Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursae, which are small cushioning sacs, which prevent friction between the joints. Sometimes, the sacs get inflamed and there is excruciating pain when the concerned joints are moved. The pain is particularly severe in the mornings and nights with less pain during the day.
Bursitis can crop up if you have conditions like gout or any other form of arthritis and infection. It is very common among athletes and older people. It is important to treat the symptoms at the initial stage itself to prevent damage to the ligaments, tendons and muscles. Here are some home remedies that may be useful for treating the inflammatory condition.
Tips To Cure Bursitis Naturally
Ice
All kinds of inflammations respond well to ice. This is because ice can constrict blood vessels and reduce inflammation with application. Take ice cubes and fill them in an ice pack. Apply this on the affected area for at least fifteen minutes every session.
This will greatly reduce the swelling and also the pain associated with it. Once the swelling is reduced, it is important to do some simple exercises so that the condition does not recur and the joint pain does not become worse with immobility.
Warm Compress
Warm compress is another way to reduce inflammation. Most people prefer a warm compress as compared to a cold compress due to the warmth generated in the body.
Use a hot water bag for applying heat on the inflamed sacs. Alternatively, boil water and use a washcloth for soaking in hot water and applying on the joint. Continue for fifteen minutes and repeat as often as needed.
Chamomile Tea/Oil
Chamomile is an anti-inflammatory agent that can help in treating bursitis. Chamomile tea taken 3-4 times a day will naturally reduce the inflammation by acting internally.
For external relief, chamomile oil can be mixed with olive oil and used for gently massaging the inflamed area. Massaging will increase blood circulation and also absorption of the chamomile oil into the skin and this will reduce the inflammation within a few hours of application.
Honey And Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar helps in treating the inflammation and honey keeps the joints and the surrounding area well moisturized so that the friction is greatly reduced.
Mix one tablespoon of honey along with 1-2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar and add 12 ounces of water to this. Take this in the morning to prevent as well as treat bursitis and the pain. Along with this, complete rest for the affected joint is advised until the symptoms subside.
Castor Oil
Castor oil is an excellent pain relieving and anti-inflammatory oil that is used to treat a wide range of problems and pains. For removing the inflammation, take some castor oil and warm it. This will help in better absorption into the skin. Apply and massage for a few minutes to aid in the absorption process.
Cover with a gauze or cotton cloth after applying a thick coat and place plastic wrap over it. You can now use a heating pad over it for half an hour. This is known to greatly reduce the pain and inflammation as castor oil removes the toxins and inflammation out. Continue twice a day.
Potatoes
Though potatoes are known to worsen the symptoms of bursitis when added in the diet, sometimes, they are known to offer relief as well. Take a potato and grate it. This can be soaked in a cup of drinking water and left overnight. In the morning, you can drink this water in an empty stomach.
Potatoes are known to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve the swelling in the joint. Potatoes can be used as a poultice as it can retain heat for a long time. Boil potatoes and crush them slightly before spreading on a gauze. Cover the affected area with this gauze and tie with a plastic wrap to retain the heat. This will help in reducing the pain and inflammation of bursitis.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is used extensively for massaging on the skin and also as a moisturizing agent that can keep the joints and surrounding area well oiled. Warm olive oil and massage on the skin for ten minutes every day. This will keep the joints supple and prevent pain and inflammation due to friction. Olive oil massage can be done twice every day to prevent flare-ups and control the pain.
Ginger
Ginger has many medicinal properties and can be used for multiple problems affecting the body. It is an excellent anti inflammatory agent, pain reliever, and also a mild anti bacterial and immune booster. Ginger oil is good for massaging on the affected area every day.
This will help in increasing the blood circulation to the area and also in reducing the swelling and pain. Ginger can also be taken internally. Take a ten gram stalk every day or make a tea by grating the pieces and adding to one cup of boiling water. Steep and drink with a teaspoon of honey twice a day.
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper is known to relieve pain by causing nerve irritation. It is also an anti-inflammatory agent that can reduce swelling caused due to bursitis. Take one teaspoon of cayenne pepper and add one cup of apple cider vinegar to this.
Boil for fifteen minutes under a low flame. This can be used for application on the affected site. Use a cotton towel for soaking in the water and apply on the inflamed sacs after wringing it dry. A teaspoon of cayenne pepper can be taken internally as well along with your food or with a glass of warm water for internal action.
Sesame Oil
Sesame oil is good for massaging on the inflammation and this will reduce swelling and pain. It is also an anti spasmodic and helps in treating the radiating pain associated with bursitis. Take sesame oil and warm it. Apply on the joint and massage for ten minutes. Repeat as often as needed.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.