredients used is toxic and may even have fatal consequences unless immediate medical is immediately sought after such incidents.

Arnica cream is an extremely beneficial organic lotion that excels in healing bruises and other muscle injuries. Though the herbal cream may be quite strong, the homeopathic cream is perfect for children as they get hurt quite often. It is an ideal component in every parent’s first aid kit and should be present in every household.

Last updated on Jun 9th, 2010 and filed under Alternative Medicine. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

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