Bruises

Breakages of small blood vessels underneath the skin form bruises. Blood leaks out of the damaged vessels, leaving red dots or bluish-purple marks that fade over time. Bruises may develop due to minor skin injury, from a hard blow to the body, heavy and rigorous exercise, or may be due to thinning of the skin in the elderly people; however, chronic bruising may indicate a problem with blood clotting. Nutritional supplements and herbs applied topically can speed up recovery time and help the bruises fade quickly. 

Home Remedies

• Apply vinegar to the bruise using a cotton ball. This will speed up the
     healing process.
• Apply apple cider vinegar and cold water on the bruise.

Do's

• Elevate the injured area.

• Apply ice or a cold pack for 30 to 60 minutes at a time for a day or two
     after the injury.

• A day after using ice packs, apply heating pads to the affected area, this
     will dilate blood vessels and improve circulation.

• Eat leafy green vegetables and fresh fruit, especially pineapple.

Don’ts

• Avoid smoking and alcohol.

• Avoid dairy products, processed foods, sugar, sweet fruits, and white flour.

• Avoid activities that might increase swelling such as taking hot showers,
     using hot tubs, or hot packs. During the first 48 hours, these things may
     actually increase bruising and swelling.

See Doctor                                             

• You have unusually large or painful bruises.

• Abnormal bleeding elsewhere, such as from nose or gums, or notice blood
     in your eyes, stool or urine.

• You have no history of bruising, but suddenly experience bruises.

• Bruises accompanied by persistent pain or headache.