Arnica Extract

What is arnica extract?

Arnica extract is extracted from the flowers of the arnica plant. It is orange to brown in colour with a herbal aroma.

The arnica plant (also known as wolf's bane, mountain tobacco or leopard's bane) is a perennial, herbaceous plant with bright yellow and orange flowers and is part of the sunflower family. The most common species, arnica montana, grows in mountainous regions in Europe.

Ingredients: glycerin, aqua, arnica montana flower extract, citric acid, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate

Origin and history

Arnica is native to North America and parts of Europe and Asia. It grows in high altitudes and was even smoked by Native Americans, giving it the nickname 'mountain tobacco'.

There are around 30 species of arnica plant, with arnica montana being the most popular for its health properties. Traditionally, arnica was used in herbal medicine for its healing and anti inflammatory properties.

It was used as an alternative medicine to treat skin bruises, insect bites, muscle pain, reduce pain and swelling, and for wound healing. Today, arnica flower extract is used in some homeopathic remedies and cosmetics products.

What is arnica extract used for?

Arnica flower extract is used in cosmetic products like face masks, toners, creams and moisturisers. It is often used in cosmetics for its anti inflammatory properties.

It is commonly used as a homeopathic remedy and is said to be able to soothe sore muscles, heal skin bruises and reduce irritation on the skin, due to the anti inflammatory properties. However, there is not enough scientific evidence to support these claims.

Arnica extract safety

Arnica extract should be diluted in a carrier oil before applying topically. The recommended usage rates for arnica extract is around 1.5% - 3% when used in a skin treatment.

It should not be applied directly to skin, or to damaged skin as this could cause irritation, inflammation or swelling on the skin.

Arnica flower extract is not suitable for ingestion and should only be used externally. We recommend testing a small amount of the diluted extract on a patch of skin to test for any allergic reactions or irritation.

FAQ's

What is the INCI name for arnica extract?

The INCI name for arnica extract is arnica montana flower extract.