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Class Notes for Arnica mollis

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from the C & W Herbal Apprenticeship
© 1994 by Howie Brounstein
You can use it, just don't change it, sell it, or publish it.
howieb@teleport.com
http://www.botanicalstudies.net/treats/arnica.html
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Compositae Arnica mollis

Common Names: Hairy Arnica

Identification: A composite with ray and disk flowers, a pappus of
hair-like bristles, involucral bracts in one or two equal series, and
opposite leaves. Some Arnicas are rayless. Can be confused with
Senecios, especially Senecio triangularis. Remember the opposite
leaves as a field characteristic. Arnica mollis is a highly variable
species that hybridizes with other Arnicas.

Habitat: Middle elevation creeks and moist meadows to alpine.

Associated Plants: Senecio triangularis, Riparian Mimulus sp.

Tending the Stand: Fallow, root propagation by rhizome in extreme
cases, best to find another stand if you have to tend.

Harvesting: Root and flowers are the strongest, it's your choice.
We harvest flowers and upper stems. Whole above ground is OK.
The perennial roots will grow back if aboveground parts are
harvested. This is the most ecological method if the species is
strong enough. Root harvest requires thought for the continuation
of the stand, but it can be done without difficulty. If harvesting for
drying, harvest young flowers or buds as they go to seed quickly
during the drying process.

Processing: Fresh herb is best for tincture. Fresh plants may cause
an oil to go rancid from too much water, so either wilt or dry the
herb.

Uses: Primarily topical for bruises, sprains, injuries, perhaps
arthritis.
Increases blood flow to the area, without the warming effect of
other counterirritants. Useful to potentiate other topical herbs....mix
with St. John's  Wort Oil for nerve trauma....Comfrey Oil for
tendonitis....etc.    Do not use on broken skin. Discontinue use if
reddening of the skin occurs......either dilute, harvest more of the
aboveground parts for the next batch, or switch species.

Arnica is used homeopathically for similar things (bruises, etc., incl.
shock), however it may be taken internally in such dilute dosages.
Always check label to be sure it's homeopathic.

Tinctures are used topically for oily problems, oils for dry problems.
I personally use Arnica oil for most purposes.

Michael Moore uses it internally. Use with caution. Check MPPW.

Related Plants: Arnica cordifolia, Arnica montana (species used in
herb trade). There are protected Arnicas in our area, so check
before harvesting. The Northwest region is the global center of
biodiversity for the genus Arnica.