Aloe vera on bruises. 10 Effective Ways to Get Rid of Bruises: Expert Advice for Faster Healing
How do bruises form and what causes them. What are the most effective methods to speed up bruise healing. Can natural remedies help reduce bruising and swelling. How long does it typically take for a bruise to heal completely.
Understanding Bruises: Causes and Formation
Bruises are a common occurrence in everyday life, often resulting from minor accidents or injuries. But what exactly causes these discolored marks on our skin? A bruise, also known as a hematoma, forms when small blood vessels beneath the skin burst due to sudden impact or trauma. This leads to blood leaking into the surrounding tissues, causing the characteristic discoloration we associate with bruises.
Several factors can increase the likelihood of bruising:
- Age: As we get older, our skin becomes thinner and more susceptible to bruising
- Vitamin deficiencies: Particularly a lack of vitamin C or K
- Medications: Certain blood thinners or steroids can make bruising more likely
- Medical conditions: Some blood disorders can lead to easy bruising
While most bruises are harmless and will heal on their own, understanding their causes can help us take steps to prevent them and promote faster healing when they do occur.
Ice Therapy: The First Line of Defense Against Bruising
When it comes to treating a fresh bruise, ice is often the go-to remedy. But why is ice so effective in reducing bruising? The cold temperature from ice therapy works by constricting blood vessels in the affected area, which limits blood flow and reduces the amount of blood that leaks into the surrounding tissues. This, in turn, minimizes the appearance and severity of the bruise.
To effectively use ice for bruise treatment:
- Wrap ice or a cold pack in a thin towel to protect your skin
- Apply the cold compress to the bruised area for 10-15 minutes
- Repeat this process every 1-2 hours for the first 24-48 hours after injury
Is ice therapy always the best option for bruise treatment? While ice is highly effective in the initial stages of bruising, it’s important to note that it’s most beneficial when applied immediately after the injury occurs. For older bruises, other methods may be more appropriate.
Heat Application: Promoting Circulation and Healing
Once a bruise has fully formed, typically after 24-48 hours, heat therapy can be an excellent way to promote healing. How does heat help with bruise recovery? Heat application works by increasing blood circulation in the affected area, which aids in the reabsorption of the leaked blood that causes the bruise. This improved blood flow can speed up the healing process and help the bruise fade more quickly.
To use heat therapy effectively:
- Apply a warm compress or heating pad to the bruise for 15-20 minutes at a time
- Ensure there’s a layer of cloth between your skin and the heat source to prevent burns
- Repeat this process several times a day
Can heat therapy be combined with other bruise treatments? Yes, many people find that alternating between heat and cold therapy can be particularly effective in promoting healing and reducing pain associated with bruises.
Natural Remedies: Harnessing the Power of Vitamins and Herbs
Nature provides us with several powerful allies in the fight against bruises. Certain vitamins and herbs have been shown to have beneficial effects on bruise healing and reduction. Let’s explore some of these natural remedies:
Vitamin K: The Clotting Vitamin
Vitamin K plays a crucial role in blood clotting, making it an excellent ally in bruise treatment. How can you incorporate vitamin K into your bruise healing regimen? There are two main approaches:
- Dietary intake: Consume foods rich in vitamin K, such as leafy greens, broccoli, and kiwi fruit
- Topical application: Use creams or ointments containing vitamin K directly on the bruise
For optimal results, consider combining both methods to support your body’s natural healing processes from the inside out.
Aloe Vera: Nature’s Soothing Gel
Aloe vera has long been revered for its healing properties, and bruise treatment is no exception. This natural gel contains compounds that can help reduce inflammation and promote skin healing. To use aloe vera for bruises:
- Apply pure aloe vera gel directly to the bruised area
- Gently massage the gel into the skin
- Repeat this process 2-3 times daily
When selecting an aloe vera product, opt for pure, additive-free formulations to maximize its healing potential.
Arnica: The Herbalist’s Choice
Arnica, a flowering plant found in mountainous regions, has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including bruises. How does arnica work on bruises? This herb contains compounds that help reduce inflammation and swelling, potentially speeding up the healing process.
To use arnica for bruise treatment:
- Choose an arnica-based cream or gel
- Apply a thin layer to the bruised area
- Repeat application 3-4 times daily
While arnica is generally considered safe for topical use, it’s always wise to perform a patch test first to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions.
Elevation and Compression: Simple Yet Effective Techniques
Two often overlooked but highly effective methods for bruise treatment are elevation and compression. These techniques can be particularly useful for bruises on the limbs or extremities.
