Bruising

A bruise happens when small blood vessels under the skin break due to injury, causing a dark mark under the skin.

Bruises lighten in color as the body removes the blood, usually healing within two to three weeks.

Very severe or recurrent bruising may require medical attention, as it could indicate an underlying condition. Factors other than a blow or fall can make some people more susceptible to bruising, so it's recommended to consult a healthcare professional if there are concerns.

Natural Cures for Bruising

Most people don't need medical attention for a simple bruise, but some easy remedies help ease discomfort, pain, and inflammation. When in doubt, seek medical attention promptly.

Cold Compress/Ice Pack

A wrapped ice pack or a bag of frozen vegetables (in an emergency) can be applied to the affected area for up to 10-15 minutes off and on to help reduce swelling and speed the healing process. Use a cold compress on the injured area to reduce inflammation for the first 24 hours after injury.

Vitamin C

If you smoke or drink excessively, a deficiency in Vitamin C can cause bruising.

Taking Vitamin C supplements and eating foods rich in Vitamin C (such as citrus fruits) is a simple way to get more in your diet and help with bruising.

Arnica Gel

Arnica can naturally help reduce swelling, discoloration, and inflammation. Apply the gel to the bruised area as directed by the manufacturer.

Arnica gel and cream are available without a prescription online, at drugstore chains, or at your local natural grocery store.

Don't use Arnica gel if you're allergic to plants in the Asteraceae and Compositae families, such as ragweed, sunflowers, marigolds, chrysanthemums, or daisies.

Arnica Montana

Arnica Montana has been a natural cure for centuries to diminish or prevent bruising. Arnica Montana is usually sold in pill form in herbal or health food stores.

Arnica Montana effectively reduces pain, swelling, and inflammation caused by bruises. It is recommended to be applied as soon as possible after an injury to minimize the severity and duration of the bruise. Within a few days of use, arnica typically provides relief, and bruises usually fade significantly within two weeks.

When applied topically in a cream, ointment, lotion, salve, or tincture, arnica is known to alleviate muscle aches, reduce inflammation and promote wound healing.

Vitamin K

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble nutrient for blood clotting and healthy bones. A lack of this vitamin can cause easy bruising. Antibiotic usage can sometimes impair Vitamin K levels. Vitamin K helps strengthen capillary walls, making them less prone to breakage.

You can supplement with this vitamin K or increase your intake of green leafy vegetables such as kale, collard greens, broccoli, spinach, cabbage, and lettuce.

Comfrey Root

Comfrey has been used historically to help with treating wounds, skin ulcers, thrombophlebitis, bruises, and sprains and strains. The root and leaves of this plant contain allantoin and substances that are soothing to the skin.

Comfrey has anti-inflammatory properties when applied topically. Comfrey ointments are available to heal bruises, pulled muscles and ligaments, fractures, sprains, strains, and osteoarthritis.

Comfrey root is intended for external use only. Follow all manufacturer instructions.

Precautions

It's important to note that some individuals may be more prone to bruising due to age, certain medications (like blood thinners), vitamin deficiencies, or underlying medical conditions. If you have concerns about frequent or unusual bruising, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance.