A Pharmacological Study of Arnica Plant

Abstract

The leaves and flowers of Arnica plants contain ‘Helenalin’, a sesquiterpene lactone that is a major ingredient in anti-inflammatory preparations. It is a highly toxic compound, with hepatic and lymphatic tissues particularly vulnerable to its effects. It is responsible for the toxicity and skin irritation. Ingestion of these plants causes severe gastroenteritis and internal bleeding of the digestive tract. Moreover, they are potent and selective inhibitor of ‘human Telomerase’, which is partially accountable for its anti-tumour effects and has anti-trypanosome activity and is toxic to Plasmodium falciparum. In addition, it also retards the growth of Staphylococcus ureus and reduces the severity of S. aureus infection in humans. The roots of these plants contain derivatives of ‘Thymol (2-isopropyl-5-methylphenol)’, a fungicides and preservative. In addition, it has some anti-inflammatory effect, with strong antiseptic properties. Moreover, it is a biocide, agent with strong antimicrobial attributes, which reduces bacterial resistance to antibiotics, also an effective fungicide against fluconazole-resistant strains.