|
"Botanical" indicates a compound of plant origin. Three botanicals that are frequently mentioned with respect to healing are Arnica, an extract of the plant Arnica montana, Papain, an enzyme derived from papaya, and Bromelain, a enzyme from pineapples. All are said to possess amazing properties that promote rapid healing. As with many cosmeceuticals, such claims are exaggerated.
Arnica has been used medicinally for centuries but its main healing effects have never been substantiated. Taken orally, it is poisonous except in homeopathic preparations that are so diluted that none of the plant chemicals actually remain (in other words, no Arnica).
Still, popular lore among patients and some plastic surgeons has it that homeopathic oral arnica can dramatically prevent bruising and swelling after major surgery. While several studies have demonstrated no more effectiveness than a placebo, try telling that to a true believer.
In ointment form, Arnica may possibly speed up wound-healing slightly but it may not be applied to raw skin or open incisions.
|
|
Another botanical is papain, a protease enzyme that breaks down protein and is derived from papaya. It has many assorted uses, including as a meat tenderizer. Until recently, it was also a popular remedy to speed wound healing.
In late 2008, the FDA issued an order restricting marketing of all drug products containing papain due to numerous serious complications including severe allergy and cardiovascular complications.
Bromelain is another botanical protease, this one derived from the stems of pineapples. Also used as a meat tenderizer, it is often recommended as an oral treatment to hasten recovery after injury or surgery. It does seem to have some anti-inflammtory effect similar to ibuprofen.
The list of botanicals and plant enzymes is long, and they are often added to various cosmetics in miniscule amounts.
|
