Last updated on July 28th, 2022 at 10:33 am

Your day in the garden doesn’t have to end because of nuisances like sunburn, bruises, blisters, muscle aches or bug bites. Keep your first aid kit stocked with summer essentials like Boiron Arnicare and Calendula medicines. These multi-purpose medicines are available in easy-to-apply topical forms such as gel, cream or ointment. The moisturizing creams are best for more sensitive skin. The gels are refreshing and quickly absorbed. The ointments remain on the skin longer and are best for conditions that take longer to heal like sprains and chapped hands.

To help you decide when to use Arnicare or Calendula when dealing with common minor injuries, here are some tips:

Sunburn

The mid-afternoon sun can turn exposed skin tender and red even with precautions like sunscreen or a hat. Calendula Cream made from Calendula officinalis, a Garden marigold, can help moisturize while healing sensitive burned skin.*

Bruises

Arnicare Cream, made from Arnica montana, a Mountain daisy, can relieve bumps and bruises from digging, pruning and weeding. Use the cream on sensitive areas such as the face, but never on an open wound. Also, those who bruise easily will appreciate that the cream can reduce unsightly bruise discolorations on exposed legs and arms while providing a moisturizing effect.*

Blisters

If a blister should arise from wearing new garden clogs or gloves, do not pierce it. This exposes the skin to infection. Most blisters heal naturally, but for a speedier recovery, apply Calendula Ointment to the blister after cleansing the area, and cover it with a band-aid. Applying ointment to the area before wearing shoes or sliding on gloves helps keep the skin supple and lubricated, therefore reducing the risk of getting blisters.*

Muscle Aches

Whether you are pulling weeds or shoveling mounds of mulch, you can rely on non-greasy Arnicare Gel because it absorbs quickly into the skin and provides soothing relief for stiffness, aches and pain.*

Backyard Burns

Small burns from a grill or outdoor fireplace may need more time to heal than minor sunburn. Immediately place the skin under cold water for two minutes to reduce damage to the tissues and the pain. Then apply Calendula Ointment because it adheres to the skin longer for prolonged action.*

Dried Out Skin

Our skin can be exposed more to the elements during warm weather than during cold. Rub Calendula Cream into cracked heels, and apply Calendula Ointment to chapped lips dried out from the sun or wind.*

 Bug Bites

Calendula Gel can provide cool and soothing relief from stinging skin irritations. Apply a thin layer to the area where the bite or sting occurred three times a day or as needed.*

For more customized treatment solutions, refer to our homeopathic medicine finder. This free app can help match your individual symptoms to the right medicine. In the case of serious or persistent conditions, be sure to seek professional medical advice.

*These “Uses” have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.