All-Natural Treatments for Bruises

Bruises are simply areas where the blood collects beneath the surface of the skin. The area usually turns black and blue and will frequently swell and be quite painful. (If you bruise easily, by the way, there is a good chance that you are not getting enough vitamin C.) There are several all-natural ways to treat bruises using plants that you may already have growing in your garden.

Arnica
This perennial herb (Arnica montana) is a member of the sunflower family (Asteraceae) and produces yellow flowers similar to daisies on erect stems with hairy leaves. Helenalin and dihydrohelenalin found in arnica have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects that can reduce the pain of bruises and sprains. A liniment can be made by heating (on low heat) one ounce of lard or oil and ounce of the flowers together for several hours. Strain and allow to cool before applying to the affected area. Warning: While arnica is general safe for external use, some particularly sensitive individuals may develop dermatitis. If this occurs, discontinue use.

Daisy
The common daisy (Bellis perennis) that you see growing in fields, along the sides of roads, or even in your own yard is sometimes called "bruisewort" and has been traditionally used to treat bruises and other wounds. Simply bruise the flowers and leaves and add to wheat germ oil to make a liniment to reduce the swelling caused by bruises.

Solomon's Seal
Generally grown for its foliage and whitish-green to yellowish-green flowers in the woodland garden, Solomon's seal (Polygonatum commutatum) has been used traditionally to treat a variety of ills, including bruises. You can crush the root to make a poultice to treat the black and blue discoloration caused by bruising and also to treat black eyes. (Make a liniment using lard or oil as described above.) In addition, you can steep the root in beer and use the liquid to make a compress.

Yarrow
Yarrow is not only known as the "plant doctor" [see my article on Yarrow], but it has also been used to treat wounds at least as far back as the time when the Trojan War was supposed to have taken place (about 3,000 years ago). Azulene found in the herb has an anti-inflammatory effect. Not all species of yarrow, however, necessarily contain azulene. For best results, look for Achillea millefolium var. lanulosa (sometimes known as Western Yarrow) and/or A. collina (or Mountain Yarrow). You can simply crush the leaves and apply directly to fresh bruises or make a lard/oil liniment as described above to treat bruises. Yarrow is generally safe; however, some people may develop an allergic reaction over time. (Yarrow tends to have a cumulative effect.) If you begin to experience an allergic reaction, discontinue use.

As with all herbal remedies, test a small patch of skin for any possible allergic reactions. If you have any questions or concerns, consult your primary care physician and/or a certified herbalist.

References:

Clair Kowalchik and William H. Hylton, eds. Rodale's Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs. Emmaus, PA: Rodale Press, 1998.

Dian Dincin Buchman, Ph.D. Ancient Healing Secrets. Avenel, NJ: Crescent Books, 1996.
______________________. Herbal Medicine. NY, NY: Wings Books, 1996.