Postoperative skincare outcomes are of particular interest to dermatologists, especially with cosmetic surgeries and treatments using injectables, lasers, and other energy-based devices. Over the years, efforts have been made to reduce postprocedural edema and ecchymosis. 1 Although no standardized interventions are currently widely accepted to manage these potential events, homeopathic medications have continued to be investigated. They have relevance due to their often more affordable cost and low-risk safety profile. 2,3 Arnica is a traditional homeopathic remedy, which has been investigated and used by many physicians to reduce the morbidity associated with various procedures. 2,3 Although larger and recent clinical trials are limited, we review the relevant information on arnica and offer our own insights into its use in order to shed more light on its periprocedural utility.
| BACKG ROU N DArnica is derived from plants of the Asteraceae family. Its compounds have traditionally been used to manage inflammation, ecchymosis, and hematomas. [1][2][3][4][5][6] Arnica montana is native to Europe and North America, and it is the most common source of arnica, which is derived from the dried flowers and roots. 3 The German Commission E, which is a scientific advisory board of their Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices, has already approved arnica for the management of hematomas, ecchymosis, and edema, and primary care practices in Germany have been utilizing this remedy without significant reported adverse effects. 3,5 The United States Federal Drug Administration (FDA) has deemed oral arnica to be safe; however, controversy remains as to whether it is effective and which procedures are most suitable for its use. 3,7
| MECHANIS MThe mechanism of action for arnica is not yet entirely understood, but in vitro studies have shown it to possess various anti-inflammatory properties through inhibition of histamine release from degranulated mast cells, reduction of serotonin release from platelets, and decreased production of prostaglandins, including thromboxane B2. 3,5 Arnica has high concentrations of sesquiterpene lactones, such as helenalin, 11a,13-dihydrohelenalin, and chamissonolid, which have been linked to several anti-inflammatory activities that may be responsible for its role in reducing post-treatment edema and ecchymosis. 5 These