Arnica Cordifolia is a species of Arnica in the Sunflower family native to Western North America, Europe and Southern Russia. Arnica Cordifolia is a native wildflower that can be found in forests, thickets, alongside streams and in mountainous areas. It likes shady areas and thrives at multiple different elevations and environments. Its bright yellow resilient pedals can be seen peeking out of thick underbrush bringing its sunshiny charm to a vast variety of places.
How to Identify Arnica Cordifolia
Arnica Cordifolia is from the genus Arnica and is part of the Sunflower/Aster Family (Asteraceae /Daisy). There are 32 species of Arnica across the Northern Hemisphere. They are the only genus of yellow-rayed composites that have easily identifiable opposite, simple singular leaves and hair-like soft bristles topping the fruits.
Is there another name for Arnica Cordifolia?
- Arnica Cordifolia is also called Heartleaf Arnica
- Arnica originated from the Greek word for lambskin due to the plant's hairy leaves and stems.
- Heartleaf Arnica is named for the deep heart shaped notch at the base of the leaves.
- Corifolia means “heart-shaped leaves”
What is Arnica used for?
For centuries Native Americans, Early Settlers and Europeans have used Arnica for its medicinal qualities. The anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of Arnica have been used to treat everything from pain to acne.
Topically, Arnica is used for a wide range of conditions, including bruises, sprains, muscle aches, wound healing, superficial phlebitis, joint pain, inflammation from insect bites, and swelling from broken bones. More recent studies suggest it may also be helpful in the treatment of burns.
PRO-TIP
It is important to note that Arnica Cordifolia should not be ingested, as it can be toxic if consumed internally. Oral Homeopathic doses are extremely diluted. They have no detectable amount of the plant in them and are generally considered safe for internal use when taken as directed.
Heartleaf Arnica (Arnica Cordifolia) has the following properties:
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anti-bacterial
- Stimulates Blood Flow
- Speeds-up healing process
Arnica Cordifolia is commonly used for these conditions:
- Bruises
- Pain
- Swelling
- Arthritis & Joint Pain
- Muscle soreness & strains
- Inflammation
- Wound healing
- Sprains
- Insect Bites
- Abrasions
- Burns
- Reduces the visibility of scars
- Acne
- Psoriasis
- Eczema
- Skin redness and irritation
- Treatment of surgical or accidental trauma including gunshot wounds
According to WebMD early studies of topically applied arnica for arthritis symptoms of the hand and knee, which included pain and swelling, have been positive.
What type of Arica products are available?
Arnica is available in salves, creams, jels, tinctures and oils.
How is Arnica used?
The flowers, roots and rhizomes of Arnica can all be used medicinally. Poultices and salves have been used since the 1500s to treat bruises, sprains and muscle strains. There are more than 100 arnica-based teas and preparations marketed in Germany. Arnica is also an ingredient in dandruff treatments, hair products, perfumes and cosmetics in the USA.
Is Arnica Toxic?
Arnica is generally considered safe when used on the skin.
Used internally, Arnica can be toxic to the liver and can be fatal. Ingestion of Arnica can cause gastroenteritis, dyspnea, vomiting, drowsiness and cardiac arrest. Homeopathic oral supplements have a highly diluted form of Arnica. When taken as recommended they are not considered dangerous.
Ecology
Arnica is native wildflower renowned for its ecological importance and its role in pollination. The bright yellow blooms of Arnica Cordifolia are a magnet for pollinators. Bees, butterflies, and other insects are drawn to its abundant pollen and nectar, making it an essential resource in early summer when many other plants are not yet in bloom.
Arnica is easy to cultivate and can be propagated by seeds, plants or division.
Interesting Facts about Arnica Cordifolia
- Arnica was combined with ocher and bird feathers to create a love potion by Native Americans.
- Heartleaf Arnica was considered an official drug plant.
- Although Arnica has been used for health reasons for centuries, there has been a significant increase in use recently which has caused a significant increase in wild-harvesting as well as an increase in cultivation.
