/
/
/
How to Dissolve Bone Spurs Naturally: Ayurvedic and Holistic Approach
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7
Connect with Ayurvedic doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
Published on 05/28/25
(Updated on 07/30/25)
205

How to Dissolve Bone Spurs Naturally: Ayurvedic and Holistic Approach

Written by
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
Government Ayurvedic College, Nagpur University (2011)
I am Dr Anurag Sharma, done with BAMS and also PGDHCM from IMS BHU, which honestly shaped a lot of how I approach things now in clinic. Working as a physician and also as an anorectal surgeon, I’ve got around 2 to 3 years of solid experience—tho like, every day still teaches me something new. I mainly focus on anorectal care (like piles, fissure, fistula stuff), plus I work with chronic pain cases too. Pain management is something I feel really invested in—seeing someone walk in barely managing and then leave with actual relief, that hits different. I’m not really the fancy talk type, but I try to keep my patients super informed, not just hand out meds n move on. Each case needs a bit of thinking—some need Ksharasutra or minor para surgical stuff, while others are just lifestyle tweaks and herbal meds. I like mixing the Ayurved principles with modern insights when I can, coz both sides got value really. It’s like—knowing when to go gentle and when to be precise. Right now I’m working hard on getting even better with surgical skills, but also want to help people get to me before surgery's the only option. Had few complicated cases where patience n consistency paid off—no shortcuts but yeah, worth it. The whole point for me is to actually listen first, like proper listen. People talk about symptoms but also say what they feel—and that helps in understanding more than any lab report sometimes. I just want to stay grounded in my work, and keep growing while doing what I can to make someone's pain bit less every day.
Preview image

Ever had that weird, sharp pain around a joint that just won’t go away? Like something is stabbing you every time you move? I felt that in my heel for months before a doctor casually said, “Ah, sounds like a bone spur.” And I thought, Wait, bone what? Bone spurs—also called osteophytes—aren’t rare. But the way they show up, the way they linger, and the way conventional medicine often rushes to offer surgery or steroids… well, it made me wonder if there was another path. Something slower, gentler. More in tune. That’s how I stumbled into the world of natural remedies for bone spurs—and yes, there are actual ways to heal bone spurs naturally.

In this article, we’ll walk through how to dissolve bone spurs naturally using time-tested Ayurvedic and holistic approaches. We’ll talk about herbs, diet, weird body stuff (hello, ama), and what you can do when your joints feel like they’re grinding gravel. Whether you're just curious or desperate for relief, there's something here for you.

yurvedic remedy for bone spurs

What Are Bone Spurs in Ayurveda

In the modern world, we usually define bone spurs as extra bony growths that form on the edges of bones, especially near joints. But in Ayurveda, things are rarely that mechanical. Everything is about balance—of energies, digestion, and even tissue memory. Bone spurs, from this lens, are seen as a sign of long-standing Vata imbalance, mixed with accumulated ama—a sort of toxic residue left behind by poor digestion and sluggish metabolic fire (agni).

Vata governs movement, space, dryness—so when it gets too high or disturbed, it can start drying out the joints, making them brittle, creaky, and susceptible to these strange bony formations. It’s like your body is trying to “patch” the instability with extra growth, which ends up causing even more friction. The goal, then, isn't just to scrape or dissolve the spur—it’s to calm the storm inside your tissues.

Causes of Bone Spur Formation

Understanding why these things form is key. And sure, we could go textbook here—but I’d rather talk like we’re sitting over tea.

Excessive Joint Wear, Tension, and Poor Lubrication

This one’s obvious, right? You wear down the cartilage, the body compensates by laying down new bone. Overuse, poor posture, years of standing or lifting—these stressors dry out the joint space, disrupt synovial fluid production, and boom: spur city. Not to mention the sheer tension modern life adds—sitting too long, moving too little. You don’t need to be an athlete to wreck your knees or back.

