By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Bruises
Herbal decoctions for bruises are a natural remedy made by steeping herbs in hot water to create a potent liquid extract.
These decoctions can help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing in bruised areas. For example, willow bark, turmeric, and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties that can ease discomfort and accelerate recovery.
By using herbal decoctions for bruises, individuals can experience faster relief from swelling and pain, allowing them to return to their normal activities sooner and improve their overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for bruises, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Ginkgo biloba
- 2. Artemisia absinthium
- 3. Calendula officinalis
- 4. Hypericum perforatum
- 5. Taraxacum officinale
- 6. Aloe vera
- 7. Echinacea angustifolia
- 8. Vaccinium vitis idaea
- 9. Rosa rugosa
- 10. Agrimonia eupatoria
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for bruises?
- What ailments similar to bruises are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with bruises because of its unique combination of flavonoids, saponins, and polysaccharides.
These bioactive compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that work together to reduce swelling, ease pain, and accelerate the healing process.
The decoction's topical application allows for direct absorption into the skin, where it helps to break down blood clots and promote collagen synthesis, ultimately reducing the appearance of bruises and promoting faster recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba decoctions that help with bruises.
- Flavonoids: These antioxidants help reduce inflammation and promote blood vessel health, which can aid in the healing of bruises by reducing swelling and promoting tissue repair.
- Bilobalide: This terpene has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and swelling associated with bruises, while also promoting the repair of damaged tissues.
- Quercetin: As a flavonoid, quercetin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation and promote the healing of bruises by protecting tissues from oxidative damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make decoctions for bruises.
- Leaves: Leaves are commonly used due to their high content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
- Seeds: Seeds are often used because they contain a unique compound called ginkgotoxin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate bruise symptoms.
- Barks: Barks are sometimes used in decoctions due to their reported ability to reduce pain and inflammation, although this may be due to the bark's content of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for bruises.
- Weigh out 250 milligrams of dried ginkgo biloba leaves or extract for each serving.
- Combine the ginkgo biloba with 8 ounces of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a separate container.
- Store the cooled decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consumption.
2. Artemisia absinthium
Wormwood decoctions helps with bruises because of its unique ability to stimulate blood flow and reduce inflammation.
The herb contains a compound called sesquiterpene lactone, which has been shown to promote circulation and ease swelling. When applied topically or consumed as a tea, wormwood decoctions can help to break up the purple discoloration associated with bruising, promoting faster healing and reducing pain and discomfort.
This natural remedy is a safe and effective way to alleviate the unsightly appearance of bruises.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium decoctions that help with bruises.
- Thujone: Thujone has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain associated with bruises.
- Caryophyllene oxide: Caryophyllene oxide has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which contribute to its ability to alleviate pain and discomfort in bruises.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in bruises, promoting faster healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make decoctions for bruises.
- Leaves: Their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling and promote healing in bruised areas.
- Buds: The buds' antiseptic and astringent properties aid in reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair.
- Stems: The stems' anti-inflammatory properties help alleviate pain and swelling associated with bruises.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wormwood for bruises.
- Harvest fresh or dried leaves and flowers of artemisia absinthium, using scissors or a sharp knife to minimize damage.
- Measure out 1-2 teaspoons of the harvested material for every 8 ounces of water, depending on desired strength.
- Combine the measured artemisia absinthium with 8 ounces of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass or ceramic container.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes, allowing the herbal properties to infuse into the water, then strain the liquid.
- Discard the solids and store the cooled decoction in a glass bottle, refrigerating it for up to 24 hours.
3. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold decoctions helps with bruises because of its rich antioxidant properties, which accelerate the body's natural healing process.
The decoction's anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with bruising, while its antiseptic properties prevent infection and promote healthy tissue growth. Additionally, pot marigold's flavonoids improve blood circulation, allowing for faster elimination of excess fluids and debris that can contribute to the appearance of bruises.
