Bruise remedies

The following article gives information about bruises and the pain such bring.

It is possible to effectively speed the natural recovery process from this painful condition. As part of our regular newsletter there will be examples of successful alternative treatments.

Increasing the speed of bruise recovery

Bruising results from the release of blood from the capillaries into the tissues under the skin. The characteristic bluish-black mark on the skin lightens in colour and eventually fades as the blood is absorbed by the tissues and carried away. Bruising usually occurs as a result of an injury, but can occasionally be spontaneous and an indication of an allergic reaction, or more serious disease.

Eat foods high in bioflavonoids, originally called Vitamin P. A bioflavonoids primary job is to protect the capillaries, keep them strong and to prevent bleeding. Bioflavonoids are also anti-inflammatory. Lemons, green peppers, broccoli and rose hips are good sources of bioflavonoids. If taking bioflavonoid supplements, for the best absorption into the body, take with Vitamin C.

The early Greek herbalists considered St. Johns Wort an effective herb for healing wounds . It was used to dress sword cuts in the Middle Ages. Modern analysis of the plant has shown the plant to have antibacterial and astringent properties, both qualities useful in the speedy healing of cuts and wounds. Externally, either add a few drops of tincture to an organic oil or cream and gently apply to the bruised area or apply a few drops of the tincture directly to the skin and allow to soak in. An infusion can be used to bathe wounds, skin sores and bruises. Internally, take as an infusion or tincture for anxiety, nervous tension, irritability or emotional upsets. For long-standing nervous tension, take a tincture for at least two months.

Comfrey is among the oldest herbal remedies for skin problems. Poultices of the fresh leaves are a traditional home remedy for sprains, bruises and cuts. Comfrey not only promotes the healing of tissue and bone, but at the same time reduces swelling, effectively speeding up the healing process. Comfrey's healing powers have been attributed to its high content of allantoin, a substance that promotes the growth of tissue, bone and cartilage, both externally and internally. There is however some controversy over the safety of taking comfrey internally over a long period. It contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, compounds that are toxic to the liver. So use liberally in a cream or oil externally on bruised skin.

Cabbage has traditionally been used for medical purposes as well as for cooking. It has anti-inflammatory properties, and contains chemicals which can prevent cancer. Applied to bruises and swelling, macerated cabbage leaves will encourage healing .

Arnica has long been valued as a folk remedy for bruises and sprains. It has great pain-relieving, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Although widely used in forms of pills, creams and tinctures, it is best reserved for use on the skin. Add a few drops of the tincture to a cup of water, soak a clean cloth and then apply as part of the bandaging. Alternatively apply in a cream or make you own liniment*.

*liniment: a warming rub, often made by mixing tinctures with olive, coconut oil or a herbal infused oil.

Parsley is a common garden herb, rich in vitamins and therapeutic properties. Parsley has the ability to shrink small blood vessels and is helpful in treating piles, broken or thread veins and bruising. Crush a handful of parsley and apply to bruised area. Repeat regularly with the fresh herb and the leaves will clear up the black-and-blue marks in a few days.

One could also bathe the area with Witch hazel, which disperses the blood and encourages healing. Witch hazel is an astringent, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic.

Bruise remedies

Increasing the speed of bruise recovery

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