By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Plantar Fasciitis
Herbal creams for plantar fasciitis are topical treatments containing natural ingredients that aim to alleviate pain, inflammation, and discomfort associated with the condition.
These creams often feature ingredients such as arnica, capsaicin, and menthol, which can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain.
Examples of herbal creams for plantar fasciitis include creams containing arnica, turmeric, and ginger, which have been shown to improve mobility and reduce pain for individuals with plantar fasciitis, enhancing their ability to walk and engage in daily activities.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for plantar fasciitis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Salvia officinalis
- 2. Artemisia absinthium
- 3. Hamamelis virginiana
- 4. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 5. Calendula officinalis
- 6. Matricaria chamomilla
- 7. Urtica dioica
- 8. Taraxacum officinale
- 9. Hypericum perforatum
- 10. Foeniculum vulgare
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for plantar fasciitis?
- What ailments similar to plantar fasciitis are treated with herbal creams?
1. Salvia officinalis
Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, creams helps with plantar fasciitis because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The active compounds in sage, such as rosmarinic acid and triterpenes, have been shown to reduce pain and inflammation in the affected area. Additionally, sage creams may help to improve circulation and reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis.
As a result, applying sage creams to the affected area may provide relief from pain and discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis creams that help with plantar fasciitis.
- Rosmarinic acid: This polyphenolic compound helps reduce inflammation and pain associated with plantar fasciitis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and mediators.
- Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate pain and reduce swelling in the plantar fascia, thereby providing relief from plantar fasciitis.
- Salvianolic acid a: This caffeic acid derivative has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help mitigate the oxidative stress and inflammation contributing to plantar fasciitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make creams for plantar fasciitis.
- Leaves: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help in reducing pain and inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Flowers: They contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, making them beneficial for soothing plantar fasciitis symptoms.
- Stems: The stems of Salvia officinalis contain salvinolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce pain and swelling in the affected area.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for plantar fasciitis.
- Harvest 30-40 grams of fresh salvia officinalis leaves in the morning for optimal oil content.
- Chop the harvested leaves into small pieces and mix with 100ml of carrier oil such as coconut oil.
- Combine the chopped herb mixture with 10g of beeswax in a double boiler and heat until melted.
- Remove the mixture from heat and stir in 10g of vitamin e oil and 5g of shea butter.
- Pour the mixture into a clean container and let it set at room temperature for 30-40 minutes.
2. Artemisia absinthium
Artemisia absinthium, also known as wormwood, creams helps with plantar fasciitis because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as thujone and borneol, reduce swelling and pain in the affected area. Additionally, wormwood's antiseptic properties help to prevent infection and promote healing. The cream's cooling sensation also soothes and relaxes the foot, providing relief from the pain and discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis.
This makes wormwood cream a popular natural remedy for plantar fasciitis sufferers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium creams that help with plantar fasciitis.
- Thujone: A terpene found in Artemisia absinthium, thujone may help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with plantar fasciitis by blocking the action of certain pain receptors.
- Cinerolone: A sesquiterpene lactone, cinerolone may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that could help reduce swelling and oxidative stress in the affected area, contributing to pain relief.
- Artabsin: A sesquiterpene lactone, artabsin may exhibit anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and mediators, which could help alleviate pain and inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make creams for plantar fasciitis.
- Leaves: The anti-inflammatory properties of Artemisia absinthium leaves help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Stems: The stems of Artemisia absinthium are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that aid in relieving pain and promoting healing in plantar fasciitis.
- Buds: The buds of Artemisia absinthium contain bioactive compounds that help to reduce inflammation, relax muscles, and promote circulation, making them beneficial for plantar fasciitis creams.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wormwood for plantar fasciitis.
- Harvest 30 grams of dried artemisia absinthium leaves and flowers at dawn when the dew is still present on them.
- Infuse 15 grams of the dried plant material in 100 milliliters of oil carrier for 2 to 3 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter to separate it from the solids.
- Mix 50 milliliters of the infused oil with 50 grams of beeswax in a heat-resistant bowl over a double boiler.
- Allow the mixture to cool and thicken for 30 minutes before transferring it to a clean container.
