Arnica tea is an unusual brew that is only recommended for topical use, but it can still have a number of surprising effects!
What is Arnica Tea?
Arnica tea is an infusion prepared with the dried flowers of the arnica plant, the most common species of which bears the scientific name Arnica montana. Also referred to as wolf’s bane, leopard’s bane, and mountain tobacco, this plant is related to sunflowers and the large yellow flowers of this plant are unmistakable. [1]
That being said, although it is called a tea, this infusion is not intended for internal use under any circumstances. One of the active ingredients, helenalin, has potentially toxic and deadly effects if consumed, so this infusion is never used orally.
Arnica Tea Benefits
Beautiful arnica flowers on a blue background. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
The benefits of arnica tea include its effects on hair loss, skin inflammation, arthritis, anxiety, and potential infections on the skin.
Boosts Immunity
As there are antibacterial and antiviral compounds in this flower, it is known to improve the immune system’s strength and reduce the strain on your system from allergic reactions. [2]
Hair Care
When topically applied to the scalp, this infusion can protect against inflammatory conditions there such as dandruff and can help minimize hair loss.
Skin Care
Arnica tea works on reducing the appearance of scars, acne, and blemishes. It also helps treat skin conditions like eczema and poison ivy that cause terrible itching and irritation.
Alleviates Pain
Applying this tea to aching joints and muscles provides rapid anti-inflammatory relief. It also helps in wound healing and treating swelling. [3]
Relieves Stress
A majority of people use arnica tea for foot bath to relax. It has soothing properties that help you calm down and rejuvenate.
How to Make Arnica Tea?
You can make arnica tea at home quite easily, as the ingredients are readily available in most natural health stores or specialty tea shops. Let us take a look at the recipe below.
Arnica Tea Recipe for Healing Your Body and Mind
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp dried arnica flower powder
- 8 oz of water
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
Instructions
- To make arnica tea, add 1 tablespoon of dried arnica flower powder to a tea infuser or teapot.
- Meanwhile, bring a saucepan of water to boil and then pour over the powder.
- Allow the mixture to steep for 5-6 minutes, before straining the tea. Add a tsp of honey if you want to add a sweetener. Honey is a healthier option.
- You can consume the tea hot or cold. You need to refrigerate the tea for a few hours to have it cold. You can also allow the hot infusion to cool down a little, and then add chilled water or ice to it, to have an iced tea version of the same. You can also apply the infusion, once it cools down, on the skin if it needs to heal from a wound.
Notes
Arnica Tea Side Effects
Excess consumption of arnica tea can lead to stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, and nervous disorders, among other unpleasant effects.
Risks
- Using this tea externally on broken skin or an open wound can cause toxicity and irritation [4]
- Excessive use of this tea can also cause psoriasis and rashes on the skin
For best results, consult your doctor before making any new change in the diet.
