Tendonitis Herbal Remedies

Tendinitis, sometimes mistaken for tendinosis, is a condition in which your tendons become swollen and inflamed. PubMed Health states that tendinitis may be caused by age-related losses in tendon elasticity and injuries and overuse during work or recreational activities. Treatments for tendinitis, including herbal treatments, are intended to quell the inflammation and swelling that characterize this common condition. Avoid using herbal remedies to treat your ailments before discussing the safety of herbs with your family doctor.

Tendinitis and Health

Tendinitis, though not life-threatening, can significantly affect your ability to work or perform leisure activities, which can reduce your quality of life or your ability to earn a living. Tendinitis, notes the National Health Service of the United Kingdom, causes several characteristic symptoms, including pain that becomes worse when you move the involved segment or area, swelling with heat or redness, weakness and pain in the affected tendon, and lumpy nodules that develop along the length of your affected tendon.

Useful Herbal Remedies

The University of Maryland Medical Center states that two of the most useful herbal remedies for treating tendinitis are bromelain, which is a mixture of protein-digesting enzymes, and stinging nettle. Other useful herbs for treating this condition, notes nutrition expert Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," include herbs such as boswellia and willow, which combat inflammation and inflammation-related pain. Rue is another herb that may be helpful for treating tendinitis as well as sprains and strains.

Highlighted Herb

Stinging nettle is a commonly prescribed herb for tendinitis. Balch reports that stinging nettle, or simply nettle, is used to treat inflammatory conditions, including tendinitis, arthritis, rheumatism and various kidney problems. Stinging nettle helps relieve pain and possesses expectorant action. The leaves, roots and flowers of the stinging nettle plant contain numerous medicinal ingredients that are used in herbal supplements. Stinging nettle has soft green leaves, a wiry stem and green or brown flowers.

Additional Information

Although tendinitis does not endanger your life, it can affect your livelihood and your enjoyment of life. If you develop the characteristic symptoms of tendinitis, schedule an appointment with a health care provider who specializes in musculoskeletal problems. Herbs are an important component in any tendinitis treatment plan, as they provide a safe alternative to conventional medical therapies. Some herbs may cause side effects if they are not used properly or under the care of a knowledgeable health professional.