Personal Story
Early this year I dropped a sewing machine on my hand. Even though I didn't think I hurt myself, I knew something had happened as I looked at my hand start to swell up like a balloon. It really didn't hurt, but I had to act fast to reduce the bruising. The tissue looked like it was filled with fluid and started to turn dark blue and become tender to the touch.
Luckily, I had arnica in the house and took a dose. I kept opening and closing my hand to keep the blood flowing and to make sure there was mobility and no bones were broken. After that first dry dose of pellets, I put a pellet in water, stirred the glass and took a sip every hour. By the next day there was a tiny bit of tenderness and the tissue swelling had gone all the way down. It took about three days total for the entire area to be normal again. I was so surprised that the typical changing of colors from black and blue to green, orange, and yellow did not even happen. The skin just went back to normal as the discoloration faded.
Whenever I do have a large bruise or injury, I open a pineapple and eat loads of this delicious sweet yellow meat which contains healing bromelain. G-d has provided the means to heal in our foods.
Arnica (Arnica chamissonis, Arnica cordifolia, Arnica fulgens, Arnica latifolia, Arnica montana, Arnica sororia)
Arnica (Arnica Montana) is a homeopathic anti-inflammatory that may be used for traumatic injury, bruises, strained joints, muscles, ligaments, tendons, tensive backache, concussion, stroke, heart strain and to reduce pain and bleeding after surgery.
Homeopathic remedies are prescribed on the principal that 'like cures like', in a tiny dilution - so the indications below are what a healthy person would feel if taking Arnica Montana. If your symptoms match the materia medica picture then arnica would be appropriate for your condition. Scientists have studied arnica for the following health problems:
Diabetic eye damage
Some studies suggest that arnica in very diluted (homeopathic) doses may improve vision in people with eye damage caused by diabetes. However, studies have been small, with flaws in the way the results were reported. Therefore, it is unclear whether there is any benefit from arnica for this condition.
Pain
Homeopathic arnica is typically used by homeopaths for trauma and bruising. Arnica may also help reduce pain in tonsillectomy patients. Some studies suggest that arnica in very diluted (homeopathic) doses may relieve pain after surgery. However, these studies have been small, with flaws in their designs, and results of different studies have disagreed with each other. Therefore, it is unclear whether there is any benefit from arnica for relieving pain after surgery.
Stroke
Although there are several studies, it is not clear whether arnica in much diluted (homeopathic) doses has any beneficial effects for individuals who have suffered from stroke. Further studies comparing arnica with standard treatments are needed.
Muscle soreness caused by exercise
Although arnica taken by mouth appears to be safe in very diluted (homeopathic) doses for treating muscle soreness after exercise, most studies have not found any benefit when arnica is used for this purpose. Some studies suggest a positive effect on muscle soreness after marathon running but not on cell damage measured by enzymes. Further research is needed in the area of sports injuries to determine if arnica affects aerobic resistance, anaerobic capacity strength and flexibility.
Hematoma and recovery after surgery
Arnica in very diluted (homeopathic) doses has been proposed to reduce hematoma (bleeding and bruises) after surgery and to improve postoperative recovery. A pilot study of arnica D12 had a trend toward a beneficial effect with regard to reduction of hematoma and pain during the postoperative course after varicose vein surgery. Another recent study of prevention of pain and bruising in hand surgery reported negative results. Overall, most studies evaluating arnica for this use have not found significant benefit. Further research is needed to draw firm conclusions.
Postoperative ileus
A meta-analysis of existing clinical trials suggests that there is evidence that homeopathic arnica treatment may reduce the duration of ileus after abdominal or gynecologic surgery. Well-designed research is needed to make a definitive conclusion.
Acute childhood diarrhea
One study suggests a decrease in the duration of diarrhea in children with homeopathic doses of arnica. Further study is needed to make a recommendation.
Emergency medicine
In one case report, 15 orthopedic patients were treated with Arnica montana 200CH post-trauma. At discharge, patients rated homeopathic treatment successful in 67 percent of the specific complaints.
