The Shire Homestead's Materia Medica

     A “Materia Medica” is a body of knowledge that describes how plants have been used therapeutically today, yesterday and throughout history. This is the spot in which The Shire Homestead will describe the herbs used in it's Herbal Apothecary. Herbs are listed in no particular order. We will list our sources and references.


Arnica Montana:


Is an herb that “”has been shown to prevent and minimize bruising”” says Monica Halem, M.D. Specifically, arnica works as a topical treatment for bruising because it acts as an anti-inflammatory and it also helps dilate capillaries under the skin, which allows blood and fluid to move out of the injured area.” (The Big Doctors Book of Home Remedies, 2009 Rodale Inc. page 89) and “Arnica, an herb that comes from a European flower, has natural anti-inflammatory properties. German scientists found that it reduces swelling of the knee from surgery.” page 386 of Rodale's 2009 book.


WebMd “Arnica is applied to the skin for pain and swelling associated with bruises, aches, and sprains. It is also applied to the skin for insect bites, arthritis, muscle and cartilage pain, chapped lips, and acne. “


Herbal Academy of New England “It (Arnica) is an anti-inflammatory and vulnerary herb used to treat pain, swelling, and bruising associated with traumatic injuries such as fractures, sprains, bruises, and contusions, as well as muscular pain from overexertion. For this purpose it can be used topically on unbroken skin or homeopathically.  “

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