Ankle sprain is a very common ailment and it can be mild or very serious, in which case long-term joint pain can thwart one’s ability to walk for a lifetime. It happens when one makes a rapid shifting movement with one foot planted on the ground (such as when playing football) and ends up stretching or tearing a ligament.
The symptoms of ankle sprain include pain at site of the tear following by swelling and bruising. More the pain, more is the severity of the sprain. Along with rest, ice-treatment and other physical exercises, herbs are very useful in treating ankle sprains. Some of them are discussed as follows:
Herbal Remedies For Ankle Sprain
Almond Oil
Massaging with almond oil, often used in combination with peppermint oil, is helpful in strengthening the weak and damaged tissues of the sprained area.
Being a rich source of Vitamin E that helps in regenerating tissue and repairing wounds, almond oil is highly recommended by massage therapists. The massage should be done twice a day or just apply almond ail to the painful area and then wrap it with a thick cloth for three hours.
Nirgundi
The leaves of Nirgundi plant have analgesic properties and are very effective in curing inflammatory swellings of joints from sprains, rheumatism and contusions.
Nirgundi is available in both capsule and oil form. Taking one capsule twice a day or massaging with nirgundi oil after four to five hour intervals every day coupled with fomentation (to open up the pores for better absorption), is sure to yield quick results.
Karanja
While the oil and residue of Karanja plant is toxic, its fruits, sprouts and seeds can be used in many traditional remedies, especially the leaves, which in conjunction with nirgundi leaves are useful in treating sprains.
Make an application using both type of leaves at home and wrap them in a cotton cloth so as to make a ball and then boil it in hot water. Apply this to sprained area till the ball cools down for about thirty minutes.
Garlic
Garlic has widespread use in herbal/ayurvedic treatment to cure a variety of illnesses. Garlic’s anti-inflammatory properties make it effective in curing arthritis, rheumatism and other muscle disorders, but only when turned into paste or salve.
Separate the sprouts from garlic and put them in buttermilk and leave overnight. Rinse off with water before making a paste out of them. The intake of this paste orally every morning will do wonders.
Arnica
Arnica has been used medicinally for centuries. Ointments and liniments made from arnica are used to cure sprains, swellings and bruises. Arnica contains sesquiterpene lactones that are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
It is most effective in cream form and is available in most medicines and whole food stores. Apply the cream to affected area as directed by the physician If you use it in oil form, make sure it is macerated because its pure form is poisonous.
The above mentioned herbal solutions can provide great relief if you are suffering from ankle sprains, provided the proper dose is taken.
Caution: Please use 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.
