By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Plantar Fasciitis
Herbal teas for plantar fasciitis are natural remedies that help alleviate symptoms associated with this common foot condition.
They contain anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness in the heel and foot. Examples of herbal teas that help with plantar fasciitis include ginger, turmeric, and willow bark tea.
Drinking these teas can improve lives by reducing discomfort and allowing individuals to engage in daily activities with greater ease and mobility, enhancing overall quality of life and well-being.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for plantar fasciitis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Curcuma longa
- 2. Zingiber officinale
- 3. Sambucus nigra
- 4. Salix alba
- 5. Hypericum perforatum
- 6. Valeriana officinalis
- 7. Harpagophytum procumbens
- 8. Curcuma zedoaria
- 9. Lavandula angustifolia
- 10. Mentha x piperita
- What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for plantar fasciitis?
- What ailments similar to plantar fasciitis are treated with herbal teas?
1. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, teas helps with plantar fasciitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active compound curcumin in turmeric tea reduces inflammation and swelling in the plantar fascia, a band of tissue supporting the arch of the foot. This leads to pain relief and improved mobility. Turmeric tea also has natural anti-bacterial properties that may help prevent infections, promoting a faster recovery from plantar fasciitis.
Regular consumption of turmeric tea may alleviate symptoms and promote overall foot health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa teas that help with plantar fasciitis.
- Curcumin: A polyphenolic compound that reduces inflammation and oxidative stress in the plantar fascia, thereby alleviating pain and discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Demethoxycurcumin: A curcuminoid that inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis.
- Turmerone: A sesquiterpene that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce pain and inflammation in the plantar fascia and surrounding tissues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make teas for plantar fasciitis.
- Roots: The roots of Curcuma longa contain various compounds that help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected area, providing relief from plantar fasciitis pain.
- Barks: The barks of Curcuma longa contain bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for plantar fasciitis.
- Harvest 2-3 fresh turmeric rhizomes and wash them thoroughly under cold running water for 2 minutes.
- Peel the turmeric rhizomes using a vegetable peeler to remove the outer skin.
- Chop the peeled turmeric rhizomes into small pieces and measure out 1 teaspoon for each 8-ounce cup of water.
- Combine the turmeric pieces with 8 ounces of boiling water in a teapot or infuser and steep for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea mixture using a fine-mesh sieve and serve the warm turmeric tea immediately.
2. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, teas helps with plantar fasciitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to reduce pain and swelling in the affected area. Additionally, ginger's warming and analgesic effects may help increase blood flow and reduce inflammation in the plantar fascia, promoting healing and reducing discomfort.
This natural remedy offers a safe and effective way to alleviate plantar fasciitis symptoms without the need for medication.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with plantar fasciitis.
- Gingerol: Gingerol has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and swelling associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Shogaol: Shogaol has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort in the heel and foot caused by plantar fasciitis.
- Curcumin: Curcumin, a phenolic compound found in ginger, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected area.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make teas for plantar fasciitis.
- Buds: Ginger buds are sometimes used to make teas, as they contain a higher concentration of active compounds than mature rhizomes, which can provide faster relief from plantar fasciitis symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for plantar fasciitis.
- Harvest fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes and clean them thoroughly with cold water for about 30 minutes.
- Peel the rhizomes and grate or slice them into thin strips about 1 inch long and 1/4 inch wide.
- Combine the grated rhizomes with 1 quart of boiling water in a saucepan and let it steep for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl to remove the solids.
- Store the herbal tea in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and serve chilled or at room temperature.
3. Sambucus nigra
Sambucus nigra, also known as elder, teas helps with plantar fasciitis because it has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that reduce swelling and combat infection in the affected area.
The flavonoids present in elderberry tea, such as anthocyanins and quercetin, have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in the plantar fascia.
Additionally, elderberry tea's antimicrobial properties help combat fungal and bacterial infections that can contribute to plantar fasciitis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra teas that help with plantar fasciitis.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with plantar fasciitis by blocking the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Ellagic acid: A phenolic compound found in Sambucus nigra, ellagic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce pain and inflammation in the plantar fascia.
- Caffeic acid: A phenolic acid, caffeic acid has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that may help reduce pain and swelling associated with plantar fasciitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make teas for plantar fasciitis.
- Flowers: They are commonly used due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce pain and inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Leaves: The leaves of Sambucus nigra contain flavonoids and other compounds that contribute to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, making them a popular choice for tea.
- Fruits: The fruits of the elder tree are rich in anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate pain and reduce swelling in the feet associated with plantar fasciitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for plantar fasciitis.
- Harvest sambucus nigra flowers and leaves in late summer and early autumn when fully ripe.
- Dry the harvested flowers and leaves by spreading them out in a single layer on paper.
- Chop the dried flowers and leaves into small pieces using scissors or a sharp knife.
- Steep the chopped sambucus nigra in boiling water for 5-10 minutes to release its medicinal properties.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids let the tea steep for a few minutes before serving.
4. Salix alba
Salix alba, also known as white willow, teas helps with plantar fasciitis because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The salicin present in the tea reduces inflammation and pain in the affected area, providing relief from the chronic pain associated with plantar fasciitis. Additionally, the tea's antispasmodic properties help to relax the muscles in the foot, reducing tension and strain on the plantar fascia.
