Chronic foot pain can restrict your mobility and your ability to participate in physical activities. There are numerous causes of foot pain, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. These include medical conditions such as Parkinson's disease, diabetes, cerebral palsy and bone deformities. Ill-fitting shoes and high-impact exercise can also contribute to foot pain. Although foot pain often requires the attention of a medical specialist, certain herbs may help alleviate the symptoms of this condition. Talk to your doctor before taking herbs to address foot pain.
Cayenne Pepper
Although cayenne pepper is primarily known for its use in Indian, Jamaican and Cajun dishes, this herb may also offer healing properties. American Civil War physicians recommended using cayenne to treat pain and stiffness associated with arthritis and joint sprains. Capsaicin, the heat-producing chemical in cayenne peppers, may help block the transmission of pain signals to your brain, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The Healing Herbs." It may be particularly effective for treating diabetic foot pain, which affects more than half of diabetics. Check with your doctor before treating foot pain with cayenne. This herb may cause rashes, diarrhea and digestive upset.
Alfalfa
Alfalfa is an herb that was first used in ancient Chinese medicine to treat ulcers and digestive distress. However, this herb may also help relieve joint and foot pain, particularly for people with arthritis, according to Dr. James Balch and Mark Stengler, authors of "Prescription for Natural Cures." This herb contains chlorophyll, which may help your body rebuild bone cells and cartilage. Consult your physician if you plan to treat foot pain with alfalfa. You should not use this herb if you have a kidney disorder -- alfalfa contains canavanine, a chemical that may cause kidney inflammation.
Chaparral
Chaparral is often called "stinkweed" because of its foul-smelling odor. However, European settlers in the American Southwest prized this herb as a remedy for pain, bruising and wounds, according to Castleman. The chemical compounds in chaparral also have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce swelling and joint inflammation associated with foot pain. It may also help reduce foot and ankle stiffness caused by arthritis. Talk to your doctor before treating foot pain with chaparral. This herb may cause urinary difficulties and swelling of your lymph glands.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Foot Pain -- Causes
- "Prescription for Natural Cures"; James F. Balch, M.D. and Mark Stengler, N.D.; 2004
- "The Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 1991
