Guest guest Posted June 2, 2008 Report Share Posted June 2, 2008 > > I have a problem with a suggestion given on another list. It was a suggestion to use arnica in a lip balm for someone with peeling and cracked lips, my herbal knowledge is limited, but because of previouis experience this suggestion conflicted with my understanding of arnica, that of, it should not be taken internally, on used on open wounds. > > I am wondering what the herbalist on the list, would say about using arnica for a product to be used on open wounds. > > thank you > Coghlan > ESM Soaps & Supplies http://www.esmsoaps.com/page3.html Hello, , According to Lawless in The Encyclopaedia of Essential Oils, " The essential oil is highly toxic and should never be used internally or on broken skin. " Sue Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 2, 2008 Report Share Posted June 2, 2008 karen coghlan wrote: > I have a problem with a suggestion given on another list. It was a suggestion to use arnica in a lip balm for someone with peeling and cracked lips, my herbal knowledge is limited, but because of previouis experience this suggestion conflicted with my understanding of arnica, that of, it should not be taken internally, on used on open wounds. > > I am wondering what the herbalist on the list, would say about using arnica for a product to be used on open wounds. > I wouldn't. Full stop. Arnica is fantastic on bruises, and can be great for varicose veins and tired legs. I don't see what help it could be for dry lips. If you want to take it internally, your best off using it in homeopathic form...as a homeopathic dilution, it is wonderful for shock, and also helpful for bad bruising. Ambrosia Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 2, 2008 Report Share Posted June 2, 2008 > > I have a problem with a suggestion given on another list. It was a suggestion to use arnica in a lip balm for someone with peeling and cracked lips...<< , Arnica works by causing localized inflammation- so in the case of something like a bruise or sprain, that's helpful, because it will cause the body to sort of jump on that area, sending more blood flow and moving fluids through. In the case of any broken skin, Arnica will make things worse, the nice topical stimulation it might provide to intact skin becomes a real rash-type irritation, and pain and injury will get worse. Non-homeopathic/straight Arnica does have some use internally, a weak solution of it is a great gargle for sore throats that haven't yet gotten too inflamed by strep, tonsilitis, and the like. And we have a few doctors using our Arnica for some internal digestive issues, but that takes a lot of expertise and constant monitoring for safety. I agree with Janita- Calendula is fabulous for lips, just infuse some calendula flowers in a nice oil for a while (I use a slow cooker, on low for about 4 hours), then strain the oil, and melt in enough beeswax to get the texture you like. It's a fun messy project, and the results will smell, taste, and heal great! Strength & Wisdom, leavesofjoy / Micah Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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