What is Arnica
If your dog is sore, bruised, or recovering from a tumble—Arnica should be one of the first tools you reach for.
Used for centuries in folk and herbal medicine, and embraced in homeopathy around the world, Arnica montana is one of my go-to remedies for all things trauma, tenderness, and tissue support.
Whether your dog just had a rough play session, a fall, or surgery, Arnica helps the body recover more comfortably—gently and naturally.
Let’s walk through what Arnica is, how it works, and how you can use it safely and effectively for your pup.
What Is Arnica?
Arnica is a genus of flowering plants in the sunflower family (Asteraceae), native to the mountainous regions of Europe and North America. The most commonly used variety is Arnica montana, also known as:
Wolf’s Bane
Leopard’s Bane
Mountain Tobacco
The plant contains a powerful compound called helenalin, known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It’s one of the reasons Arnica is used worldwide to help relieve:
Bruises
Sore muscles
Sprains
Swelling
Pain from blunt trauma
Two Ways to Use Arnica for Dogs
1. Homeopathic Arnica (Internal Use)
This is my preferred method for dogs—especially right after an injury or procedure.
Homeopathic Arnica montana comes in tiny pellets that are dissolved under the tongue (or in the cheek pouch for dogs). It works energetically, stimulating the body’s natural healing response and reducing inflammation, bruising, and pain.
I’ve used it countless times for:
Post-surgery recovery
Falls or tumbles
Rough play injuries
Tooth extractions or dental trauma
Stiffness after a long hike or play session
Because homeopathic remedies are so diluted, they’re gentle, safe, and won’t interact with medications. You’ll often see relief within hours for acute situations.
2. Herbal Arnica Oil (Topical Use)
Herbal Arnica oil is made by infusing arnica flowers into a carrier oil like olive or sunflower oil. It’s excellent for topical application on bruises, sore joints, or tender muscles—but it should never be used on broken skin or ingested.
I love using Arnica oil as part of a post-exercise massage or after a rough day of activity.
And you know me—I’m always going to enhance it! I typically add essential oils (like lavender, helichrysum, or copaiba) and sometimes a bit of CBD for extra anti-inflammatory support.
DIY: How to Make Arnica-Infused Oil
Here’s a basic way to prepare Arnica oil at home:
Harvest fresh Arnica flowers (wear gloves—fresh arnica can irritate skin)
Allow flowers to wilt slightly—don’t use wet or damp herbs
Lightly crush the flowers to release natural oils
Place them in a clean, dry jar about 2/3 full
Cover with carrier oil, fully submerging the flowers
Stir gently to remove air bubbles, then seal the jar
Store in a cool, dark place for 4–6 weeks, shaking every few days
After steeping, strain the oil through cheesecloth
Store your finished oil in a clean jar away from light
You can also use pre-dried Arnica flowers if you don’t have access to fresh ones.
Important Safety Notes
Never ingest Arnica oil or raw Arnica. It can be toxic in non-homeopathic forms.
Always do a patch test before applying Arnica oil more broadly, especially if your dog has sensitive skin.
Do not apply to open wounds. Stick to bruised, sore, or intact skin only.
Watch for signs of skin irritation, and discontinue use if any rash or reaction occurs.
Top 5 Ways I Use Arnica in My Practice
After spay/neuter or dental surgery (homeopathic form)
For older dogs who are sore after exercise or play
As part of a first aid kit for bumps and bruises
To ease stiffness or soreness from activity or travel
In custom massage oils with essential oils and CBD
Want to Know When Arnica Is the Right Choice?
I’ve got resources for that. Whether you’re building a dog-safe natural first aid kit or wondering if Arnica is right for your dog’s specific issue, I can help you choose the right remedy, oil, or protocol.