Role of Improper Diet, Digestion, and Ama Accumulation

Now this one’s sneakier. You might eat “healthy,” but if your digestion is weak, even good food turns into ama. Ayurveda is brutal about this—what you can’t digest becomes toxic, full stop. Ama clogs channels, weakens tissues, and in joints, it creates stiffness and the kind of inner environment where bone spurs can quietly grow. Spicy foods, cold dairy, eating late at night—all of it adds up. The more your digestion struggles, the more your bones pay the price later.

how to dissolve bone spurs naturally

How to Get Rid of Bone Spurs Naturally

Okay, let’s get to the juicy part: how to get rid of bone spurs naturally. No surgery, no injections, no mystery pills with 19 syllables. Just real, grounded steps. Now, I won’t promise miracles overnight—but I will say this: with patience, the right tools, and a willingness to listen to your body (and maybe argue with it a little), healing bone spurs naturally is possible.

It’s not about fighting the spur itself, really—it’s about shifting the entire ecosystem of your joints so the body has no reason to keep creating those sharp little invaders. Think of it less like a war, more like rewiring a relationship.

Ayurvedic Remedies: Herbs, Formulas, and Oils

This stuff is ancient, yes. But not outdated.

Ashwagandha, for starters—it’s not just for stress. It's known to nourish bones and reduce inflammation. Think of it as a Vata-soother, perfect for reversing the dryness and brittleness that invites bone spurs in the first place.

Guggulu is another MVP. It’s in almost every classical Ayurvedic formula for bone and joint issues—especially Yograj Guggulu or Simhanada Guggulu. These formulas help detox the joints and break down ama, which is huge if your bone spur is fed by chronic inflammation.

Castor oil is weird but effective. Warm it up and use it as a massage oil. It’s deeply penetrating and often used to soften hardened tissue over time. Bonus: it helps you sleep better too.

And if you're really going for it? Panchakarma. The Ayurvedic detox and rejuvenation therapy. It's not something you DIY on a weekend, but if you can get to a good practitioner, it’s transformative.

Natural Treatments: Diet, Hydration, and Movement

Here’s a truth bomb: you can’t out-supplement a crappy diet. Healing from the inside means eating in a way that reduces inflammation, supports digestion, and nourishes your bones.

Cut back on processed foods, especially anything fried, overly salty, or sugar-loaded. They’re ama-factories.

Instead, lean into anti-inflammatory staples—turmeric, ginger, warm soups, lightly spiced lentils, ghee (yes, actual ghee—it’s joint lube in food form). Stay hydrated, but skip the icy drinks. Ayurveda’s not a fan of cold water—it weakens digestion, which is the opposite of what we’re going for here.

And movement? It matters more than you think. Not intense cardio or punishing workouts. Just gentle, consistent motion: walking, tai chi, light yoga. Joints need movement like plants need sunlight.

Holistic and Lifestyle-Based Support for Joint Healing

Okay, this might sound a little woo-woo—but your bones have memory. They respond to your environment, your habits, your mindset, even.

Sleep matters. So does your stress load. Chronic anxiety, overthinking, rushing—these spike Vata, drying out your system and leaving you more vulnerable to things like bone spurs. Try grounding practices. Oil massage before bed, warm baths, even journaling. It’s not fluff. It’s part of the whole.

Also: posture. It sounds boring, but poor alignment creates stress points. Fix how you stand, how you sit, how you sleep—and you're actually helping your body correct the patterns that caused the spur in the first place.

Conclusion

So—can you heal bone spurs naturally? Honestly? Yes, you probably can. But here’s the rub: it’s not just about popping a pill (natural or not) and waiting for your body to do its thing. It takes a shift. A mindset tweak. A sort of quiet agreement between you and your joints that you're willing to move differently, eat differently, be a little different.

I get it—when you’re in pain, patience feels like a luxury. But natural remedies for bone spurs aren't about speed. They're about depth. They aim to change the conditions that allowed the spur to form in the first place. Whether it’s bringing down inflammation with turmeric and guggulu, rebuilding tissues with nourishing foods, or simply committing to 10 minutes of stretching in the morning… it all adds up.

And here's something people rarely say out loud: you might not completely dissolve your bone spur. But if you can stop it from growing, reduce the pain, and move freely again—that's healing. That's winning.

I’ve seen people do it. I’ve done parts of it myself. It’s real. It’s possible. And it’s deeply human.