This natural remedy can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salix alba teas that help with plantar fasciitis.
- Salicin: It helps reduce inflammation and pain associated with plantar fasciitis due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to plantar fasciitis, and also possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Triterpenoids: They help reduce pain and inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and also possessing analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of white willow used to make teas for plantar fasciitis.
- Barks: Salix alba barks are often used to make teas for plantar fasciitis due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Salix alba leaves are commonly used in teas for plantar fasciitis due to their ability to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Buds: Salix alba buds are also used in teas for plantar fasciitis due to their potential to reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic white willow for plantar fasciitis.
- Harvest 30g of dried white willow bark from mature branches in late summer or early fall.
- Dry the harvested bark in a single layer for 24 hours at 50 degrees celsius.
- Crush the dried bark into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.
- Steep 2-3 teaspoons of the powder in 1 liter of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids before serving.
5. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, teas helps with plantar fasciitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds, such as hyperforin and hypericin, work to reduce swelling and pain in the plantar fascia. Additionally, the tea's antioxidant properties help to protect the tissue from further damage. The anti-inflammatory effects of St John's Wort tea can also help to reduce the inflammation and irritation that often accompanies plantar fasciitis, providing relief and promoting healing.
This can lead to improved mobility and reduced pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum teas that help with plantar fasciitis.
- Hyperforin: A phenolic compound with anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce pain and inflammation in plantar fasciitis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Flavonoids: A group of plant-derived compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the affected area, thereby alleviating symptoms of plantar fasciitis.
- Naphthodianthrones: A group of anthraquinone compounds with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that may help reduce pain and inflammation in plantar fasciitis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make teas for plantar fasciitis.
- Leaves: Leaves are rich in hyperforin and hypericin, which have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Stems: Stems of Hypericum perforatum contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
- Roots: Roots of the plant are known to contain sesquiterpenes and flavonoids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for plantar fasciitis.
- Dry the herb hypericum perforatum by spreading it out in a single layer on paper towels for several days.
- Measure out the dried herb to a dose of one teaspoon per cup of boiling water for a standard serving.
- Steep the dried herb in boiling water for five to ten minutes to allow the flavors and oils to infuse.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the herb particles and any sediment.
- Allow the tea to cool to a comfortable drinking temperature before consuming it slowly.
6. Valeriana officinalis
Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, teas helps with plantar fasciitis because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The valerenic acid in valerian root has been shown to reduce swelling and pain in the affected area, while its sedative properties promote relaxation and reduce muscle tension. This helps to alleviate strain on the plantar fascia, allowing for improved healing and reduced discomfort.
Regular consumption of valerian tea may also promote a good night's sleep, which is essential for tissue repair and recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis teas that help with plantar fasciitis.
- Isovaleric acid: This organic compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the plantar fascia.
- Valerenic acid: A terpene with sedative and anti-inflammatory effects, valerenic acid can help alleviate pain and discomfort caused by plantar fasciitis.
- Valerenol: A valerenic acid derivative with antioxidant properties, valerenol can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the plantar fascia, contributing to pain relief and improved recovery.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make teas for plantar fasciitis.
- Roots: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of valerenic acids, which are responsible for the plant's therapeutic properties.
- Roots: They contain a compound called isovaleric acid, which has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, helping to alleviate plantar fasciitis pain.
- Roots: They are also a good source of valerenic acid, which has been shown to have antispasmodic properties, potentially reducing muscle spasms in the plantar fascia.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for plantar fasciitis.
- Harvest 1-2 ounces of dried roots and rhizomes of valeriana officinalis from a reputable source.
- Gently crush 1 teaspoon of dried roots and rhizomes into small pieces with a mortar and pestle.
- Steep the crushed roots in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release active compounds.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove solids and sediment.
- Drink the tea immediately as the active compounds can degrade within 30 minutes.
7. Harpagophytum procumbens
Harpagophytum procumbens, also known as devil's claw, teas helps with plantar fasciitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The harpagoside compound found in the plant reduces inflammation and pain in the affected area, providing relief from the discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis. Studies have shown that regular consumption of devil's claw tea can decrease pain and improve mobility in individuals suffering from plantar fasciitis, making it a popular natural remedy for this common foot condition.
It also aids in reducing swelling and promoting healing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Harpagophytum procumbens teas that help with plantar fasciitis.
- Harpagoside: A glycoside compound found in Harpagophytum procumbens, which may help reduce inflammation and pain associated with plantar fasciitis due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Iridoid glycosides: A group of compounds that may contribute to the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of Harpagophytum procumbens, potentially providing relief from pain and discomfort caused by plantar fasciitis.
- Triterpenoids: A class of compounds that may exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the affected area, alleviating symptoms of plantar fasciitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of devil's claw used to make teas for plantar fasciitis.
- Roots: The roots are commonly used due to their high concentration of harpagoside, a key compound that provides anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Seeds: The seeds are used in teas for plantar fasciitis as they contain a significant amount of harpagoside, although in smaller amounts compared to the roots and rhizomes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic devil's claw for plantar fasciitis.
