By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Bruises
Herbal creams for bruises are topical treatments containing natural extracts that aid in reducing bruise visibility and pain.
These creams typically include ingredients such as arnica, aloe vera, and chamomile, which possess anti-inflammatory properties. Examples include creams like Traumeel and Biofreeze, which can improve lives by reducing recovery time and promoting mobility.
This allows individuals to return to daily activities sooner, enhancing overall well-being and quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for bruises, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Arnica montana
- 2. Ginkgo biloba
- 3. Echinacea purpurea
- 4. Calendula officinalis
- 5. Hamamelis virginiana
- 6. Hypericum perforatum
- 7. Vaccinium macrocarpon
- 8. Symphytum officinale
- 9. Ruta graveolens
- 10. Lavandula angustifolia
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for bruises?
- What ailments similar to bruises are treated with herbal creams?
1. Arnica montana
Arnica montana, also known as mountain arnica, creams helps with bruises because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The active compounds in Arnica, such as sesquiterpene lactones, work to reduce swelling and ease pain associated with bruises. By increasing blood flow to the affected area, Arnica cream promotes the removal of waste products and enhances the healing process.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to treat bruises and other soft tissue injuries, making it a popular choice for athletes and individuals seeking a non-invasive solution to promote recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arnica montana creams that help with bruises.
- Thiophene derivatives: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and pain associated with bruises.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids have antioxidant properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and promote tissue repair, contributing to faster healing of bruises.
- Norditerpenes: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling associated with bruises.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of mountain arnica used to make creams for bruises.
- Flowers: They are used to make creams for bruises due to their high content of sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: They are used to make creams for bruises due to their ability to enhance the effects of the flowers' active compounds.
- Roots: They are used to make creams for bruises due to their ability to stimulate the healing process and reduce pain and swelling.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mountain arnica for bruises.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh arnica montana flowers or 10-15 grams of dried flowers.
- Infuse the arnica montana flowers in 250 milliliters of carrier oil such as coconut or sweet almond oil for 2-4 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil and discard the solids add 1-2 teaspoons of beeswax.
- Mix the arnica montana infused oil with 1-2 teaspoons of beeswax and 1-2 tablespoons of shea butter.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler until the beeswax and shea butter are fully melted.
2. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, creams helps with bruises because of its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The extract from this ancient plant promotes blood circulation, which accelerates the healing process of bruised tissues. The improved circulation also reduces swelling and discoloration, allowing the skin to return to its normal appearance faster.
Furthermore, Ginkgo biloba's ability to enhance oxygen delivery to the affected area facilitates the removal of waste products, promoting a more rapid recovery from bruises.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba creams that help with bruises.
- Bilobalide: Acts as an antioxidant, reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair to aid in the healing of bruises.
- Flavonoids: Exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help reduce swelling and promote the breakdown of blood clots in bruises.
- Ginkgolides: Inhibit platelet-activating factor, which can help reduce blood clotting and swelling associated with bruises, promoting faster recovery.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make creams for bruises.
- Leaves: The leaves of the Ginkgo biloba are often used due to their high flavonoid and terpene content, which is thought to aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healing in bruises.
- Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds are utilized for their antioxidant properties, particularly in reducing oxidative stress and promoting tissue repair, which may help in the recovery of bruised skin.
- Barks: The barks of Ginkgo biloba trees are sometimes used due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate pain and swelling associated with bruises.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for bruises.
- Harvest 30 to 60 fresh ginkgo biloba leaves from the plant and dry them completely in a warm dark place.
- Infuse 1 cup of dried ginkgo biloba leaves in 2 cups of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 4 to 6 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to separate the oil from the solids.
- Mix 2 tablespoons of the infused oil with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Whip the mixture until it thickens and emulsifies then pour it into a clean glass jar for storage.
3. Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, creams helps with bruises because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active compounds in Echinacea purpurea, such as alkylamides and caffeic acid, help to reduce swelling and promote healing in bruised areas. This leads to a faster reduction in discoloration and a faster return to normal skin tone.
