I didn’t know about Arnica as a general recovery herb but a friend who had a C-Section swears by it. It is used externally for aches, strains, bruises and injuries where the skin has not been broken. Arnica can also be taken internally in minute or homeopathic dosages and is best prescribed by an experienced practitioner. All the same, I found a great book “The Homeopathic Childbirth Manual” (I just added it to my reading list) that recommends dosages of Arnica taken homeopathically during labor and after to heal various physical traumas. Arnica can be found at most general healthfood stores that offer a homeopathic section.

Betty Idarius, author of “The Homeopathic Childbirth Manual” writes, “Arnica has been used for centuries to promote rapid healing. Use it routinely, giving a high potency dose (200c or whatever you have on hand) during labor, and another dose right after birth. Arnica is miraculous in its ability to promote healing, control bleeding, prevent and reduce swelling and bruising, prevent tearing, shock and infections, help the uterus to contract and expel the placenta, and relieve the sore, bruised feeling common after birth.”

Other physical traumas where she recommends Arnica include:

- Injuries to the coccyx and spine — when the new mother feels sore and bruised in one area of her body or all over. She does not want to be touched or approached because she is so sore. She is restless in bed, saying it is too hard, and cannot find a comfortable position. Use a 30c potency three times a day for a few days or until the soreness is alleviated.

- Healing a perineal tear or episiotomy — Arnica will promote healing, reduce swelling and prevent infection after a perineal tear or episiotomy. It is particiularly indicated if the new mother’s bottom feels sore and bruised. Use a 30c three times a day for up to a week or 200c once a day for up to a few days until the swelling and soreness has gone. If the swelling is extreme also apply ice packs (check out my herbal sitz bath recommendations)

- Healing from a difficult delivery or Cesarean section — give a high potency dose (200c or whatever you have on hand) before a c-section or other difficult delivery including epeisiotomy, very rapid, long or traumatic birth, prolonged or difficult pushing stage, a large baby, shoulder dystocia, or forceps delivery).

Michael Tierra in his book “The Way of Herbs” explains how to make oil of arnica for external injuries (seems like a very good remedy to have in the cupboard ladies). Simply soften fresh or dried arnica leaves and flowers in warm sesame or olive oil for three days, then squeeze and strain through a cheese cloth. Bottle for external use only.

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February 20th, 2007 | Permalink