10 Best Herbal Baths For Frozen Shoulder

Herbal baths can be a soothing and therapeutic addition to the management of frozen shoulder, offering natural relief through the use of calming and anti-inflammatory herbs.

Commonly used herbs such as lavender, eucalyptus, and chamomile are known for their ability to relax muscles and reduce pain, making them ideal for inclusion in bath water. Soaking in an herbal bath for 15 to 20 minutes can help increase blood circulation to the affected area, promoting healing and easing stiffness. This practice can also help reduce stress, which is often associated with chronic pain conditions like frozen shoulder.

While herbal baths are not a substitute for medical treatment, they can complement other therapies and provide a holistic approach to managing symptoms.

1. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, has been traditionally used in herbal baths for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of frozen shoulder.

When infused into warm water, the plant's compounds can soothe muscle tension and reduce joint stiffness, promoting relaxation and improved mobility. The bath's soothing warmth enhances the absorption of the herb's active components, potentially reducing pain and inflammation in the affected shoulder. Regular use of stinging nettle herbal baths may complement other treatments, offering a natural approach to managing frozen shoulder discomfort.

However, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating this remedy into a treatment plan.

2. Salvia (Salvia officinalis)

Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, has been traditionally used in herbal baths for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which may offer relief for individuals suffering from frozen shoulder.

When infused into warm water, sage can help relax tense muscles and reduce stiffness associated with this condition. The essential oils in sage, such as thujone and camphor, are believed to enhance circulation and ease joint discomfort. Regular use of sage herbal baths may complement other treatments, such as physical therapy, by promoting overall muscle relaxation and reducing inflammation.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating sage baths into a treatment plan, especially for those with sensitive skin or existing health conditions.

3. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a fragrant herb that has been traditionally used for its therapeutic properties, including its potential benefits for musculoskeletal conditions like frozen shoulder.

When incorporated into herbal baths, rosemary can help improve circulation and reduce inflammation, which are key factors in alleviating the stiffness and pain associated with frozen shoulder. The essential oils from rosemary, when diluted and added to warm water, can promote muscle relaxation and enhance joint mobility through its stimulating and warming effects. Regular use of rosemary herbal baths may support the overall recovery process by encouraging relaxation and reducing stress, which can exacerbate shoulder discomfort.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating any herbal treatments into a treatment plan for frozen shoulder.

4. St. john's wort (Hypericum perforatum)

Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's wort, has been traditionally used in herbal baths to alleviate symptoms of frozen shoulder due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

When infused into warm water, the oil from the dried plant can help soothe muscle tension and reduce pain associated with the condition. These baths are believed to improve circulation and promote relaxation, which may aid in the recovery process. To prepare the bath, a few tablespoons of the dried herb are steeped in boiling water for several hours, then strained and added to warm bath water.

While herbal baths can provide symptomatic relief, they should be used in conjunction with other treatments and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

5. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Achillea millefolium, commonly known as yarrow, has been traditionally used in herbal remedies for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it a potential candidate for use in herbal baths for frozen shoulder.

When infused into warm water, yarrow can help soothe muscle tension and reduce inflammation around the shoulder joint, which is a common symptom of frozen shoulder. A warm yarrow bath can promote relaxation of the affected muscles and improve blood circulation, aiding in the recovery process. To prepare the bath, a handful of dried yarrow herb is steeped in boiling water for several hours, then strained and added to warm bathwater.

While herbal baths may provide symptomatic relief, they should be used in conjunction with other treatments recommended by a healthcare professional for optimal results.

6. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is a potent herb often used in herbal baths to alleviate symptoms of frozen shoulder.

The cooling and soothing properties of peppermint essential oil can help reduce inflammation and muscle stiffness associated with this condition. When added to warm bath water, peppermint oil promotes relaxation and enhances blood circulation, which may aid in the recovery process. Regular use of a peppermint herbal bath can provide relief from pain and improve the range of motion in the affected shoulder.

However, it is important to dilute the essential oil properly and consult a healthcare professional before incorporating it into a treatment regimen.

7. Field horsetail (Equisetum arvense)

Equisetum arvense, commonly known as field horsetail, has been traditionally used in herbal baths for its high silica content, which is believed to support joint health and reduce inflammation.

When used in a warm bath, the compounds in equisetum arvense may help to alleviate the stiffness and pain associated with frozen shoulder by promoting circulation and reducing muscle tension. The astringent properties of horsetail may also help to tighten tissues and provide a soothing effect on the affected area. However, it is important to use the herb in properly prepared form, such as a decoction, to avoid skin irritation.

While some individuals report relief from using equisetum arvense baths, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating it into a treatment regimen for frozen shoulder.

8. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, has been traditionally used for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular choice for herbal baths.

When infused into warm water, lavender essential oil or dried lavender flowers can help soothe the muscles and reduce stiffness associated with frozen shoulder. The aromatic compounds in lavender promote relaxation, which may aid in easing the tension and pain that often accompany this condition. Regular use of lavender-infused baths can also improve circulation and support the body's natural healing process.

Combining lavender baths with gentle stretching exercises may offer a holistic approach to managing frozen shoulder symptoms.

9. Cancer bush (Sutherlandia frutescens)

Sutherlandia frutescens, also known as "cancer weed," is traditionally used in African herbal medicine and has gained attention for its potential therapeutic properties.

While it is not a direct treatment for frozen shoulder, some practitioners suggest using Sutherlandia frutescens herbal baths to support overall joint health and reduce inflammation. These baths may help alleviate discomfort and stiffness associated with frozen shoulder by promoting relaxation and improving circulation. The plant contains compounds such as alkaloids and flavonoids, which may have anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using Sutherlandia frutescens, as its safety and efficacy for this specific condition require further scientific validation.

10. Common mallow (Symphytum officinale)

Symphytum officinale, commonly known as comfrey, has been traditionally used in herbal baths to support the healing of musculoskeletal conditions, including frozen shoulder.

When prepared as a topical infusion, comfrey can help reduce inflammation and promote tissue repair, making it a beneficial addition to a holistic treatment plan. To create a therapeutic bath, a small amount of comfrey root is simmered in water, then strained and added to warm bath water for soaking. However, it is important to note that comfrey should not be used internally due to potential toxicity, but its external application in baths is generally considered safe when used sparingly.

Regular use of comfrey herbal baths may help alleviate stiffness and improve mobility in individuals with frozen shoulder, though it should complement, not replace, professional medical advice.