Osteoarthritis
Arnica gel has been used on the skin for osteoarthritis pain and stiffness, due to its anti-inflammatory constituents. Although early study is promising, additional study is needed.
When trauma is extensive:
Arnica produces conditions upon the system quite similar to those resulting from injuries, falls, blows, contusions. Tinnitus aurium. Putrid phenomena. Septic conditions; prophylactic of pus infection. Apoplexy, red, full face. It is especially suited to cases when any injury, however remote, seems to have caused the present trouble. After traumatic injuries, overuse of any organ, strains.
The Following Conditions and Sensations May Point to Arnica As A Healing Agent:
Arnica Montana is disposed to cerebral congestion. Acts best in plethoric, feebly in debilitated with impoverished blood, cardiac dropsy with dyspnoea. A muscular tonic. Traumatism of grief, remorse or sudden realization of financial loss. Limbs and body ache as if beaten; joints as if sprained. Bed feels too hard. Marked effect on the blood. Affects the venous system inducing stasis. Ecchymosis and Hemorrhages. Relaxed blood vessels, black and blue spots. Tendency to hemorrhage and low-fever states. Tendency to tissue degeneration, septic conditions abscesses that do not mature. Sore, lame, bruised feeling. Neuralgias originating in disturbances of pneumogastric. Rheumatism of muscular and tendinous tissue, especially of back and shoulders. Aversion to tobacco. Influenza. Thrombosis. Haematocele. When the person feels better, lying down, or with head low; but WORSE from least touch; motion; rest; wine; damp cold.
Resource: http://www.abchomeopathy.com/shop.php
DIRECTIONS
Begin taking Arnica Montana immediately after surgery and continue until the bruising and swelling has subsided (usually 7-14 days). Do not brush your teeth, eat, or drink anything but water, 15 minutes before or 15 minutes after taking Arnica Montana . Avoid handling of the tablets by using the bottle cap that is included. Take 3 tablets, 3 times a day. Important: Place tablets under the tongue and let dissolve naturally.
When Going for Surgery:
Do not eat or drink anything by mouth (including this supplement) after midnight prior to surgery. Following anesthesia and surgery, it is not uncommon for some patients to experience decreased appetite or gastrointestinal upset. Since Arnica Montana is a sublingual medication (under the tongue), taking this product should not cause or aggravate an upset stomach.
Arnica Works Well With Bromelain
Arnica Montana is known for the reduction of bruising and swelling and works well in combination with Bromelain with Quercetin. You can get the bromelain from eating pineapple.
Caution Taking Supplements Before Surgery:
Certain vitamins, minerals or herbal supplements should not be taken during the peri-operative period. In particular, supplements containing the following compounds should be discontinued two weeks prior to, and for up to two weeks after surgery: Bilberry, cayenne, dong quai, echinacea, feverfew, fish oil caps, garlic, ginger, ginkgo biloba, ginseng, hawthorne, kava kava, licorice root, ma huang (ephedra), melatonin, red clover, St. John's wort, valerian, vitamin E and yohimbe
If You Want to Take More Than Arnica:
Arnica Montana 30x Homeopathic Medicine: A homeopathic remedy hat helps to reduce bruising and swelling.
Bromelain (1500 mg; 3000 MCUs): A natural, proteolytic enzyme (digests protein) that is extracted from the root of the pineapple stem and is beneficial for reducing inflammation (swelling) and treating tissue injury. Bromelain inhibits prostaglandins that cause inflammation and promotes the formation of anti-inflammatory prostaglandins.
Quercetin (1500 mg): Quercetin is a flavanoid that is a plant pigment found in large amounts in foods such as onion and apples. Quercetin enhances the impact of Bromelain and slows down the release of inflammatory mediators (including histamine) and thus helps reduce swelling.
Vitamin A (25,000 IUs): A fat-soluble vitamin that must be present for wound healing and acts as an antioxidant that is necessary for new cell growth, and repair and maintenance of tissue. Vitamin A also helps treat superficial wrinkles, prevent skin disorders, protect against cancer, and helps remove age spots.
