10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Bruises

Herbal tinctures for bruises are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, flowers, and herbs that have been used for centuries to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.

These tinctures help with bruises by increasing blood flow, reducing swelling, and soothing damaged tissue. Examples of herbal tinctures effective in reducing bruise severity include Arnica, Calendula, and Ginger, which can be taken internally or applied topically as a compress.

By using these natural remedies, individuals can alleviate discomfort, accelerate healing, and resume daily activities with ease, improving overall quality of life.

The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for bruises, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with bruises because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The tannins present in the plant help to reduce swelling and ease pain, making it an effective natural remedy for bruise relief. Additionally, maidenhair tree's anticoagulant properties promote blood circulation, which aids in the removal of toxins and debris that can cause discoloration and inflammation associated with bruises.

By applying topically or taking orally, maidenhair tree tincture can accelerate the healing process and reduce the appearance of unsightly bruises.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with bruises.

• Bilobalide: It helps with bruises by reducing inflammation and pain, thanks to its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in the healing process.
• Quercetin: This flavonoid constituent helps with bruises by inhibiting platelet aggregation and reducing inflammation, thus promoting faster healing and minimizing bruise visibility.
• Isorhapontigenin: It aids in bruise recovery by exhibiting strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help in reducing oxidative stress and promoting the repair of damaged tissues.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for bruises.

• Leaves: Ginkgo biloba leaves are commonly used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to aid in healing bruises.
• Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds are used due to their high antioxidant content, which helps to reduce inflammation and promote healing in bruised areas.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for bruises.

1. Gather 250g of ginkgo biloba leaves and 750ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass container.
2. Combine the ginkgo biloba leaves and ethanol in the container and allow it to steep for 2-3 weeks.
3. Shake the container daily for 2-3 weeks to ensure the leaves are evenly coated with ethanol.
4. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
5. Store the ginkgo biloba tincture in a dark glass bottle with a dropper lid at room temperature.

2. Arnica montana

Mountain arnica tinctures helps with bruises because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The herbal extract contains helenin, a compound that reduces swelling and pain by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which cause inflammation. Additionally, arnica's vasoconstrictive properties help to constrict blood vessels, reducing bleeding and promoting faster healing.

As a result, mountain arnica tinctures can effectively alleviate discomfort, promote circulation, and accelerate the recovery process from bruising injuries.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arnica montana tinctures that help with bruises.

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Arnica montana tinctures help with bruises by reducing inflammation and promoting blood vessel health, which in turn accelerates the healing process of damaged tissues.
• Acylated glycosides: The acylated glycosides, particularly arnic acid, have anti-inflammatory properties, which help in reducing pain and swelling associated with bruises.
• Terpenes: Terpenes in Arnica montana tinctures have potent anti-inflammatory and anti-swelling effects, which aid in the rapid resolution of bruise-related pain and inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of mountain arnica used to make tinctures for bruises.

• Flowers: They contain high levels of sesquiterpene lactones, which are responsible for the plant's anti-inflammatory and healing properties.
• Leaves: The leaves of Arnica montana also contain sesquiterpene lactones, making them a valuable addition to tinctures for their pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Roots: The roots of the plant have a higher concentration of sesquiterpene lactones compared to the leaves and flowers, making them a popular choice for tinctures aimed at reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mountain arnica for bruises.

1. Gather 1 part dried arnica montana flowers and 2 parts vodka in a clean glass jar.
2. Fill the jar with the herb and pour the vodka over it to a 1:2 ratio.
3. Seal the jar and place it in a cool dark cupboard for 2 to 6 weeks.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
5. Label and store the tincture in a cool dark place for up to 5 years.

3. Hamamelis virginiana

American witch hazel tinctures helps with bruises because of its powerful anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

The tannins present in the herb help to reduce swelling, ease pain, and promote healing by constricting blood vessels and reducing bleeding. Additionally, witch hazel's astringent properties aid in removing excess fluid and debris from the affected area, allowing for faster recovery and reduced discoloration.

As a natural remedy, it has been used for centuries to soothe and treat bruises, making it a popular choice for those seeking a holistic approach to health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hamamelis virginiana tinctures that help with bruises.

