arnica

Arnica is a perennial herb most commonly referring to the species *Arnica montana*, but also includes related species such as *Arnica chamissonis* and others. It has been widely used in folk and homeopathic medicine for conditions like bruises, sprains, muscle pain (myalgia), joint pain (arthralgia), inflammation and wound healing[2][4][7]. The primary active constituents are sesquiterpene lactones which have anti-inflammatory properties. Mechanistically these compounds inhibit binding of transcription factors AP-1 and NF-κB to DNA—key regulators of inflammatory gene expression—and suppress matrix metalloproteinases MMP1 and MMP13 involved in cartilage destruction[8]. Topical preparations are considered the safest form; oral use is associated with significant toxicity risks including gastroenteritis and cardiac effects[2][5]. There is some evidence that topical arnica gel may reduce pain from osteoarthritis comparably to ibuprofen[3], but overall clinical evidence remains limited.

Brand names

ArnicareArnicamfort

Other names

Arnica montanaArnica chamissonisArnica cordifoliaArnica fulgensArnica sororiaarnica flosleopard's banemountain snuffmountain tobaccosneezewort