If you’re not familiar with arnica montana, get ready to learn about a pretty amazing plant. Usually shortened from its Latin name to “arnica,” this perennial plant blooms every summer in places like Serbia, central Europe, and even the Pacific Northwest. Records of arnica date back to the 12th century, when a German nun first wrote about its healing properties, and ever since it’s been used throughout the world to help heal muscle aches and bruises.

The History of Boiron

Thanks to Boiron, it’s easier than ever to reap the benefits of arnica. The brand has been harnessing the homeopathic power of arnica since the 1980s. Prior to opening a U.S. headquarters, twin brothers and pharmacists Jean and Henri Boiron were first on the scene to prescribe arnica to their patients in 1932, when they began manufacturing their own homeopathic medicines. Today, there’s a range of ointments, creams, and gels to try.

Boiron Company Mission

Boiron’s mission is to support the evolution of healthcare by promoting scientifically-based homeopathy as a compassionate, ecological, and comprehensive approach to medicine. (Broadly speaking, homeopathy is the practice of using diluted plants and minerals to relieve symptoms and treat illnesses.) The arnica the brand uses in its products is harvested mostly in France’s Vosges Mountains near the German border, and it’s grown without fertilizers and pesticides. Some of the company’s licensed harvesters have been working with Boiron for more than 20 years.

Benefits of Arnica

Arnica is most commonly used as a pain reliever for sore muscles, minor injuries, or bruising. It often comes in cream or gel form, which is easy to massage in whenever you need it—to soothe sore muscles after tough workouts or competitions, help feet recover after standing or walking all day, or heal swelling after cosmetic procedures. It’s also popular with parents whose little ones might come home from school with minor bruises from the playground. A few dabs of the gel may help keep summer legs bruise-free, too. You can also find arnica in oral supplement form, usually targeted to those looking for relief from arthritis symptoms.

Top Boiron Products

To stock your own homeopathic medicine cabinet, here are the top three picks from Boiron to get you started.

Arnicare Arnica Gel

This 4-ounce tube will last you a while. It’s filled with non-greasy cooling gel that quickly absorbs into the skin. Just apply a thin layer anywhere you need relief and repeat up to three times daily.

Arnicare Arthritis

Here’s an option for quick-dissolving tablets that get to work on swollen joints like chronic arthritis or even everyday joint discomfort from a change in the weather.

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Boiron, Arnica 30C

Other options

Boiron, Ferrum Phos 30C Meltaway Pellets