Elevation: Gravity’s Helping Hand
Elevating a bruised area above heart level can significantly aid in the healing process. But how does this simple action help? Elevation works by using gravity to promote blood flow away from the bruised area, reducing swelling and preventing further blood accumulation in the tissues.
To effectively use elevation:
- Raise the bruised area above heart level whenever possible
- Use pillows or cushions to support the elevated limb
- Maintain elevation for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day
This method is particularly effective when combined with other treatments like ice or heat therapy.
Compression: Containing the Spread
Applying gentle pressure to a bruised area through compression can help limit the spread of the bruise and reduce swelling. How does compression aid in bruise healing? By applying pressure, you can help prevent additional blood from leaking into the surrounding tissues, potentially minimizing the size and severity of the bruise.
To use compression effectively:
- Wrap the bruised area with an elastic bandage
- Ensure the bandage is snug but not too tight to avoid restricting blood flow
- Remove the bandage periodically to allow for normal circulation
Compression is most effective when applied soon after the injury occurs, but it can still be beneficial in the days following the initial bruising.
Dietary Supplements: Supporting Healing from Within
While topical treatments and physical techniques can be highly effective, supporting your body’s healing processes from the inside out can also play a crucial role in bruise recovery. Certain dietary supplements have shown promise in promoting faster healing and reducing the severity of bruises.
Bromelain: The Pineapple Enzyme
Bromelain, an enzyme found naturally in pineapples, has gained attention for its potential to reduce inflammation and speed up bruise healing. How does bromelain work on bruises? This enzyme helps break down the proteins that contribute to inflammation and swelling, potentially accelerating the healing process.
To incorporate bromelain into your bruise treatment plan:
- Consider taking bromelain supplements as directed by a healthcare professional
- Increase your intake of fresh pineapple
- Look for topical creams containing bromelain for direct application to the bruise
As with any supplement, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before adding bromelain to your regimen, especially if you’re taking blood thinners or have any bleeding disorders.
Vitamin C: The Collagen Builder
Vitamin C is well-known for its immune-boosting properties, but it also plays a crucial role in skin health and wound healing. How does vitamin C contribute to bruise recovery? This essential nutrient is vital for the production of collagen, a protein that helps strengthen blood vessels and promote skin healing.
To harness the power of vitamin C for bruise healing:
- Increase your intake of vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits, berries, and bell peppers
- Consider a vitamin C supplement if you’re not getting enough through your diet
- Look for skincare products containing vitamin C for topical application
By supporting your body’s collagen production, you may be able to strengthen your blood vessels and reduce the likelihood of future bruising.
Professional Treatments: When to Seek Medical Help
While most bruises are harmless and will heal on their own with proper care, there are instances where professional medical attention may be necessary. Recognizing when to seek help is crucial for ensuring proper treatment and ruling out any underlying health concerns.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
Certain signs and symptoms associated with bruising may warrant a visit to your doctor or healthcare provider. These include:
- Bruises that appear without any known cause
- Bruises that are extremely large or painful
- Bruises that don’t show signs of healing after two weeks
- Frequent or easy bruising, especially if it’s a new occurrence
- Bruising accompanied by other symptoms like fever or extreme fatigue
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying conditions or complications.
Medical Treatments for Severe Bruising
In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend more advanced treatments for severe or persistent bruising. These may include:
- Prescription-strength topical medications to reduce inflammation and promote healing
- Laser therapy to break down the accumulated blood more quickly
- Investigation and treatment of any underlying medical conditions contributing to excessive bruising
Remember, while these treatments can be effective, they should only be pursued under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.
By understanding the causes of bruising, implementing effective home remedies, and knowing when to seek professional help, you can effectively manage and treat bruises, promoting faster healing and reducing discomfort. Whether you’re dealing with a minor bump or a more severe bruise, these strategies can help you on your path to recovery.
How to Get Rid of Bruises – Advice for Patients
Everyone has bruised themselves at least once in their life. It’s a natural response to a bump or fall. However, a bruise does not look pleasant on our skin, and can be sensitive to the touch. Therefore, we want bruises to go away as soon as possible. Sometimes, bruises can appear seemingly without a reason. These may be a sign of an underlying health condition, though usually bruises are nothing to worry about. To offer support to patients and alarm users, we have created this guide to help you get rid of bruises.
What Causes a Bruise?
A bruise forms when small blood vessels burst beneath the skin. This causes blood to leak into the tissues of the skin. Another name for this is a haematoma. Where the blood gathers, you will notice discolouration of the skin. The body will gradually break down and reabsorb this blood, and the bruise will fade with it.
