How to Make Tincture of Arnica

Arnica (Arnica Montana) is also commonly called Leopardsbane, Mountain Arnica, Mountain Tobacco, and Wolf's Bane. Tincure of arnica is commonly used in natural sports medicine and for the external treatment of swelling, bruising, arthritis, sore muscles, joint pain, and sprains at home.

Instructions

• 1

  Tincture of Fresh Arnica

  Grind 1/2 cup of fresh arnica flower in a food processor, coffee grinder, or spice mill. Place them in a sterile glass mason jar. Cover with 1 cup of vodka or apple cider vinegar. Seal with a tight fitting lid.

• 2

  Tincture of Dried Arnica

  Grind 1/4 cup of dried arnica flowers in a food processor, coffee grinder or spice mill. Place the chopped arnica in a sterile glass mason jar. Cover with 1/2 cup water and 3/4 cup vodka or apple cider vinegar. Seal with a tight fitting lid.

• 3

  Place the tincture of arnica in a cool dry place for 2 weeks, shaking it daily.

• 4

  After 2 weeks has passed, strain the arnica from the herbal tincture. Discard the spent arnica. Pour the tincture into dark colored glass bottles with a dropper. Label the bottles "arnica tincture" and record the date. Tincture of arnica will last several years if stored in a cool, dark area.

• 5

  Using Tincture of Arnica:

  Tincture of arnica is commonly used by adding several drops to warm water and soaking the area that is sprain, swollen, bruised or otherwise injured in a small tub.