For most of us, when it comes to minor bumps, muscle aches, or bruises, we almost always think of arnica ointment! Yes, it is the great classic of the first aid kit to treat falls and blows quickly and above all effectively.
Because arnica has active ingredients with many medicinal properties, it serves as the essential summer remedy to heal ailments, both young and old, in a completely natural way.
In this article we will review the characteristics of this incredible healing plant, its health benefits, and we will also show you how to prepare your own completely natural and homemade arnica ointment.
Table of Contents
Arnica characteristics
Arnica belongs to the flowers of the Asteraceae family. This plant has up to 30 subspecies. It is found mostly in North America and only two species of arnica grow in Europe and Asia.
Arnica is an annual plant. The stem of arnica reaches a maximum of 60 cm. Arnica flowers are yellow. The leaves of this plant are oblong and hairy. Arnica contains helenalin, flavonoids, essential oil, phytosterols, carotenoids, triterpenes, tannins, and organic acids. Due to its ingredients, arnica has gained a very important place in modern medicine.
Properties and benefits of arnica ointment
Arnica Montana occupies an important place among medicinal plants. It is one of the best known in homeopathy. In fact, its yellow flowers are harvested to make mother tinctures and decoctions for external use.
Arnica is available in different forms
This is used internally in homeopathic preparations to treat bruising and inflammation. As well as externally in the form of massage oil, spray, cream or ointment to treat joint pain and varicose veins.
The active principles contained in arnica in its flowers, in particular lactones, prevent blood accumulation and prevent the formation of bruises after trauma.
Arnica ointment benefits
- Anti-inflammatory analgesic properties
- Has analgesic activity
- Healing properties
Arnica ointment is known to soothe muscle aches and fatigue, reduce joint pain, and limit venous disorders. This amazing remedy is also beneficial in treating arthritis pain. It’s no wonder that arnica is the quintessential remedy for families and athletes.
So, if you plan to go on vacation this summer, anticipate anything and pack a small emergency first aid kit.
Another benefit: Summer is the season when pesky mosquitoes and other small animals return. Arnica ointment is very effective in cases of stings. Just dab a little on the skin to relieve itching.
How to make an arnica ointment
Now that you know all the health benefits of arnica, it’s time to make your own homemade ointment. For this, just follow the following steps.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup dried arnica
- ½ cup of beeswax
- 2 cups of coconut oil
preparation:
- In a saucepan, pour the coconut oil and add the dried arnica. Then mix with a spoon and simmer for an hour.
- Strain the remains with a strainer and transfer the mixture back to the pot. Then add the beeswax and heat over low heat until melted.
- Remove from heat and mix all the ingredients. Let it rest for a few minutes.
- Blend the mixture until the ingredients are well incorporated and have a creamy texture.
- Finally, pour the ready ointment into a jar with a lid for storage.