Can I drink arnica while breastfeeding?

Understanding Arnica and Breastfeeding
Arnica, a flowering plant belonging to the Asteraceae family, is often used in homeopathic remedies and topical applications for its purported benefits in treating bruises, muscle pain, and inflammation. However, when it comes to breastfeeding, the safety of arnica—especially in oral forms—raises significant concerns.
Risks of Oral Ingestion
The consensus among health professionals is clear: oral ingestion of arnica is highly discouraged during breastfeeding. Scientific literature on this topic is limited, but there are alarming reports linking the oral use of arnica to severe health issues in infants. For instance, a case was documented where a newborn developed hemolytic anemia just 48 hours after the mother ingested an arnica infusion. This incident underscores the potential dangers associated with arnica consumption during lactation.
Moreover, arnica contains several toxic components that can lead to serious health complications. Reports indicate that ingestion can result in symptoms ranging from gastroenteritis and cardiac arrhythmia to neurological problems and, in extreme cases, death. Given these risks, it is crucial for breastfeeding mothers to avoid oral forms of arnica entirely.
Topical Use and Homeopathic Preparations
In contrast, topical applications of arnica—such as creams and gels—are generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. These products are often used to alleviate pain and promote healing without the same systemic absorption risks associated with oral ingestion. Homeopathic preparations, which are highly diluted, are also viewed as safe for use during breastfeeding.
However, even with topical use, caution is advised. It is essential to ensure that the application does not come into contact with the breast area before nursing, as this could inadvertently expose the infant to the active ingredients.
Conclusion
In summary, while topical arnica products may be safe for breastfeeding mothers, oral ingestion of arnica should be strictly avoided due to the potential for serious adverse effects on both the mother and the infant. If you’re considering using arnica in any form while breastfeeding, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure the safety of both you and your baby.

What does arnica help with postpartum?

Arnica is commonly used for bruising and can aid in healing the perineum and other tissues after birth. It can also be used for afterpains and uterine cramping that can occur with nursing.

How do you dissolve arnica in breastmilk?

Arnica 30c tablets – HOMEOPATHIC Remedy • Dissolve 10 pellets in 3 oz of breast milk/water/formula. Chill. Give 2mL of chilled combination every 2 hours for the first few days as needed.

Can you drink arnica tea while pregnant?

During pregnancy, but also under ordinary conditions, one should never take herbal teas or other “do-it-yourself” preparations containing arnica as these may cause a serious intoxication of both the mother and the unborn child. Special caution is also required when ingesting arnica orally during breastfeeding.

Is arnica safe with breastfeeding?

Yes arnica tablets are fine with breastfeeding. They were recommended to me by mws in the hospital and I checked at the chemist. Everyone in my bf support group who had a section also took arnica tablets.

How do I get rid of breast milk ASAP?

One of the main things a person can do to dry up breast milk is avoid nursing or pumping. The supply of breast milk increases with demand. Avoiding nursing or pumping, even if a person feels uncomfortable, tells the body to produce less milk.

What supplements should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Dietary Supplements and Herbs to Avoid When Breastfeeding

• Answer: Certain herbals, high dose vitamins, and other dietary supplements can be dangerous to breastfed babies through breast milk.
• Aloe latex.
• Ashwagandha.
• Berberine/goldenseal.
• Bilberry.
• Black cohosh.
• Butterbur.
• Dong quai.

Can arnica help with mastitis?

Some people use arnica as a cream or gel for soothing muscle aches and inflammation and for pain from conditions such as breast surgery, mastitis, or hand osteoarthritis.

Can you take homeopathic medicine while breastfeeding?

Homeopathic remedies are reportedly very safe for nursing moms and babies because the remedies (by definition of homeopathy) contain only very dilute versions of the active substances.

Who should not take arnica?

Talk with your healthcare provider if you’re taking blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin®, Jantoven®). Arnica may increase your risk of bleeding. Do not take arnica or use it on your skin if you’re allergic to sunflowers, marigolds, ragweed, or other plants from the sunflower family.

Is it safe to drink arnica tea?

Arnica teas, tablets and other products containing this plant (or similar species, such as European arnica [Arnica montana], for example), should not be taken internally, due to their potential toxicity, especially by small children, and patients suffering from heart disease.