Arnica was a popular German Folk remedy in the 16th century. It was used to treat blunt injuries and bruising just like it is today. The Greek translation for montana is “mountain”, and arnica is “lamb”. It is thought the translation of lamb refers to the plants soft & hairy leaves. 

Arnica is considered an anti-inflammatory and is known to decrease swelling and pain while increasing the rate at which the body reabsorbs blood and interstitial fluid at an injury site. It also prompts the body to send more white blood cells to an area. Arnica is not safe to consume, and it should not be applied to broken skin.