Fomentations are a category of treatment in which strips of cloth are soaked in a liquid herbal extract e.g. tea, tincture or succus, and placed over the treatment area on the skin. An occlusive covering such as plastic wrap or waxed paper covers this and is held in place with tape or more bandages for a measured period of time.
An arnica fomentation is indicated for sprains, haematomas, contusions with swelling, and for the resorption of blood.
CAUTION: DO NOT USE ON OPEN WOUNDS. May be painful and toxic if absorbed systemically.
- Mix tincture of Arnica Montana with pure water 1:4 (20% solution)
- Soak gauze in solution and place several folded layers over effusion
- Cover with occlusive dressing & Repeat BID until resolved