Bruising -- Homeopathic Remedies - [Alternative Medicine]

Homeopathic remedies, used as first aid, can soothe the pain and soreness of bruises that come from injury, reduce swelling and fluid leakage into surrounding tissues, and generally encourage healing. A carefully-chosen remedy may also help correct a person's tendency toward easy bruising and soreness. (Frequent bruising or easy bleeding can sometimes occur in a serious illness or disorder.)

Although homeopathic substances listed in this article are generally not known to cause serious side effects, their effectiveness has not been demonstrated by scientific research. Consumers should check labels carefully, since a homeopathic product that is not diluted, or not diluted enough, can contain ingredients that cause allergic reactions, side effects, or interactions. It is always advisable to discuss any new treatment program with your healthcare practitioner.

For dosage information, please read the information at the end of this section. See also “Using Homeopathy With Professional Guidance” in What Is Homeopathy?

Homeopathic Options

This is the primary remedy for new, traumatic injuries-including bruises caused by impact with blunt objects (from simple contusions to concussions), early stages of sprains and strains, and bruise-like soreness after muscular exertion (such as physically-taxing work, athletics, or childbirth). The symptoms typically feel worse from touch and motion. Arnica is also helpful for controlling soreness, bleeding, and tissue-bruising related to surgery and dental work.

This remedy is helpful for injuries and bruises, especially those caused by trauma to the trunk or in deeper tissues-for example, internal soreness after an accident or surgery. When a bruised and injured area develops a feeling of stiffness or coldness, Bellis perennis is strongly indicated. It may also be effective for bruises (in any area) that do not respond to Arnica.

This remedy is often indicated for bone-bruises, as well as other kinds of pain and soreness in the bones, especially when the area feels cold and numb. This remedy is also used when fractures are slow to heal.

This remedy is best for bruising or crushing injuries to body areas containing many nerves-smashed fingertips and toes, injuries to the spine or genitals, bruising or displacement of the tailbone (from falls or during childbirth), and injuries to the eyeball. Nerve pain after root canals may also be helped with Hypericum.

This remedy is indicated when bruises or bruise-type injuries such as sprains and strains become very puffy and swollen, and cold applications such as ice-packs or cold soaks bring some relief. Black eyes (which usually meet those two criteria) often respond to Ledum.

This remedy is indicated when bruising is followed by persistent bleeding. It is often useful for nosebleeds after injury, as well as for bleeding in other parts of the body. (Any condition involving serious bleeding should be treated by a physician.)

This remedy is helpful for bone-bruises when the area is very sensitive to touch. The bone aches and may seem lame, and the person can feel weak. Ruta is useful after Arnica in many injuries affecting the joints and bone-coverings.

This remedy may be indicated when small wounds bleed easily and profusely, or when a person has a tendency to bruise from minor injuries. Tiny red dots may be seen beneath the skin on arms and legs or other areas. (If these have recently appeared or if bleeding is significant, the person should see a physician.)

This remedy is well-known for its healing effect on broken bones, and is also good for bone-bruises. Symphytum is valuable when the eyeball has been injured by a blow from any blunt object-a stick, a rock, a flying ball, etc. (Any injury to the eye should be examined by a doctor.)

When a person feels tired after a bruising injury, this remedy may be indicated. A professional homeopath may consider it for a person who tends toward easy bruising and is extra-sensitive to fumes and environmental toxins. (Any person with a tendency toward unusual bruising and bleeding should consult a physician.)

Dosage

Select the remedy that most closely matches the symptoms. In conditions where self-treatment is appropriate, unless otherwise directed by a physician, a lower potency (6X, 6C, 12X, 12C, 30X, or 30C) should be used. In addition, instructions for use are usually printed on the label.

Many homeopathic physicians suggest that remedies be used as follows: Take one dose and wait for a response. If improvement is seen, continue to wait and let the remedy work. If improvement lags significantly or has clearly stopped, another dose may be taken. The frequency of dosage varies with the condition and the individual. Sometimes a dose may be required several times an hour; other times a dose may be indicated several times a day; and in some situations, one dose per day (or less) can be sufficient.

If no response is seen within a reasonable amount of time, select a different remedy.

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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires February 2010.