Positive Health Online

Abstract

TVEITEN and BRUSET, Baerumsveien 451, 1346 Gjettum, Norway, datveite@online.no, have studied the effect of Arnica D30 in marathon runners.

Background

The aim of the two studies was to examine whether the homeopathic remedy Arnica D30 has an effect on muscle soreness and cell damage after marathon running.

Methodology

82 marathon runners who participated in the Oslo marathons 1990 and 1995 were recruited for these two separate randomized controlled trials. 5 pills of Arnica D30 or placebo were given morning and evening. Treatment started on the evening before the marathon and continued for three days after the race. The runners assessed muscle soreness on a VAS. Muscle enzymes, electrolytes and creatinine were measured at baseline and after the race.

Results

Muscle soreness after the marathon was lower in the Arnica group than in the placebo group (p = 0.04). Dell damage was similar in both groups.

Conclusion

These results suggest that Arnica has a positive effect on muscle soreness after marathon running but not in muscle damage as measured by enzymes.

References

Tveiten D, Bruset S. Effect of Arnica D30 in marathon runners. Pooled results from two double-blind placebo controlled studies. Homeopathy 92 (4): 187-189, Oct 2003.