Plantar Fasciitis Causes, Medicinal Herbs And Herbal Preparations
Plantar fasciitis is a common condition characterized by inflammation and pain in the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot.
Herbal remedies have become increasingly popular in treating this ailment due to their natural and non-invasive approach, which can provide relief from pain and inflammation without the harsh side effects of conventional medications.
Certain herbs, such as turmeric, ginger, and cayenne pepper, contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce pain and swelling in the affected area, while others like arnica and lavender promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can exacerbate plantar fasciitis symptoms.
Herbal preparations like topical creams and ointments infused with arnica, menthol, and peppermint oil can be applied directly to the affected area, while teas and infusions made from herbs like chamomile and willow bark can be consumed to promote relaxation and reduce inflammation.
What causes plantar fasciitis?
The primary causes of plantar fasciitis are overuse or repetitive stress on the plantar fascia, usually resulting from activities that involve running, jumping, or other high-impact exercises.
Secondary causes include obesity, foot mechanics issues such as flat feet or high arches, and wearing shoes that do not provide adequate support or cushioning, as these factors can exacerbate the strain on the plantar fascia.
Lifestyles that increase the chances of developing plantar fasciitis include a sedentary lifestyle followed by a sudden increase in physical activity, as well as working jobs that involve standing for long periods without proper breaks or footwear.
Additionally, wearing shoes with inadequate arch support or walking barefoot on hard surfaces can also contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis.
What herbs heal plantar fasciitis?
The medicinal herbs used to treat plantar fasciitis are Turmeric, Ginger, and Willow Bark, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
Turmeric contains bioactive compound curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions, thereby reducing pain and inflammation in the plantar fascia.
Ginger's active compound gingerol has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, while Willow Bark's salicin has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, all of which contribute to the relief of plantar fasciitis symptoms.
Additionally, these herbs also promote blood circulation and reduce swelling, further alleviating the condition.
What preparations treat plantar fasciitis?
The herbal preparations used to treat plantar fasciitis are a mix of teas, infusions, salves, and poultices that combine anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties to alleviate pain and inflammation in the heel and foot.
Drinking warm teas made from anti-inflammatory plants can help reduce swelling and ease tension in the plantar fascia, while topical applications of cooling infusions can numb the area and provide relief from pain.
Some herbal preparations also incorporate warming properties to increase blood flow and promote healing, such as poultices that are applied directly to the affected area.
Additionally, certain herbal salves can be massaged into the foot to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation in the muscles and tendons.
The articles in the following links discuss in detail the best herbal preparation used to treat plantar fasciitis.