Vitamin C (750 mg): A water-soluble vitamin that is vital for wound healing and acts as an antioxidant and is needed for repair and growth of tissues damaged by surgery. Vitamin C plays a primary role in collagen formation, which is crucial for wound healing.
B-Complex Vitamins: The "Stress Fighting" family of water-soluble vitamins help maintain and promote the health of skin, nerves, eyes, hair, liver and mouth. The B-vitamins are essential for smooth skin and lustrous, shiny hair. The VitaMedica Progarm includes the "unofficial" vitamins, inositol and choline.
Zinc (21 mg): A trace mineral that acts as an antioxidant and is essential for protein synthesis and collagen formation. This mineral helps to promote the healing of wounds and increases the absorption of Vitamin A.
Selenium (210 mcg): A trace mineral that acts as an antioxidant and that inhibits the oxidation of fats.
Copper (210 mcg): A trace mineral that works in balance with vitamin C and zinc to form elastin, which is essential for the formation of collagen. Copper is necessary for the function of an enzyme which is required to cross-link collagen and elastin. Collagen also aids in the formation of bone, hemoglobin, and red blood cells.
Bioflavonoids (600 mg): Bioflavonoids strengthen the walls of capillaries and thereby prevent bruising. Bioflavonoids also help build resistance to infection and are potent antioxidants that enhance the absorption of Vitamin C and prevent this nutrient from being oxidized.
Caution With High Strength Vitamins:
About 10% of people experience the so-called "niacin flush" with high-potency vitamins. This involves a temporary reddening of the skin that lasts 10-15 minutes. It is a normal response and is harmless. Usually it will disappear after one or two days of taking the vitamins. To decrease the chances of the niacin-flush occurring, we recommend building up slowly to the full dose of Clinical Support for Surgery. When starting taking the multinutrients, simply reduce the dose to one tablet for 1-2 days, then two tablets for 1-2 days, and so forth. This approach will also help to prevent the uneasy sensation that occurs in some people's stomach after taking vitamins.
Bromelain with Quercetin Instructions: Begin taking Bromelain 3 days prior to surgery and continue until the inflammation has subsided (usually 7 days). Take 2 capsules three times a day. Bromelain should be taken between meals preferably on an empty stomach. For example: upon awakening, late morning and late afternoon. Do not eat or drink anything by mouth (including this supplement) after midnight prior to surgery. Following anesthesia and surgery, it is not uncommon for some patients to experience decreased appetite or gastrointestinal upset. If you develop these symptoms after surgery, delay taking Bromelain until your stomach is feeling better and you are able to eat a normal diet.
Arnica Montana 30X Instructions: Begin taking Arnica Montana immediately after your surgery and continue taking until the bruising and swelling has subsided (usually 7-14 days). Take 3 tablets, 3 times a day. Important: Place tablets under the tongue and let dissolve naturally. Do not brush your teeth, eat, or drink anything but water, 15 minutes before or 15 minutes after taking Arnica Montana. Do not handle the tablets. Do not eat or drink anything by mouth (including this supplement) after midnight prior to surgery. Following anesthesia and surgery, it is not uncommon for some patients to experience decreased appetite or gastrointestinal upset. Since Arnica Montana is a sublingual medication (under the tongue), taking this product should not aggravate an upset stomach.
Be aware that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and dietary supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products containing or claiming to contain arnica. Decisions to use herbs or supplements should be carefully considered. Individuals using prescription drugs should discuss taking herbs or supplements with a pharmacist or health care professional before starting.
Resources
1. Natural Standard: An organization that produces scientifically based reviews of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) topics
2. National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM): A division of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services dedicated to research
Selected Scientific Studies: Arnica
Natural Standard has reviewed all of the currently available medical literature to prepare the professional monograph from which this version was created.
Some of the more recent studies are listed below:
1. Brinkhaus B, Wilkens JM, Ludtke R, et al. Homeopathic arnica therapy in patients receiving knee surgery: results of three randomised double-blind trials. Complement Ther Med 2006;Dec, 14(4):237-246.
