In order to heal a bruise faster, it is important to know how a bruise is formed. Bruise refers to a superficial discoloration of skin that is usually formed when a blood vessel under the skin breaks after an injury or blow. Nutrient deficiency, chronic illnesses and insufficient production of clotting factors are some of the common causes. The skin discoloration takes 2-3 weeks to disappear, causing embarrassment and cosmetic disfigurement.
How to Heal Bruises Faster
1. Apply Ice
Apply ice immediately after the injury to reduce the swelling and irritation. It is better not to apply ice on the bruise directly. It is recommended to wrap the ice in a towel or cloth and leave it on the bruise for 15-20 minutes. The procedure can be repeated but make sure you don't over chill the bruise, which may lead to frostbite.
2. Elevate Affected Area
Flow of blood in bruised area can be slowed down by elevating the area, helping the bruise to heal faster and decrease the size of the lesion. You can elevate the bruised area by using pillows for more controlled blood flow. Avoid vigorous activity involving that part of the body to further limit the size of lesion.
3. Apply Hot Compress
For better blood circulation and reduction in the size of bruise, you can use hot compresses as well. Take a cotton cloth and soak it in warm water before applying on the bruise. But make sure that only apply hot compress 24 hours after the injury has occurred.
4. Massage
Give the bruised area and its surroundings a relaxing massage to clear out some pooled blood. To massage, move your hands gently for 4-5 minutes in circular motion in the area and repeat the procedure after every 3-4 hours.
5. Try Bandage
A bruise can also be compressed using a light cotton bandage. A bandage can also be used to keep the cold compress on affected area for longer period. Keep the bandage light while wrapping around cold compress to avoid the loss of blood circulation.
6. Eat a Diet Rich in Vitamin C and K
Add fruits and vegetables in your diet, especially those that are rich in Vitamin C and K. Vitamin C helps in optimal healing of bruises by strengthening collagen lining of blood vessels. Vitamin K helps in the production of clotting factors in the blood. Foods that supplies rich amounts of vitamin C include lemon, strawberries, oranges and black currant etc. Dark green vegetables such as spinach and broccoli are excellent sources of vitamin K.
7. OTC Medicines
You can take acetaminophen to reduce pain and discomfort. Avoid vitamin pills as they may aggravate the intensity of bruises. Consult your doctor before taking any medicines, especially if you are on certain drugs for the management of chronic medical conditions.
How to Heal Bruises by Natural Remedies
Learn how to heal bruises faster by the following natural remedies.
1. Arnica
Arnica doesn't only treat bruises but also can be used to relieve pain that is caused by sprains, arthritis and aches. It also helps in reducing swelling and inflammation. It is available in the form of gels, creams, oil and pallets. Do not try to swallow arnica herb as it is poisonous. It is suggested to apply arnica on bruises for at least 3-4 times per day.
2. Essential Oils
Mixture of essential oils is also used to treat bruises and hickeys. Massaging the mixture on the affected area not only break down blood clots with better blood circulation, but also provide soothing sensation. They also support capillary walls, reduce pain and remove discoloration.
A recipe of essential oils for bruises is available below. Simply mix them and apply the mixture on the affected area:
- Geranium-30 drops
- Lavender-15 drops
- Cypress-10 drops
- Lemon grass-10 drops
- Helichrysum, Frankincense, Fennel, Myrrh and Rosemary-5 drops each
3. Parsley
Parsley not only enhances the flavors of your meals, but also contains amazing healing properties. Parsley contains vitamin C and K which help in reducing inflammation and strengthening the capillary walls. These leaves can be spread on the bruised areas to speed up the healing process.
4. Watercress
Watercress makes our food delicious, but it is better known for its anti-inflammatory and blood cleansing property. It also contains vitamin C and K that are helpful in treating bruises. Crushed watercress can be applied directly on bruised area.
5. Onions
Onion has great anti-inflammatory qualities to treat bruises. It also relieves swelling, sprain and congestion. Onion slices can be applied directly on bruise for 30 minutes. Or you can add 2 table spoons of salt in 2/3 onion (small pieces) and grind well. Then apply the mixture on the bruise and leave it overnight.
6. Blueberries
It is the yummiest answer to the question “how to heal bruises faster”. Blueberries have flavonoids and Vitamin C which help in formation of collagen and improvement of blood circulation. Blueberries are said to be able to treat bruises without leaving marks on skin. It's not just blueberries, but all berries are rich with vitamin C and K.
7. Pineapples
Pineapples help in reducing irritation and swelling of bruises due to the bromelain it contains. It not only disperses the blood clots surrounding bruises, but also prevents the formation of more blood clots.
8. Cabbage
Cabbage contains potassium, vitamin C, vitamin K and quercetin. Other than healing bruises, it helps in regulating blood pressure and provides intestine relief. Cabbage edges can be immersed in hot water and then applied on bruises or you can simply place flatten cabbage on bruise.
9. Vinegar
Bruising area has clogging of blood cells that can be broken down by vinegar. It also recovers bruises fast with increased blood flow. Mix some vinegar and warm water and then apply on bruises.
10. Witch Hazel
Hazel leaves have over 30 medical advantages including anti-inflammation and bleeding control. Witch hazel leaves are available in most areas of North America. You can heal your bruises faster by applying ointment of witch hazel that restores blood flow and tightens stretched veins.
11. Egg Rolling
Place and roll a warm peeled-off boiled egg on your bruised area. It helps reducing the swelling.
When to See a Doctor
Since you have got some tips about how to heal bruises faster, you may wonder when to opt for medical attention. If your bruises start taking the following characteristics, it is imperative to consult a doctor:
- It’s been two weeks and there is no change in the appearance or size of the bruise.
- More bruises start appearing without any cause or injury.
- Bruises are close to eyes and you are experiencing changes in vision.
- You experience swelling on the bruised area with extreme pain.