arnica (arnika)

[NL., origin unknown; perhaps a perversion of Ptarmic a, q. v.] 1. A plant plant of the genus Arnica.-2. [ cap.] A genus of perennial herbs, natural order Com positæ, natives of the northern temperate and Mountain-tobacco ( Arnica montana). arctic zones, with showy yellow flowers and opposite leaves. The most important species, A. mon tana, the mountain-tobacco of central Europe, has long a popular remedy in Germany. A. alpina is found in high northern regions in all parts of the world; species is peculiar to the Atlantic States, and a dozen others are natives of western North America. 3. A tincture of the roots or flowers of A. montana, much used as an external application in wounds and bruises, and internally as a stimulant in debilitated states.