Arnica is a perennial herb that belongs to the sunflower family. It is native to mountainous regions of Europe and North America. The plant typically grows between one to two feet in height and features bright yellow flowers that resemble daisies. Arnica has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, primarily for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It is commonly applied topically in the form of creams, gels, and ointments to treat bruises, sprains, muscle soreness, and arthritis. The active compounds in arnica include helenalin and dihydrohelenalin, which are thought to contribute to its medicinal effects. While arnica is generally considered safe for external use, it should not be ingested as it can be toxic when taken orally.
