The Encyclopedia of Crystals, Herbs, and New Age Elements: An A to Z Guide to New Age Elements and How to Use Them - Adams Media 2016

Arnica
The Power of Herbs: Herbs and Spices

ORIGINS

Arnica is a perennial herb in the Asteraceae or Compositae family, which also includes asters, daisies, and sunflowers. The Arnica montana species has yellow or orange flowers, and the flowers and roots are dried and used for medicinal and other purposes. Arnica montana is native to Europe and Siberia, but other species in the Arnica genus also grow in North America, particularly in mountainous regions.

HISTORY/LORE

Arnica has several nicknames, including wolf’s bane (which it confusingly shares with aconite) and mountain tobacco. Though it has a long history of medicinal use in many cultures, the use of arnica is especially touted in Germany. The German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749—1832), who suffered from angina, credited arnica with saving his life.

USES

Healing Uses: Dried arnica flowers placed in bathwater will ease general aches and pains. Arnica oil relieves muscle soreness, swelling, and inflammation. Arnica should not be placed directly on an open wound; instead, place a compress of dried flowers and roots over a bandaged wound for pain relief and to aid the healing process. This herb should be taken internally only under the supervision of a certified herbalist, as it can cause gastrointestinal distress and other negative reactions.

Magical Uses: Arnica flowers increase psychic powers. This herb is also associated with the harvest and can be used in rituals to ensure the fertility of crops. For protection, add the dried flowers to boiling water to make a tea, and then sprinkle the liquid around the door and window frames of the home.

Personal/Spiritual Growth: Following a traumatic experience, lots of negative and painful emotions may be present. If not dealt with, these emotions can manifest physically as illnesses and other conditions. Meditate with arnica essence to release pent-up pain from past trauma, gain wisdom, and move forward in a balanced, harmonized way. Arnica essential oil can be used in aromatherapy to promote positivity and gratitude.