Calendula Bruise Poultice

1 to 2 tablespoons (15 to 30 ml) dried calendula
1 to 2 tablespoons (15 to 30 ml) water

Bruises occur when blood vessels break beneath the surface of your skin and leak small amounts of blood, causing pain, discoloration and sometimes swelling. Of course, most bruises heal on their own in a couple of weeks, but you may be able to shorten that time frame and ease some of the pain in the process by applying this easy-to-prepare poultice as soon as possible. Soak the dried calendula in an equal amount of water for a few minutes until the flowes rehydate. Place the calendula directly on the bruise and secure in place with an adhesive bandage ( or gauze and tape, if the area is larger). Keep the poultice in place for 3 to 4 hours. If you have fresh calendula available in your garden ( it is more commonly known as pot marigold), simply crush some petals and apply directly to the bruised area. Rarely, calendula can cause a rash; if you have sensetive skin, test a small patch before applying the poultice.