FAQs

What vitamin dissolves bone spurs?
While no vitamin literally “dissolves” bone spurs overnight, vitamin K2, vitamin D3, and magnesium can help guide calcium away from soft tissues and into bones where it belongs. That may help reduce abnormal calcium buildup over time. Think of them as long-game allies, not magic bullets.

Does apple cider vinegar dissolve bone spurs?
There’s anecdotal evidence that apple cider vinegar—especially in warm water with a bit of honey—can reduce inflammation and help break down mineral deposits. But... it’s not a miracle cure. Maybe use it alongside other natural treatments for bone spurs, but don’t expect it to singlehandedly do the job.

Is it good to rub a bone spur?
Yes—and no. If you're using gentle pressure, especially with warm oils like castor or sesame, it can help reduce stiffness and improve circulation around the joint. But aggressive rubbing or massage directly on the spur? Not a great idea. It can worsen inflammation. Listen to your body—it’ll tell you when it’s too much.

 

This article is checked by the current qualified Dr Sujal Patil and can be considered a reliable source of information for users of the site.

Rate the article
Got any more questions?

Ask Ayurvedic doctor a question and get a consultation online on the problem of your concern in a free or paid mode.

More than 2,000 experienced doctors work and wait for your questions on our site and help users to solve their health problems every day.

