Bruises: CAM Therapies for Specific Conditions

• Chinese Americans most often use traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for bruises.
  
  
• A study indicated that acupuncture provided short-term relief to 50 to 80 percent of patients with acute and chronic pain. Bruises responded well.
  
  
• Arnica, used internally and topically in homeopathy, is effective in reducing swelling and bruising. Do not drink more than two cups of arnica tea per day for more than three days. Typical preparation and dose are 1-2 tsp. per cup of boiling water of the dried herb, tincture diluted to one part. Homeopathic ointments of 15 percent arnica oil are for external use only.
  
  
• Comfrey is often taken for bruises, but high dosages may obstruct blood flow to the liver.

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From THE BEST ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE: WHAT WORKS? WHAT DOES NOT? by Dr. Kenneth R. Pelletier.
Copyright © 2000 by Dr. Kenneth R. Pelletier, Inc.
Reprinted by permission of Simon & Schuster, Inc., New York, New York.

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Unless otherwise indicated, Dr. Kenneth R. Pelletier. All Rights Reserved.
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