Arnica ointment

Arnica is a flowering herb in the sunflower family that closely resembles daisies.  The active components of arnica include sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids which are known to reduce inflammation and ease pain. It also contains thymol, an essential oil that fights infection, and carotenoid, a powerful antioxidant.  Trying to explain these words is not always easy but it's important to know what they do.  Do not apply to open wounds, use Calendula ointment instead.  Arnica is applied to the skin for pain and swelling associated with bruises, aches, and sprains and relieves lower back aches and stiffness from overexertion or minor trauma.  It is also applied to the skin for insect bites, arthritis, muscle and cartilage pain, chapped lips, and acne.