Bulk Arnica Flower Whole

Heterotheca inuloides
Arnica flower, whole image
[ 58 ]Heterotheca inuloides

Arnica Flower Whole

1/4 Pound:  $5.38 Pound:  $11.96 buy now  

The whole flowers of Mexica arnica may be infused in alcohol or oil and used to make skin care products, including facial washes, soap, salves, lotions and hair and scalp conditioners. Sometimes this herb is used in combination with other herbs with similar skin-loving qualities, such as chamomile, meadowsweet and white willow bark.

SQF Certified Logo
kosher certificate informationsqf certificate information
We offer discounted pricing on orders over 100 pounds. Contact Us

a.
quick look

information at a glance

approximate cups to one pound35
originmexico
active compoundsContains sesquiterpene lactones of the helenanolid type, predominantly ester derivatives of helenalin and 11,13-dihydrohelenalin. Additionally, the herb contains flavonoids (e.g., isoquercitrin, luteolin-7-glucoside, and astragalin), volatile oil (with thymol and its derivatives), phenol carbonic acid (chlorogenic acid, cynarin, caffeic acid), and coumarins (umbelliferone, scopoletin).
plant part usedFlowering tops. Arnica flower consists of the fresh or dried inflorescence.
processingwhole arnica flowers

b.
buying & keeping

general guidelines and tips

storage tipsStore the dried arnica flowers in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to one year.
appearance & aromaDowny with gold strands. No detectable scent.

c.
uses

try something new

cosmeticMexican arnica is used to produce infused oils and tinctures for use in making topical salves, balms, soaps and other formulations for the skin and hair.
culinaryNot for internal use.
industrialAt one time, arnica (spp.) flowers were used in the production of mead and beer, but this practice was discontinued long ago.
safetyUse of this herb is limited to topical applications and homeopathic preparations.

f.
what else you should know

arnica flower, whole

It is traditional to pick arnica flowers at the summer solstice, also known as Midsummer’s Day, which is when they come into full bloom. It’s interesting to note that the golden flowers bear a strong resemblance to the summer sun.

While there is historical evidence that Mexican arnica has been used safely in small and supervised doses, the consensus among most herbalists today is that it simply isn’t worth the risk of side effects to use this herb internally. This makes sense considering there are many other herbs with similar properties but without toxicity.

Because this herb is a member of the daisy family, it’s possible for allergic reactions to occur in sensitive individuals when it is used topically.


Background: Native to the mountains of Russia and Europe, the leaves were smoked as a substitute for tobacco, hence its common name: mountain tobacco. Arnica has a long history of use, appearing in recorded folk remedies for six centuries.

In the literature, St. John's wort was referred to commonly as ' arnica for the spine.'

Description: Arnica grows up to two feet in the mountainous regions of Europe and western North America. Dried orange-yellow flower heads supply a therapeutic volatile oil.

Safety: Recommended for external topical applications only. 

Prolonged treatment of damaged skin, e.g., use for injuries or ulcus cruris (indolent leg ulcers), often causes edematous dermatitis with the formation of pustules. Long use can also give rise to eczema. In treatment involving higher concentrations of the drug, primary toxic skin reactions with formation of vesicles or even necroses may occur.

Frequently bought together


for educational purposes only

This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

please be advised:  Before making any changes to your diet you should always consult with your doctor, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or have existing conditions.

All reviews solely reflect the views and opinions expressed by the reviewer and not that of Monterey Bay Herb Co. We do not verify or endorse any claims made by any reviewer. None of these statements have been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition.