Arnica essential oil: benefits, properties and contraindications

The arnica It is a plant with interesting medicinal benefits, known scientifically with the name of Arnica montana L., although it is also known by the names of mountain tobacco or stork. With it the popular is elaborated arnica essential oil.

It belongs to the compound family, and it is called "mountain tobacco" because the pastors and ancient nomads used it as a chewable herb, precisely because of the pleasant aroma that it gives off when it is chewed.

With regard to the different medicinal properties it provides, it is interesting in the treatment of gout, sciatica and different rheumatic diseases due to its anti-inflammatory benefits. In addition, it is useful in case of affections of the mouth, for example, in case of inflammation of the gums.

One option when it comes to enjoying its benefits is to make an infusion of arnica (as long as it is only used externally), although it is also possible to use arnica essential oil.

Within the different medicinal properties of arnica, we find a good number of active substances, such as flavonoids, tannins, essential oils and bitter principles. Therefore, there are many benefits of arnica essential oil that we can find particularly in this herb.

What is arnica essential oil?

The arnica essential oil it is obtained by the steam distillation of its flowers, although its root is also used, obtaining an essential oil with a quite different aroma.

It usually has an orange color that tends to look more like a light yellow tone. While its aroma is somewhat bitter, although quite refreshing.

Hence, its use is interesting when it comes to relieve strains, bruises and bumps, especially when applied in the form of massages.

It is also useful for its use in the treatment of rheumatic pains, as well as for certain problems and diseases of the skin, when they are inflammatory and painful.

Yes, the internal consumption of arnica essential oil is not recommended.

Benefits of arnica essential oil

The arnica It is a medicinal herb indicated for the affections of the mouth, being ideal also against the inflammation of the gums and the different oral complaints that may occur.

It is also recommended against bruises and bruises.

In addition, for its anti-inflammatory virtues, it is interesting in the treatment of sciatica, gout and different rheumatic diseases.

Contraindications and side effects of this oil

The ingestion of arnica, especially for long periods of time is completely contraindicated, being a toxic plant. It's more, the internal consumption of arnica essential oil is not advised.

Therefore, it should only be used externally. Even in these cases, its use is not advised in case of:

  • Pregnancy and lactation.
  • Babies and children
  • Sensitive skin: can cause redness of the skin and skin irritation.
  • Open wounds: can cause poisoning.
  • Bleeding: as in open wounds, it can cause poisoning.
  • Allergies and people sensitive to this plant.

We must remember in this section that the ingestion of arnica is toxic, therefore, it should only be used externally on the skin.

Side effects of arnica include:

  • Skin rashes: if little diluted extract is used, it can cause erythematous reactions on the skin.
  • Hypersensitivity: in very sensitive skins it can cause dermatitis or blisters.
ThemesEssential oils

Make Your Own Arnica Oil (February 2024)