Injuries can cause sudden pain and swelling. The swelling itself can cause additional pain as the fluids that are causing the swelling increase pressure. Natural remedies for swelling include apple cider vinegar, ice and onions!
A variety of injuries and accidents can precipitate swelling. Sports injuries, falls, sprains and accidents can all cause swelling at the site of trauma. This inflammation is the body’s response to the injury and has protective value, but when the swelling is excessive it causes pain and even other complications. Preventing swelling by beginning immediate treatment is easier to do than reduce swelling once it has begun. But natural remedies can be used to prevent swelling and reduce swelling.
First of all, make sure that a home treatment is appropriate for the injury. While you do not want to be the first one to the emergency room for a stubbed toe, neither do you want to be the last person to get medical help for a broken bone.
Some of these remedies are appropriate to use during transport to seek medical attention. A family member or friend can keep ice on an injury to reduce pain and swelling, for example.
Applying ice will help with pain and swelling. A bag of frozen peas or blueberries makes a nice ice pack. It is always wise to be prepared ahead of time for injuries by keeping ice packs or a rice sock in the freezer.
Keeping the injured part elevated helps to prevent swelling. For example, if an ankle is sprained, the leg/ankle should be elevated.
A cloth soaked with apple cider vinegar can be used as a compress to reduce swelling and pain. This can be used overnight.
Castor oil can be massaged onto a swollen area to reduce pain and swelling. This is best done after ice has been applied.
Raw onion makes a great poultice to reduce pain, swelling and risk of bruising. Chop an onion. Wrap it in a towel or cloth. Apply this poultice to the injured site and secure with an ace bandage.
Geranium essential oil can be used straight (neat) directly on the area of injury to prevent bruising and swelling.
If you have a topical arnica oil or salve, apply this to the area of injury. Arnica should not be used on broken skin.
Resting the injured area is important to allow healing to take place and reduce the risk of further injury.
Always keep an eye on a person who has had an injury. If the person has serious pain, unusual behavior, vomiting or any other unusual symptoms, seek medical attention.
Have you tried one of these remedies for an injury? Do you have a remedy to add? We would love to hear from you!
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