< previous page | page_47 | next page >
Page 47
| oil, are anti-inflammatory and relieve the pain of bruises, sprains, rheumatism and inflammation. In Medicinal Plants of the Pacific West, Michael Moore wrote: |
| The primary uses for arnica have remained unchanged for centuries. The tincture, oil, salve, tea, or bruised fresh plant is used externally for bruises, hyperextensions, arthritis, bursitis, and myalgia. Arnica works by stimulating and dilating blood vessels. Good, diffused blood transport and circulation into injured, bruised, or inflamed tissues helps speed up resolution and removal of waste products. Arnica does not have the anesthesia of menthol or winter-green or the counterirritation property of other aromatic balms, and should not be expected to have their immediate effects. Instead, in a few hours or overnight, it aids in removing the congestion that results from a bruise, sprain or hyperextension. In osteoarthritis, the stimulation supplied by arnica is a small but significant aid in increasing the absorption and drainage of the hyaline cartilage, lessening some of the early and chronic congestion of the joints that leads, gradually, to the overgrowth of bony cartilage characteristic of osteoarthritis. In rheumatoid arthritis, a highly variable condition with many elements of immunologic dysfunction, including overt autoimmunity, it is wise to try using arnica on the swollen joints for two or three days. If it helps the inflammation and shortens the length of morning stiffness in the primary joint, you will usually find that it can be used regularly without any problem. If it starts to overheat the joint or redden the skin below the surface, stop. |
| Arnica is not recommended for internal use. |
< previous page | page_47 | next page >

If you like this book, buy it!