Arnica is an herb that possesses powerful anti-inflammatory properties, which make it ideal for the treatment and healing of bruises and other wounds. Arnica can be bought as an herb and ground up and mixed with water, or you can also get it as a pre-made cream or ointment. Apply arnica to the affected area one to two times a day until the bruise has cleared up. Applying arnica right after the injury occurs, even before you can see the bruising, can help minimize the amount of bruising that forms.