Bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa which are little sac-like pads of fluid that rest between connecting bones, tendons and muscles in the major joints. They act as a protective cushion for the tissues of the joint against friction and other damage. There are about 150 bursae in the body and some may even form naturally in response to the unique pressures placed on an individuals use of their body.

Bursitis is more common in the shoulder (frozen shoulder), hip, elbow (tennis elbow), heel, toe, thumb and knee (housemaids knee) joints. It occurs in response to overuse or excessive pressure on a joint whereby the repeated pressure on the bursa causes an inflammatory response. It can also result from a build up of crystals within the joint as in gout, rheumatism or arthritis or from an infection. The swollen bursa then causes pain and pressure as it pushes against the tissues of the joints and restricts its movement.

Herbal and natural treatments require resting of the affected joint, finding the underlying cause, cleansing the joint tissues, reducing the inflammation and pain and increasing circulation to the joint.

Cayenne powder is excellent when added to any poultice mix, tea or tincture for its ability to dramatically increase the circulation to and from the joints. You will feel heat in the area within minutes. If it feels too hot then remove the poultice and clean the skin with cool water. Re-apply using less cayenne next time.

The herb pleurisy root (Asclepias tuberosa) is almost a specific remedy for bursitis, capable of restoring lubricated joint movement to even old and stubborn cases. One cup of tea daily using a teaspoon of the root per cup or 2-5 ml of tincture daily should be used until the problem is resolved.

Drink up to 3 cups daily of nettle tea to cleanse the joints and provide valuable nutrients.

Make a formula from the following tinctures, white willow, black cohosh, celery seed, meadowsweet, devils claw, wild yam and prickly ash. Use 25ml of each and 5ml of prickly ash, mix together and take a teaspoonful in a little water 3 times a day.

Fresh or dried comfrey leaf can be applied to the joints daily as a poultice.

Turmeric powder has a good reputation as an anti-inflammatory so add a teaspoon to poultices or a good pinch to each tea or tincture dose.

Make a strong tea of st johns wort and soak a cloth in the hot liquid. Apply to the joint area and keep warm with a hot water bottle.