A bunion refers to a large bump that shows up at the base of the big toe, in particular on the joint where your big toe and foot meet. Sometimes it may also form on the joint of the little toe, and such is referred to as a “bunionette”.
Other than making your big toe look deformed, a bunion can also cause a great deal of pain which can come and go away, or persist. The skin on the affected area may look swollen and red. It is also very much possible for calluses and even corns to form where the big toe and second toe overlap.
Experts do not really know the exact cause of bunions, but they believe that it’s something that can be inherited as well as linked to foot injuries and congenital defects.
They add that women are way more at risk of developing bunions than men. Why? Experts think that it’s due to the wearing of narrow or high-heeled shoes. However, opinions are divided — some say that it can be a root cause, while others claim that it’s just a contributing factor.
Here’s a really bad thing about bunions: they are progressive, which means that they can get worse with the passing of time. Also, the only way to get rid of them is by means of surgery. As for the pain and inflammation, orally-taken medications as well as cortisone injections are available.
Many different home remedies for the unfavorable symptoms of bunions are available. They include:
- Ice. Place some ice cubes in a small towel and gather the ends to secure them in place. Apply on your bunion for 5 to 10 minutes. You can do this 3 times a day or as needed to attain relief from pain.
- Turmeric. Add a few drops of water to a teaspoon of turmeric, and apply the resulting paste on the bunion. Do this up to 3 times per day. Similarly, you may dissolve a teaspoon of turmeric in a glass of warm milk, which you should take before bedtime to attain much-needed relief.
- Chamomile. Other than turmeric and milk, you may also consume a cup of chamomile tea at night. If you have chamomile essential oil, add a few drops of it to a little carrier oil and massage regularly on your bunion.
- Epsom salt. Fill a small basin halfway with lukewarm water. Dissolve 1/4 cup of Epsom salt in it. Soak your foot in it for several minutes, or until the water is no longer lukewarm. Pat dry with a towel afterwards, and massage a little warmed coconut oil or olive oil on the bunion.
- Aspirin. Similarly, you may crush 2 to 3 aspirin tablets and dissolve it in a basin of lukewarm water. Repeat the instructions above. However, do avoid this home remedy for bunions if you are allergic to aspirin.
- Calendula. Do you have calendula in your garden? Then grab a few of its leaves, wash thoroughly with water, and then pound them. Apply the juice on your bunion. Do this up to 3 times a day. Also, you may get your hands on calendula ointment from your local herbal store or pharmacy.
