Arnica Side Effects

Arnica is a flowering plant that belongs to the family of 'sunflowers'. It finds its origin in Europe but now has adapted and flourished in other parts of the world as well. Arnica is known by many names. Some common ones are Arnica Montana, Wolbane, Mountain Snuff, Mountain tobacco and Wolf's bane. Arnica is a medicinal herb that finds its use in curing a wide variety of illnesses. It is most commonly used in reducing swelling, pain and bruising. It gives fast relief from the discomfort of insect bites and skin irritation. Arnica is also known to make the muscles function effectively during labor and provides comfort from motion sickness. It is often prescribed by surgeons as it aids post-operative recovery. The benefits of Arnica are numerous but it is not devoid of negative effects.

List of Possible Arnica Side Effects
According to homeopaths, only dilute forms of Arnica are recommendable for usage. The maximum safe period of its consumption does not exceed 15 days. The dosage of Arnica depends on the type and severity of the sickness, and it differs from person to person. Therefore, a constant supervision from a homeopathyf professional is required during Arnica consumption. High doses of Arnica may result in a number of serious side effects. Following is a list of a few most commonly observed ones.

• Mouthwash containing Arnica as one of its constituents often leads to the formation of ulcers in the mouth. Therefore, it is not recommended for long term use.
• Arnica is believed to relieve some discomfort during pregnancy. But it is a uterus stimulant, and therefore, any kind of self medication containing Arnica may cause a miscarriage or premature delivery. Use it only when prescribed by a doctor.
• Higher doses of Arnica often causes abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and lose motions. These are the common side effects of Arnica montana when used with improper consultation and guidance.
• Arnica is not supposed to be prescribed to those people who are on diabetes medication or any kind of anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications like Warfarin, Hepadrin and Plavix. This is because, it increases the possibility of bleeding and can hence worsen the condition.
• It gives you the same negative effect as above when taken along with over-the-counter pain killer such as Aspirin, Naproxen and Ibuprofen. So, you need to avoid arnica when you are taking such analgesics.
• As already mentioned, Arnica prescription should not exceed 15 days. Its long term usage has caused organ damage in many cases. The organs at risk are the heart, lungs and kidneys. This is the worst possible arnica side effect.
• Applying Arnica montana, topically on skin, for more than three weeks can cause skin rashes and eczema. Therefore, it should never be used near the mouth and eyes.
• The Arnica side effects on heart may be life-threatening at times. It disturbs the rhythm of the heart beats and increases the blood pressure. Such a condition should be controlled well on time, otherwise it may even result in death.

By going through the possible side effects of Arnica, you might have got an impression that it is not safe at all for usage. However, this is not true. No health care professional can deny its health benefits. Arnica is extremely helpful in solving a number of health issues. You don't need to consider it as a poison but you definitely need to be careful with its amount and period of dosage. To be always on the safer side with Arnica, follow the instructions and directions suggested by your medical professional strictly.