Remedy of the week - Arnica

Often described the number one remedy in your First Aid cabinet Arnica has many uses.  Ever done too much gardening and found yourself so stiff the following day, you struggle to get out of bed?  Or begun a new regime of exercise and been put off by the aches and pains you suffer afterwards?  Then try Arnica.  A single dose of Arnica 30c after exercise or strenuous activity can help reduce the effects of lactic acid build up in those tired muscles.  

 If you are still stiff and sore the following day, then take another one or two doses through the day and it will provide some  welcome relief  and get you moving easily again.

Arnica comes from a wild flower that grows in the Swiss Alps.  It was recognised for centuries by herbalists as a wonderful aid to help heal the injuries and shock of people suffering falls in the mountains.  Prepared homeopathically it boosts the body’s own energy system to heal after all types of accident and injury.  Someone in an ‘Arnica state’ will often say they are okay and not want to be touched (yet clearly they are not).   In those situations give a dose of Arnica 30c, ensuring they also receive the correct first aid treatment.  It will help greatly to reduce the effects of shock. 

Remember Arnica for all types of bruising or sprains.  It will typically help when someone may have had a fall and feels ‘bruised all over’.  At the site of visible bruising, it helps to relieve the soreness.   Arnica can be used as a cream, applied directly to the skin or internally in pillule form.  Though always take care never to apply Arnica cream where the skin has been broken.

Arnica is a remedy often given before and after surgery or dental treatment to accelerate the recovery and healing.  Do discuss with your local homeopath to help you to decide the most appropriate dosage.  It is a remedy with many applications and a great friend to have around in times of need. 

For general queries or acute advice I will be available at Bare Health on the second Saturday of each month from 10am to 1pm.  You are welcome to drop in or book a free advice session in advance.  Call Bare Health on 01260 408413.

Jane Bowdenleigh, LNWCH.  Tel 07740 798595.   www.jbhomeopathy.co.uk

Arnica Montana