Bone spurs -- bony projections that develop in your spine, heels or elsewhere within your body -- may be caused by several factors, including certain diseases, aging, spinal instability and degenerative processes within your body. In many cases, notes MayoClinic.com, bone spurs do not cause any signs or symptoms and are only revealed in X-rays taken to evaluate another health problem. Herbs may be helpful in preventing bone spurs or reducing their symptoms. However, always ask your doctor about the risks and limitations of herbs before using them.
Background
Bone spurs, commonly called osteophytes by physicians and other health care professionals, are most common in your spine and occur when your spinal disk material begins to degenerate. According to Spine-Health.com, disk degeneration causes certain ligaments in your spine to loosen and thicken over time to help hold your vertebrae, or spinal bones, together. These ligaments, which cover your facet joints -- the joints at the back of your spine that allow you to bend forward and backward -- may calcify and become bone spurs. Osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of bone spurs.
Helpful Herbs
Some of the most effective herbs in treating your bone spur-related symptoms or preventing bone spurs include devil's claw, devil's club, turmeric, bromelain, chamomile, arnica, angelica, feverfew, juniper, nettle, cat's claw and prickly ash. These herbs, notes expert herbalist Ed Smith, author of "Therapeutic Herb Manual," are commonly used in treating arthritis, including osteoarthritis -- one of the leading causes of bone spurs. These herbs are known for their ability to reduce pain and inflammation. Not all herbs used in treating your bone spurs may be backed by extensive clinical research trials.
A Commonly Used Herb
Turmeric may be one of the most commonly used herbs in treating bone spur-related symptoms and osteoarthritis. Turmeric, notes Dr. William A. Mitchell Jr., author of "Plant Medicine in Practice," is a member of the ginger family and has historically been used in treating numerous inflammatory conditions. This herb is particularly well-known for its ability to treat inflammation associated with autoimmune problems, joint inflammation, muscle pain and nerve pain. Curcumin, the principal active constituent in this herb, is responsible for this herb's pain-relieving effects.
Considerations
Bone spurs, though not always problematic, may be bothersome and cause pain and nerve irritation in some individuals. If you suffer from back or heel pain -- the two most common locations for bone spurs -- visit your doctor to be properly examined and diagnosed. Your doctor can counsel you on the most beneficial therapies -- both conventional and alternative -- to help treat your bone spurs or reduce your likelihood of developing these bony growths. Review all relevant herb-related topics with your doctor before using these powerful natural substances for this health purpose.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Bone Spurs
- Spine-Health.com: Osteophytes
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual"; Ed Smith; 2007
- "Plant Medicine in Practice"; William A. Mitchell Jr., N.D.; 2003
