They often occur due to impact, trauma, or bumping into something. Symptoms include skin discoloration and blue, green, yellow, red, or purple patches. Nutrient deficiencies and blood clotting issues can also cause bruises. Healthy bruise healing usually happens on its own over time. But you can also apply topical remedies to speed up the process. Essential oils are considered effective home remedies for bruising due to their multiple healing properties. Top MC Blends Picks Best Essential Oils for Bruises

Essential Oils As A Natural Remedy

Essential oils (EOs) are highly concentrated plant extracts that are believed to promote health and well-being when used correctly. They contain active compounds that support the body’s healing mechanisms. Research shows EOs can be capable of:

Relieving pain and discomfort Soothing eczema and other skin conditions Boosting immunity Treating colds, coughs, sinus infections, and sore throats Addressing allergy symptoms Soothing headaches and migraines Treating warts Healing bug bites Treating hemorrhoids Soothing arthritis symptoms Helping sunburns and skin burns

Aromatherapy, a form of complementary and alternative medicine, involves the use of essential oils for therapeutic purposes. Because of their efficacy, EOs are often added to skin care products. Certain EOs offer specific benefits that can help speed up the healing process for bruises. Many EOs have anti-inflammatory properties and can provide relief from the pain and discomfort often associated with bruises.

The 4 Best Essential Oils for Bruising

Helichrysum oil (Helichrysum italicum)

Pain reliever Anti-inflammatory Antiseptic Antibacterial Antispasmodic

Helichrysum offers skin regenerative and anti-haematomal properties. It’s sometimes referred to as the “super arnica of aromatherapy.” A 2013 study out of the Universite de Corse in France found that when helichrysum essential oil was applied to the affected area shortly after impact, it helped reduce inflammation, swelling, and bruising. (1) MC Top Pick

Frankincense oil (Boswellia carteri)

Pain reliever Anti-inflammatory Antiseptic Antibacterial Antispasmodic

Frankincense essential oil is regenerating to the skin and contains active compounds known to reduce the appearance of bruising. A 2013 pilot study published in the International Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences found that the use of Frankincense oil is as effective as over-the-counter sprays for bruise healing and the treatment of acute soft tissue injuries. (2) MC Top Pick

Geranium oil (Pelargonium graveolens)

Pain reliever Anti-inflammatory Antiseptic Antibacterial Antispasmodic

It’s believed that geranium oil can increase blood flow under the skin, which can help with bruises. MC Top Pick

Lavender oil (Lavandula officinalis)

Pain reliever Anti-inflammatory Antiseptic Antibacterial Antispasmodic

Lavender essential oil is healing to the skin and can help accelerate wound healing, including bruises. Like Helichrysum, it’s believed that applying this oil on the affected area shortly after impact can help minimize the appearance of bruising. MC Top Pick Other EOs thought to help with bruising are:

Marjoram Myrrh Cypress Lemongrass Peppermint Tea tree

Safety Concerns

When used safely and adequately, EOs usually offer little to no side effects for bruising. When used topically as a skin healer, EOs must always be diluted in a carrier oil to prevent skin irritation and reactions. It’s advisable to perform a patch test on a non-affected area of the skin and wait 24 hours to confirm that there is no allergic reaction. If you experience any adverse reaction to any oil, discontinue use immediately and consult your healthcare provider to seek medical advice. Be aware of the contraindications for each oil you use as some EOs aren’t suitable for children or pregnant or nursing women. Always choose high-quality, certified organic and therapeutic grade products to avoid diluted batches and the addition of potentially harmful chemicals.

How To Use EOs for Bruises

The most effective way to use EOs for bruising is to apply them topically. Diffusers won’t give you the desired results as direct application on the affected area is best. As mentioned, always dilute EOs with a carrier oil like coconut oil or jojoba oil first. Dilute 2-3 drops of EO per 1 teaspoon of carrier oil. Gentle massage to the bruise a few times a day is recommended for the best results. You can also add arnica or aloe vera to your diluted EO solution for added potency.

A DIY Essential Oil Blend: Bruising Rx Lotion

Five drops lavender Five drops helichrysum Five drops geranium Five drops frankincense Three tablespoons of your choice of carrier oil

Mix the EOs with the carrier oil and gently massage the affected area(s) as needed multiple times per day. REFERENCES : (1) https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275043439_Biological_properties_and_resistance_reversal_effect_of_Helichrysum_italicum_Roth_G_Don (2) https://innovareacademics.in/journal/ijpps/Vol5Issue1/6272.pdf