Tucked within America’s rolling hills and grassy meadows is a small yellow daisy that researchers and herbalists say has significant anti-inflammatory properties. It has gone by such names as leopard’s bane, mountain tobacco, and wolf’s bane, but Arnica montana—commonly known as arnica—has been used for hundreds of years to treat conditions like joint and muscle pain and minor wounds.
Arnica has demonstrated positive results as a natural pain reliever. Researchers attribute these benefits to the flower’s chemical makeup. Beyond its anti-inflammatory properties, arnica contains antioxidant and antimicrobial elements. Evidence suggests the plant could be used as part of a robust pain management program for acute and chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
