Integumentary system - skin -topical

Question 1

1. Arnica

Answer 1

Arnica montana
Asteraceae
Flower

Actions:
Antiinflammatory (topical), antiecchymotic (topical), analgesic (topical), antomicrobial (topical)

Indications:
Chronic venous insufficiency - heaviness in the legs, oedema, muscle ache, bruises & sprains
Inflamed insect bites, haematomas, dislocations, oedema resulting from fracture, rheumatic muscle & joint problems

Contraindications:
Not for internal use or broken skin
Allergy to Asteraceae
Prolonged use may cause dermatitis

Question 2

2. Marigold, Calendula

Answer 2

Calendula officinalis
Asteraceae
Flower

Actions:
Vulnerary, antiinflammatory, lymphatic, styptic, antimicrobial, antiviral

Indications:
Internal & topical tx for Inflammation of oral & pharyngeal mucosa (internal & topical), gastric & duodenal ulcers, enlarged or inflammed lymph nodes, acne, sebaceous cysts
Topical for burns, inflammation of skin, wounds, eczema, varicosities & acne

Contraindications:
Allergy to Asteraceae
monitor for sensitisation

Question 3

3. Myrrh

Answer 3

Commiphora molmol
Burseraceae
Oleo-resin

Actions:
Antiinflammatory, vulnerary, astringent, antibacterial, antimicrobial

Indications:
Chronic bronchitis, acute cotyza, chronic catarrh, inflammation of the mouth & throat
Gastritis, dyspepsia, amenorrhoea, leukorrhoea
Topical - inflammation of mouth & throat, skin inflammation, wounds & abrasions

Contraindications:
Pregnancy
Burning may occur (depending on dilution) &allergic dermatitis
Only use for short duration (<few wks)

Question 4

4. Witch hazel

Answer 4

Hamamelis viginiana
Hamamelidaceae
Leaf & bark

Actions:
Astringent, antiseptic, antiinflammatory & haemostatic

Indications:
Minor skin injuries & local inflammation of skin & mucous membranes
Haemorroids & varicose veins
Neurodermatitis atopic symptoms

Contraindications:
None known
Care w long term admin (tannins)
separate doses of supplements by 2 hrs (tannins)

Question 5

5. Chickweed

Answer 5

stellaria media
Caryophyllaceae
Aerial parts

Actions:
Antirheumatic, antipruritic, refrigerant, demulcent, astringent, antiulcer

Indications:
Rheumatic & gouty conditions, GIT ulceration
Topical tx for skin disorders (eczema & psoriasis, urticaria, itchy skin conditions, rashes, burns, ulcerations

Contraindications:
None known
Known allergy - rash