As a result, pot marigold decoctions offer a natural and effective way to alleviate the discomfort and discoloration associated with bruising.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with bruises.
- Triterpenoid saponins: These compounds help reduce inflammation and promote healing by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Carotenoids: These antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress and promote wound healing by protecting the damaged tissue from free radical damage.
- Flavonoids: These anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce swelling and pain by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes and blocking the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for bruises.
- Flowers: The flowers of Calendula officinalis are the most commonly used part due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help soothe and heal bruises.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and promote healing in bruised areas.
- Roots: The roots of Calendula officinalis contain compounds that can help reduce pain and inflammation, making them a useful addition to decoctions for treating bruises.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for bruises.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh flowers of calendula officinalis on a sunny day with dry weather conditions.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a single layer on paper bags or a clean cloth for 2-3 weeks.
- Grind 1 teaspoon of dried calendula flowers into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of ground calendula powder with 1 cup of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass cup.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes then strain it through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean cup.
4. Hypericum perforatum
St John's Wort decoctions helps with bruises because of its exceptional anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The decoction's flavonoids, anthraquinones, and phenolic acids work together to reduce swelling and ease pain associated with bruising. Additionally, the decoction's ability to improve blood circulation and promote collagen synthesis can aid in the removal of damaged tissue and stimulate the natural healing process.
By incorporating St John's Wort into a compress or topical application, individuals can effectively accelerate the recovery of bruises and soothe discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum decoctions that help with bruises.
- Hyperforin: Hyperforin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce swelling and promote healing in bruised tissues.
- Naphthodianthrones: These compounds have potent anti-inflammatory and photoprotective effects, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with bruises.
- Quercetin: Quercetin is a flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which helps to protect bruised tissues from oxidative damage and promote healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make decoctions for bruises.
- Leaves: Containing hypericin and hyperforin, the leaves help reduce inflammation and promote healing in bruises.
- Stems: Rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, the stems contribute to the analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of decoctions for bruise treatment.
- Flowers: With their high content of flavonoids, phenolic acids, and other bioactive compounds, the flowers aid in soothing pain and inflammation associated with bruises.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for bruises.
- Harvest 25-50 grams of fresh flowers and leaves from the plant in the early morning.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a warm place for 2-3 days or use a food dehydrator.
- Chop 5-10 grams of dried plant material into small pieces and store in an airtight container.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of the chopped dried plant material with 1 cup of boiling water in a saucepan.
- Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes then strain and discard the solids before serving.
5. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion decoctions helps with bruises because its unique combination of flavonoids, terpenes, and anthraquinones promotes blood circulation and reduces inflammation.
The flavonoids in dandelion have been shown to enhance collagen synthesis, which helps to improve the healing process by increasing skin elasticity and strength. Additionally, the anthraquinones in dandelion have potent anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and pain associated with bruises.
By improving blood flow and reducing inflammation, dandelion decoctions can help to accelerate the natural healing process of bruises, leaving skin looking healthier and more radiant.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with bruises.
- Taraxasterol: A triterpenoid saponin that helps reduce inflammation and promote healing in bruises by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in bruises by scavenging free radicals and inhibiting the activity of enzymes involved in inflammation.
- Fatty acids: These unsaturated fatty acids help reduce inflammation and promote wound healing in bruises by modulating the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoting the synthesis of collagen.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for bruises.
- Leaves: They contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce pain and swelling associated with bruises.
- Roots: They are rich in sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that aid in healing and reducing bruise symptoms.
- Stems: They possess flavonoids and phenolic acids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to alleviate bruise discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for bruises.
- Harvest fresh or dried taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers in late spring or early summer in quantities of 30 grams per liter of water.
- Rinse the taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers with cold water to remove any dirt or debris that may be present.
- Combine the taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers with 30 grams of the plant material per liter of water in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer and let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove the taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers.
