Using Te de Arnica (Arnica Tea)
Te De Arnica is an infusion of dried flowers from the Arnica Montana plant. It is not a tea for drinking in fact any substance containing arnica is for external use only. The same substances which give the flower its homeopathic utility act as toxins if ingested. In particular the active ingredients can disrupt normal functioning of the cardiovascular system. Arnica tea (Te de arnica) is a healing infusion use to treat bruises and minor inflammations, one level teaspoon per cup is the suggested dose, and the tea is then soaked into a cloth or brushed onto the affected area.
Treating bruises (contusions)
A bruise appears under the skin when the capillaries are damaged. The blood in the capillaries leaks into the skin and collects causing the characteristic blue/black color and the tender painful throbbing sensation. In effect they are a symptom of mild internal bleeding. Most bruises will fade given enough time. Te de arnica helps the blood vessels dilate (vasodilation). This means more of the bodies white blood cells can access the affected area and accelerate the healing process. The helanin compounds the tea contains also act as mild local anesthetic.
Treating inflammation
Strange as it seems inflammation is a biochemical mechanism employed by the body to protect itself. It is concerned with removing harmful substances such as pathogens, which are broadly speaking any micro-organism which elicits a toxic effect on the body. Inflammation is also caused by the presence of damaged cells, such as are present when we experience bruising. In short inflammation is response from the body which demonstrates that it is attempting to heal itself, from an infection caused by damage, bacteria, fungus or a virus. Te de arnica has anti-bacterial properties and so boosts the immune system response, it is not a substitute.
The exact mechanism is not fully understood but the arnica flowers contain poly saccharides. These are long chains of glucose molecules which are chemically bonded together. They stimulate the immune system and can stop blood clots forming, meaning that circulation is not affected in the injured area.
It is important to state that Te de arnica does not actually cure bruising or inflammation but works with the body to facilitate the healing process. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor. If there is an allergic reaction then use should be discontinued.
