Arnica
Natural Standard evidence-based flashcard. Copyright © 2008 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This flashcard is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions. 		Image
While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.

Summary:
Arnica is commonly used in herbal ointments and oils applied on the skin as an anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving agent for aches, bruises, and sprains on unbroken skin. Only highly diluted homeopathic preparations are considered safe; full doses of arnica may be toxic when taken by mouth. Arnica may also be damaging to the heart, resulting in high blood pressure. Currently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has declared arnica an unsafe herb.

Uses
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Grade*
Analgesia C
Bruising C
Coagulation (blood clotting) C
Diabetic retinopathy (eye problems) C
Diarrhea in children (acute) C
Osteoarthritis C
Postoperative ileus C
Stroke C
Trauma (pain and wound healing) C
Muscle soreness D
*Key to grades: A: Strong scientific evidence for this use; B: Good scientific evidence for this use; C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use; D: Fair scientific evidence against this use (it may not work); F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likely does not work).

Safety:
Avoid if allergic or hypersensitive to arnica or any member of the Asteraceae or Compositae families (sunflowers, marigolds or any related plants like daisies, ragweed or asters). Use cautiously with blood thinners, protein-bound drugs, cholesterol or heart medications, or diabetes drugs. Use cautiously with a history of stroke. Avoid contact with open wounds or near the eyes and mouth. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Possible side effects:
Blood pressure changes, collapse, coma, death, difficulty breathing, eczema, facial eczema, heart attack, heartbeat changes, impaired urine flow, increased bleeding time, increased heartbeat, itching, kidney damage, liver damage, miscarriage, mouth ulcers/blisters, muscle weakness, nausea, reddening of the skin, skin rash, stomach discomfort, Sweet's syndrome swelling of lips/mouth/throat, vomiting.

Possible interactions:
Abortion-inducing agents, anti-inflammatory agents, blood pressure drugs, blood-thinning agents (like aspirin, warfarin), cholesterol medications, corticosteroids, drugs that bind to blood proteins, drugs for blood pressure, heart medications, hydroxyethyl salicylate, pain relievers (like ibuprofen), and herbs or supplements with similar effects.

Dosing:

Adult (18 years and older):
Arnica is toxic if taken by mouth unless extremely diluted (homeopathic).

Children (younger than 18 years):
Not enough scientific data available.
Natural Standard Monograph (www.naturalstandard.com)
Copyright © 2008 Natural Standard Inc. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited.
The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.