Popular natural medicines that are simple to apply at home include essential oils.
They might also be beneficial for treating bruises.
Evidence-based justifications for the application of essential oils to bruises are offered by herbalists and other practitioners.
It’s interesting to note that some current research endorses the usage of certain oils for bruises as well.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
✅ Bruises frequently result in minor injuries.
✅ The most popular methods for treating bruising are:
✅ Using ice packs for the first day or two
✅ Using over-the-counter painkillers
✅ Bathing the injured region
✅ Essential oils can help with recuperation and the healing process.
When utilized properly, essential oils are fantastic choices. Some are effective for pain, while others could lessen the appearance of bruises. Even some essential oils work well for both.
Speak to your doctor if you experience chronic bruising that has no apparent reason.
What transpires when you bruise?
Dark areas that appear on the skin are called bruises. Dark violet, blue, green, yellow, and even red or brown are all possible color choices for them.
Contusions, often known as bruises, can occur for a variety of causes. If you accidentally bump into something, are in a collision, or come into contact with something else, you could get a bruise.
Just beneath the skin, ruptured blood vessels cause the coloring. Extreme pressure or blunt damage that leaves the skin intact causes this to happen.
The bleeding merely takes place under the skin, as opposed to typically bleeding from the wound. You can notice subcutaneous blood clotting as discoloration.
How to use the best essential oils for bruising
The best essential oils for bruising-related discomfort or discoloration are listed below. Essential oils shouldn’t typically be used straight to the skin since they irritate it too much. Essential oils that have not been diluted should not be contacted. Instead, combine them with carrier oil and apply the resulting solution to a warm compress.
Additionally, oils may be combined with a topical carrier oil, cream, or lotion. For every ounce of product, you use or store, combine 5 drops of oil.
Additionally, some oils may be combined directly or in products. As required, apply diluted oils directly to the skin. It is advised to do this twice per day. Stop using essential oils as soon as skin discomfort due to allergies appear. Do not ingest essential oils.
Arnica (Arnica montana) (Arnica montana)
One of the most well-liked herbal treatments for bruises is the arnica flower. It has been demonstrated to hasten healing, significantly lessen bruise size, and return to normal skin tone. Arnica also reduces pain.
A kind of bruise called ecchymosis was treated with topical arnica in 2016 research on surgical patients. These bruises recovered more quickly from the herb than from the placebo.
Arnica essential oil applied topically may promote faster healing of injuries. Apply a few drops of diluted essential oil on bruised skin twice daily. Additionally, there are homeopathic treatments for arnica.
Frankincense (Boswellia spp)
Additionally suggested is the use of frankincense to hasten the appearance and size reduction of bruises. Its anti-inflammatory properties can also aid with pain relief.
In a 2013 study, turmeric and frankincense essential oil were tested for their ability to treat bruises. According to the research, it is just as effective in healing bruises as over-the-counter sprays. Twice a day, apply a few drops of diluted essential oil on bruised, unbroken areas.
Aromatherapists frequently employ helichrysum (Helichrysum italicum), sometimes known as the eternal flower, to treat injuries.
Helichrysum (Helichrysum italicum)
Helichrysum possesses anti-hematomal effects, according to a 2013 assessment. The essential oil minimizes the size and look of bruises when used promptly. Inflammation is also soothed by it.
After an injury, apply diluted oil to any skin that is not broken. Reapply as often as required to relieve pain.
Lavender (Lavandula officinalis)
The essential oil known as lavender (Lavandula officinalis) is accessible and well-known. Similar to helichrysum, it is believed that prompt application after an injury can lessen the look of bruises.
This was supported by a 2015 study that included women who had severe postpartum bruises near the perineal stitches. Also, it reduced pain.
5 drops should be used right away for bruising on skin that isn’t broken. For some people, using oil directly may be uncomfortable. If so, attempt a warm compress in place of it.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) (Rosmarinus officinalis)
The anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of rosemary may be combined in one treatment. In a study from 2013 and one from 2017, it was mentioned as helpful for bruising.
Never put rosemary on your skin. It might irritate you. With carrier oil, combine.
Saint John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum)
St. John’s wort is still used today in massage to ease the discomfort of bruises and quicken up the healing.
According to a 2017 study, it might be beneficial for bed sores. These lesions resemble bruises in appearance. But the study has certain limitations.
In accordance with a different 2018 study, St. John’s wort reduced postoperative pain and bruising. It was combined with yarrow, another herb.
For relief, directly apply diluted oil to the injured region.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
In a 2013 study, turmeric and frankincense were found to help with pain management and improved recovery.
Due to its anti-inflammatory qualities, turmeric was probably more responsible for pain relief, whereas frankincense enhanced the bruise appearance.
Directly dab diluted essential oil onto the bruised area.
Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)
Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) was mentioned in a 2014 review as being effective for treating pain and wounds all over the world. The plant is well known for reducing the more unpleasant parts of bruising in many cultures.
Wormwood essential oil can cause severe skin irritation. Watch out for a response or annoyance. Before increasing to 5 drops, start with 1 to 2 drops per ounce of carrier oil.
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
In a 2018 study, yarrow helped reduce pain and bruise appearance coupled with St. John’s wort. It might hasten the healing of all kinds of wounds.
Dilution of yarrow essential oil should be used directly on bruises with intact skin.
When should I go to the doctor if I have bruises?
The majority of bruises are not dangerous and are simply treated at home. They gradually disappear on their own without any medical assistance.
If any of the following apply to you, book an appointment today.
- you have severe pain,
- edema, or swelling
- your bruise has no apparent reason and you take blood-thinning medication,
- drugs,
- bruises that emerge for no apparent reason
- bruises that don’t go away or get worse after three or four weeks
- bruises that are on the eye or your head and show evidence of a concussion