We are absolutely not talking about snuff this week.

I simply could not resist incorporating one of the common names of this week's highlighted plant -- arnica -- into this column. Other unusual monikers for the plant include wolf's bane and mountain daisy.

In recent weeks, I have suffered multiple lower-leg injuries. One involved a pitchfork and hard clay soil. Another one was due to whacking my leg on the edge of the bathtub quite vigorously. Then, I twisted my ankle going down some stairs. Thankfully, I had just replenished my supply of arnica cream.

Arnica is a popular remedy in homeopathic medicine. It grows in the Rocky Mountains, as well as other locales. Arnica is considered highly toxic and poisonous if ingested in amounts other than those used in homeopathy. It is available in creams, oils, salves and pellets.

If you are not familiar with homeopathy, it is based on a philosophy that "like cures like." The practice has been used for over 200 years. The remedies are "highly diluted substances from plants, minerals and other sources." (bit.ly/3U87rHd)

Homeopathic products are regulated by the FDA, but none are FDA-approved. Homeopathy is not considered to be an evidence-based healing modality. (bit.ly/4dOWIZk)

Since the 1500s, arnica has been used medicinally. The oil of arnica contains an anti-inflammatory compound, as well as some fatty acids and anti-bacterial constituents. It has been traditionally used for aches, pains, arthritis and even insect bites. draxe.com/essential-oils/arnica-oil

Dr. Josh Axe shares that using arnica topically is considered safe. However, if you are allergic to ragweed or daisies, you may want to avoid arnica, as they are in the same plant family. Also, arnica is not to be used on damaged or broken skin.

Dr. Andrew Weil also recommends arnica. He states to "never take arnica internally, unless it's in the form of little white homeopathic pills that contain too little arnica to cause harm."

Dr. Weil typically recommends a 30-times potency of arnica as a "first-aid treatment for trauma -- dental procures, for example, or any sports-related injury or accident involving sprains, strains or bruising." He also reminds us to never handle the homeopathic pellets "in order to preserve their energetic qualities." The instructions are to pop the little pills directly from the cap into your mouth and under your tongue. (bit.ly/4836dTq)

Other potential uses of arnica include treating osteoarthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome, as well as encouraging hair growth. draxe.com/essential-oils/arnica-oil/