Arnica montana, a Central European herb used for centuries to make traditional medicine, is back in vogue as a homeopathic muscle remedy. Though perhaps not the panacea natural-medicine enthusiasts claim, a 2003 Norwegian study showed Arnica supplements reduce post-race muscle soreness in marathon runners. And English trials on rugby players suggest the herb may ease swelling better than painkillers or compresses. There are tons of Arnica-based products on the market, but The Rub, a new cream from NatraBio, lets you treat torched muscles instantly—without popping a single pill. natrabio.com —Pieter van Noordennen
October 2004
