Is Eucalyptus Oil Good For Tendon Pain?

Tendon pain may be caused by traumatic injuries, although most tendon pain is associated with overuse injuries that cause tendon inflammation or degeneration, or tendinopathies. Approximately 7 percent of all injury-related doctor visits in the United States each year are caused by overuse injuries, such as tendinopathies, reports the American Academy of Family Physicians. To better understand the role of eucalyptus oil in treating your tendon pain, speak with your primary care provider.

Tendon Problems

Numerous musculoskeletal problems may be associated with tendon problems. According to MayoClinic.com, jumper's knee, swimmer's shoulder, golfer's elbow and tennis elbow are common tendon-related health problems. Common signs and symptoms associated with tendon problems include pain, swelling, tenderness, redness, and warmth in or around your affected tendon. Tendon-related pain and stiffness may get worse during activity, at night or upon waking in the morning, and it may be focal or diffuse. In most cases, conservative care methods may be helpful in treating your tendon problems.

Herb Information

Eucalyptus is type of evergreen tree that is indigenous to Australia. Eucalyptus trees range in height from 100 to 180 feet. Although there are numerous types of eucalyptus, the type most commonly used for medicinal purposes is known as the Australian fever tree, or blue gum. The bark, leaves and essential oil contain numerous important plant chemicals, including quercetin, gallic acid and ferulic acid. When used medicinally, eucalyptus should only be used externally.

Herb Uses

Eucalyptus has historically been used in treating numerous health problems. According to Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," eucalyptus oil may be particularly helpful in treating sore muscles and tendons. This medicinal substance, when applied topically, may also stimulate blood flow to swollen and inflamed areas. Eucalyptus oil has also been used as a decongestant and mild antiseptic. Inhaling the vapor from several drops of eucalyptus oil may help break up mucus.

Disclaimer

In most cases, tendon problems are caused by injuries and not by a serious underlying health problem. Tendon problems, however, should always be managed by a qualified health care practitioner, such as a medical doctor, chiropractic physician, physical therapist or naturopathic physician. Before using eucalyptus oil in treating your tendon pain, meet with your family physician to discuss the risks, benefits, potential side effects and limitations of this natural healing approach. Not all herbal remedies may be right for you or your condition.