/oss/taxonomy/term/773/all en /oss/article/health-you-asked/what-arnica <p>Various preparations of this daisy-like plant have been used for centuries to soothe aching muscles and help heal bruises, sprains and wounds. It seems that Europeans and Native Americans independently came to the conclusion that arnica had injury healing properties, suggesting that the effect is real. Traditionally, the flowers were soaked in water and melded into a poultice that was then applied to the injured area. Later, alcohol extracts of the plant and various ointments made from the flowers were developed.</p> Mon, 19 Nov 2012 01:37:13 +0000 Joe Schwarcz PhD 1817 at /oss