Arnica Salve: Look At Lavender’s Superpowers
For someone who never shuts up about arnica (hi, still me 🙋♀️), I also have a big soft spot for the supporting cast in our Arnica Salve.
Because let’s be honest: if arnica is the lead singer, herbs like lavender are the harmony section, backup dancers, and emotional support crew all rolled into one. Without them, you’d still get help for those cranky muscles—but you’d be missing the “ahhhh… that’s better” moment.
Today we’re shining the spotlight on lavender—why it’s in our Arnica Salve, what it brings to the party, and how it helps your overworked body chill out (a little) when life is loud.
Arnica: The First-Responder Friend
If you’ve hung around StrangeMakes for more than 4.2 seconds, you already know arnica is my ride-or-die herb for:
Bumps and “I-don’t-remember-hitting-that” bruises
Overworked, overachieving muscles
Body parts that feel like they’re filing HR complaints after yard work, sports, or existing as an adult
Arnica flowers are naturally rich in plant compounds herbalists love, like sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids, which are traditionally used to support:
The body’s normal response to swelling and soreness
Those “I didn’t break it, but I definitely annoyed it” moments
In real-people language:
Arnica is the herb you reach for when your body is saying, “Rude.”
That’s why it’s the star of so many bruise, muscle, and joint formulas—and the main character in our Arnica Salve.
But even stars need co-stars. Enter: lavender.
Lavender: The Chill-Out Teammate with a To-Do List
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) might be famous for helping people relax, but it’s not just a pretty smell and a Pinterest-worthy plant.
Each little lavender bud can contain:
Linalool & linalyl acetate – aromatic compounds known for their calming, soothing vibes
Natural antioxidant + anti-inflammatory actions – supporting the skin while it does its thing
Antimicrobial properties – helping keep the area feeling fresh and clean
Traditionally, lavender has been used to help support:
Calmer skin – think less “red, cranky, and dramatic”
Relaxed muscles & nerves – that “soften the edges” feeling after a long day
Wound and skin recovery – supporting the skin’s natural repair process
If arnica is the EMT for grumpy tissue, lavender is the friend who shows up a weighted blanket, and a calming playlist.
A Quick Note from the Responsible Adult in the Room
As much as I love herbs, I also love being honest and safe:
Our Arnica Salve is for external use only.
Avoid broken skin, eyes, and other sensitive areas.
If you’re pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are sensitive to essential oils, check with your healthcare provider first.
Discontinue use if irritation occurs.
Herbs are helpers—not miracle workers, not substitutes for medical care. Think of them as part of your comfort toolkit.