3. Hamamelis virginiana
Hamamelis virginiana, also known as American witch hazel, creams helps with plantar fasciitis because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The active compounds in the plant, such as tannins and flavonoids, reduce swelling and pain in the affected area, promoting healing and relaxation of the plantar fascia.
By applying the cream to the affected foot, individuals can experience relief from the discomfort and stiffness associated with plantar fasciitis, allowing them to move more easily and recover faster.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hamamelis virginiana creams that help with plantar fasciitis.
- Tannins: Tannins in Hamamelis virginiana creams have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the plantar fascia.
- Glycosides: Glycosides in Hamamelis virginiana creams have been shown to exhibit analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help alleviate pain and inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Hamamelis virginiana creams have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the plantar fascia, promoting healing and reducing pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of american witch hazel used to make creams for plantar fasciitis.
- Leaves: Hamamelis virginiana leaves are used to make creams for plantar fasciitis due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
- Buds: Hamamelis virginiana buds are used to make creams for plantar fasciitis because they contain compounds that help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated tissues.
- Barks: Hamamelis virginiana barks are used to make creams for plantar fasciitis as they contain astringent properties that help reduce swelling and relieve pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic american witch hazel for plantar fasciitis.
- Harvest 1 cup of dried hamamelis virginiana leaves and flowers from a trusted source.
- Combine the dried plant material with 2 cups of carrier oil in a clean glass jar.
- Infuse the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking occasionally.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine mesh into a clean container.
- Add 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil to the infused oil and heat.
4. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with plantar fasciitis because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active compounds, such as glycyrrhizin, in licorice root have been found to reduce inflammation and pain associated with plantar fasciitis. These creams also promote blood circulation, which aids in the healing process of the affected area. Additionally, licorice root has been traditionally used to soothe and calm irritated tissues, making it a potential natural remedy for plantar fasciitis relief.
This natural approach can provide long-lasting pain relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams that help with plantar fasciitis.
- Licorice glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and swelling in the plantar fascia, making it easier to walk and engage in physical activities.
- Glycyrrhetic acid: This triterpenoid acid has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the plantar fascia, promoting faster healing and reducing pain.
- Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to reduce pain and inflammation in the plantar fascia, while also promoting the growth of new tissue and reducing scarring.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for plantar fasciitis.
- Roots: Used for their anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties to reduce pain and swelling associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Leaves: Utilized for their soothing and anti-inflammatory effects to calm irritated tissues and reduce pain in the affected area.
- Barks: Employed for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties to reduce pain, swelling, and prevent infection in the affected area.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for plantar fasciitis.
- Extract 200 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots in 1 liter of hot water for 30 minutes.
- Strain the mixture and discard the solids then filter the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter.
- Combine 30 grams of beeswax 20 grams of coconut oil and 10 grams of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Mix the beeswax coconut oil and shea butter until well combined and the temperature reaches 180 degrees fahrenheit.
- Blend the liquid glycyrrhiza glabra extract with the melted beeswax mixture then pour into containers for storage.
5. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with plantar fasciitis because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The cream's ability to reduce swelling and ease pain makes it an effective remedy for the condition. The soothing and moisturizing properties of calendula help to calm irritated tissues, promoting healing and reducing inflammation in the plantar fascia, a band of tissue supporting the arch of the foot.
Regular application of calendula creams can provide relief and support for individuals suffering from plantar fasciitis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with plantar fasciitis.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected area, thereby alleviating plantar fasciitis symptoms.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin, a flavonoid present in Calendula, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce pain and inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Carotenoids: Beta-Carotene in Calendula has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which promote tissue repair and reduce oxidative stress, contributing to the relief of plantar fasciitis symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for plantar fasciitis.
- Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help reduce pain and inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Leaves: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which aid in soothing and calming irritated plantar fascia tissue.
- Stems: They are used due to their ability to provide a soothing and anti-inflammatory effect, which helps to reduce pain and inflammation in the affected area.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for plantar fasciitis.
- Infuse 2 cups of dried calendula officinalis flowers in 4 cups of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to separate the solid and liquid components.
- Weigh out 100 grams of the infused oil and mix it with 50 grams of beeswax and 20 grams of cocoa butter.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler to melt the beeswax and mix until it reaches 120 degrees fahrenheit.
- Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar and let it cool and solidify before use.
6. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with plantar fasciitis because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as apigenin and luteolin, work to reduce inflammation and ease pain in the affected area. Chamomile's calming effects also help to relax the muscles, which can become tight and sore due to overuse or strain. By reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, Matricaria chamomilla creams can provide effective relief from plantar fasciitis symptoms, allowing for improved mobility and reduced discomfort.
Regular use can promote faster recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with plantar fasciitis.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties, which helps reduce pain and inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Α-bisabolol: A sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which helps reduce inflammation and pain in the affected area.
- Farnesene: A sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which helps reduce inflammation, promote healing, and alleviate pain in the affected area.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for plantar fasciitis.
- Flowers: Matricaria chamomilla flowers are commonly used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation in the plantar fascia.
- Leaves: Matricaria chamomilla leaves are used for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help to reduce swelling and promote wound healing in plantar fasciitis.
- Seeds: Matricaria chamomilla seeds are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce pain and inflammation in the plantar fascia, as well as promote overall foot health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for plantar fasciitis.
- Weigh 500 grams of base cream containing 20% water and 80% oil in a stainless steel container.
- Add 2.5 grams of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers to the cream and stir gently for 5 minutes.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler at 60-70°c for 30 minutes to allow the herbs to infuse.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container to remove the solids and discard the solids.
- Allow the cream to cool and thicken at room temperature for 30-60 minutes before transferring it to a storage container.
7. Urtica dioica
Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, creams helps with plantar fasciitis because it contains anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce pain and swelling in the affected area.
The cream's soothing properties also help to relax the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes, thereby reducing tension and discomfort. Additionally, the cream's antioxidant properties promote healing and reduce inflammation, making it an effective natural remedy for plantar fasciitis sufferers.
Regular application can lead to faster recovery and reduced pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica creams that help with plantar fasciitis.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds, including ursolic acid, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and swelling associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help alleviate pain and inflammation in the plantar fascia.
- Alkaloids: While histamine is often associated with allergic reactions, it also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation in the affected area.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make creams for plantar fasciitis.
- Leaves: Urtica dioica leaves are the most commonly used part in creams for plantar fasciitis due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory compounds, such as histamine, which helps reduce pain and swelling.
- Roots: Urtica dioica roots are also used in creams for plantar fasciitis due to their rich content of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that promote healing and reduce inflammation.
- Stems: Urtica dioica stems are occasionally used in creams for plantar fasciitis due to their ability to provide additional anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which aid in pain relief and tissue repair.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for plantar fasciitis.
- Harvest 1 to 2 cups of fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems when the plant is in full leaf growth.
- Clean the leaves and stems by gently rinsing them with distilled water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Combine 1 cup of the cleaned urtica dioica leaves and stems with 2 cups of distilled water in a saucepan.
- Simmer the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes over low heat to release the plant's active compounds.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to separate the liquid from the solids.
8. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, creams helps with plantar fasciitis because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The cream reduces swelling and pain in the heel and arch area, allowing for a more comfortable range of motion. The natural compounds in Taraxacum officinale, such as sesquiterpene lactones, have been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory effects, making it an effective treatment for plantar fasciitis.
Regular application of the cream can lead to faster healing and reduced discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale creams that help with plantar fasciitis.
- Inulin: Inulin is a prebiotic fiber that may help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected area, alleviating plantar fasciitis symptoms.
- Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol is a triterpenoid saponin that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce pain and swelling associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Kaempferol: Kaempferol is a flavonoid that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can help reduce inflammation and promote the healing of damaged tissues in the affected area.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make creams for plantar fasciitis.
- Leaves: Rich in bioactive compounds, Taraxacum officinale leaves are used in creams to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale are used to create creams due to their high content of inulin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe plantar fascia.
- Flowers: Taraxacum officinale flowers are used in creams for their flavonoid content, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help reduce pain and inflammation in plantar fasciitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for plantar fasciitis.
- Harvest fresh taraxacum officinale flowers and leaves from the plant with a sterile knife.
- Combine 100g of taraxacum officinale flowers and leaves with 500ml of carrier oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture at 60-70°c for 2-3 hours to infuse the herbs into the oil.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids.
