arnica has long been a popular remedy for relief of bruises, stiffness, and muscle soreness in herbal medicine. It is widely used as a salve for bruises and sprains, and sometimes as a tincture, for the same anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving purposes. In homeopathy it has a wider use. It is most commonly used in gel form, to be applied to the affected area approximately three times daily. The tincture is used for external application to sprains, bruises, and wounds, and as a paint for chilblains when the skin is unbroken. It is seldom used internally, because of its irritant effect on the stomach. Its action is stimulant and diuretic, and it is chiefly used in low fevers and paralytic conditions. Great care must be exercised though, as some people are particularly sensitive to the plant and many severe cases of poisoning have resulted from its use, especially if taken internally.

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My mom swears by the stuff for her arthritis, but when I used it on my hands....didn't feel any different. I'm not sure why, but I guess it works well for some not so good on me.

If you have sore muscles from exercising or pain as the result of arthritis you should try an Epsom Salt bath. There is a new one that I found and like very much called Pepsom Sports. I got it at Kroger for only $6 and after only 1 bath for 20 minutes my muscles were feeling much better. My mom has arthritis and she tried it to and said that it helped with the stiffness. Anyways I just thought I would share in case it works for anyone else because it is a cheap natural solution to a daily problem.