• Hamamelitannin: This polyphenolic compound has astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and promote healing in bruised tissues.
• Quercetin: A flavonoid with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, quercetin helps to minimize tissue damage, reduce pain and swelling, and promote the healing process in bruises.
• Oligostilbenes: A group of polyphenolic compounds, oligostilbenes have been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which contribute to their bruise-relieving effects by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of american witch hazel used to make tinctures for bruises.

• Leaves: They contain bioflavonoids and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help reduce bruising and swelling.
• Barks: The inner bark of Hamamelis virginiana contains hamamelitannin, a polyphenol with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which aid in healing bruises and reducing pain.
• Roots: Hamamelis virginiana roots contain bioflavonoids and other polyphenols, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help in treating bruises and promoting skin health.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic american witch hazel for bruises.

1. Harvest 50g of hamamelis virginiana leaves and twigs when they are in full growth and the plant is dry.
2. Chop the collected plant material into smaller pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
3. Combine 50g of chopped plant material with 500ml of 80% ethanol in a glass jar and seal.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 weeks, shaking it daily to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.

4. Vaccinium macrocarpon

Highbush cranberry tinctures helps with bruises because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which quickly reduce swelling and pain.

The herb's anthocyanins and flavonoids work together to accelerate blood flow and promote healing, helping to break down the blood clots that cause bruising. Additionally, highbush cranberry's antiseptic properties prevent infection and reduce the risk of scar tissue formation, allowing for a smoother and faster recovery from injuries.

As a result, incorporating highbush cranberry tincture into your natural healing routine can significantly aid in the reduction and resolution of bruises.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium macrocarpon tinctures that help with bruises.

• Proanthocyanidins: They help with bruises by strengthening blood vessels and preventing blood leakage into the surrounding tissue, thereby reducing inflammation and promoting faster healing.
• Flavonoids: They help with bruises by reducing inflammation, alleviating pain, and preventing oxidative stress, which are all key factors in the healing process of bruised tissue.
• Anthocyanins: They help with bruises by reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and promoting the production of new collagen, which are essential for the repair and regeneration of damaged tissue.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of highbush cranberry used to make tinctures for bruises.

• Fruits: The fruits are used due to their high anthocyanin content, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce bruise severity and promote healing.
• Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help to reduce inflammation and promote tissue repair.
• Barks: The barks are used due to their flavonoid and phenolic content, which can help to reduce inflammation and protect against cell damage.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic highbush cranberry for bruises.

1. Harvest 2 pounds of fresh vaccinium macrocarpon berries in late summer or early fall.
2. Combine the harvested berries with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
3. Seal the jar and place it in a cool dark location for 4 to 6 weeks.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
5. Discard the solids and transfer the liquid tincture to smaller glass bottles for storage.

5. Echinacea purpurea

Purple coneflower tinctures helps with bruises because they contain powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce swelling and ease pain.

The herb's unique properties also promote blood circulation, which helps to speed up the natural healing process.

Additionally, purple coneflower has been shown to enhance collagen synthesis, strengthening connective tissues and improving skin elasticity, making it an effective natural remedy for reducing the appearance of bruises.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea tinctures that help with bruises.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help reduce inflammation and promote healing by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Flavonoids and phenolic acids: These compounds have potent antioxidant properties, which help reduce oxidative stress and promote the repair of damaged tissues.
• Alkylamides: These compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help reduce swelling and promote the healing of bruises.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make tinctures for bruises.

• Roots: They contain a high concentration of active compounds that help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which aid in soothing and calming the skin to reduce bruising.
• Flowers: They possess anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making them useful in treating bruises and preventing infection.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for bruises.

1. Harvest 1 to 2 pounds of fresh echinacea purpurea roots and flowers in late summer or early fall.
2. Clean and dry the roots and flowers thoroughly to prevent contamination and spoilage within 24 hours.
3. Chop 1/2 cup of the dried roots and flowers into small pieces to increase extraction efficiency.
4. Steep 1 part of the chopped roots and flowers in 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar for 2 weeks.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to remove solids and discard the solids.

6. Hypericum perforatum

St John's Wort tinctures helps with bruises because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and ease discomfort.