6. Aloe vera
Aloe decoctions helps with bruises because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The aloe vera gel contains bioactive compounds that help reduce swelling, pain, and redness associated with bruising. When applied topically or consumed as an oral supplement, the decoction promotes collagen synthesis, which accelerates the healing process and improves tissue elasticity.
Additionally, aloe's natural antibacterial and antifungal properties prevent infection and promote a healthy environment for wound recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera decoctions that help with bruises.
- Anthraquinones: These compounds help with bruises by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair, which aids in the healing process of bruised skin.
- Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates help with bruises by stimulating the production of collagen, a protein essential for wound healing and skin elasticity, allowing for faster recovery from bruising.
- Vitamins: These vitamins help with bruises by acting as antioxidants, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, and promoting collagen synthesis, all of which contribute to the healing and recovery process of bruised skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for bruises.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most used part due to their high gel content and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Stems: The stems, also known as the rhyzomes, contain a gel-like substance that helps reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Barks : Aloe vera's barks are also used as they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties which help in healing bruises.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for bruises.
- Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the aloe vera plant to maintain hygiene standards.
- Harvest 200 grams of aloe vera leaves from a mature plant with thick fleshy leaves.
- Cut the aloe vera leaves into small pieces and soak them in water for 2 hours.
- Boil the soaked aloe vera pieces in 1 liter of water for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a fine mesh sieve and store it in a clean glass container.
7. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower decoctions helps with bruises because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and ease pain.
The decoction's rich antioxidant content also promotes healthy blood circulation, accelerating the body's natural healing process and reducing discoloration associated with bruising. Furthermore, Kansas coneflower's antimicrobial properties may even prevent infection by combating bacteria that can enter the wound.
As a result, using herbal Kansas coneflower decoctions as a topical treatment can provide swift relief from bruised skin and promote optimal recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia decoctions that help with bruises.
- Alkylamides: These compounds help reduce inflammation and promote healing in bruised tissues, thereby accelerating the recovery process.
- Iridoid glycosides: These glycosides have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce swelling and promote tissue repair in bruised areas.
- Polyacetylenes: These compounds have been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects, which can help reduce the severity of bruising and promote the body's natural healing processes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make decoctions for bruises.
- Roots: The roots contain bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and promote healing in bruises.
- Leaves: The leaves are rich in flavonoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that aid in the treatment of bruises and promote tissue repair.
- Stems: The stems contain alkaloids and glycosides that have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help reduce pain, inflammation, and the risk of infection in bruises.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for bruises.
- Harvest echinacea angustifolia roots in the fall after the plant has died back to use in decoctions.
- Clean and dry the roots to ensure they are free of debris and moisture for use.
- Chop the roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
- Combine 1-2 teaspoons of the chopped roots with 1 quart of boiling water to make a decoction.
- Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
8. Vaccinium vitis idaea
Cranberry decoctions helps with bruises because it contains bioactive compounds that promote blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and accelerate the healing process.
The anthocyanins in cranberries have potent anti-inflammatory properties that help to diminish swelling and pain associated with bruising. Additionally, the decoction's astringent properties can help to constrict broken capillaries, reducing the appearance of unsightly bruises.
By stimulating collagen production, it also enhances skin elasticity, allowing for faster healing and a more even recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium vitis idaea decoctions that help with bruises.
- Anthocyanins: Anthocyanins are powerful antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and improve circulation, which can aid in the healing process of bruises and reduce their appearance.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids like ellagic acid have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce the severity of bruises and promote the healing of damaged tissues.
- Tannins: Tannins in Vaccinium vitis-idaea decoctions may help reduce bleeding and inflammation by constricting blood vessels and promoting the formation of a protective barrier on the skin, which can aid in the healing of bruises.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of cranberry used to make decoctions for bruises.
- Leaves: They are used due to their astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties, which help reduce swelling and promote healing in bruises.
- Fruits: They are used because they contain anthocyanins and other antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and promote the healing process in bruises.
- Barks: They are used due to their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and promote healing in bruises.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cranberry for bruises.
