Athletes often suffer from various “strain and sprain” injuries. Instead of relying on pharmaceutical remedies, which can be costly and have side effects, they can opt for natural treatments to manage these injuries. Here are some effective natural remedies:
**Arnica**
Arnica, a genus with about 30 different species of flowering plants, has been used in medicine for centuries. It’s particularly effective for treating strains, sprains, and bruises—common issues for athletes. Clinical trials also show that Arnica helps in the early stages of osteoarthritis and reduces post-surgery swelling. Arnica is easily available in ointments and liniments. The name “arnica” might come from the Greek word for lamb, “arna,” because the leaves are soft and furry.
**Bryonia**
Bryonia, derived from wild hops, is often recommended alongside Arnica to reduce swelling. It’s great for injuries that hurt when you move the affected area. If the pain is worse when the swollen area is still, consider using rhus or ruta instead.
**Rhus**
Rhus, also known as sumac, comes from a small subtropical shrub. The oil from rhus is used to treat stiffness in ligaments and tendons around joints. This plant grows in subtropical and temperate regions, like Africa and North America.
**Ruta**
Ruta, sourced from the evergreen shrub Rue found in the Balkan region, is effective for conditions like tennis elbow and other repetitive strain injuries. It’s especially helpful for injuries that feel worse in cold weather.
**Buchu**
Buchu, celebrated for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, is native to the Western Cape of South Africa. The plant has a pleasant smell and small white to pink flowers. Its oil is effective for treating the sprains and strains that athletes commonly experience.
**Epsom Salts**
Epsom salts, a natural form of magnesium sulfate, can be used both externally and internally. They have been used as a saline laxative, osmotic purgative, and bronchodilator. More commonly, Epsom salts are added to bath water to soothe sore muscles.
**Hypericum**
Hypericum, a genus that includes about 400 flowering plants like St. John’s Wort, has long been used to treat acute pain, such as that from injuries to the coccyx or spine.
**Vinegar**
In Singapore, health practitioners suggest adding about two cups of vinegar to a bath to help alleviate pain from post-match stiffness and aches.
**Symphytum**
Symphytum, known as comfrey or “knitbone,” is a blue-flowering plant in the Boraginaceae family. Traditionally used to treat bone fractures, modern studies confirm that its essential oils help speed up the healing of broken bones.