Bruising, or “contusions” if you want the medical term, often occurs due to injuries that crush blood vessels and leak blood beneath the skin’s surface. While injuries are the primary cause for bruising, there can be other stimulants. They typically occur in athletes, weight lifters, or people who exercise frequently.
Unexplained bruises that surface without any apparent cause may be the result of a bleeding disorder. Aging can also be a factor, as skin becomes thinner as we grow older. Certain medications can make skin more prone to bruises as well.
Sprains, which we will also suggest natural remedies for, are the result of a torn or stretched ligament. Wrist and ankle sprains are the most common, and symptoms can include everything from swelling to pain to inabilities to move your joint. A popping feeling may happen when an injury occurs.
Now enough with the boring stuff. Onto the remedies…
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5 home remedies for bruising
There are certainly medications you can take to help with bruises and sprains. But there are countless natural alternatives you can try before resorting to traditional drugs. Here are our top 5 home remedies for bruised skin.
- Parsley: Apply fresh, crushed parsley to the affected area of the skin.
- Vaseline & cayenne pepper: Mix one part of pepper, five parts of melted vaseline and apply to the bruise.
- Witch hazel: Witch hazel is a shrub that can improve blood circulation. Mix in a warm bath and soak the affected area for at least ten minutes.
- Garlic: Containing antibiotic properties, garlic can help heal bruises quickly. Eat at least two cloves of fresh and raw garlic (it’s not required, but you might want to suck down some mouthwash before socializing with other humans!).
- Essential oils: Lavender is arguably the most effective essential oil for bruises. Put three to five drops of lavender in cold water. Soak a rag in the water and apply directly to the bruise. Other oils you can try are lemon, eucalyptus, and juniper berry.
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5 natural alternatives for sprains
Similar to bruising, there is no shortage of remedies for sprains. Whether it’s pain, swelling, or joint dysfunction, here are a few you can try:
- Ice: This is one of the more obvious remedies (if you want to call it that). It’s important to apply ice to the sprain frequently to prevent the ligaments from becoming inflamed.
- Aloe vera: Aloe vera leaf can provide relief for both pain and swelling. Simply rub the gel around the sprained area.
- Epsom salt: A common home remedy for sprained ankles, epsom salt is a very efficient solution for easing muscle soreness. Pour a cup of epsom salt into a warm bath and soak for at least 20 minutes.
- Olive oil: The presence of a certain phenolic compound makes olive oil a great solution for reducing inflammation. It also contains healing effects that can speed up the recovery process. Massage gently for three to four minutes.
- Essential oils: There are a number of essential oils that can be used for pain. You can even blend some of them together to enhance the benefits. Our favorite essential oils for sprains are lavender, frankincense, eucalyptus, and peppermint. These 100% organic alternatives can help you manage your pain in a natural and healthy way.
You can see there are numerous options to try when it comes to treating bruises and sprains. While it might be tempting to go the route of traditional medications, you might first consider these simple natural options.
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