In most cases, a bruise will be triggered by a sudden impact. This could be from a fall or bumping into something hard. Old age, vitamin deficiencies, and some medications can increase the risk of developing bruises.
To get rid of bruises you need to take steps to improve the healing process.
How to Get Rid of Bruises
Bruises will go away on their own, usually within two weeks. To get rid of bruises faster, you will need to take steps to treat them. Here are ten treatments to reduce bruising or alleviate the pain.
1. Ice
Using ice on injuries is a tried and tested method that can also help get rid of bruises. It is best done early in the development of a bruise. When applied to a bruise, the cold ice slows the blood flow in the affected area. This reduces how much blood leaks into the skin. The less blood that leaks, the less apparent the bruise will be and the less the bruise will swell.
When applying ice to a bruise, it should be separated from the skin by a bag, cloth, or towel. If you don’t have ice, frozen vegetables can be used instead. Do not keep the ice on the bruise for more than ten minutes at a time, and leave twenty minutes between applications.
2. Heat
Conversely, using heat on a bruise can also aid with healing. Once a bruise has formed, you will want to help speed up the process of reabsorbing blood that has leaked from the damaged blood vessels. Heat boosts circulation and stimulates blood flow. This helps to speed up the process of reabsorbing blood from a bruise.
Heat can also loosen tense muscles and relieve pain. The best ways to apply heat to a bruise are with a heating pad or hot water bottle. Like applying ice, you should ensure there is a layer between your skin and the heat source. However, a hot bath could also have the same effect.
3. Vitamin K
Our body needs vitamin K to aid with blood clotting. This makes it ideal for getting rid of bruises. Many green foods, such as broccoli, asparagus, spinach, and kiwis, are rich in vitamin K. Eating these could help to improve the speed at which bruises heal.
However, you can also buy creams containing vitamin K. Rubbing these creams onto a bruise at least twice a day has been shown to reduce the severity of bruises.
4. Elevation
Raising a bruise above heart level helps to drain blood away from it. Doing this not only speeds up the process of reabsorbing blood, but it also reduces the pain caused by swelling. With less pain in a bruise, it is easier to relax. Resting can also help you get rid of a bruise.
5. Aloe Vera
According the the National Library of Medicine (USA), aloe vera is effective at reducing pain and inflammation. This makes it an ideal treatment for bruises. It is advised that aloe vera products used for treating bruises contain pure aloe vera without any additives.
6. Bromelain
Another treatment that reduces inflammation is the enzyme called bromelain. This can be found in pineapples and is also available as supplements. By reducing the swelling of the bruise, bromelain helps to make it appear less severe. If you don’t want to take supplements or eat more pineapple, you can also purchase bromelain creams. This cream should be applied directly to the bruise.
7. Compression
Best done early in the development of a bruise, wrapping the injury in an elastic bandage can help to prevent leakage from damaged blood vessels. With less blood flow in the affected area, the bruise will be less severe and therefore heal faster. A further advantage of preventing the further development of a bruise is the reduction of swelling, making the bruise less painful.
8. Arnica
For a herbal remedy to bruising, consider arnica. Evidence shows that arnica reduces inflammation and swelling around bruises. Like aloe vera, arnica ointments or gels should be applied to any bruising several times a day. This will help to get rid of bruises.
9. Comfrey
This plant has been used for many years as a treatment for skin conditions. It also helps to reduce inflammation. This is a treatment that has been used for centuries because it works.
A more recent development is a comfrey cream. Like other ointments, gels, and creams mentioned in this article, you apply this cream to the bruise several times a day. However, another way to get rid of bruises with comfrey is to use dried comfrey leaves. Boil the leaves for ten minutes, strain them, and wrap them in a towel or cloth. Apply this to the bruise.
10. Vitamin C
One of the most important nutrients for your wellbeing is vitamin C. One of its main functions is to help your body repair itself. This makes it ideal for helping your body get rid of bruises. Furthermore, vitamin C can, like many of the other entries on this list, help reduce inflammation.
Consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables is the best way to make sure you have enough vitamin C in your body. You can also get gels, creams, or serums containing vitamin C that will help to get rid of bruises.
Keep an Eye on Bruises
In most cases, bruises are only minor injuries and will clear up soon enough. However, you should keep an eye on them. Sometimes, bruising can form over a fracture. If a lump forms over a bruise, or if it does not heal after four weeks, this could be a sign of a more serious injury. Moreover, if you cannot get rid of bruises with these treatments, it may be worth getting your injury checked by a doctor.