By promoting collagen synthesis and improving skin elasticity, Echinacea purpurea creams can also help to prevent future bruising and promote overall skin health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea creams that help with bruises.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain associated with bruises.
- Cichoric acid: It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help to reduce oxidative stress and promote healing in bruised areas.
- Alkylamides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce pain, swelling, and bruising.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make creams for bruises.
- Roots: They contain a high concentration of polysaccharides, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce bruise visibility.
- Flowers: They are rich in alkylamides, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that aid in healing and reducing bruise symptoms.
- Leaves: They contain caffeic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce swelling and promote wound healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for bruises.
- Harvest 10-20 echinacea purpurea flowers, leaves, and roots in the early morning for maximum potency retention.
- Dry the plant material in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours to remove moisture.
- Infuse 2 tablespoons of dried echinacea purpurea in 8 ounces of carrier oil such as coconut oil for 6 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids, then mix with 1 tablespoon of beeswax for emulsification.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler at 160°f for 10 minutes, then pour into glass jars for storage.
4. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with bruises because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The cream promotes blood vessel repair and reduces swelling, allowing the bruise to heal faster. The antioxidants in Calendula officinalis also help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, promoting healthy tissue repair. As a result, the appearance of the bruise is minimized, and the skin regains its natural appearance more quickly.
Regular use can even help to reduce the likelihood of scarring.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with bruises.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid that helps reduce inflammation and pain associated with bruises by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- N-ascorbic acid methyl ester: A derivative of vitamin C that enhances wound healing by promoting collagen synthesis and improving blood vessel function, which aids in reducing bruise visibility.
- Calendulin: A triterpenoid saponin that has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to prevent infection and promote healing of the affected area, thereby reducing bruise severity.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for bruises.
- Flowers: They are used due to their high concentration of triterpenoid saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties.
- Leaves: They are used for their emollient properties, which help to soothe and calm the skin.
- Seeds: They are used for their oil content, which can be used to create a moisturizing and protective barrier on the skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for bruises.
- Harvest a sufficient quantity of fresh or dried calendula officinalis flowers for infusion.
- Steep one ounce of dried flowers or two ounces of fresh flowers in two cups of boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Strain the liquid and discard the solids then combine it with one cup of emulsifying wax and one-quarter cup of beeswax.
- Mix the combined wax and plant liquid with one cup of sweet almond oil and one-quarter cup of distilled water.
- Blend the mixture thoroughly then pour it into a clean container and allow it to cool and set.
5. Hamamelis virginiana
Hamamelis virginiana, also known as American witch hazel, creams helps with bruises because of its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.
The Hamamelis virginiana extract reduces blood flow to the affected area, which in turn reduces the swelling and discoloration associated with bruises. It also has antiseptic properties that help to clean and protect the wound, promoting faster healing and reducing the risk of infection.
This makes Hamamelis virginiana creams a popular natural remedy for bruising and other minor injuries.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hamamelis virginiana creams that help with bruises.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help reduce inflammation and promote blood clotting, which can aid in the healing process of bruises.
- Tannins: Tannins in Hamamelis virginiana have astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and promote the healing of damaged tissues in bruises.
- Bilobalide: Although less well-documented than other constituents, Bilobalide is a triterpene saponin that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can contribute to the reduction of bruising and promotion of tissue repair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of american witch hazel used to make creams for bruises.
- Barks: They contain tannins, which help reduce bleeding and inflammation in bruises.
- Leaves: The leaves are high in flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties that aid in healing and reducing swelling.
- Roots: The roots of Hamamelis virginiana contain phenolic compounds, which have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help soothe and protect bruises.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic american witch hazel for bruises.
- Harvest 1 cup of dried hamamelis virginiana flowers and leaves in the early morning for best quality.
- Steep the harvested plant material in 2 cups of boiling water for 10 minutes to create a tea.
- Strain the tea through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove solids.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of beeswax with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a double boiler to melt.
