Find out how popular the first name Arnica has been for the last 1 years (from 1980 to 1980) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Arnica by gender

Based on the last 1 years of data, Arnica is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 1980, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Arnica.

The history of the first name Arnica

The name Arnica is derived from the Ancient Greek word "arnikos," meaning "lamb's skin." The name is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region during the Classical period, around the 5th century BCE.

Arnica was the name given to a perennial herb found in the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia. The plant's bright yellow flowers were likened to the soft wool of a lamb, hence its association with the Greek word for lamb's skin. The herb was widely used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Arnica can be found in the writings of the Greek philosopher and botanist Theophrastus, who lived from 371 to 287 BCE. In his work "Historia Plantarum" (Enquiry into Plants), Theophrastus described the medicinal uses of the Arnica plant.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Arnica. One of the earliest was Arnica of Bithynia (c. 300 CE), a Christian martyr who was tortured and executed for her faith during the reign of the Roman Emperor Diocletian. Her story is recounted in the "Acta Sanctorum" (Lives of the Saints), a collection of hagiographies compiled by the Bollandists.

In the 16th century, Arnica Saxonia (1494-1538) was a German botanist and physician who made significant contributions to the study of medicinal plants. She is credited with introducing the use of Arnica as a homeopathic remedy for bruises and injuries.

Another notable figure was Arnica Melchior (1620-1683), a Dutch painter known for her still-life compositions featuring flowers and plants, including the Arnica herb.

In the 19th century, Arnica Dufour (1787-1865) was a Swiss botanist and entomologist who made valuable contributions to the study of alpine flora and insect species found in the Swiss Alps.

Arnica Munk (1932-2008) was a Danish artist and ceramicist renowned for her abstract sculptures and pottery works that drew inspiration from nature and organic forms, including the Arnica flower.

The name Arnica, while not as common as many other given names, has a rich history rooted in ancient Greek language and culture. Its association with the medicinal herb and its connection to notable individuals across various fields and eras make it a unique and intriguing name with a fascinating heritage.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Arnica was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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