If you’ve ever suffered a minor injury that resulted in an unsightly bruise, you’ve probably wondered if there’s a way to get rid of it… and fast.

Read on to learn about a few essential oils that are definitely in our top ten for skin problems, including bruising.

Why do bruises happen?

Bruises are simply darker patches of the skin resulting from bleeding under the skin. The colors you see -- which may range from blue-black to yellow-green -- are just from the blood clotting.

If you know that your bruise is a result of a minor injury and you see it fading or shrinking in a week or so, this is usually a good indication that it is healing. You can treat these at home with simple remedies such as the essential oils for bruising listed below.

But do not hesitate to see a doctor in the case of:

• Swelling that does not go down
• Bruises that have no discernible cause
• Extreme pain
• Bruises associated with a (possible) concussion
• Bruises that don’t seem to be healing after 2-4 weeks
• Frequent bruising when you do not have obvious external injuries

Occasionally bruising can signal a more serious problem. And some medications or conditions can cause prolonged bruising, too. So if you have any doubts, talk to your doctor first.

How to Use Essential Oils for Bruises

One of the wonderful things about essential oils is that you can use them how you wish. Try them as blends, use them directly on the skin, blend them with oils, add them to a diffuser.

For skin conditions like bruising, we recommend diluting a few drops into a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba and testing out on the affected area first.

Try adding about 10 drops to a cotton swab and taping it onto the affected area for about half an hour a day. This can help to soothe various skin ailments. But make sure that there is no broken or infected skin if you are using undiluted oils directly.

The Top 3 Essential Oils for Bruising

But you can apply essential oils as part of a warm compress pack to help ease pain, swelling, and discoloration.

Be sure to dilute them first as some essential oils can be irritating to the skin, especially in areas that are already sensitive.

Never apply undiluted oils in areas with cuts, infections, or other skin damage.

Frankincense Oil

Frankincense oil has so many healing properties. Apply a few drops on a compress. It can help with skin imperfections, pain relief, relaxation, and can speed up the healing of bruises.

Helichrysum Oil

Helichrysum oil is a great anti-inflammatory and can offer gentle pain relief. It has been used for decades to help to heal all kinds of skin problems, including:

• Burns
• Age Spots
• Rashes
• Hives
• Bruising
• Scars

When you apply it to a bruise as it appears, you will likely notice a reduction in size and intensity of color. That’s because the helichrysum flower has anti-hematomal properties.

Lavender Oil

Most of us are familiar with the gentle, floral scent of lavender oil, and for good reason! This plant offers amazing therapeutic values.

Applying a few drops right after an injury can reduce pain and bruise. Use a compress for this if you have never used the oil before.

Lavender promotes the healing of wounds, and can also help with relaxation and sleep.

Discover the Healing Benefits of Essential Oils

Everyone can use a little more balance in their life, and having a few key essential oils in your medicine cabinet can help with day-to-day ailments like bruising.