Freelanin is used topically against inflammation and pain and actively combats oxidative stress. It is effective against traumatic bruises, rheumatic pain, and sprains.

MECHANISM OF ACTION

The biological effects of Arnica montana are attributed to the synergistic action of the molecules present in its phyto-complex, including sesquiterpene lactones, polyphenols, and flavonoids. From the traditional uses reported by ethnobotany to modern times, the extract of Arnica flowers is used topically against traumatic bruises, rheumatic and joint pain, in cases of sprains, hematomas, and edema, due to its powerful anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant action. Sesquiterpene lactones are compounds with proven anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and inflammation by acting on the primary pro-inflammatory mediators in the body. By inhibiting nuclear transcription factors such as NF-kB, a reduction in the synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes such as the inducible isoform of cyclooxygenase (COX2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) is achieved, leading to the attenuation of the inflammatory mechanism. Finally, the flavonoids present in the Arnica phyto-complex are powerful antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and protect cells from damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS).

BIBLIOGRAPHY:

● Poli F. (2019). Biologia farmaceutica. Biologia vegetale, botanica farmaceutica, fitochimica – Con MyLab + eText – Ed. Pearson. ● Gyawali, N., Rayamajhi, A., Karki, D., Pokhrel, T., & Adhikari, A. (2022). Arnica montana L.: Traditional Uses, Bioactive Chemical Constituents, and Pharmacological Activities. In Medicinal Plants of the Asteraceae Family: Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Activities (pp. 61-75). Singapore: Springer Nature Singapore. ● Adkison, J. D., Bauer, D. W., & Chang, T. (2010). The effect of topical arnica on muscle pain. Annals of Pharmacotherapy, 44(10), 1579-1584.