Modern use is limited to external applications. Unproven uses in folk medicine include heart problems, chest pain, hardening of the arteries, severe uterine bleeding, fatigue, boils, insect bites, and inflamed veins. The plant grows as high as 20 inches and produces aromatic, yellowish flowers. Arnica exhibits antiseptic and pain-killing properties when applied to inflammations. Researchers have also found that, in animals, it increases the flow of blood to the heart muscle and reduces resistance in the veins.
External use is considered safe under all medical conditions.
Special Cautions Repeated contact with Arnica, or cosmetics containing Arnica, can cause itching, blisters, ulcers, and dead skin. However, such side effects are unlikely when the herb is applied at standard potencies for limited periods of time. No drug interactions have been reported. No harmful effects are known. How to Prepare Arnica is available in whole, cut, crushed, and powdered form.