2. Daane SP. Potential for danger with Arnica montana. Ann Plast Surg 2001;46(3):349-350.
3. Ernst E. The benefits of arnica: 16 case reports. Homeopathy 2003;92(4):217-219.
4. Fisher P. Arnica and induction. Homeopathy 2003;Oct, 92(4):175-176.
5. Jaggi R, Wurgler U, Grandjean F, et al. Dual inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase/cyclooxygenase by a reconstituted homeopathic remedy: possible explanation for clinical efficacy and favourable gastrointestinal tolerability. Inflamm Res 2004;53(4):150-157.
6. Jeffrey SL, Belcher HJ. Use of arnica to relieve pain after carpal-tunnel release surgery. Altern Ther Health Med 2002;8(2):66-68.
7. Kucera M, Horacek O, Kalal J, et al. Synergetic analgesic effect of the combination of arnica and hydroxyethyl salicylate in ethanolic solution following cutaneous application by transcutaneous electrostimulation. Arzneimittelforschung 2003;53(12):850-856.
8. Macedo SB, Ferreira LR, Perazzo FF, et al. Anti-inflammatory activity of Arnica montana 6cH: preclinical study in animals. Homeopathy 2004;Apr, 93(2):84-87.
9. Natural Standard Research Collaboration, Chief Editors: Ulbricht C, Basch E, Natural Standard Herb and Supplement Reference. Evidence-Based Clinical Reviews, USA. Elsevier/Mosby, 2005.
10. Oberbaum M, Schreiber R, Rosenthal C, et al. Homeopathic treatment in emergency medicine: a case series. Homeopathy 2003;Jan, 92(1):44-47.
11. Pechter EA. Arnica montana and dosing of homeopathic medication. Plast Reconstr Surg 2004;Jul, 114(1):260-261. Author reply, 261. Comment in Plast Reconstr Surg 2003;Sep 15, 112(4):1164-1166.
12. Petry JJ. Arnica and homeopathy. Plast Reconstr Surg 2004;May, 113(6):1867-1868. Comment in Plast Reconstr Surg 2003;Sep 15, 112(4):1164-1166.
13. Ramelet AA, Buchheim G, Lorenz P, et al. Homeopathic arnica in postoperative haematomas: a double-blind study. Dermatol 2000;201(4):347-348.
14. Raschka C, Trostel Y. Effect of a homeopathic arnica preparation (D4) on delayed onset muscle soreness: placebo-controlled crossover study. MMW Fortschr Med 2006;Jul 20, 148(29-30):35.
15. Riley D. Arnica montana and homeopathic dosing guidelines. Plast Reconstr Surg 2003;112(2):693.
16. Robertson A, Suryanarayanan R, Banerjee A. Homeopathic Arnica montana for post-tonsillectomy analgesia: a randomized placebo control trial. Homeopathy 2007;Jan, 96(1):17-21.
17. Stevinson C, Devaraj VS, Fountain-Barber A, et al. Homeopathic arnica for prevention of pain and bruising: randomized placebo-controlled trial in hand surgery. J R Soc Med 2003;96(2):60-65.
18. Totonchi A, Guyuron B. A randomized, controlled comparison between arnica and steroids in the management of postrhinoplasty ecchymosis and edema. Plast Reconstr Surg 2007;Jul, 120(1):271-274.
19. Tveiten D, Bruset S. Effect of arnica D30 in marathon runners: pooled results from two double-blind placebo controlled studies. Homeopathy 2003;Oct, 92(4):187-189.
20. Varshney JP, Naresh R. Evaluation of a homeopathic complex in the clinical management of udder diseases of riverine buffaloes. Homeopathy 2004;Jan, 93(1):17-20.
21. Wolf M, Tamaschke C, Mayer W, et al. Efficacy of arnica in varicose vein surgery: results of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study. Forsch Komplementarmed Klass Naturheilkd 2003;Oct, 10(5):242-247.
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