Cautions and considerations when using arnica in massage base oil
When used topically for long periods, in high concentrations, or on raw or broken skin, arnica has some side effects:
- Applying arnica topically for prolonged periods, especially on the same part of the skin, can result in irritation at the place where it is applied. If it is applied to the skin too long, too often, or in concentrations that are too high, arnica can cause blistering and allergic dermatitis that may leave permanent scarring. 1)
- Arnica can also be irritating to the eyes, nose, and other mucous membranes. People with sensitive skin including children, frail and elderly people may be more likely to have skin reactions. 2) It is best to avoid using topical arnica near the eyes and mouth. 3)
- People should avoid arnica if they have a known allergy to arnica or any member of the Asteraceae (daisy) or Compositae plant families. Individuals who are allergic to sunflowers or marigolds may also be allergic to arnica. Signs of allergy may include rash, itching or shortness of breath. 4)
- Individuals who must handle arnica plants frequently have been known to develop contact allergies to it. 5) Therapeutic massage therapists who regularly apply blends containing arnica should be particularly careful.
- Arnica should not be used on open sores or large, deep wounds. Arnica should not be used on broken skin, such as leg ulcers. 6)
- Topical use of arnica is discouraged during pregnancy, while breast-feeding, or during early childhood. Although there is very little information available on how arnica might affect a developing foetus, an infant, or a small child, there exists a risk of birth defects or spontaneous abortion. 7) 8)
- In theory, arnica may increase the risk of bleeding. If the patient has diabetes or uses anticoagulants (blood thinners) or antiplatelet drugs the therapist has to be particularly careful. It is preferable to discuss the issue with the primary health care professional. It may be necessary to stop taking arnica before some surgeries. 9)
Interactions
- There are no known scientific reports of interactions between arnica and conventional medications and the interactions with supplements and other herbs have not been thoroughly studied.10) It is prudent however to keep the following in mind before adding arnica to the base oil:
- People who take drugs for heart conditions should not use arnica without the primary health care professional’s input. 11)
- Arnica's possible negative effects on the heart and its potential to raise blood pressure make it unsuitable for use by individuals who take drugs to control heart conditions or high blood pressure. 12) It is possible that arnica may decrease the effectiveness of drugs used to lower blood pressure. 13)
- In theory, arnica may increase the risk of bleeding when used with anticoagulants (blood thinners) or anti-platelet drugs. Examples include warfarin, heparin and clopidogrel. 14)
- Some pain relievers may also increase the risk of bleeding if used with arnica. Examples include aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen. The use of arnica with other pain-relieving medications may increase the analgesic effects. 15)
- In theory, arnica may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with products such as Ginko biloba and garlic (Allium sativum). 16)
Preparation
It is recommended that topical arnica preparations should contain no more than 15% of arnica oil or 25% of arnica tincture. Higher strengths are more likely to irritate the skin. Application should be limited to once or twice a day and arnica should be used only for as long as needed.17)
References:
1. Drug Digest http://www.drugdigest.org
2. The Harvard Medical School-InteliHealth Partnership http://www.intelihealth.com/IH/ihtIH/WSIHW000/8513/3 1402/351356.html?d=dmtContent
3. Ibid
4. Ibid
5. Drug Digest
6. Oxford Press Health http://www.oxfordpress.com
7. Drug Digest
8. The Harvard Medical School-InteliHealth Partnership
9. Ibid
10. Oxford Press Health
11. Drug Digest
12. Ibid
13. The Harvard Medical School-InteliHealth Partnership
14. Ibid
15. Ibid
16. Ibid
17. Drug Digest