arnica

American  

[ahr-ni-kuh] / ˈɑr nɪ kə /

noun

1. any composite plant of the genus Arnica, having opposite leaves and yellow flower heads.

2. a tincture of the flowers of A. montana, of Europe, and other species of Arnica, formerly used as an external application in sprains and bruises.

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arnica British  

/ ˈɑːnɪkə /

noun

1. any N temperate or arctic plant of the genus Arnica, typically having yellow flowers: family Asteraceae (composites)

2. the tincture of the dried flower heads of any of these plants, esp A. montana, used in treating bruises

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Etymology

Origin of arnica

1745–55; < New Latin < ?

Explanation

Arnica is a plant with yellow flowers. These flowers can be dried and used medicinally, especially as a lotion or ointment that's also known as arnica. Using arnica on sore muscles or injuries — or taking arnica tablets for muscle pain — is considered an herbal or homeopathic remedy. The usefulness of arnica isn't proven by conventional medicine, but many people use it for bruising or soreness. The plant itself is native to cool areas of the Northern Hemisphere, and arnica includes dozens of different species. While arnica is a Latin word, its origin isn't known.

Example Sentences

He found that several species — yarrow, tall bluebells, and arnica — tended to thrive in them.

From Salon • Nov. 27, 2022

A: Traditionally, both comfrey and arnica have been used as topical medicines for pain or bruising.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 23, 2022

Once cleared of tree cover, the valley floor came to life with fireweed, arnica, paintbrush and multiple other varieties of wildflowers.

From Washington Times • Jul. 18, 2020

It has a touch of arnica, which makes it especially soothing for any muscle soreness you may have.

From Slate • Dec. 31, 2018

The second night, I applied a liberal dose of white liniment—Uncle Holt’s own concoction of hartshorn, arnica, witch hazel, camphor gum, eggs, and cider vinegar.

From "Hattie Big Sky" by Kirby Larson