Though not known for its strong healing abilities, arnica is an up-and-coming natural ingredient being used in skincare. Sometimes referred to by its Latin name Arnica montana or its nickname "wolf's bane", arnica is a flowering herb found in Europe, Siberia, and North America. Countless research has shown that arnica can accelerate healing and stop bruising or muscle pain. When using arnica for skin benefits, it's better to use it topically and only on unbroken skin.
4 Benefits of Arnica
● Depuff Skin
Arnica's anti-inflammatory powers have been used for more cosmetic purposes like decreasing puffiness around the face.
● Soothe Insect Bites
Applying an arnica balm to a bite can help calm inflammation and can help clear out the extra histamine by increased circulation, reducing the desire to scratch and speeding up healing time.
● Wound Healing
Arnica has the potential to stimulate the flow of white blood cells and improve blood flow in the joints, muscles, and bruised tissue.
● Helps Relieve Pain
One of the most popular ways to use arnica is to apply a topical arnica balm (like our Recovery Balm) on your sore muscles and sprains. The plant's power to heal muscle aches comes from its strong anti-inflammatory benefits, which can reduce swelling and provide pain relief by improving blood circulation.
When to Use Arnica
Bruising, muscular strains, wounds and swelling- these are common problems experienced by runners and athletes. Many trainers, coaches, and athletes themselves, are successfully treating and curing many of the most common athletic injuries. Arnica works quickly to repair damaged blood vessels, to reduce swelling at the site of the injury, and to eliminate pain. So, when exactly should you use arnica as part of your post-workout regime?
● After a run or workout. It will minimize any bruising, muscle strain or trauma.
● Before a big workout or a long run to minimize muscle aches and bruising.
● When injured as part of your First Aid.
Dr. Doug’s Recovery Balm
Dr. Doug's Organic Recovery Balm helps your body recover the natural way. Soothing Arnica Montana sunflower cream is combined with magnesium chloride salts found in seawater to provide pain relief and reduce muscle soreness. In addition to its healing properties, our Recovery Balm works as a moisturizer, repairing and replenishing the skin to improve skin quality.
● Reduces bruising, swelling and soreness
● Helps with joint pain, stiffness, body aches and inflammation
● Use for muscle pain and nerve pain
● Moistures and improves skin quality
How to Use:
Gently apply onto skin of affected areas, avoiding eyes and mouth. Reapply twice a day or more as needed.
For joint pain relief and/or inflammation: For best results, rub all the way around the joint and continue several inches above and below the area.
Like what you read or have any questions regarding our medicinal products? Leave a comment below or email us at drdoug@drdougsbalms.com.