ARNICA
Arnica montana
Compositae
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Arnica is
a perennial with several flower stalks. An ointment to soothe sprains,
bruises and aching muscles can be made using the flowers.
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Best Climate:
Prefers full sun but tolerates light shade.
Ideal Soil Conditions:
Dry, sandy soil with some humus.
Growing Guidelines:
Sow seed indoors
in early spring; wait until after the danger of frost before transplanting
outdoors. Propagate by dividing the whole plant any time in spring.
Growing Habit:
Height to 2 feet
(60 cm); bright green leaves that form a flat rosette, from the center of
which rises a flower stalk. The rhizome is dark brown, cylindrical, usually curved,
and bears
brittle, wiry rootlets on the under surface.
Flowering Time:
Midsummer; yellow-orange daisy-like blossoms 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) across.
Pest and Disease Prevention:
Occasionally bothered
by aphids. To control the pests, spray tops and bottoms of leaves
with water. Dust or spray severe infestations with a botanical insecticide, like
pyrethrin or derris.
Harvesting and Storing:
Cut flowers from
the stalk after they've dried. In autumn, dig roots after the leaves have died.
Mix flowers with some vegetable oil or lard to make an ointment for aching muscles
and for bruises.
Precautions:
Use externally only.
It can cause increased heart rate, nervous disturbances, vomiting and
weakness. Arnica can also cause dermatitis in allergy-prone individuals. It works
by stimulating
the activity of white blood cells that perform much of the digestion of congested
blood, and
by dispersing trapped, disorganized fluids from bumped and bruised tissue, joints
and muscles.
It is known to stimulate blood circulation and can raise blood pressure, especially
in the coronary
arteries. Because it is a stimulant it should be used cautiously until a tolerance
has been established.
Other Common Names:
Mountain tobacco, Leopard's Bane
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