arnica extract (Arnica montana) is a botanical credited with a wide variety of properties, including antiseptic, astringent, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-coagulant, circulationstimulating, healing, and stimulating. Some claim it promotes the removal of wastes from the skin, aids in the promotion of new tissue growth, and is anti-allergenic. Traditionally used for acouperose condition, arnica extract is also considered excellent for an acne condition. It is effective in gels and creams designed to treat damaged, reddened, or tired skin. Important constituents include arnicin, a volatile oil, tannin, phulin, sesquiterpenes, flavonoids, and coumarins. The flowers of this perennial herb are said to contain more arnicin than the rhizome and are the preferred segment of the plant used. Repeated applications may produce severe inflammation and great care must be exercised in its use as some people are particularly sensitive to the plant.
