Herbal Remedy for Achilles Tendonitis

The Achilles tendon is the strongest and largest tendon in the human body, but it is susceptible to damage because of the extreme use it receives and amounts of pressure put on it routinely. Achilles tendonitis, or inflammation of the Achilles tendon, is one of the most frequent complaints of athletes. Fortunately, symptoms of inflammation can be treated with herbal remedies.

White Willow

• Drink some white willow tea. This tea is made from the bark of the willow tree, which contains a chemical called salicin. Salicin is much like aspirin and has the ability to reduce inflammation, including the inflammation of tendons. Although salicin works a bit more slowly than aspirin, lower doses generally are needed. To make the tea, boil a teaspoon or two of the bark in eight ounces of water and then simmer it for about 10 minutes. Let it steep for half an hour. Three to four cups a day may be consumed.

  If tea doesn't appeal, then you can look for capsules that have white willow salicin in powder or liquid form. Dosages can vary depending on the manufacturer, but you can be safe by not exceeding 240 mg per day.

Arnica Montana

• Rub a little Arnica montana ointment on the heel area. This ointment, made from the arnica montana plant, is an excellent salve for reducing inflammation, bruising, and swelling. It's best to use the ointment two to three times a day, so an easy way to get into a regime is to apply it just before or after breakfast, lunch or dinner. You also can apply it during the times when inflammation of the Achilles tendon seems to be worse, which may be dependent on your activities.

  Arnica montana also can be taken in pill form. A dose of 30C potency generally is recommended up to three times daily. When your tendonitis pain is worse, you may take a higher potency as long as your doctor or herbalist approves your dosage.

Rhus Tox

• Try some poison ivy (Rhus tox). Although the oil from the poison ivy plant can irritate skin, Rhus tox in pill form is safe because of how it is manufactured. It is a great remedy for Achilles tendonitis because it concentrates on the connective tissues. Take this when the tendonitis has left you feeling stiff and inflexible. A 30C potency dose is appropriate. Although it can be taken up to three times per day, Rhus tox is very potent. In some people, a single dose can be effective for up to seven days.

  Rhus tox is complimentary to arnica montana, so using these two herbs together can increase relief from your tendonitis symptoms. Rhus tox also may be used with another herb, bryonia, commonly used for strains and sprains.