Bruising
Bruising is an inevitable part of everyday life and everyone gets one or more at some time or other. From the time children begin to move on their own, they make their inevitable appearance. People who mark easily may have some problems with clotting or may have a kidney disorder. On the other hand, the condition is the way our bodies handle all the little bumps in life. They are the sign that our bodies react quickly to injury and work quickly to heal.
Symptoms
We're all familiar with the black and blue coloring that slowly fades to green and then to yellow as it heals. Bruising may come from an injury, accident or surgical procedure. Some are very deep and painful, while others don't cause any pain at all. Some may be accompanied by swelling.
Causes
Bruises are caused by blood being released from capillaries into the tissues beneath the skin. This is what causes the coloring. While it is usually caused by injury, sometimes it can be caused by an allergic reaction or a more serious condition.
Cautions
People taking blood thinners and diabetics should check their bodies on a regular basis for bruises, as it may be a symptom of problems that need to be addressed. If they get worse rather than get better, see a doctor. It may mean there is internal bleeding. If you develop unexplained bruises, see a medical professional.
Herbal Treatments
Internal Applications
Ginkgo tablets can help with circulation and protecting blood vessels. Green tea and Horse chestnut are also useful for improving circulation.
External Applications
- St. John's wort – this herb is a good choice for healing. Add a few drops of tincture to an oil or cream and apply to the skin at the affected area. Alternatively, apply a few drops of tincture directly on the bruise and allow it to soak in. An infusion of the herb can be used to bathe the skin.
- Comfrey – apply a poultice of freshly chopped leaves for cuts, bruises and sprains. Comfrey promotes the healing of both tissue and bone. It also reduces swelling and speeds up the healing process.
- Arnica – this is a good choice as a treatment. It relieves pain and swelling. It helps the skin to heal quickly. Apply the cream directly or add a few drops of tincture to a cup of water and use as a wash. Massage into the affected area 3 times a day.
- Parsley – crush fresh parsley leaves and apply directly to the area to heal it quickly. Repeat as needed.
- Witch hazel – use this herb as a wash to bathe the affected area. Witch hazel disperses the blood and encourages healing. It is also anti-inflammatory.
- Lavender – the essential oil can be used as a cooling compress. It relieves pain and swelling, and the scent helps you relax so you can rest.
- Rosemary – this essential oil is most useful in the later stages of healing, when the bruise is green or yellow. It stimulates more blood flow to the area, draining away the old blood that was released, which causes the brown and yellow color.
- Mullein – use the oil of mullein to heal bruises and inflammation.