Arnica Gel
Arnica (Arnica montana) has been known for its medicinal virtues since the 15th century and remains popular today. Applied topically as a cream, tincture, salve or liniment, Europeans and Native Americans have used arnica to soothe muscle ache, reduce inflammation, and heal wounds. It is often the first remedy used for injuries such as bruises and sprains. Arnica gel in herbal form is primarily restricted to topical use because it can cause serious side effects when taken internally. Arnica gel is commonly used in homeopathy, and may be consumed internally only in the extremely diluted form common to homeopathic remedies.
Arnica montana has been applied by healers for centuries. The roots have been found to consist of thymol, which are used as disinfecting agents and may hold some anti-inflammatory qualities. Arnica gel is used in pure preparations to cure bruises. On the market arnica gel liniments are often used by professional athletes. Arnica gel should not be taken through the mouth due to its toxic qualities, with the exception of homeopathic compounds that are highly scarce in content, since very little of the chemicals from the plant stay.
Additional uses of arnica gel include cardiac disease (as arnica contains a healing substance), to help circulation, reduce cholesterol, and cure the nervous system. These indications have not been tested in laboratory conditions.