Home Remedies for Bursitis

Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa, which is a lubricating fluid-filled sac positioned between tendons, skin, muscles and bones. The bursa is responsible for decreasing irritation, friction and rubbing between tissues.

The inflammation associated with bursitis is not always easy to identify, as it can be caused by a variety of different factors, including:

• Arthritis (including gout)
• Infection
• Repetitive impact or injury

Symptoms of bursitis are:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Stiffness
• Redness

Natural cures for bursitis work best when combined with plenty of rest to give the bursa time to recover. A diet that is high in magnesium, vitamin B12 and calcium should also be consumed during and after a bursitis cure.

The following is a list of home remedies for bursitis:

• Apply ice to the area to reduce swelling and pain

• Alternate hot and cold compressions for strong relief

• Apply honey and apple cider vinegar mixed with water to inflamed area for soothing comfort

• Emu oil contains linolenic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties to help in bursitis relief

• Massage the area with castor oil

• Elevate the affected joint to reduce swelling

• Ginger (can be taken orally or used as a poultice)
• Lobelia
• Mullein tea
• Comfrey
• Chaparral
• Alfalfa

With Mullein tea, as well as with tea made from comfrey, chaparral and alfalfa, sufferers often find relief by soaking a cloth in the tea and applying it to the inflamed area.

Preventative measures can be of help in preventing bursitis in the first place. These measures include strengthening limbs, bone and muscles through exercise, healthy diet, and making sure to properly stretch and warm up before beginning demanding physical activities.

In using home remedies for bursitis, a person can experience relief from this painful condition without the use of harmful drugs and without risk of side effects. Natural cures and home remedies are safe, effective and have been trusted for centuries to treat a variety of ailments and their symptoms.

Although home remedies for bursitis are safe and effective, anyone who is under a doctor's care for bursitis or any another condition, is advised to discuss herbal treatment plans with their doctor before beginning, as some herbs may not interact well with certain prescription medications.