Evidence supporting the use of: Hairy Arnica
For the health condition: Sprains
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Hairy Arnica (Arnica mollis), like other Arnica species (notably Arnica montana), has a long history of traditional use in North American and European herbal medicine for the treatment of sprains, bruises, and muscle soreness. The application is typically topical, using tinctures, creams, or poultices made from the flowers. The justification for its use is based on ethnobotanical reports and traditional healing practices, where Arnica preparations were believed to reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation associated with soft tissue injuries such as sprains.
However, while there is some scientific evidence supporting the anti-inflammatory effects of Arnica montana, specific studies on Arnica mollis (Hairy Arnica) are lacking. Most clinical research and reviews focus on Arnica montana, with mixed results regarding its efficacy for sprains and bruises. A few small studies and systematic reviews suggest a modest benefit for reducing pain and swelling, but these findings are not robust or specific to Hairy Arnica. As such, the use of Hairy Arnica for sprains is primarily justified by tradition, with scientific validation remaining limited and indirect.
Rating: 2 – There is a traditional basis for use, but direct scientific evidence specific to Hairy Arnica is minimal.
Other ingredients used for Sprains
allspicebromelain
chymotrypsin
cissus quadrangularis
collagen
turmeric
endo-peptidase
horsetail
methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
serratiopeptidase
trypsin
vitamin C
white willow
solomon's seal
wintergreen
camphor oil
abies spectabilis
arnica
clematis
Achyranthes
Anemone
Aescin
Actaea spicata
Aspen
Alstonia macrophylla
Brassaiopsis glomerulata
Bai Ji
Big Quaking Grass
Bogbean
Black Poplar
Barbary matrimony vine
cypress
Collinsonia
Drynaria
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)
Dipsacus
Enzyme Blend
Fibrinase
Giant Trillium
Glycosaminoglycans
Other health conditions supported by Hairy Arnica
Bites and StingsBruises (healing)
Injuries
Scratches and Abrasions
Sprains
Ulcerations (external)
Wounds and Sores