Medicinal Post #11 written June 12, 2018
Arnica – Arnica montana, A. chamissonis
Arnica grows wild in our Utah mountains. There are many yellow flowers that look a lot like Arnica, like Balsam root (also medicinal) so be sure you know what you’re looking for. It can easily be identified by its heart shaped leaves. Harvest when the plant is in full bloom.
It has wonderful medicinal properties, but should never be taken internally. However, in homeopathy it is safe to take internally. Arnica has high levels of a chemical called helenalin which attributes to its powerful anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antimicrobial properties. The whole plant is the medicine and is used for infusing oils, making salves and lotions. It is wonderful for mainly anything skin problem related. It should never be applied to broken skin because it can poison the blood. It is great for sore muscles, sprains, insect bites, swollen joints and superficial burns.
Today I made a solar infused oil with Arnica, Lavender, Calendula and Marshmallow leaf. I’ll leave it on my south facing back porch for the sun to heat the oil, pulling the medicine into it for 2-4 weeks. This will be my oil base for making a skin soothing lotion. For every cup of infused oil I make, I’ll add 2oz beeswax and melt them together. Once cooled I’ll add a lavender and calendula tea of equal amounts and thicken with an immersion blender. Add vitamin E and desired essential oils like lavender. Pour into containers and use within 2 months or store in the fridge to keep longer. *You could also add yarrow, plantain or even cayenne for arthritic pain to the infused oil. Makes great gifts for birthdays or Christmas!
