About Arnica

Meet Arnica montana

Growing high in the European mountains, Arnica montana thrives in cool alpine climates and grassy meadows. Its bright golden blooms have been cherished for centuries for their medicinal properties.

1.

Flowers

Bright yellow-orange and daisy-shaped, Arnica flowers are what most people recognize. They give off a strong scent and typically bloom alone or in clusters at the end of each stem.

2.

Fruit

Arnica plants produce achenes, a type of dry, single-seeded fruit with a feathery top that helps it spread by the wind.

3.

Stem

Light green in color, it can grow 8 to 24 inches high and is covered in very fragrant hairs called trichomes.

4.

Leaves

Arnica has a cluster of fuzzy leaves at its base called a rosette. These help protect the plant from heat and grazing animals, like cows, goats, and sheep. Smaller leaves also grow along the stem.

5.

Roots & Rhizomes

Arnica spreads underground through roots and horizontal stems called rhizomes, which store nutrients and help it survive through winter.

A History of Healing

Arnica through the ages

For centuries, the Arnica plant has played a vital role in natural healing. The Greek physician Dioscorides documented its benefits as early as the 1st century, followed by St. Hildegard of Bingen in the Middle Ages. In 1805, German physician Samuel Hahnemann, the founder of homeopathy, selected Arnica to create one of the first homeopathic medicines. Since then, Arnica has remained a trusted remedy, renowned for its ability to alleviate pain and bruising.

Century first Documented
Year Created as Homeopathic Medicine

What’s in a Name?

The origins and meaning behind Arnica

While Arnica montana is now a widely recognized botanical name, its origins are still shrouded in mystery. Scientists believe the word “arnica” may stem from the Greek term ptarmiké, meaning “that which causes sneezing,” a nod to the plant’s historical use for its sneeze-inducing effects. 

Over the centuries, Arnica montana has collected a few aliases. In scientific circles, it’s also known by its synonyms Doronicum arnica and Doronicum montanum. But in everyday language, especially in French tradition, it has earned several nicknames.

Herb for falls

A tribute to its long-standing use for bruises, bumps, and muscle soreness.

Herb for sneezes

Reflecting the ancient Greek influence on its name.

Leopard's Bane

Tied to the belief that the plant was poisonous to animals, especially leopards.

Mountain tobacco

Referencing past use of the plant’s leaves for smoking.

Preacher’s herb

A charming name from its use in relieving hoarseness.

These names reveal how deeply the Arnica plant is rooted in folk traditions and natural healing, long before it found its place in homeopathy.