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Arnica (Arnica montana) plant
Skeletal

Arnica (Arnica montana)

Photo: Böhringer Friedrich · CC BY-SA 2.5

  • Skeletal
  • 1 condition
  • Licensed photo

Overview

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).

Amounts reported by sources

Preparation amounts are not shown for this herb. It is toxic, restricted, or otherwise unsafe to self-dose - the margin between a traditional dose and a harmful one is too small to publish as reference material. If you are considering it, that conversation belongs with a doctor or a qualified practitioner, not a website.

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.

Educational reference only - not medical advice. Herbs can interact with medications. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use. Full disclaimer.

Drug interactions

Interaction data is not available for this herb - talk to a pharmacist before combining it with any medication. A blank entry here means we have not documented interactions, not that none exist.

Habitat

Arnica thrives in mountainous meadows and pastures, typically at high elevations, in parts of central Europe, the Pyrenees, Siberia, Canada, and the northwestern U.S. Its flowers are harvested at full bloom, usually from early June through the end of July, and the rhizomes are gathered after the plant dies back in autumn.

Sources

The interaction notes and the statements on this page that name a source were written by HerbMate from these references, which were last checked in October 2026. They are summaries, not medical advice; ask a pharmacist about your own medicines.

  1. Memorial Sloan Kettering, About Herbs: Arnica

Traditionally used for

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Frequently asked questions

How is Arnica (Arnica montana) prepared?

Preparation amounts are not shown for this herb. It is toxic, restricted, or otherwise unsafe to self-dose - the margin between a traditional dose and a harmful one is too small to publish as reference material. If you are considering it, that conversation belongs with a doctor or a qualified practitioner, not a website.

What safety cautions apply to Arnica (Arnica montana)?

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.