How to Treat a Foot Sprain Using Herbs

If you have a sprain, there is a standard treatment program that the doctor usually has you follow. Once you get the injury you should visit your physician and let them look at it. They will then recommend a course of action for treating it and will also refer you to a specialist of to get some tests (like an x-ray) to make sure that nothing more serious than a sprain occurred.

Basics of Treating a Foot Sprain

Before you start using natural remedies on your sprain you definitely need to follow the doctor's advice. The standard way for treating a sprain still applies. Any natural treatments that you decide to use will be in addition to the basics which normally include icing the area and also resting it. Of course the degree of treatment which you employ will depend on how bad the sprain is.

Natural Remedies for Sprains

Once you treat your sprain using the advice your doctor gives you, then you are free to try some of these natural remedies. Here's a list of some of the best.

• Arnica - Arnica montana is a homeopathic remedy that can help heal sprains. You can take it internally and apply the gel externally. You'll likely want to do both at the same time. Note that you should only take the homeopathic remedy and not the herb. Don't apply arnica externally to broken skin.

• St. John's Wort Oil - Most of us know St. John's Wort as a remedy for mild to moderate depression. But you can also purchase an oil that is made from the fresh flowers. If you are suffering from a sprain then this oil is definitely worth a try. Apply it to the affected area once a day before bed after icing.

• Turmeric - Raid your spice cabinet and take some turmeric - or you can just eat curry. This spice is known for its anti inflammatory properties which can help reduce the swelling of your foot sprain. Take one half a teaspoon of turmeric per day.

• Ginger - Ginger is another good anti inflammatory herb. Drink the tea once a day until symptoms improve.

• Oatstraw - Oatstraw is one of those gentle herbs that can help heal broken connective tissue. Drink one or two cups per day as soon as you experience the sprain.

Be sure to talk to your doctor about your symptoms and any home remedies that you want to try. Remember that you should always take your doctors advice. However, these herbal remedies for sprains can help in addition to your normal treatment schedule.