- Combine the strained plant tea with the melted beeswax mixture and 2 tablespoons of shea butter to create a rich cream.
6. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, creams helps with bruises because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The active compounds, flavonoids and hyperforin, promote tissue repair and reduce swelling. They also inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, preventing infection and further damage to the affected area. As a result, Hypericum perforatum creams accelerate the healing process, reducing bruise discoloration and promoting a faster recovery.
This makes them a popular natural remedy for bruise treatment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with bruises.
- Hyperforin: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain associated with bruises.
- Naphthodianthrones: These compounds have potent antioxidant properties, which help protect damaged tissues from oxidative stress and promote faster healing of bruises.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation, prevent further tissue damage, and promote wound healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for bruises.
- Leaves: They contain hyperforin and hypericin, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help reduce bruising.
- Flowers: They are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that aid in healing and reducing bruising.
- Stems: They are a good source of hyperforin and hypericin, similar to leaves, making them a useful part for creams aimed at reducing bruising.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for bruises.
- Harvest 25-30 grams of dried hypericum perforatum flowers on a sunny day in late summer.
- Infuse 10 grams of the dried flowers in 100 milliliters of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil.
- Steep the mixture in a double boiler for 2-3 hours at a temperature of 60-70 degrees celsius.
- Strain the oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids after 30 minutes of gentle squeezing.
- Mix the infused oil with 10 grams of beeswax and 10 milliliters of vitamin e oil to create a smooth cream.
7. Vaccinium macrocarpon
Vaccinium macrocarpon, also known as highbush cranberry, creams helps with bruises because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The anthocyanins present in Vaccinium macrocarpon creams have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation, which can help to promote the healing of bruised tissue. Additionally, the antioxidants in Vaccinium macrocarpon creams may help to reduce oxidative stress and promote collagen production, leading to faster and more effective healing of bruises.
This natural remedy can provide a soothing and effective solution for bruise relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium macrocarpon creams that help with bruises.
- Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants help with bruises by reducing inflammation, improving blood flow, and promoting the removal of damaged cells, which in turn accelerates the healing process.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties, Quercetin helps with bruises by reducing swelling, pain, and inflammation, thereby promoting the recovery of damaged tissues.
- Epicatechin: A flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, Epicatechin helps with bruises by protecting cells from oxidative damage, reducing inflammation, and promoting the regeneration of damaged tissues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of highbush cranberry used to make creams for bruises.
- Fruits: Used to make creams for bruises due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce swelling and promote healing.
- Leaves: Utilized in creams for bruises due to their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing swelling and promoting tissue repair.
- Barks: Employed in creams for bruises due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic highbush cranberry for bruises.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of dried vaccinium macrocarpon berries from a trusted supplier or local forager.
- Grind 10-15 grams of the harvested berries into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or spice mill.
- Combine 10 grams of the powdered vaccinium macrocarpon with 10 grams of beeswax and 5 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 10-15 minutes or until the beeswax and coconut oil have fully melted.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass jar to remove any remaining solids.
8. Symphytum officinale
Symphytum officinale, also known as comfrey, creams helps with bruises because it accelerates the healing process of damaged tissue.
The cream's active compounds, such as allantoin and rosmarinic acid, stimulate collagen synthesis, promote cell proliferation, and reduce inflammation. This leads to faster tissue repair and regeneration, which helps to minimize bruise discoloration and swelling.
By applying comfrey cream to affected areas, individuals can potentially reduce the healing time and promote a more rapid return to normal function.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Symphytum officinale creams that help with bruises.
- Allantoin: Helps with bruises by accelerating wound healing and tissue repair through its ability to stimulate cell proliferation and collagen synthesis.
- Rosmarinic acid: Contributes to bruise relief by exerting anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and pain associated with bruising.
- Tannins: Play a role in bruise relief by providing astringent and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to reduce bleeding and promote wound closure.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of comfrey used to make creams for bruises.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of allantoin, a compound that promotes healing and tissue repair.
