Abstract
Background: Arnica montana, a cornerstone of homoeopathic therapeutics, is traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and wound-healing properties. Despite extensive anecdotal evidence and traditional usage, scientific validation of its phytochemical composition and clinical efficacy in homoeopathic mother tincture form remains limited.
Objective: This study aimed to perform a qualitative phytochemical analysis of Arnica montana mother tincture and evaluate its clinical efficacy in improving the quality of life of patients suffering from recent injuries using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS).
Methods: A qualitative phytochemical screening of Arnica montana mother tincture (Q) was conducted using standard chemical tests. A longitudinal, single-arm clinical study involving 30 patients with recent non-bleeding injuries was carried out at Govt. Homoeopathic Medical College, Bhopal. Patients were assessed using the NRS score at baseline and after 6-7 days of treatment with Arnica montana Q.
Results: Phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of terpenoids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, glycosides, fixed oils, fats, and phytosterols. Clinically, the average NRS pain score reduced significantly from 5.86 at baseline to 0.63 post-treatment, confirming marked improvement in patients with pain and their quality of life.
Conclusion: The study affirms that Arnica montana mother tincture possesses significant bioactive constituents and demonstrates notable clinical efficacy in managing recent injuries. It provides a scientific basis for its continued therapeutic use in homoeopathy.
Keywords: Arnica montana, Phytochemistry, Recent injury, Flavonoids, Terpenoids, Homoeopathic mother tincture, NRS scale, Clinical efficacy.
Introduction
Homoeopathy relies heavily on plant-based medicines, and Arnica montana, a perennial herb of the Asteraceae family, holds a prominent place in injury management. Known commonly as Leopard’s Bane or Mountain Arnica, the plant has been used for centuries to manage trauma, bruises, hematomas, and musculoskeletal pain.
The primary rationale for this study stems from the dual need: To scientifically validate the active phytochemicals in the homoeopathic mother tincture of Arnica montana and to evaluate its effectiveness in real-world clinical settings for recent, non-bleeding injuries.
Phytochemical Significance of Arnica Montana
Phytochemistry
Overview
Phytochemicals refer to naturally occurring plant compounds known for their therapeutic properties. The active principles found in Arnica montana include:
Sesquiterpene lactones (like helenalin)
Flavonoids (such as quercetin, luteolin)
Phenolic acids (chlorogenic, caffeic)
Triterpenes and phytosterols
Essential oils and glycosides
These compounds are responsible for Arnica’s anti- inflammatory, analgesic, and circulatory properties.
Methods of Extraction and Identification
The mother tincture used in the study was sourced from a GMP- certified manufacturer. Standard phytochemical screening techniques were employed using reagents such as:
- Keller-Killani test (for cardiac glycosides)
- Ferric chloride test (for phenols)
- Salkowski’s test (for steroids)
- Shinoda’s and Pew’s tests (for flavonoids)
Key Findings
Tests confirmed the presence of:
- Terpenoids
- Flavonoids
- Phenolic compounds
- Glycosides
- Fixed oils and fats
- Phytosterols
- Alkaloids, tannins, saponins, quinones, proteins, and amino
- acids were absent in the tested sample.
Clinical Study Design
Study Objective
To evaluate the effect of Arnica montana mother tincture on pain and quality of life in patients with recent injuries.
Study Type- Prospective, observational clinical study, Single-arm, longitudinal design.
Location & Duration
Conducted at Govt. Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Bhopal (March to December 2024).
Sample Size and Population
Total screened: 40 patients
Enrolled: 30 patients (21 males, 9 females)
Age range: 10-69 years
Inclusion: Non-bleeding injuries, patients willing to consent
Exclusion: Systemic diseases, unwilling patients
Intervention Protocol
Medicine Used: Arnica montana Q
Dosage: 10 drops in 45 ml of water, twice daily on an empty stomach for 3 days
Assessment Tool: Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst pain)
Assessment Points:
Baseline NRS score
Post-treatment NRS score (Day 6/7)
Observations and Results
Demographics
70% of the patients were male. 40% were students.
The majority followed Hinduism (93.33%).
Pain Score Distribution
Before Treatment: Mean NRS = 5.86
After Treatment: Mean NRS = 0.63
Statistical Analysis: Paired t- test showed significant difference (p < 0.05)
Severity Categories:
- Severe Pain (7-10): 43.33%
- Moderate Pain (4-6): 46.66%
- Mild Pain (1-3): 10%
Post-treatment, most patients shifted to “no pain” or “mild pain” categories.
Notable Outcomes:
Pain reduced significantly in all age groups. No adverse effects reported. All patients completed the 7- day follow-up.
Discussion
The study corroborates long- standing traditional claims of Arnica montana’s utility in treating trauma-related symptoms. Phytochemicals like helenalin and flavonoids are known to inhibit inflammatory mediators (e.g., COX-2), which supports the clinical improvement seen in patients. Unlike synthetic NSAIDS, Arnica did not produce any gastrointestinal side effects in patients. Its utility as a low- cost, natural intervention for mild to moderate injuries could be emphasized in both rural and urban healthcare models.
Additionally, this clinical assessment supports the integration of standardized phytochemical screening in homoeopathic pharmacy education and practice, paving the way for evidence-based homoeopathy.
Limitations
- Small sample size (n = 30)
- Single-center, non- randomized design
- No control group or placebo for comparison
- Limited duration of follow-up (7 days)
Conclusion
This study confirms that the homoeopathic mother tincture of Arnica montana is rich in bioactive phytochemicals like flavonoids, terpenoids, and glycosides, and that it is effective in reducing pain and improving quality of life in patients with recent injuries. The results strengthen the therapeutic validity of Arnica montana in homoeopathy and highlight its importance as a safe, natural option for trauma care.
Recommendations
Conduct multi-center randomized controlled trials
(RCTs).
Extend follow-up duration to evaluate long-term benefits.
Perform comparative studies with conventional analgesics.
Expand phytochemical research to other mother tinctures.
References
- Kriplani P et al. Arnica montana L.: A plant of
- healing. J Pharm Pharmacol. 2017. Robertson A et al.
- Homeopathic Arnica for post- tonsillectomy analgesia.
- Homeopathy. 2007. Gaertner K et al.
- Is homeopathic Arnica effective? Front Surg. 2021.
- Smith AG et al.
- Clinical trials and effects of Arnica. Medicines. 2021.
Author
Dr. Kamlesh Saket, PG, Department of Homoeopathic Pharmacy, GHMC Bhopal
GUIDED BY :
Dr. Nivedita Agrawal (ASSO. PROF)
HOD: Dr. Chetna Pandey