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Editor’s Note: This article was updated on 6th June 2023 to reflect current information.
5 Products That Can Help Fade Bruises
Truthfully speaking, no one plans to get hurt. Injuries often occur when we aren’t paying attention, and I will be the first to admit that I can be a total klutz. From tripping up the stairs to stumbling over my own ankles, I’m no stranger to bruises. In my younger years, the temporary black-and-blue look never bothered me, but as I’ve gotten older, I’ve found myself on the hunt for all-natural remedies—something to help speed up the healing process. We have the lowdown on five remedies to lighten up those unwanted bruises in no time.
Arnica
Boiron
Arnicare Bruise
$9.00
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Known for its anti-inflammatory benefits, arnica is a popular homeopathic favorite for vanishing bruises. Aside from treating the injury, it also helps to relieve the aches that come from arthritis and sprains. When it’s applied on a fresh bruise, the swelling, pain, and discoloration are diminished within a few hours. For best results, apply an arnica gel 3–4 times a day on the affected area, or try taking it orally in pill form such as Hyland’s Arnica Montana tablets ($6).
Vitamins C & K
Bruizex
Bruise Care Cream
$21.00
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Not getting enough vitamin C in your diet may contribute to bruising. To help strengthen your body’s response to bruising and cut down the healing time, try to regularly consume foods that are naturally high in vitamin C.
Vitamin K is another micronutrient known for its role in blood clotting. If you’re looking to treat a bruise, try rubbing a vitamin K-enriched cream to the bruise twice daily to aid your body in breaking down the blood and reabsorbing it.
For long-term benefits, stock up on your green, leafy vegetables and fruits such as broccoli, kale, spinach, oranges, mangoes, and papayas for clear and bruise-free skin.
Hot and Cold Therapy
Koo-Care
Pain Relief Hot Cold Therapy Reusable Ice Bag Pack
$12.00
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Hot and cold compresses along with ice packs can significantly reduce bruising when used consistently and as soon as the bruise appears. Cold applications numb the nerves and constrict the blood vessels, reducing swelling and tissue breakdown. Applying heat helps opens blood vessels to improve circulation to the area. Following an injury, apply a bag of frozen vegetables or ice to the injury and massage it in slow, circular motions. Next, switch to a hot compress (like HealthSmart TheraBeads Microwavable Moist Heat Heating Pad, $40) and repeat the same process.
Aloe Vera
Nature Republic
Aloe Vera Soothing Gel
$8.00
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Aloe vera’s healing properties will help quicken the recovery phase of broken blood vessels under the skin’s surface. When applied topically to the skin, the gel and moisture in aloe give bruises an environment where broken vessels can quickly and effectively repair themselves.
For best results, break the leaves off an aloe plant and apply the fresh gel to the bruise, or invest in a gel or cream with a high concentration of 80% or more.
Bromelain
Now Foods
Bromelain Supplement
$17. 00
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Bromelain is a powerful enzyme found in pineapples that digests protein, thereby flushing out fluids trapped in the tissue. With anti-inflammatory properties, it has been shown to reduce injury time altogether.
Bromelain is also available in capsule form. Of course, before adding a new supplement to your routine, you should always check with your doctor.
Up Next: Are bikini wax bruises normal? We have the answers.
Aloe for bruises and hematomas – folk recipes for the consequences of bruises – Useful recipes from Aloe
Hematoma – a violation of the integrity of tissues, which is accompanied by the formation of a cavity filled with blood. It is a consequence of rupture of blood vessels due to mechanical action or under the influence of certain diseases.
A bruise, or as it is commonly called a “bruise” in colloquial speech, is a hemorrhage into soft tissues, in which their structure is preserved. It occurs due to stretching of blood vessels after being hit by a hard blunt object or squeezing.
In accordance with the International Classification of Diseases, hematomas and bruises are included in the group called “soft tissue contusion”, are regarded as not posing a danger to human health.
Bruising usually resolves within two weeks. At first, touching the affected area may be painful. After 5-7 days, this symptom disappears, the color of the bruise becomes greenish.
Hematoma is a more serious type of injury and takes longer to resolve. The timing depends on the severity of the damage. In particularly difficult cases, surgery may be required, so it is necessary to visit a doctor immediately after the injury.
How are hematomas and bruises treated?