- Roots: The roots are also used for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain and swelling associated with bruises.
- Stems: The stems are sometimes used as a supplementary ingredient to provide additional allantoin and other beneficial compounds that aid in the healing process.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic comfrey for bruises.
- Harvest 10 grams of dried symphytum officinale root and stems in the morning.
- Steep the dried plant material in 100 milliliters of carrier oil at 70 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids immediately.
- Mix the infused oil with 20 grams of beeswax and 50 grams of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Whip the mixture until it thickens and reaches a smooth consistency after 10 minutes.
9. Ruta graveolens
Ruta graveolens, also known as rue, creams helps with bruises because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The bioactive compounds in Ruta graveolens stimulate collagen synthesis, which helps to reduce the appearance of bruises and promote faster healing. Additionally, its ability to improve blood circulation and reduce swelling makes it an effective natural remedy for bruising.
By using Ruta graveolens creams, individuals can reduce the time it takes for bruises to heal and return to normal skin tone.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ruta graveolens creams that help with bruises.
- Rutin: It helps with bruises by promoting collagen synthesis and improving blood vessel integrity, which can aid in reducing bruise visibility and promoting faster healing.
- Oleanolic acid: It has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain associated with bruises, thus facilitating faster recovery.
- Uvaol: It possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and promote tissue repair, ultimately reducing the duration and severity of bruises.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of rue used to make creams for bruises.
- Leaves: They contain rutin, a flavonoid that helps to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow to accelerate the healing process.
- Seeds: They are rich in essential oils, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that aid in soothing and protecting the affected area.
- Flowers: They are a source of volatile oils that have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce pain and swelling associated with bruises.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rue for bruises.
- Harvest fresh ruta graveolens leaves and flowers at dawn when oil content is highest for optimal use.
- Chop 20 grams of fresh ruta graveolens leaves and flowers into small pieces for easy infusion.
- Combine chopped ruta graveolens with 100 milliliters of carrier oil in a clean glass jar for infusion.
- Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional gentle shaking to ensure even infusion.
- Strain and filter the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard solids for a pure oil.
10. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with bruises because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The key compound, linalool, helps to reduce swelling and promote blood flow, which aids in the healing process. Additionally, lavender's calming effects can help to reduce pain and discomfort associated with bruising.
As a natural remedy, Lavandula angustifolia creams can provide quick relief and promote the body's natural healing processes, making it a popular choice for individuals seeking a holistic approach to bruise care.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with bruises.
- Linalool: A terpene that helps to reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with bruises by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce bruising by minimizing tissue damage and promoting the healing process.
- Caryophyllene oxide: A sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that helps to reduce bruising by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and promoting the clearance of oxidative stress.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for bruises.
- Flowers: They are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in reducing bruising and inflammation.
- Leaves: The leaves contain essential oils that help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing the appearance of bruises and promoting healing.
- Stems: The stems of Lavandula angustifolia are a good source of flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them useful in treating bruises.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for bruises.
- Harvest 1 pound of fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers at peak bloom time for maximum potency.
- Combine the fresh flowers with 2 cups of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
- Mix the infused oil with 1/2 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of distilled water to create a smooth cream.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for bruises?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with bruises is often a blend of Arnica and Calendula.
Arnica oil, derived from the flowers of the Arnica plant, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce swelling and pain. Calendula cream, made from the marigold flower, has antimicrobial properties that promote healing and tissue repair. Combining these two creams can accelerate the healing process, reduce discoloration, and leave the skin looking healthier and more vibrant.
This natural remedy can be applied topically to affected areas.
What ailments similar to bruises are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to bruises/creams.html">bruises/creams.html">bruises that are treated with herbal creams are various types of skin injuries, including contusions, ecchymosis, and hematoma.
Herbal creams containing ingredients like arnica, calendula, and St. John's Wort can help reduce inflammation, promote healing, and alleviate pain associated with these conditions.
They may also improve circulation and break down scar tissue to promote optimal recovery.