The herbal extract also contains flavonoids, which help to improve blood circulation, promoting the removal of damaged cells and facilitating the healing process. Additionally, St John's Wort has been traditionally used to treat injuries and wounds, making it a popular remedy for bruise relief.

By applying a topical tincture, you can harness its natural powers to accelerate the healing process and reduce the appearance of unsightly bruises.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum tinctures that help with bruises.

• Naphthodianthrones: These compounds have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce swelling and promote healing in bruised areas.
• Phenolic acids: These flavonoids exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which aid in reducing inflammation, preventing further tissue damage, and promoting tissue repair in bruised areas.
• Flavonoids: These compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help minimize bruising, reduce pain, and promote faster recovery.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make tinctures for bruises.

• Leaves: They contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that contribute to the anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties in bruise treatment.
• Flowers: They are rich in hyperforin, a key component in the treatment of bruises due to its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Roots: They contain a higher concentration of hyperforin and other active compounds that aid in reducing pain and inflammation associated with bruises.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for bruises.

1. Harvest hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves at full bloom when they are in high concentration of essential oils.
2. Clean and dry the plant material to prevent contamination and spoilage.
3. Use a ratio of 1 part plant material to 2 parts 60 vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
5. Strain the liquid and discard the solids using a cheesecloth or coffee filter.

7. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold tinctures helps with bruises because they possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that reduce swelling, ease pain, and promote healing.

The tannins in pot marigold also help to constrict blood vessels, which decreases bleeding and bruising. Additionally, the herb's flavonoids work to repair damaged tissues, accelerating the process of collagen production and improving skin elasticity.

By using pot marigold tinctures topically or internally, individuals can experience a significant reduction in bruise visibility and discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with bruises.

• Phenolic acids: These compounds, particularly caffeic acid and ferulic acid, help reduce inflammation and promote wound healing, which aids in the recovery from bruises.
• Flavonoids: These saponins, such as calendulol and calendulin, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help protect the affected area from infection and promote the healing process.
• Nascent oxygen and triterpenoid saponins: These compounds help to increase blood flow to the affected area, which promotes the removal of waste products and the delivery of oxygen and nutrients necessary for the healing process.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for bruises.

• Flowers: They contain high concentrations of anti-inflammatory compounds, such as triterpenoids and flavonoids, which help to reduce pain and inflammation in bruises.
• Leaves: They possess a similar composition to the flowers and have been used to create tinctures that promote healing and reduce swelling in bruised areas.
• Stems: The stems of Calendula officinalis have been traditionally used to create tinctures that aid in the reduction of pain, inflammation, and swelling associated with bruises.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for bruises.

1. Harvest 30-40 flowers of calendula officinalis during peak bloom on a sunny day.
2. Clean the flowers thoroughly with cold running water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Fill a clean glass jar with the cleaned flowers and cover with 60-70% vodka.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks to allow infusion.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.

8. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with bruises because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The tannins and flavonoids present in dandelion root and leaves have been shown to reduce swelling, pain, and discoloration associated with bruising. Additionally, the vitamin C content in dandelion supports collagen production, which can help improve skin elasticity and promote faster healing of damaged tissue.

As a result, using dandelion tinctures topically or taking it internally may help alleviate symptoms of bruises and accelerate the recovery process.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with bruises.

• Taraxasterol: This triterpene helps with bruises by reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing.
• Taraxasterol acetate: Similar to taraxasterol, this triterpene acetate has anti-inflammatory properties that aid in reducing bruise severity.
• Quercetin: A flavonoid phenolic compound, quercetin helps with bruises by scavenging free radicals, reducing oxidative stress, and promoting collagen synthesis for faster wound recovery.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for bruises.

• Leaves: They contain taraxasterol, a triterpenoid saponin with anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce bruising and swelling.
• Roots: They contain inulin and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to soothe and heal bruised tissues.
• Stems: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, contributing to the healing process of bruised tissues.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for bruises.

