Best Herbs for Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common conditions affecting the heel of the foot. Pain arises from the inflammation of the plantar fascia, which originates at the heel and spans the length of the foot as far as the toes. The role of the plantar fascia is to support the arch of the foot when placed under weight. Risk factors for developing plantar fasciitis include age, obesity, altered foot mechanics, and high activity levels on hard surfaces.

Can You Use Herbs to Relieve Pain From Plantar Fasciitis?

There are various herbs that can be used to relieve plantar fasciitis pain due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, including the following:

• Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Known as a natural anti-inflammatory, ginger aids in reducing inflammation in the plantar fascia and can be easily consumed in a balanced diet.
• Turmeric (Curcuma longa) root Known to aid in reducing pain and inflammation in the body. Turmeric can be consumed as per your preference.
• Cumin
• Horsetail (Equisetum Telmatela) Has been used as a natural anti-inflammatory extensively in ancient cultures and still provides benefits today.
• Mint Easily consumed in a diet in the form of tea or consuming the leaves themselves, mint has shown anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. 

Be sure to read the product instructions to best understand how to safely and correctly dose, or consult with a Dietician or nutrition specialist for more information.

Can Plantar Fasciitis Be Treated Fully With Herbs?

It would be unlikely that plantar fasciitis can be fully treated using only herbs, but it may show better results when used in conjunction with other natural remedies. Reducing the inflammation in the foot will lead to the greatest decrease in symptoms. By identifying the activities and foods that may cause inflammation in combination with the below natural treatments for plantar fasciitis, your associated symptoms can be managed well and may allow you to complete your daily tasks pain-free.

Other Natural Remedies for Treating Plantar Fasciitis

• Stretches Stretching the toes and forefoot backward will stretch the plantar fascia and can aid in reducing tension placed on the fascia. 
• Ice Icing the painful area will aid in reducing inflammation and pain symptoms. This can be applied after physical activity or in the instance of onset pain. 
• Rest Resting will reduce the physical requirements of the plantar fascia, allowing the inflammation and pain to subside.
• Orthotics Supportive orthotics designed for plantar fasciitis have shock-absorbing qualities, thus reducing the amount of force placed through the heel when walking or running. Orthotics distribute the weight through the entirety of the foot, reducing high-pressure areas that may lead to pain or discomfort. 
• Massage Massaging or rolling of the plantar fascia can help relieve symptoms of pain and inflammation, as well as relax your body and aid your sleep, thus giving you the best chance to heal as fast as possible.