- Gather 10 to 30 grams of dried vaccinium vitis idaea leaves for decoction preparation.
- Combine the leaves with 500 milliliters of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10 to 20 minutes to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a bowl to remove solids.
- Allow the decoction to cool before storing it in an airtight container for later use.
9. Rosa rugosa
Beach rose decoctions helps with bruises because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The decoction's bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, work to reduce swelling and discomfort associated with bruising. Additionally, beach rose contains natural antioxidants that help promote blood vessel repair and collagen synthesis, which can aid in the healing process.
This natural remedy can provide relief from painful bruises, promoting a faster recovery and minimizing the appearance of discoloration.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosa rugosa decoctions that help with bruises.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce swelling and promote healing in bruised tissues.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Rosa rugosa decoctions have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, contributing to the reduction of bruise severity and improvement of skin health.
- Ellagic acid: A polyphenolic compound found in Rosa rugosa, ellagic acid has been reported to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate bruise symptoms and promote wound healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of beach rose used to make decoctions for bruises.
- Roots: Rosa rugosa roots are used to make decoctions due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Rosa rugosa are used for their cooling effect, which helps to reduce swelling and ease pain.
- Flowers: Rosa rugosa flowers are used in decoctions due to their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce bleeding and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic beach rose for bruises.
- Gather rosa rugosa flowers and leaves in quantities of about 2 tablespoons per 8 ounces of water.
- Combine the gathered rosa rugosa with 8 ounces of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer for 10-20 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
- Strain the decoction using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
- Allow the decoction to cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing for later use.
10. Agrimonia eupatoria
Agrimony decoctions helps with bruises because of its unique combination of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and astringent properties.
The decoction's ability to reduce inflammation and swelling helps alleviate pain and discomfort associated with bruising. Additionally, the antioxidants present in agrimony help protect damaged tissue from further damage, promoting healthy healing and reducing the appearance of discoloration.
As a result, regular consumption of an agrimony decoction may aid in faster recovery from bruises and minor injuries.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Agrimonia eupatoria decoctions that help with bruises.
- Flavonoids: These plant-based compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and promote healing of bruises.
- Phenolic acids: Specifically, caffeic acid and ferulic acid in Agrimonia eupatoria may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with bruising, promoting tissue repair.
- Alkaloids: The alkaloid gentianine has been reported to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could aid in the recovery of bruised tissues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of agrimony used to make decoctions for bruises.
- Leaves: The leaves of Agrimonia eupatoria are used to make decoctions for bruises because of their high content of flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their rich content of glycosides and phenolic acids, which help to reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
- Flowers: The flowers are used because of their high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in the reduction of bruising and inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic agrimony for bruises.
- Harvest agrimonia eupatoria leaves and flowers in the summer months when the plant is in full bloom.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a warm dry place for 1-2 weeks to preserve its medicinal properties.
- Measure out 1-2 teaspoons of dried agrimonia eupatoria per 1 cup of boiling water for the decoction.
- Steep the dried plant material in boiling water for 5-10 minutes to release its active compounds.
- Strain the decoction and discard the solids to obtain the herbal tea for consumption.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for bruises?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with bruises is a blend of calendula, arnica, and plantain.
Calendula promotes tissue repair, while arnica reduces inflammation and pain. Plantain, rich in antioxidants, accelerates the healing process. Combine equal parts of dried calendula and arnica flowers, and add dried plantain leaves to make a decoction.
Steep 1-2 teaspoons of the mixture in a cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes, then strain and apply topically to the affected area or drink as a tea to promote overall healing.
What ailments similar to bruises are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to bruises/decoctions.html">bruises/decoctions.html">bruises that are treated with herbal decoctions are sprains, strains, and contusions.
Herbal decoctions can help reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling associated with these conditions.
For example, a decoction of willow bark or meadowsweet can be used to ease the pain and discomfort of sprains and strains, while a decoction of comfrey leaves can promote healing and reduce bruising after injuries.