In which products can we find arnica macerate?

For centuries, the numerous species ofarnica (Arnica montana, Arnica chamissons, Arnica acaulis, Arnica cordifolia, Arnica fulgens, Arnica sororia, etc.) have been used in homeopathic and traditional medicine for their various biological activities, attributed to their chemical components. Oedemas, bruises, muscle tension, inflammation, wounds, insect bites... it is used for dozens of medical conditions. While the ingestible formulations (granules, teas, tablets, etc.) are less used and available due to their cytotoxic properties, arnica is increasingly incorporated into cosmetic preparations for topical use (gel, cream, ointment, etc.).

• Anti-inflammatory and soothing treatments.

  Due to the anti-inflammatory properties it is believed to contain, arnica is used in skincare formulations aimed at reducing inflammation and skin irritation, as well as sunburn and products designed to alleviate other skin irritations such as insect bites and inflammatory dermatoses. Sensitive and reactive skin types can thus benefit from the incorporation of arnica extract into their skincare routines to reduce any redness, sensitivity, discomfort and irritation.

• Healing treatments.

  Gel, ointment or cream, a whole range of arnica products exists for cases of minor injuries without an open wound (bruises, contusions, sunburn, etc.). By increasing local blood supply, arnica helps to promote the skin's healing process. Given this effect, arnica is sometimes recommended to post-operative patients to heal more quickly after surgery. Another interesting property of arnica is its antibacterial action, which makes it useful in preventing infections from minor wounds.

  That being said, arnica should not be applied directly to open wounds or grazed skin, at least not without direct instruction from a doctor.

• Muscle relaxing treatments.

  Available in the form of a gel, ointment or cream, arnica is often used in the formulation of skincare products to alleviate minor aches and muscle soreness. After a long day or intense activity (such as sports, etc.), arnica can help to relax areas of muscle tension, promote muscle recovery, ease pain and provide comfort to the muscles. For better absorption of the active ingredients into the body and thus a more effective muscle relaxation, it is recommended to perform gentle, slow massage techniques, sometimes with light pressure, when applying the arnica treatment.

• Skincare treatments to combat skin ageing.

  Still rare, some creams, lotions and serums contain arnica to slow down the appearance of ageing signs. A recent study has shown that arnica can plump up the skin by increasing the volume of subcutaneous (pre)adipocytes, it also has antioxidant properties. Its application on the skin thus helps to protect skin cells against oxidative damage caused by free radicals.

• Anti-dandruff products.

  Shampoo, hair serum, hair mask... arnica is also considered a popular holistic treatment against dandruff. Its application to the scalp is believed to help alleviate symptoms of itching and inflammation. However, this claim about the functioning and effectiveness of arnica is anecdotal.

• Venous tonics.

  Under-eye bags, feelings of heavy legs, dark circles, varicose veins... are issues resulting from deficiencies in circulatory functions. However, it has been reported that arnica is capable of improving blood circulation and strengthening vascular walls thanks to some of its active principles (sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids), thus ensuring congestion relief, the resumption of venous return and the reduction of the appearance of bluish dark circles. Whether in the form of a gel or ointment, massage the affected area to promote blood circulation.

Even though arnica is used for various medical conditions, we recommend you to perform a patch test to ensure that your skin does not react before officially applying it.