Just wondered if anyone used Arnica to help with internal bruising from the surgery, either before or afterwards?

I've never heard of it! What is it?

Its a homeopathic remedy, but helps to reduce post op bruising and swelling.

"How Can Arnica Montana Benefit My Healing Journey?

The Arnica Montana products featured in the Store can help reduce post-operative bruising (ecchymosis), swelling (edema), and discomfort. Arnica Montana is a natural and safe homeopathic remedy that is frequently taken in oral pill or cream form. Grown in mountain regions, this homeopathic herb not only helps reduce bruising and swelling but also promotes healing and lessens post-operative pain and discomfort. Because Arnica Montana is a natural, safe remedy, it is known for having virtually no contraindications, no drug interactions, and no side effects.

How Should I Administer Arnica Montana?

Arnica Montana is typically taken in pill, pellet, or capsule form to help reduce bruising, swelling, and post-operative discomfort. For best results, do not eat or drink for 15 minutes before or 15 minutes after taking this homeopathic remedy. Ingesting food 15 minutes before or after you take the pill will diminish the effectiveness of Arnica Montana. Additionally, handling the product with your hands is not recommended.

Once your wounds have healed and closed completely, Arnica Montana topical creams and gels may be also be applied over the surgical areas to reduce post-operative symptoms."

"Is Arnica Montana 30X appropriate for an individual who has had gastric bypass surgery? Yes, because the homeopathic medication is delivered sublingually and not through the gastrointestinal tract. Following gastric bypass surgery, many patients have a difficult time obtaining a sufficient quantity of the micronutrients (Vitamins & minerals) required for good health. At the same time, a dramatically reduced stomach size makes it difficult to take certain supplements, especially tablets. This becomes important should the gastric bypass patient elect to have surgery down the road (e.g., body contouring), as nutrient deficiencies delay the healing process. Because Arnica Montana is delivered sublingually, most gastric bypass patients do not have any difficulty taking the homeopathic remedy."

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Interesting.

I wish I had heard of it before. I had a lot of swelling but I'm pretty much past it now. I hope it works for you.

I have used arnica topically in the past but hadn't considered it for this surgery.

I found this info though:

Side Effects of Arnica

Arnica has been seen to be safe when used in diluted or homeopathic doses for a maximum of two weeks under constant supervision of a doctor or health care professional. However, at extremely higher doses, arnica montana can lead to very serious side effects and even death. Possible side effects of high arnica dosage include stomach discomfort, nausea and vomiting, as well as liver and kidney damage and organ failure.

Skin rashes, lesions of the mouth and eczema might occur in some people as a result of allergies. Topical arnica should never be used on open wounds or anywhere near the eyes and mouth. There have also been reported cases of mouth ulcers caused by arnica-containing mouthwash.

Other less probable side effects of increased arnica doses taken orally include irregular heart rhythm, high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat and heat failure. Theoretically, arnica can increase the possibility of bleeding. If you have a history of diabetes or have used anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs, always consult a doctor before taking arnica, even at homeopathic doses.

Arnica and Surgery

Several research studies have suggested that homeopathic doses of arnica can relieve pain after surgery. It has also been seen to reduce hematoma and bruising after surgery and promotes faster post-operative recovery.

Good points Avilda......

I will be asking my surgeon about it, just wondered if anyone else had used it.

I would be leery of using anything especially when they typically give us anti-coagulants to prevent blood clots. Some surgeons give several injections, some give a couple, and some patients come home on injections as well.

Tiff - good point..... I know my surgeon does use Heparin.

I used arnica about 4 yrs ago when I had a breast lift, and my plastic surgeon was fine with it, I had minimal discomfort from bruising.

I know this is a totally different situation, so figured it doesn't hurt to ask....

Thanks for posting. I've used arnica in the past, but of coarse hadn't read the side effects, sounds like I'll pass post surgery! Thanks Avileda