If you're a fan of homeopathic medicine, you've probably heard of arnica — if not, listen up. Arnica, also known as arnica montana or wolf's bane, is a yellow flowering plant from the sunflower and daisy family that is native to Europe. It's commonly used in homeopathy to treat a large array of conditions. Arnica can be used topically or taken orally, but to do so, it must be diluted because consuming too much can be toxic.
Arnica works wonders on bruising and swelling because it increases circulation and stimulates white blood cell production. Arnica also soothes sore, achy muscles and joints and can decrease pain after trauma or surgery. Many people use arnica before and after undergoing facial procedures and injections to prevent pain, swelling and bruising. Arnica also has antimicrobial properties and can be used in the treatment of acne, sunburn and insect bites.
If you look closely, you'll see a lot of beauty products contain arnica. The natural cure-all is an excellent way to treat most types of inflammation and bruising — and fast! I was in a bad car accident years ago and treated my bumps and bruises immediately with arnica. I should have been black and blue, but I healed ridiculously fast. I now use it to treat just about everything with arnica. So if you're looking for a fast, effective way to heal everything from pimples to Botox injections to muscle pain post-workout, try one of these arnica-infused beauty products — and make bruises a thing of the past.
This is one do-it-all product you'll want to keep with you at all times. The non-greasy unscented gel can be applied to any bruise or inflammation to keep it from really taking form. Apply it at the first signs of muscle aches, especially after a strenuous workout. There are so many uses — the key is early treatment before the pain or bruising sets in.
Arnica lends its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties to this gentle, yet effective acne treatment. Aloe and chamomile up the gentleness factor while willow bark (a natural form of salicylic acid) aids in cell turnover and helps to unclog pores. Fight pimples without wreaking havoc on the rest of your skin.
This gentle, milky cleanser is just what the doctor ordered. It's full of natural anti-inflammatory ingredients like calendula, echinacea and arnica to calm stressed-out and sensitive skin. It's great post-treatment or sunburn when you want to cleanse without stripping. Skin is left clean, soft and pores refined — sans irritation.
This ultra-luxurious body cream's scent will garner lots of compliments. The fragrance is a delicious blend of lemon, rosemary and vanilla bean. Fast absorbing, it contains arnica and vitamin K — two skin-healing ingredients that work wonders on bruises and other wounds. Slather it on daily for soft, smooth, healthy skin.
