A bruise indicates bleeding underneath the skin’s surface. Typical symptoms of a bruise are tenderness, swelling, pain and discoloration in the form of black and blue marks. Bruises usually occur due to trauma but many times, non traumatic bruises can also occur due to certain drugs, allergic reactions, viral diseases or illnesses affecting the blood’s natural clotting ability. By treating the underlying causes you can easily fade bruises quickly. Today we will take a look at supplements to prevent bruising.
1. Vitamin C
Of all the vitamins and supplements for bruising and swelling, this is the most important one. Many people are deficient in this vitamin due to poor diet. Children and elderly patients do not get this in adequate quantities as a result of which they are more prone to bruises. A diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables can provide you with adequate amounts of Vitamin C. A deficiency in Vitamin C causes the blood vessel walls to become thin and delicate facilitating easy bruising. Take at least 1000 mg of vitamin C daily or eat 5 servings of fresh fruits and vegetables. Alternatively, look for a supplement with bioflavonoids as these help strengthen the injured cells and capillary walls by supplying oxygen. Go for a dosage of up to 5000 mg in divided doses.
2. Vitamin A
This vital vitamin helps with wound healing and is also essential for a strong immune system. Don’t exceed a dose more than 10,000 IU per day of Vitamin A. Pregnant women should not take this vitamin.
3. Vitamin B complex
This group of vitamins aids in protecting the tissues. Take up to 100mg of each B vitamin two times a day.
4. Iron
Lack of iron in blood not only leads to anemia, it can also cause complications when one is injured or has a serious wound. Doctors often prescribe iron pills prior to surgery. One can start taking these 2 weeks before surgery to speed up healing.
5. Calcium/Magnesium with Vitamin D
This group of vitamins and minerals are beneficial for the skin and play a key role in protection against bruises. You need up to 400 IU of vitamin D, 2000 mg of calcium and 1000 mg of magnesium per day to promote blood cell formation and protect the skin.
6. Zinc
Zinc helps in blood clotting and strengthens the blood vessel walls.
7. CoQ10 enzyme
This antioxidant enzyme is made by the body naturally but as we age, its production decreases greatly. So take 60 mg per day to improve oxygen metabolism.
8. DMG- Dimethylglycine
DMG helps in oxygen metabolism of cells and tissues. Take no more than 125 mg per day or as directed on the label.
9. Arnica
Arnica is a powerful herbal supplement to take in order to prevent bruising. Many plastic/cosmetic surgeons recommend Arnica pills to patients who are about to undergo surgery. It reduces healing time and prevents swelling and pain associated with soft tissue injury.
10. Bromelain
Bromelain is a proteolytic enzyme derived from pineapples. It has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that are even being researched for anti-cancer benefits. Doctors also recommend bromelain supplements to athletes and sportspersons for sport-related edema, swelling, pain and injuries. Take 800-1000 mg per day to start with. Bromelain is particularly beneficial for healing black eye quickly.
11.Vitamin K or alfalfa
What vitamin are you lacking if you bruise easily? Vitamin K could be the answer. This vitamin is essential for clotting of blood and healing quickly. Take as directed on the product label.
12.Herbal supplements for bruises
If you have thin skin and bruising on arms and torso, following herbs can help:
- Bluebottle, buchu and comfrey root-They reduce swelling, pain and discoloration. Apply comfrey salve to the bruised region to speed up healing. You can also make a tea of these herbs and soak a clean towel in the decoction. Apply the towel to the bruises.
- Dandelion and yellow dock– these herbs are good sources of iron.
- Oil of oregano– Apply this oil topically to fade the bruises in no time.
- Parsley– Crush and apply the juice of parsley leaves to speed up healing.
- Wild pansy– Apply this herb topically to cure sudden bruising.
- Yarrow– Apply poultice twice a day to the bruise. It stops inflammation, restores circulation and accelerates healing.
- Horse chestnut-This herb stabilizes fragile capillaries damaged by trauma and prevents bruising and swelling. Use a cream containing horse chestnut extracts to the skin.
- Others– horsetail, black walnut, bilberry, garlic extracts, rosehips.
At the first sign of bruising, apply ice to the area. You can also use Colloidal silver ointment to prevent skin discoloration as well as infections. Take the above herbs and vitamins to protect the body against further bruising. Also check out our article on how to heal wounds overnight.