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Bruising

Also indexed as:Ecchymosis
Those tender black and blue marks on your body are often reminders of an accidental bump, although they can be signs of an underlying health condition. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful.
SupplementAmountWhy
Vitamin C
400 to 800 mg daily, with flavonoids3 stars[3 stars]
Vitamin C supplements have been shown to reduce bruising in people with low vitamin C intake.
Flavonoids
400 to 800 mg hesperidin with vitamin C daily 2 stars[2 stars]
Flavonoids are often recommended with vitamin C. Flavonoids are vitamin-like substances that can help strengthen capillaries and therefore may also help with bruising.
Arnica
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Arnica is considered by some practitioners to be among the best wound-healing herbs available.
Comfrey
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
Comfrey is widely used in traditional medicine as a topical application to help heal wounds and may be beneficial for bruises.
Sweet Clover
Refer to label instructions 1 star[1 star]
In traditional herbal medicine, a compress or ointment of sweet clover applied to bruises is reported to help healing.
  • Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
  • Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
  • For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.

Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by some in the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.

For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.

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The information presented by TraceGains 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. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. 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 December 2025.