other names- Hairy Arnica, Woolly Arnica habitat- moist to wet subalpine streambanks and meadows range- Sierra Nevada, Klamath and Cascade Ranges North to British Columbia, East to Colorado description- mostly unbranched hairy stem(s) up to 6 ft tall; opposite sessile cauline leaves, soft-hairy and oblanceolate; inflorescence with soft hairy phyllaries in one to two series, radiate head with 12 to 18 yellow ray flowers and numerous 5-lobed yellow disc flowers etymology- Arnica, from the Greek, arnikos meaning lamb's skin in reference to the soft, downy leaves; mollis, from the latin stem moll, meaning soft, graceful. applications- as with other species in this genus, A. mollis may be applied topically to treat bruises, sprains, inflammation and possibly arthritis. It increases blood flow to the area. A. montana, the European Arnica, is used extensively as a homeopathic remedy for similar afflictions.

CAUTION: Consult an expert before eating or using any wild plant for herbal applications.