Questions from users
How can I incorporate these Ayurvedic remedies into my daily routine for joint health?
Lily
58 days ago
Start small by adding warm oil massages with castor or sesame before bed, even a few times a week. Eating foods that balance Vata like warm soups and spices such as turmeric and ginger can help too. Try short, daily stretches or yoga for gentle movement. Tweaking your diet and keeping stress low are helpful, too - even little things like reducing cold drinks add up. Hope this helps!
What are some effective grounding practices I can try to alleviate body tension?
Grayson
44 days ago
For grounding practices to ease tension, try some gentle yoga poses like child's pose or legs-up-the-wall. Breathing exercises, like alternate nostril breathing, is also great. Even a short walk in nature can help. Try grounding foods too, like root veggies, to balance vata. Avoid icy drinks, keep warm, you know? Give it a try!
What are some effective grounding practices for managing chronic anxiety and pain?
Levi
39 days ago
Grounding practices can really help manage anxiety and chronic pain. Try connecting with nature: walking barefoot on grass or soil is great. Meditations or even just deep breathing can calm the body and mind. Focus on strengthening your agni with warm, grounding foods too. Little by little, these simple acts help balance your dosha.
What are some grounding practices I can try for joint pain beyond massage or oils?
Gabriella
34 days ago
For joint pain, yoga or tai chi can be really grounding. They help improve posture and reduce tension, which can ease joint pain. Also, focusing on a diet that reduces inflammation, like including more fresh veggies and whole grains, can help. Warm baths with Epsom salt may also soothe your joints! Keeping stress low through meditation or gentle breathing exercises might also be beneficial.
What are some good food sources of vitamin K2 and D3 to help with bone health?
Hannah
29 days ago
For vitamin K2, think about adding natto, a Japanese fermented soybean dish, or cheeses like gouda and brie to your diet. For vitamin D3, good sources include fatty fish like salmon or sardines, or egg yolks. Sunlight is great for D3 too! 🤗 Balance your diet and consider your dosha, ensuring foods in your meals are well-suited to your individual constitution! 🌞
What are some specific stretches I can do to help with joint pain?
Mateo
24 days ago
For joint pain, try gentle stretches that focus on flexibility. Think cat-cow stretch for your spine and hips, or reaching up overhead to loosen shoulders. Even a simple seated forward bend can help. Always listen to your body's signals, though, and go slow! Try incorporating deep breaths and focus on relaxation too. Stay consistent and patient, that's the key.
What exactly is Panchakarma and how can it help with inflammation?
Noah
19 days ago
Panchakarma is an Ayurvedic detox process aimed at balancing your doshas and reducing imbalances like inflammation. It uses therapies like massage, herbal oils, and cleansing techniques. It might help with inflammation by clearing toxins (ama), boosting agni (digestion), and restoring balance. Best to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner to tailor it to your needs though!
What are some specific foods I should eat to help reduce Vata imbalance and inflammation?
Charlotte
14 days ago
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
12 days ago
To balance Vata and curb inflammation, focus on warm, cooked meals like soups and stews with grounding veggies like sweet potatoes and carrots. Try ghee and spices like turmeric and ginger to aid digestion. Warm grains like rice or quinoa can help too. Sip herbal teas, keep it cozy for that Vata! Avoid raw foods & cold drinks, they can aggravate Vata.
What are some specific Ayurvedic remedies I can try for relieving pain from bone spurs?
Scarlett
9 days ago
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
7 days ago
For bone spurs, think about warmth and nourishment. Massaging the area with warm sesame or castor oil can help reduce stiffness and boost circulation. Consider Yograj Guggulu or Simhanada Guggulu, which are great for bones and joint health. Be gentle with exercise, yoga is good! Posture matters too. And don't forget to focus on diet. Eating anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric can help over time!
What are some practical ways to incorporate Guggulu into my daily routine for bone health?
Violet
4 days ago
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
2 days ago
You could take Guggulu as a supplement, but try working it into your diet through teas or in cooking. If you wanna amp up the effect for bone health, consider combining it with Ashwagandha or turmeric. Always important to listen to your body w/ these remedies, tho. Some warm milk blended with Guggulu might also do the trick for ya! Just keep it balanced with your diet.
Related articles
Orthopedic Disorders
Effective Tennis Elbow Treatment in Ayurveda: Natural Remedies and Tips
Explore effective Ayurvedic treatments for tennis elbow, including herbal remedies, lifestyle practices, dosage guidelines, and scientific evidence supporting natural healing.
613
Orthopedic Disorders
Varunadi Ghrita – Ayurvedic Ghee for Joint Health, Detoxification & Rejuvenation
Discover the benefits of Varunadi Ghrita, an Ayurvedic ghee formulation used to promote joint health, detoxify the body, and rejuvenate the mind and body through traditional healing methods.
704
Orthopedic Disorders
Vatagajankusha Rasa: Ayurvedic Insights and Modern Evidence
Explore Vatagajankusha Rasa in-depth—its Ayurvedic roots, modern studies, benefits, precautions, and usage. Gain scientific insight and expert perspectives.
618
Orthopedic Disorders
Pippalyadi Taila – Ayurvedic Oil Benefits, Uses & Applications
Discover Pippalyadi Taila, an Ayurvedic herbal oil. Learn about its traditional uses, benefits for digestion, pain relief, and overall wellness, along with dosage guidelines and precautions.
629
Orthopedic Disorders
Amrita Guggulu Uses – Ayurvedic Benefits, Applications & Dosage
Explore the uses and benefits of Amrita Guggulu, an Ayurvedic formulation known for its anti-inflammatory and rejuvenating properties. Learn how it supports joint health, detoxification, and overall well-being.
633
Orthopedic Disorders
Asthi Shrinkhala – Ayurvedic Remedy for Bone Strength & Joint Health
Learn about Asthi Shrinkhala, an Ayurvedic formulation known for promoting bone health, improving joint strength, and preventing bone-related disorders.
654
Orthopedic Disorders
Kukkutnakhi Guggul: Ayurvedic Arthritis & Joint Pain Relief
Discover Kukkutnakhi Guggul, an Ayurvedic remedy for arthritis and joint pain. Learn its benefits, usage guidelines, dosage, and scientific insights for effective pain management.
567
Orthopedic Disorders
Migroset Tablet: Ayurvedic Relief for Migraine and Chronic Headaches
Learn about Migroset Tablet’s benefits, proper dosage, side effects, and scientific research. Discover how this medication supports bone health and prevents osteoporosis.
633
Orthopedic Disorders
Chandanbala Lakshadi Tel: Cooling Ayurvedic Oil for Skin and Mind
Chandanbala Lakshadi Tel, an Ayurvedic herbal oil. Learn about its traditional uses, therapeutic benefits, dosage guidelines, and how it promotes balance, skin health, and overall wellness.
580
Orthopedic Disorders
Pushpa Dhanwa Ras: Ayurvedic Joint Health Remedy for Arthritis
Discover the benefits, proper dosage, uses, and scientific research behind Pushpa Dhanwa Ras, a powerful Ayurvedic formulation for joint health.
672

Related questions on the topic