The Benefits of Arnica Montana

Also known as: Mountain Tobacco, Mountain Arnica, Common Arnica, Leopard's Bane and Sneezewort
Plant family: Asteraceae
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Parts used: Roots and flowers
Description: Arnica montana or Leopard's Bane is a perennial herb, growing close to the ground. The leaves form a flat rosette, from the center of which rises a flower stalk, 1 to 2 feet high, bearing orange-yellow flowers. The rhizome is dark brown, cylindrical, usually curved, and bears brittle wiry rootlets on the under surface.
habitat: Indigenous to Central Europe, in woods and mountain pastures, although it has been found in England and Southern Scotland.
warning: This herb should NEVER be taken in raw form. This plant, like many medicinal plants if ingested, can cause intestinal bleeding, abdominal cramping and sickness. Homeopathy is the medicinal use of tinctures and suspensions using herbs and other plants and should never be consumed without proper preparation. Only respectable homeopathic remedies and tinctures should be consumed.

Arnica montana has been used in Europe for centuries to treat swelling, soreness and bruising. This product is often misunderstood when confused with ingesting the arnica plant in its raw form. When properly prepared, Arnica may significantly decrease healing time and lessen bruising and swelling. There are many formulations from different companies although many sublingual (under the tongue) seem to be the most recommended types for plastic surgery.

Other products or supplements that you may heard of or have been recommended may be Bromelain, Vitamin A, Vitamin K or Vitamin C - please discuss these with your surgeon if you are interested or have questions.

Remember!
Not all surgeons will agree that homeopathic remedies are beneficial. If you would like to inform your surgeon about the benefits of arnica montana for his study. Please do not go against your surgeon's wishes and disobey his pre and post-operative instructions. ALWAYS ASK YOUR SURGEON FIRST BEFORE TAKING ANY MEDICATION.