Treatment of bruises begins with a cold compress. It helps prevent swelling and reduces pain. For the role of a compress, ice, frozen foods, a heating pad or a bottle of cold water are suitable. It is applied for 10-15 minutes to the damaged area, after 3-4 hours the procedure is repeated.
If fingers or toes are injured, the limb must be lifted up to allow normal blood flow.
To speed up the healing of bruises, pharmacy products with a resolving effect help:
- Heparin ointment;
- Contractubex;
- Indovazin;
- badyaga;
- Arnigel.
Ointments are started on the second day after injury, if there are no contraindications. The selected remedy is applied 2-3 times a day to damaged skin. The course of treatment, on average, lasts from 3 days to a week.
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In some cases, anti-inflammatory drugs are required to manage the hematoma. They help relieve swelling, stop the development of the inflammatory process and relieve pain. Such funds can be intended for both internal and external use. They must be selected by a specialist.
Another way to speed up the healing of damaged tissues is to turn to folk remedies. One of the most effective remedies for bruises is aloe.
Why is agave useful?
With the help of aloe, a bruise or hematoma can be removed much faster than using only pharmacy products. The juice of this plant:
- removes puffiness;
- accelerates the regeneration of damaged tissues;
- relieves pain.
The only contraindication for external use is individual intolerance.
Pharmacy aloe products
Pharmacies sell ampoules containing pure agave extract or 20% alcohol tincture. Aloe vera cosmetic oil is also sometimes found.
Any of these products can be used instead of homemade extract in folk recipes.
How do I prepare my own extract?
Aloe juice is prepared from the lower and middle leaves, the length of which has reached 15 centimeters. Raw materials should have a peculiar aroma and be bitter in taste.
Usually, the leaves are harvested for medicinal purposes in the autumn-winter period. Previously, the plant is not watered for 20 days, so that it actively begins to produce useful substances.
The leaves are washed, wrapped in tissue paper and left on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator for 14 days. Then they are crushed with a sharp knife, poured with cold water in a ratio of 1: 3 and let it brew for 60-90 minutes. The raw materials are laid out on gauze or cotton fabric and squeezed in any convenient way.
This method requires a lot of time. If it is not possible to wait, simpler options can be used:
- Fresh agave leaves are washed in cold water, crushed, wrapped in a thin cloth and squeezed by hand.
- Raw materials are processed using a meat grinder or blender. Transfer to gauze and squeeze.
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Aloe extract, prepared in a simpler way, is not stored for so long, but its properties are in no way inferior.
How to use aloe juice for bruises and bruises?
Treatment can be started with the simplest traditional method. From a fresh leaf of aloe, a thin layer of skin is removed and a lotion is made from bruises. The procedure should be repeated 2-3 times a day. This method is suitable if tissue damage is not serious. In more severe cases, the composition of the drug is complicated.
Compress with aloe juice from hematoma
For the compress you will need:
- one bulb — normalizes the state of blood vessels;
- Art. l. fresh crushed plantain leaves – relieves pain and stops the development of the inflammatory process;
- 20 ml agave extract.
The onion is cut or grated, the plantain leaves are ground to release the juice. Then all components are mixed in a blender until a homogeneous mass is obtained. The resulting slurry is wrapped in a sterile bandage and applied to the injured area for 2 hours 3 times a day.
Aloe for edema
A bruise is often accompanied by edema, which impedes blood circulation. You can remove it using the following ingredients:
- 1st. l. aloe leaves.
- 3 tsp celandine.
- 2 tsp crushed linden leaves.
- 100 ml hot water.
All components are combined and left in a warm place for 30 minutes. Infusion wipe the bruised area several times a day.
Prescription for bruising
The treatment of a bruise can be greatly accelerated by using a mixture of aloe extract, fragrant rue and 20 drops of almond oil. The gruel is applied to the damaged area for 20-25 minutes. The procedure is repeated 2-3 times a day for a week.
Other folk remedies
Strengthen the effect of products with aloe extract, lotions from the juice of fresh cabbage leaves or raw potatoes help. These vegetables contain a large amount of vitamin C, which strengthens blood vessels and increases their elasticity. Garlic slurry has the same effect.
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Grated raw potatoes can be mixed with honey and applied to the damaged area. This compress relieves pain and reduces swelling.
Reviews
Ekaterina, 34 years old:
Recently she fell – a bump on her head, a huge bruise under her eye. Back to work in a week. What I just didn’t do: badyaga, Bruise-off, Arnica, Rescuer, Heparin ointment. Nothing helped. On the fifth day I could not stand it – I made a compress with a peeled aloe leaf and went to bed. There was almost no bruising in the morning. If not for this miracle remedy, I would not have got to work on time.
