Arnica has a long history of use as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory. It has been used for generations as an 'infused' oil, where the flowers are soaked in an oil such as olive oil for many weeks. This oil would then be topically applied or used to create further formulations.

Now, as a standardized CO2 extract, you can easily add arnica to your formulations. This CO2 'Total' (meaning ALL the lipid-soluble molecules have been brought into the extract) is standardized to a 4% sesquiterpene lactone content (the most recognized family of molecules as 'active' components). Additionally, you'll find triterpenediol esters (faradiol- and arnidiolester), as well as molecules found in a steam distilled Arnica.

Arnica is typically found in balms, creams and oils at homeopathic concentrations -- that's typically exceptionally small amounts that special devices are used to measure. To use this oil properly in your recipes, utilize only 1/2% to a maximum of 1%. This is 6 to 12 drops per total ounce of your formula. Please note: It is not intended for use in aromatic applications, only topical ones.

Researchers at the department of Systematic Biology, Uppsala University, Sweden, note in an assay of several arnica species: "Sesquiterpene lactones of the helenanolide type, of which some are known inhibitors of human neutrophil elastase release and NF-kappaB, are present in large amounts in the very active extracts of A. montana". Neutrophil elastase and NF-kappaB are protiens released in inflammatory processes.

A study presented in the journal of Rheumatol International, noted arnica containing gel just as effective as topical ibuprofen for treatment of arthritic symptoms. Browsing through the research presents interesting information: arnica is used in so many ways, in so many bases, that it appears crucial to employ a standardized extract at recommended doses. Too high a concentration can lead to pro-inflammatory action (German Chamomile is known for this result, with some noted therapists indicating it should never be used at over 2.5% in a formula), and an inconsistent extract may have no results.

We hope this standardized total extract of arnica montana flowers give you just the ingredient you need to make optimally-functional home made formulations!