Tendonitis is a common condition that responds well to herbal support--both for pain relief and to speed the process of healing and repair--when used in combination with rest, ice, compression and elevation, according to the website Caring Medical. A variety of herbs is available, many of which can be purchased in grocery stores and taken as foods, and some which are commonly taken in supplement form. As with any form of therapy, consult with a qualified health care practitioner to determine an appropriate course of treatment and proper dosages.
Grape Seed Extract
Grape seed extract contains antioxidant compounds that are twenty times more powerful than vitamin C and fifty times more powerful than vitamin E, helping to minimize cellular damage resulting from the inflammation associated with tendonitis, according to the website Healing Food Reference. Additionally, the University of Maryland says that anti-inflammatory properties of grape seed extract were shown to be effective at reducing swelling associated with sports related injuries. Side effects of grape seed extract are rare and include headaches, itchy scalp and bleeding disorders, which usually affect those individuals taking blood thinning medications. Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner if these symptoms appear.
Curcumin
Curcumin is the active component in turmeric, a culinary and medicinal herb, administered as a food or as a supplement in capsule form, and has long been used in traditional Indian medicine for a variety of conditions. Topping the list of uses for curcumin is its effectiveness as an anti-inflammatory, making it useful to help reduce the inflammation that is a defining characteristic associated with tendonitis. And, of particular note, it acts without the harsh side effects associated with drugs like hydrocortisone and phyenlybutisone, says the website Natural Cures Guide. Although generally well tolerated, turmeric side effects occur occasionally and include nausea and diarrhea.
Bromelain
This enzyme found in pineapples is used, in supplement form, as a natural anti-inflammatory to reduce the swelling associated with tendonitis. Bromelain dismantles the protein molecules that are part of the inflammatory response. It also encourages new cell growth and repair in tendons and enhances absorption of other substances, such as glucosamine, a precursor molecule in the production of connective tissues; bioflavonoids, plant-based antioxidants; n-acetyl cysteine, a sulfur-bearing amino acid with anti-oxidant properties; and methyl sulfonyl methane, also a natural source of sulfur that the body uses to make other molecules, according to Smart Bodyz. Drug interactions with certain antibiotics and blood thinning agents may occur with concurrent use of bromelain, cautions Emed tv. Consult your healthcare provider before adding bromelain to your routine.
Bolete Mushroom
This family of mushrooms has higher antioxidant activity than other medicinal mushrooms, according to the website Healing Mushrooms. The antioxidant effect helps to render the by-products of inflammation and tissue repair harmless to surrounding cells. Additionally, it contains the compound L-theanine, which has calming properties, an advantageous combination when healing from a traumatic tendon sprain, and it contributes neuroprotective effects that aid in the healing process, says the New Whole Foods Encyclopedia. Research on the medicinal uses of bolete mushroom is limited. Allergies and adverse reactions are possible and using this edible mushroom under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional is advisable.
Garlic
A poultice of crushed fresh garlic cloves mixed with olive oil and applied to the area of injury will relieve pain and inflammation. Garlic oil is readily absorbed through the skin or it can also be consumed orally, however, the medicinal properties are lost to cooking, so raw or supplement form is best. Possible side effects of garlic including unusual bleeding or bruising, black tarry stools or signs of stroke, such as vision changes or weakness in a limb should be reported to a physician for immediate medical attention.
Nettle
This herb, commonly taken as a food, as a tea or in capsule or tincture form, has tendon-building properties due to its high nutritional content and anti-inflammatory effect. Nettles has a high mineral content and aids in the excretion of uric acid, lessening the occurrence of arthritis that can arise following tendonitis. It has a diuretic effect that helps disperse the inflammation associated with tendonitis. Nettles is even a source of complete protein, making it useful in tissue repair, says the website AltMD. Potential side effects of stinging nettle include diarrhea, sweating and upset stomach. Discuss nettle with a qualified health professional before using it to treat your tendonitis.
References
- University of Maryland: Grape Seed
- Healing Food Reference: Grape seeds
- Natural Cures Guide: Natural Cures for Bursitis and Tendonitis
- Smart Bodyz: Bromelain (Pineapple / Enzymes) - Tendonitis Support / Benefits
- The New Whole Foods Encyclopedia - Comprehensive Resource for Healthy Eating, by Rebecca Wood
