Achilles tendinitis occurs when the Achilles tendon becomes injured or inflamed. The Achilles tendon runs down the back of the calf and attaches the calf muscles to the heel bone. According to the Mayo Clinic, Achilles tendinitis typically results from overuse, intense exercise or other activities that strain the tendon. Traditional treatments include resting the tendon, taking pain medication and the use of orthotic devices. Several herbal remedies for Achilles tendinitis also exist that may help speed healing and relieve pain naturally.
Willow Bark
Willow bark works similarly to aspirin and may help relieve pain. In his book "Healing without Medicine," Robert Rister recommends using willow bark as a natural alternative to aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve the pain caused by Achilles tendinitis. Take 500 mg of a standardized extract up to three times per day, or make a willow bark tea. Steep 2 to 3 tsp. of the dried bark in 1 cup boiling water for 15 minutes, then strain. Drink up to three cups per day as needed. Do not consume willow bark if you're allergic to aspirin.
Capsaicin
Rister also recommends the use of capsaicin cream as an external treatment for Achilles tendinitis. When applied to the tendon daily, the cream may help reduce inflammation and pain and expedite healing. Purchase an over-the-counter capsaicin cream or make your own at home. Combine 2 tbsp. habanero chili powder with 2 cups canola oil. Heat on low heat for 2 hours, stirring every 15 minutes. Remove from heat, add 1 ½ oz. beeswax and stir until completely melted. Strain through a piece of cheesecloth into a glass storage jar. Store in a cool, dark place. To use, massage directly into the affected tendon.
Turmeric
Used medicinally for its powerful anti-inflammatory effects, turmeric may also help relieve the pain and inflammation caused by Achilles tendinitis. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking 300 mg of a standardized turmeric extract up to three times per day for relief from inflammatory pain. Individuals taking blood-thinning medications should consult a physician before taking a turmeric supplement, as the herb may increase the risk of bleeding.
Licorice
Although there is no scientific evidence for its efficacy, licorice may help reduce inflammation caused by Achilles tendinitis. According to Integrative Medicine Communications in the book "Quick Access Patient Information on Conditions, Herbs & Supplements," drinking up to 3 cups of licorice tea per day may provide relief from symptoms of Achilles tendinitis. To make licorice tea, steep 1 tsp. licorice root pieces in 1 cup boiling water for 15 minutes, then strain and drink immediately. Do not consume licorice if you have high blood pressure.
Other Herbs
A few other anti-inflammatory herbs may benefit sufferers of Achilles tendinitis, though no scientific evidence exists to prove their efficacy for this condition. Try taking 30 mg of cat's claw three times per day, 200 mg of devil's claw twice per day or 400 mg of boswellia three times per day to eliminate pain and inflammation. Use standardized extracts for best results. Always consult a qualified physician before taking any new herbal supplement, as side effects or drug interactions may occur.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Achilles Tendinitis
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Tendinitis
- "Healing Without Medication," Robert Rister; 2003
- "Quick access patient information on conditions, herbs & supplements"; Integrative Medicine Communications; 2000
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