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
Abies spectabilisAchyranthes
Actaea spicata
Aescin
Allspice
Alstonia macrophylla
Anemone
arnica
aspen
bai ji
barbary matrimony vine
big quaking grass
black poplar
bogbean
Brassaiopsis glomerulata
bromelain
camphor oil
chymotrypsin
Cissus quadrangularis
clematis
collagen
Collinsonia
cypress
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)
Dipsacus
Drynaria
endo-peptidase
enzyme blend
fibrinase
giant trillium
Glycosaminoglycans
hairy arnica
Harpagoside
horsetail
joe-pye
Malay bush
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
Mucopolysaccharide
Salicin
serratiopeptidase
Sida cordifolia
Sinapis arvensis
solomon's seal
Spatholobus
Stone Root
Sweet Clover
Trypsin
turmeric
vitamin C
white willow
Willow
Wintergreen
Zingibain
Other health conditions supported by hairy arnica
Bites and StingsBruises (healing)
Injuries
Scratches and Abrasions
Sprains
Ulcerations (external)
Wounds and Sores
