It’s increasingly common for people to seek natural treatment options to ease aches, pains, and inflammation. In fact, the NHIS estimates that 5 million American adults use some type of homeopathic treatment every year.
You’re probably familiar with essential oils and herbal teas. Maybe you’ve also jumped onboard the CBD bandwagon and started using hemp-based products. But how much do you know about another popular remedy — arnica?
What is arnica, exactly? Where does it come from? Is it safe to use? Most importantly, how can it help you to feel your best? We’ll answer all these questions below, so keep reading to learn more!
What Is Arnica?
Arnica comes from a perennial plant known as Arnica Montana. Also called the “mountain daisy,” this pretty orangish flower grows at elevations above 10,000 feet in the mountains of Europe and North America.
In a culinary setting, cooks may use arnica to flavor foods, beverages, and candies. But if we travel back to 18th-century Germany (and the development of modern homeopathy), we learn that arnica’s uses extend far beyond the kitchen!
What Are the Benefits of Arnica?
For centuries, homeopathic practitioners have valued arnica for its healing properties. The flower head can be transformed into lotions, gels, and ointments that treat:
- Bruising
- Arthritis pain
- Muscle aches
- Swollen joints
- Inflammation
Is there any evidence to support these claims? Yes!
One study found that topical arnica reduced bruising and boosted healing time after patients received plastic surgery. A similar study reports that arnica may effectively reduce pain, swelling, and bruising following surgery or trauma.
What about those suffering from arthritis pain? An Australian study on natural pain relief found that arnica worked as well as ibuprofen on osteoarthritis. Participants also reported improved joint function and mobility in their hands.
How Can Arnica Enhance My Massage?
Arnica sounds great, but what’s the best way to use it? Experts agree that applying arnica directly to your skin is the best way to enjoy its therapeutic properties.
The next time you book a massage to ease arthritis pain or get rid of muscle soreness, why not consider adding arnica balm to your treatment? Your massage therapist will use a potent muscle balm that blends arnica, menthol, and other natural ingredients.
You can use arnica as a spot-treatment for targeted pain relief. You can also ask your therapist to use a little bit all over — especially if you’re feeling sore from a long day of skiing! Arnica will elevate your session to the next level, whether you sign up for a relaxing Swedish or an invigorating deep tissue massage.
Best of all, you can take the extra arnica product home with you to use the next time you need all-natural pain relief.
Book Your Arnica Massage Today
So, what do you think? Are you ready to experience these benefits of arnica for yourself?
The good news is you don’t have to travel far! With two convenient locations in Avon and Glenwood Springs, the relaxation and pain relief you seek are right around the corner. Of course, you’re also welcome to book a Swedish or deep tissue massage with CBD, aromatherapy, cupping, or other therapeutic add-ons.
Give us a call at 970-748-1600 or use our online booking page to make an appointment or learn more!