Organic Arnica Flower Extract – The Alpine Healer
Benefits at a Glance
- The muscle & joint classic: Arnica has been the go-to plant in Alpine folk medicine for centuries – valued for sore muscles, bruises and tension.
- Skin-regenerating: Supports the skin's natural recovery – ideal after sports, physical exertion or as a soothing care oil.
- Ready to use: This is a concentrated flower extract dissolved in organic sunflower oil – apply directly to the skin, no further dilution needed.
- Organic quality: Produced from organic arnica flowers in Germany. Certified organic.
Application & Special Features
Application:
Apply directly to the skin for muscle and joint care. As a soothing massage oil after sports or physical activity. For targeted care of bruises and minor sprains.
Targeted uses:
Apply a few drops directly to sore muscles or tense areas and massage gently. After sport or hiking, use as a recovery massage oil. For bruises, apply gently to the affected area (not on open wounds!). Can also be blended with essential oils for enhanced effect – try adding 1-2 drops of Rosemary or Lavender to a teaspoon of arnica extract.
Perfect Combinations
Arnica extract is a versatile carrier/active oil that pairs beautifully with essential oils:
- For muscle recovery: Rosemary (circulation-supporting meets muscle-soothing – the athlete's dream team).
- For relaxation: Lavender (calming floral meets soothing arnica – perfect after a long day).
- For warming care: Black Pepper (deep warmth meets targeted relief – ideal for cold days).
The Gold of the Mountains
Alpine farmers have relied on arnica for generations. This precious flower extract brings centuries of mountain wisdom directly to your skin.
Extract, not essential oil: This is a concentrated flower extract (Arnica montana) dissolved in organic sunflower seed oil – not a steam-distilled essential oil. It is ready to use directly on the skin without further dilution. The gentle extraction process preserves the full spectrum of active compounds from the arnica flowers.
Product Information
- Plant: Arnica (Arnica montana L.)
- Part used: Flowers
- Extraction: Flower extract in organic sunflower seed oil
- Quality: Organic certified flower extract
- Origin: Germany
- Key active compounds: Helenalin (sesquiterpene lactone), Flavonoids, Carotenoids, Essential oil traces
- Packaging: Amber glass bottle with dropper – airtight and light-protected
The Scent Profile
- Main aroma: Characteristic, delicately herbal and slightly spicy – the unmistakable scent of arnica flowers.
- Secondary note: Oily and warm, with a soft, earthy undertone from the sunflower carrier oil.
- Nuance: A subtle, hay-like sweetness that recalls Alpine meadows in late summer.
Intensity: Low-medium – gentle, herbal and unobtrusive. The scent is subtle, allowing blending with essential oils without conflict.
The Professor's Knowledge: The Active Compounds
Arnica's reputation rests on a remarkable molecule: Helenalin, a sesquiterpene lactone unique to the Arnica genus. Helenalin has been extensively studied for its ability to modulate inflammatory pathways. Unlike most anti-inflammatory compounds, it works through multiple mechanisms simultaneously. The flavonoids (including quercetin and kaempferol) provide additional antioxidant support, while carotenoids give the extract its characteristic golden colour and contribute to skin-regenerating properties. Important distinction: this is a flower extract (macerate), not a steam-distilled essential oil. The extraction in sunflower oil preserves both the volatile aromatic compounds and the heavier, non-volatile active molecules like helenalin – which would be lost in steam distillation. This makes the extract more therapeutically complete for topical application than an essential oil alone.
The Plant
Arnica montana (Mountain Arnica) is a perennial herbaceous plant from the Asteraceae (daisy) family. Native to the mountain meadows and pastures of Europe, it thrives at altitudes of 500-2,500 metres. The bright yellow-orange flowers, which bloom from June to August, have been used in Alpine folk medicine for centuries. Arnica is now a protected species in many regions due to habitat loss, making responsibly cultivated organic arnica particularly important. The plant prefers acidic, nutrient-poor soils – the harsh mountain conditions contribute to its remarkable concentration of active compounds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between arnica extract and arnica essential oil?
This product is an extract (macerate) – arnica flowers steeped in sunflower oil to draw out the active compounds. It preserves both volatile and non-volatile molecules (including helenalin). A steam-distilled arnica essential oil would lack the heavier therapeutic molecules. The extract is ready to use on the skin; an essential oil would need dilution.
Can I apply it directly to the skin?
Yes! Unlike essential oils, this extract is already dissolved in carrier oil (sunflower seed oil) and can be applied directly. Simply massage a few drops into the desired area. Do not apply to open wounds, broken skin or mucous membranes.
Is it suitable for after sports?
Absolutely. Arnica extract is a classic recovery aid. Apply to sore muscles after exercise, hiking, or physical work. Massage gently for best effect. Many athletes use arnica as part of their regular post-workout routine.
Can I combine it with essential oils?
Yes. Arnica extract serves as an excellent active carrier oil. Add 1-2 drops of rosemary for circulation support, lavender for relaxation, or black pepper for extra warming effect to a teaspoon of arnica extract.
Is arnica suitable for children?
For children over 3 years, arnica extract can be used externally for minor bumps and bruises. Use sparingly and avoid broken skin. For younger children or for regular use, consult a professional first.
How should I store the extract?
Keep in a cool, dark place. The amber glass bottle protects from UV radiation. Close tightly after use. As it contains sunflower oil, use within 6-12 months of opening for best quality.
Choose Your Size
Organic Arnica Flower Extract
10 ml Bottle
8,00 €
Perfect for trying it out or for your travel kit.
Recommended
30 ml Bottle
21,00 €
The best choice for regular use. You save!
Important Safety Information
- For external use only. Do not apply to open wounds or broken skin.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
- People with Asteraceae/Compositae allergies should perform a patch test before use.
- During pregnancy, consult your doctor before use.
- Do not ingest.