Valentina, 28:
I have very sensitive skin. Any blow or strong pressure, and a large and ugly bruise flaunts on the skin. I have long found a reliable remedy for this misfortune – agave juice. First, I apply an ice cube wrapped in a cloth to the site of injury. Then I wipe it with pure aloe extract. I continue the treatment for 3-4 days, after this period there is no trace of a small spot.
How to get rid of bruises: 11 home remedies that really work
How to Get Rid of Bruises: 11 Home Remedies That Really Work
Red, purple or yellow bruises aren’t pretty and are very painful. Fortunately, most bruises resolve completely within two weeks of the injury. But if you can’t wait, there are several home remedies you can use to help reduce swelling and pain.
What are bruises? They appear due to bruises caused by a blow or injury, in which tiny blood vessels under the skin are damaged. Blood comes out of these damaged vessels and leaves a pink or red mark under the skin. After a day or two, the blood turns blue-violet, and a bruise of the same color appears at the site of the blow. Gradually, it becomes pale green or yellow, and then completely disappears.
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To shorten the slow healing process, we suggest trying the following:
1. Ice
A sure way to reduce the size and color of a bruise is to apply an ice pack immediately after injury. The cold causes the blood vessels to constrict and reduces the amount of blood that gets under the skin. Ice therapy should be applied periodically throughout the day. The package on the skin can be kept for no longer than twenty minutes.
2. Bandage
To restrict blood flow, wrap the injured body part with a compression bandage. If you don’t have a bandage, try applying light pressure to your skin for a few minutes after the injury. Compression will not only reduce bruising, but also relieve pain and swelling.
3. Sunlight
Sunlight’s ultraviolet rays destroy bilirubin, the pigment in the blood that causes bruising to turn yellow. Just 15-20 minutes a day is enough, and after several treatments you will see a noticeable difference.
4. Arnica
Arnica is a useful medicinal herb that should be in every first aid kit. It acts as an anti-inflammatory agent and anticoagulant. For bruises, it is better to use an arnica gel or ointment. It is quickly absorbed into the skin and exhibits analgesic properties.
5. Vitamin K
Vitamin K is essential for healthy skin, bones and blood. It is found in foods such as leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, and fermented soybeans. But when you need to get rid of bruises, you need a stronger concentration.
Studies show that topical application of vitamin K after cosmetic procedures reduces bruising. Gently rub vitamin K into the affected area 2-3 times a day.
6. Aloe vera
The aloe plant has been valued for centuries for its healing properties. It not only relieves pain and swelling, but also reduces the risk of bruising. Immediately after an injury, apply one teaspoon of aloe vera gel to the bruise and gently massage into the skin. Repeat several times a day. If you buy pre-made aloe gel, make sure it doesn’t contain any unnecessary additives.
7. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant with excellent anti-inflammatory properties. When used topically, it promotes the healing of bruises and other types of injuries.
Take vitamin C by mouth with fresh fruits and vegetables or apply it directly to the skin.
8. Cayenne Pepper
According to some reports, cayenne pepper has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries as a remedy for bruises. This spicy spice contains capsaicin, a natural pain reliever.
To use cayenne pepper for pain and bruising, simply mix one part of the spice with five parts of coconut or vegetable oil. Heat the pasta until the butter is melted, mix thoroughly and let cool. It can be applied to bruises several times a day. Note that capsaicin may stain pale skin, although this side effect is only temporary.
9. Quercetin
Quercetin is an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant flavonoid derived from fruits and vegetables such as blueberries, cranberries, capers and red onions. You can buy gels and ointments containing quercetin that will help reduce bruising.
10. Comfrey
The comfrey plant is a popular remedy for various skin irritations and inflammatory conditions. Studies have shown that through the use of comfrey ointment in patients with knee injuries, sprains and bruises, pain and swelling were significantly reduced.
The ointment is recommended to be applied to bruises every 3-4 hours.
11. Essential oils
Many essential oils reduce pain, swelling and the risk of bruising. Remember that when applied topically, essential oils must be mixed with a suitable carrier oil. Here are some of the best essential oils:
- frankincense oil;
- rosemary oil;
- lavender oil;
- cypress oil;
- geranium oil;
- Lemon grass oil (lemongrass).
Most essential oils can be used in a variety of ways:
- Apply a soothing compress. Add a few drops of essential oil, mixed with a tablespoon of your chosen carrier oil, to a tissue and apply to the bruise.