Internal pain in any part of the body is caused by inflammatory response in the tissues surrounding the problem area. Ankle pain, in particular, will most likely reflect some joint damage, which is swollen and aching. Medications such as acetaminophen or aspirin are often taken to ease joint pain; however, they are foreign matter within the body and are irritating to the gastrointestinal tract, especially with repeated use. Some herbs and natural remedies are available at health food stores to assist in easing ankle pain internally.
Step 1
Take willow bark. This herb has been used for thousands of years to treat inflammation naturally. Reducing inflammation internally within the body can take pressure away from the swollen ankle. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, willow bark also has immune-boosting qualities, making it beneficial to help speed the healing process for the ankle pain to resolve completely.
Step 2
Use Arnica montana topically. This herb has been used by Native North Americans and Europeans to reduce inflammation and joint pain. Arnica is not taken internally as a supplement because it is not accepted well in the body. When used topically as an oil extract or tincture, however, this herb is effective in relieving muscle soreness and inflammation at the site of internal injury -- in this case, the ankle.
Step 3
Consume stinging nettle, also known as Urtica dioica. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the tiny hairs on the leaf of this plant reduce levels of inflammatory chemicals in the body and interfere with the natural reception of pain sensation. This herb is available in capsule form or as an extract to be applied topically. When applied directly to the skin, some irritation is likely to occur.
References
- Starwest Botanicals: Bulk Organic Herbs
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Willow Bark; Steven D. Ehrlich, N.M.D.; Dec. 23, 2008
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Arnica; Steven D. Ehrlich, N.M.D.; Aug. 25, 2008
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Stinging Nettle; Steven D. Ehrlich, N.M.D.; Feb. 3, 2009