- Whisk 20g of beeswax and 10g of vitamin e oil into 100g of the infused oil mixture.
9. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, creams helps with plantar fasciitis because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The active compounds in Hypericum perforatum, such as hyperforin and hypericin, have been shown to reduce pain and inflammation in the affected area. The cream's ability to penetrate deep into the skin also helps to reduce swelling and discomfort in the plantar fascia, making it a popular natural remedy for plantar fasciitis sufferers.
It also helps in reducing the pain associated with it.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with plantar fasciitis.
- Hyperforin: This terpene has anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce pain and inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Quercetin: As a flavonoid phenolic compound, quercetin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, contributing to the reduction of pain and inflammation in plantar fasciitis.
- Hypericin: This naphthodianthone alkaloid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in plantar fasciitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for plantar fasciitis.
- Leaves: Used due to their high content of hypericin and hyperforin, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Flowers: Utilized for their rich content of flavonoids, which help in reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the affected area.
- Roots: Employed for their ability to provide sustained release of bioactive compounds, including hypericin and hyperforin, which aid in pain relief and tissue repair.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for plantar fasciitis.
- Harvest 50 grams of dried hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves from a trusted source.
- Steep the dried plant material in 500 milliliters of carrier oil such as jojoba or sweet almond oil at a ratio of 1:10 for 2 hours.
- Strain the oil mixture through cheesecloth into a clean container discarding the solids.
- Mix 10 grams of beeswax and 10 grams of candelilla wax with 50 grams of the infused oil in a double boiler at 60 degrees celsius.
- Allow the mixture to cool and thicken for 30 minutes before transferring it to a clean container for storage.
10. Foeniculum vulgare
Foeniculum vulgare, also known as fennel, creams helps with plantar fasciitis because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The active compounds present in fennulic extract, such as anethole, have been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with plantar fasciitis. The cream's ability to penetrate deep into the skin also allows it to target the affected area, providing relief from the discomfort and stiffness caused by plantar fasciitis.
This makes fennel cream an effective natural remedy for plantar fasciitis sufferers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare creams that help with plantar fasciitis.
- Anethole: Anethole, a terpene found in Foeniculum vulgare, has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Ferulic acid: Ferulic acid, a phenolic compound present in Foeniculum vulgare, exhibits potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help alleviate pain and promote healing in plantar fasciitis.
- Trans-anethole: Trans-anethole, another terpene found in Foeniculum vulgare, has been shown to possess analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help relieve pain and discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make creams for plantar fasciitis.
- Seeds: Used due to their high concentration of volatile oils, particularly anethole, which provides anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Leaves: Utilized for their rich content of vitamin C and other antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and promote healing in plantar fascia tissue.
- Roots: Employed for their bioactive compounds like sesquiterpene lactones, which possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities that aid in soothing plantar fascia pain and discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for plantar fasciitis.
- Harvest 50g of foeniculum vulgare roots and leaves in the early morning when the dew is still present.
- Dry the foeniculum vulgare in a low-temperature oven at 35°c for 24 hours to preserve its properties.
- Steep 20g of dried foeniculum vulgare in 500ml of oil at 60°c for 4 hours to create a strong infusion.
- Filter the infusion through a cheesecloth to separate the oil from the solids and discard the solids.
- Mix the filtered oil with 10g of beeswax and 5g of emulsifier in a double boiler at 65°c for 30 minutes.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for plantar fasciitis?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with plantar fasciitis is a blend of arnica, peppermint, and turmeric.
Arnica helps reduce inflammation, peppermint eases pain and discomfort, and turmeric's curcumin content has potent anti-inflammatory properties. When applied topically, these creams can work together to alleviate plantar fasciitis symptoms, such as heel pain and stiffness. Regular application can lead to improved mobility and reduced discomfort, making it easier to manage the condition and resume daily activities.
This combination can also promote faster healing and reduce the risk of further inflammation.
What ailments similar to plantar fasciitis are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to plantar fasciitis that are treated with herbal creams are conditions such as tendinitis, bursitis, and strain or sprain of muscles and ligaments.
These topical creams often contain anti-inflammatory and analgesic herbs like arnica, turmeric, and willow bark, which help reduce pain and inflammation in the affected area.