- Measure out 2-4 grams of dried harpagophytum procumbens root per 8 ounces of water.
- Combine the measured root with boiling water in a heat-resistant glass or ceramic cup.
- Allow the mixture to steep for 5-7 minutes to release the active ingredients and flavors.
- Strain the liquid using a tea infuser or a piece of cheesecloth to remove the solids.
- Discard the solids and enjoy the herbal tea immediately or store it in the refrigerator for later use.
8. Curcuma zedoaria
Curcuma zedoaria, also known as white turmeric, teas helps with plantar fasciitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds, particularly curcumenol, have been shown to reduce pain and swelling in the affected area. By reducing inflammation and promoting healing, Curcuma zedoaria teas can alleviate the symptoms associated with plantar fasciitis, such as heel pain and stiffness.
Additionally, its antioxidant properties help protect the plantar fascia from oxidative stress, promoting a faster recovery and reducing the risk of further injury.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma zedoaria teas that help with plantar fasciitis.
- Curcumenol: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Zedoarone: This sesquiterpene has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the plantar fascia, thereby alleviating pain and discomfort.
- Zedoaryl acetate: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation in the plantar fascia, making it easier to walk and move without discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of white turmeric used to make teas for plantar fasciitis.
- Roots: The Roots are also a widely used part in teas for plantar fasciitis, as they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate pain and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic white turmeric for plantar fasciitis.
- Harvest 2-3 grams of dried curcuma zedoaria rhizome from a trusted supplier or your garden.
- Grind the rhizome into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 2 minutes.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of the powdered rhizome with 1 cup of boiling water in a teapot.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes allowing the active compounds to infuse into the water.
- Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup discarding the solids and serve.
9. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, teas helps with plantar fasciitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The tea's active compounds, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, reduce swelling and alleviate pain in the affected area. The tea's calming effects also promote relaxation and reduce muscle tension, which can contribute to plantar fasciitis.
Additionally, the tea's antioxidant properties help to reduce oxidative stress and promote healing in the affected tissue, making it a potential natural remedy for plantar fasciitis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia teas that help with plantar fasciitis.
- Linalool: A terpene that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the plantar fascia.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid with antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to the relief of plantar fasciitis symptoms.
- Cineole: A terpene that has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help ease pain and reduce inflammation in the affected area.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make teas for plantar fasciitis.
- Flowers: Used for their ant-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of plantar fasciitis.
- Leaves: Employed for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can aid in reducing pain and inflammation in the affected area.
- Stems: Utilized for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected area.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for plantar fasciitis.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers and leaves when the plant is in full bloom for the best flavor.
- Dry the harvested flowers and leaves in a single layer for 1-2 weeks to preserve their potency.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers with 1 cup of boiling water to create a strong infusion.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors and oils to fully infuse into the water.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup and serve warm or chilled as desired.
10. Mentha x piperita
Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with plantar fasciitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The menthol content in peppermint tea reduces swelling and pain in the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot. Additionally, the analgesic and antispasmodic properties of peppermint tea help to relax the muscles and reduce tension in the feet, providing relief from pain and discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis.
Regular consumption may also promote circulation and reduce inflammation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita teas that help with plantar fasciitis.
- Menthol: Menthol acts as a local anesthetic and anti-inflammatory agent, which helps to reduce pain and inflammation in the plantar fascia.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid exhibits potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the plantar fascia, alleviating pain and discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Caryophyllene: Caryophyllene has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation in the plantar fascia, providing relief from plantar fasciitis symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make teas for plantar fasciitis.
- Leaves: They are rich in essential oils, particularly menthol and menthone, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Stems: They contain a combination of menthol and menthone, similar to the leaves, which contribute to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects that benefit plantar fasciitis sufferers.
- Roots: They are often used in herbal remedies to provide a more sustained release of menthol and menthone, providing prolonged relief from pain and inflammation in plantar fasciitis patients.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for plantar fasciitis.
- Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers from a well-maintained garden.
- Chop the harvested leaves and flowers into small pieces to release their oils and flavors.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of chopped leaves and flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove solids and excess plant material.
- Serve the tea hot or iced with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to enhance flavor.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for plantar fasciitis?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with plantar fasciitis is a blend of ginger, turmeric, and willow bark.
Ginger tea reduces inflammation and soothes pain in the heel, while turmeric's curcumin content has potent anti-inflammatory properties. Willow bark tea contains salicin, a natural pain reliever that helps alleviate plantar fascia strain. Drinking these teas together can provide relief from plantar fasciitis symptoms, such as heel pain and stiffness, by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation.
Regular consumption may also aid in long-term healing.
What ailments similar to plantar fasciitis are treated with herbal teas?
Ailments similar to plantar fasciitis that are treated with herbal teas are those affecting the feet, ankles, and knees.
For instance, herbal teas such as ginger, turmeric, and arnica are used to alleviate pain and inflammation associated with tendinitis and bursitis. Other conditions like sciatica and osteoarthritis can also be soothed by drinking herbal teas containing ingredients like willow bark, devil's claw, and ginkgo biloba.
These teas work by reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and promoting relaxation.