Bone spurs, or osteophytes, are extra bone growths that can harm muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues. Even though they're usually smooth, their location can lead to further damage if they rub against other bones or tissues. They often appear in areas like the spine, shoulders, hands, hips, knees, and feet. Many people might have them without realizing, but they can be painful if they press on surrounding structures.1, 2
Standard treatments aim to ease pain or naturally remove the bone spur. Yet, natural remedies like ginger, turmeric, apple cider vinegar, and castor oil can also alleviate symptoms and help dissolve the spurs.
Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and can be used to treat inflammation associated with bone spurs. Inflammation is one of the main symptoms associated with bone spurs. According to Dr. Weil, a standard treatment dose of two 500 mg tablets three to four times daily can provide extended relief and treatment. Ginger can be consumed as a tea or supplement. 2
Turmeric is another natural pain reliever and contains curcumin, which helps reduce inflammation and diminish pain. To most effectively treat pain associated with bone spurs, take 400-600 mg three times a day. Turmeric can be taken as a supplement or consumed in foods such as curries.
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is another effective home treatment option that naturally dissolves bone spurs and reduces inflammation.
According to our Earth Clinic readers, one cause of heel spurs is too much acid in the body, which causes calcium deposits. ACV helps rebalance the body's pH levels and naturally dissolves bone spurs. A simple tonic can be made using one tablespoon of ACV diluted in 1 glass of water. Drink the mixture twice a day for the best results.
Castor oil has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various health conditions, including bone spurs. Castor oil is derived from the castor bean plant, and its main component is ricinoleic acid. Ricinoleic acid has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help alleviate pain and inflammation associated with bone spurs.
To use castor oil for bone spurs, apply a small amount of oil to the affected area and massage it gently into the skin. You can also use a warm compress to enhance the oil's effectiveness. Soak a cloth in warm water, wring out the excess water, and apply it to the affected area. Cover the warm compress with plastic wrap or a towel to keep it in place, and leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour.
In addition to ginger, turmeric, and apple cider vinegar, other natural remedies can help relieve the pain associated with bone spurs. These remedies include:
Bone spurs can be particularly painful and can cause damage to muscles, tendons, and other soft tissue. Natural remedies, such as ginger, turmeric, and apple cider vinegar, can be used to treat symptoms and dissolve bone spurs. In addition to these remedies, massage therapy, Epsom salt baths, and proper footwear can help alleviate bone spurs' pain. It is important to seek treatment promptly if you are experiencing symptoms of bone spurs to prevent further damage and alleviate pain.
Continue reading below to learn how Earth Clinic readers used castor oil, ACV, and more to heal bone spurs. Please let the EC community know what helped you!
