Arnica (Arnica montana) vs Corydalis (Corydalis yanhusuo)

Arnica (Arnica montana)

Corydalis (Corydalis yanhusuo)

About

Arnica is an aromatic perennial, usually about 1 ft (30 cm) high, with downy, oval-shaped leaves and bright yellow daisy-like flowers. Its flowers and roots have traditionally been used for bruises, sprains, arthritic pain and muscle aches, and a highly diluted form is used in homeopathy; MSK says a few clinical trials suggest topical arnica may help osteoarthritis and bruising, but rigorous research on homeopathic arnica is still needed. Arnica taken internally can be toxic (see precautions).

Corydalis is a small herbaceous perennial growing to 8 inches with narrow leaves and pink flowers. Native to Siberia, northern China, and Japan, it is commonly cultivated in eastern and northeastern parts of China. Propagated from seed in early spring or autumn, the rhizome is harvested in late spring and early summer when the aerial parts have withered. It has been part of Chinese herbal medicine since at least the 8th century.

Safety & precautions

Toxicity (internal use): Arnica tincture can be toxic even at low dosages and should only be taken under professional supervision and in a highly diluted form. Skin application: Neither the herb nor homeopathic arnica should be applied to broken skin. Extended external use may cause dermatitis in sensitive people due to the sesquiterpene lactones it contains. Pregnancy & Nursing: Should not be used internally during pregnancy or while nursing. High Doses: Can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, tremors, irregular heartbeat (tachycardia, arrhythmia), and possibly collapse. Legal Restrictions: Arnica is subject to regulatory controls in certain countries.

Do not take during pregnancy. Its alkaloids act on the central nervous system; use it only with professional guidance.

Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.