Arnica chamissonis - American Arnica

Arnica chamissonis, also known as American Arnica, is a herbaceous plant from the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to North America and is often used as an alternative to the European Arnica (Arnica montana), which is widespread due to its medical properties. Arnica chamissonis has similar ingredients and effects such as Arnica montana and is used in both traditional and modern medicine to treat inflammation, pain and skin injuries.

Morphology

Arnica chamissonis is a multi -year plant that usually reaches a height of 30 to 60 centimeters. It forms upright, unexpected stems that are slightly hairy and grow from a basic rosette. The leaves are lanceolate, alternately arranged and also hairy, which gives them a slightly rough texture. The leaves are dark green and have toothed edges, with the lower leaves being larger and forming a rosette -like arrangement.

The inflorescences of Arnica chamissonis are characteristic, radiation -shaped cup flowers, which consist of a middle with yellow windscreen flowers and outer tongue flowers, which are usually colored yellow. The flower baskets have a diameter of about 5 to 7 centimeters and sit individually or in groups at the end of the stem. The flowering period extends from June to August. After flowering, the plant develops small, elongated ohines that are equipped with a hair wreath (cardboard) and are spread through the wind.

Distribution and habitat

Arnica chamissonis is located in North America, where it occurs in a variety of habitats. The plant grows preferably at altitudes, on meadows, in open forests and on the edges of the path. It thrives particularly well in well -permeable, slightly acidic soils and preferably locations that offer full sun or partial shade. Arnica chamissonis is adapted to a moderate climate and can survive in both moist and dry conditions.

In Europe, Arnica chamissonis is increasingly grown as a crop because the wildly growing Arnica montana is under protection and is at risk of overuse and habitat loss. The American Arnica has proven to be a suitable alternative because it is less demanding in cultivation and has similar therapeutic properties.

Medical importance

Similar to Arnica montana, Arnica chamissonis is estimated for her anti -inflammatory, pain -relieving and wound healing properties. The plant contains a number of bioactive connections, including Sesquiterpenlactone (such as Helenalin), Flavonoids and essential oils that are responsible for their therapeutic effect.

In traditional medicine, Arnica chamissonis is used primarily for external use in bruises, sprains, muscle and joint pain, as well as rheumatic complaints. Ointments, gels or tinctures contain Arnica extracts are applied to the affected areas to reduce swelling, promote blood circulation and accelerate healing. The anti -inflammatory properties of the plant are also useful in the treatment of insect bites and superficial skin injuries.

While Arnica chamissonis is considered a safe and effective alternative to the Arnica montana, it should not be used internally, similar to this, since the sesquiterpenlactons can be toxic in high doses. Caution should also be exercised in external use, especially for open wounds or in people with sensitive skin, to avoid possible allergic reactions.

In modern phytotherapy and homeopathy, Arnica chamissonis is still used as an important means of relieving pain and inflammation. Their broad availability and comparatively simple cultivability have meant that it is used in many countries as an alternative to Arnica montana.

Cultivation and care

Arnica chamissonis is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in different garden conditions. The plant prefers well permeable, slightly acidic floors that are rich in organic substance. It grows best at sunny to partially shaded locations and only needs moderate irrigation. Since the plant is adapted to the rough conditions of the altitudes, it is also relatively frost -resistant.

The propagation takes place by seed or division of the rootsticks. Sowing can take place in spring, whereby the seeds should only be easily covered with earth because they need light to germinate. Germination is usually carried out within two to three weeks at temperatures between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius. After establishing in the garden, Arnica chamissonis needs little care and can be supported by occasionally removing faded flowers to promote flowering and avoiding self -sowing.