False arnica is a perennial member of the daisy family that grows in Mexico and in the American Southwest. Also known as camphor weed and telegraph weed, this species is related to but is not the same herb as the better known European plant, Arnica montana. The herb does, however, possess some of the same characteristics and is used for similar purposes. For the most part, Mexican arnica is used to produce tinctures and infused oils for making various cosmetic formulations for the skin. This herb is not for internal use.
Applied to an injury, the reduction of swelling, bruising, hardening and pain can be remarkable. In the traditional Mexican pharmacopeia, liniments and salves are used for sprains, dislocations and hyperextensions, and can also help resolve old injuries with lingering edema. Used topically, it is an excellent anti fungal and anti-septic wash to bathe skin rashes, ringworm and prickly heat.
