Published on
Updated
Reading 2 min.
in collaboration with
Dr Gérald Kierzek (Medical Director of Doctissimo)
Arnica is often used for minor injuries, especially when you have children. But did you know that you should protect the area of use after use? Our doctor gives us a little reminder.
In the holiday medicine cabinet, or in the bathroom, arnica oil or ointment often finds its place. The remedy against the little bumps and everyday aches and pains is indeed adopted by many families.
Arnica, a very common anti-inflammatory
Arnica or mountain arnica is a plant native to the mountainous regions of Europe and southern Russia, known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Its flower is ideal for treating bruises, sprains, muscle pain, insect bites, and even osteoarthritis.
This is why the tube easily finds its place in our things, especially as parents: a small bump, or an injection, and there it is calming the tears and the pain. However, its use, as simple as it is, must also respond to certain precautions for use.
Protect the injured area from the sun after application.
So, the mistake often made is to let the child (or the athlete) go outside again, once the arnica has been applied without further protection. The reason? A potential photosensitization, that is to say a reaction of the skin to the sun.
An unfounded risk for our medical director, Dr. Gérald Kierzek.
“The available research does not specifically mention arnica as a cause of photosensitization, unlike other substances such as certain medications, essential oils and specific plants (such as St. John’s Wort or citrus fruits) which are well known to cause photosensitive reactions when exposed to sunlight.”
However, according to the doctor, it is always prudent to follow certain precautions when using any topical product, especially if you plan on sun exposure:
- Do a tolerance test on a small area of skin before wider use;
- Do not apply arnica products to open wounds or mucous membranes;
- Use adequate sun protection (high SPF sunscreen, protective clothing) to avoid any unwanted skin reactions.
“If in doubt, ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice before using products containing arnica, especially if you have sensitive skin or a history of skin reactions.” concludes our expert.
Slideshow: Nettle stings, sunburn…: how to naturally treat minor summer ailments?