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in the early morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Clean the harvested plant material by rinsing it gently with water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Use a ratio of 1 part taraxacum officinale to 2 parts 80 proof vodka and steep it for 4 weeks in a glass jar.
4. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to separate the plant material from the liquid.
5. Store the resulting taraxacum officinale tincture in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid for up to 2 years.

9. Symphytum officinale

Comfrey tinctures helps with bruises because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds, including allantoin, rosmarinic acid, and other polyphenols.

These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce swelling and promote healing in damaged tissue. By applying comfrey tincture topically to the affected area, the active ingredients can be absorbed quickly into the skin, reducing pain and discomfort associated with bruises while also accelerating the natural repair process.

This leads to a faster resolution of bruising and a quicker return to normal function.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Symphytum officinale tinctures that help with bruises.

• Allantoin: Allantoin is a naturally occurring compound that helps with bruise healing by breaking down scar tissue and promoting cell regeneration, thus reducing the appearance and discomfort of bruises.
• Saponins: Saponins in Symphytum officinale tinctures help reduce inflammation and promote collagen synthesis, which aids in the repair and healing of damaged skin, thereby reducing the severity of bruises.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as quercetin, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain associated with bruises, facilitating a faster recovery and minimizing the risk of further damage.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of comfrey used to make tinctures for bruises.

• Leaves: The leaves are often used due to their high concentration of allantoin, a compound that can aid in the healing of bruises and promote tissue repair.
• Roots: The roots are commonly used for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain and swelling associated with bruises.
• Stems: The stems are also used, although less frequently than leaves and roots, due to their mucilaginous properties, which can help to soothe and protect the skin while it heals.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic comfrey for bruises.

1. Harvest symphytum officinale roots in early spring when new growth appears and the plant is in flower stage.
2. Dry the harvested symphytum officinale roots for at least 2 weeks in a warm well-ventilated area.
3. Combine 500g of dried symphytum officinale roots with 1 liter of 80 proof vodka in a large glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks shaking the jar every week or two.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a separate container and discard the solids.

10. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with bruises because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The glycyrrhizin present in licorice root has been shown to reduce swelling and pain by blocking the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body. Additionally, licorice's antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals that can cause further damage to the affected area.

By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, herbal licorice tinctures promote faster healing and resolution of bruises, allowing for a smoother and more even recovery process.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with bruises.

• Saponins: Saponins, particularly glycyrrhizin, have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and alleviate pain associated with bruises.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Glycyrrhiza glabra have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which aid in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting faster healing of bruises.
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, such as glycyrrhetic acid, exhibit anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects, which help reduce inflammation and promote the repair of damaged tissues in bruises.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for bruises.

• Roots: They are rich in glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties and helps in reducing swelling.
• Roots: They also contain triterpenoid saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, aiding in the healing of bruises.
• Roots: Additionally, roots have been traditionally used to reduce pain and promote blood circulation, which can help in the recovery from bruises.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for bruises.

1. Dry 50g of glycyrrhiza glabra root in a low-temperature oven at 40°c for 2 hours to remove moisture.
2. Grind the dried root into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle to increase surface area.
3. Mix 50g of the powdered root with 250ml of 70% ethanol in a glass container to create the tincture base.
4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks, shaking the container every 2 days to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a separate container, discarding the solids and retaining the liquid tincture.

What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for bruises?

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with bruises is a blend of arnica, calendula, and comfrey.

Arnica tincture promotes healing and reduces inflammation, while calendula tincture soothes and calms the affected area. Comfrey tincture helps to regenerate tissue and speed up the healing process. When combined, these herbal tinctures can effectively alleviate pain, reduce swelling, and promote the repair of damaged skin and underlying tissue, accelerating the recovery from bruises and minor injuries.

Use in moderation and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

What ailments similar to bruises are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to bruises/tinctures.html">bruises/tinctures.html">bruises that are treated with herbal tinctures are those related to inflammation, pain, and swelling.

Herbal tinctures like Arnica montana are commonly used to treat conditions such as sprains, strains, and contusions, which cause discomfort and discoloration of the skin.

Other herbal remedies, like Turmeric (Curcuma longa) and Ginger (Zingiber officinale), are also effective in reducing inflammation and pain associated with minor injuries and bruises.