10 Best Herbal Teas For Knee Swelling

Herbal teas can be a natural and soothing option for reducing knee swelling by incorporating anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

Certain herbs such as turmeric, ginger, and willow bark are commonly used in herbal teas due to their ability to reduce inflammation and ease joint discomfort. These teas work by promoting circulation and reducing oxidative stress in the affected area, which can help alleviate swelling and stiffness. To prepare these teas, simply steep the dried herbs in hot water for several minutes, and consume them warm, either on their own or with a bit of honey for added comfort.

While herbal teas can complement traditional treatments, they should not replace medical advice, and it's always best to consult a healthcare professional before using them for persistent knee issues.

1. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties.

When prepared as a tea, it may help reduce knee swelling by promoting the elimination of toxins and reducing inflammation in the joints. The tea is typically made by steeping fresh or dried leaves in hot water, and it is often consumed several times a day for best results. Some studies suggest that the compounds in stinging nettle, such as flavonoids and antioxidants, may support joint health and alleviate symptoms of arthritis.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using stinging nettle tea, especially if you are on medication or have existing health conditions.

2. Salvia (Salvia officinalis)

Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties, making it a popular choice in herbal teas for knee swelling.

The active compounds in sage, such as rosmarinic acid and flavonoids, help reduce inflammation and pain associated with conditions like arthritis. Drinking sage tea may improve circulation and support joint health by promoting the body’s natural healing processes. While it is generally safe, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using sage for medicinal purposes, especially if you are on medication.

Overall, sage herbal tea can be a beneficial complementary therapy for managing knee swelling and related discomfort.

3. Common grape (Vitis vinifera)

Vitis vinifera, commonly known as the grapevine, is the source of various herbal teas that have been traditionally used for their anti-inflammatory properties.

These teas, often made from the leaves or seeds of the grapevine, contain compounds such as resveratrol and flavonoids, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. Some studies suggest that regular consumption of Vitis vinifera herbal tea could potentially alleviate symptoms of knee swelling by supporting joint health and reducing inflammatory markers. While more research is needed to confirm its efficacy, many people use this herbal tea as a natural remedy for mild joint discomfort.

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using Vitis vinifera tea, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications.

4. Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, is a herbal remedy often used in teas to support joint health and reduce inflammation.

The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help alleviate knee swelling. When consumed as a herbal tea, curcuma longa can be combined with other ingredients like black pepper or ginger to enhance absorption and effectiveness. Regular consumption of turmeric tea may help reduce pain and improve mobility in individuals with knee inflammation.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using turmeric tea as a treatment, especially for those with existing medical conditions or taking medications.

5. Field horsetail (Equisetum arvense)

Equisetum arvense, commonly known as field horsetail, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential remedy for knee swelling.

The plant contains high levels of silica, which may support tissue repair and reduce inflammation in joints. When brewed into a tea, equisetum arvense can help alleviate pain and stiffness associated with conditions like arthritis or overuse injuries. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using this herb, as it may interact with certain medications or have side effects in some individuals.

While preliminary research suggests possible benefits, more studies are needed to fully understand its effectiveness and safety for treating knee swelling.

6. Dog rose (Rosa canina)

Rosa canina, also known as rose hip, is a traditional herbal remedy often used to support joint health and reduce inflammation.

Rosa canina herbal teas are made from the dried fruits of the rose plant and are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and anti-inflammatory compounds. These teas may help alleviate knee swelling by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the joints. Regular consumption of rosa canina tea is believed to support overall joint function and may complement other treatments for conditions like arthritis.

However, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using it as a therapeutic remedy, especially for chronic or severe knee swelling.

7. Thistle (Silybum marianum)

Silybum marianum, also known as milk thistle, is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used for its potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

While it is commonly recognized for its liver-protective benefits, some studies suggest that silybum marianum may also help reduce inflammation and swelling in the knees, particularly in individuals with conditions like arthritis. The active compound, silymarin, is believed to inhibit inflammatory pathways and support tissue repair, which could aid in alleviating knee swelling. Herbal teas made from silybum marianum can be a natural complement to other treatments for knee pain and inflammation, though they should not replace professional medical advice.

As with any herbal supplement, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications.

8. Blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus)

Cnicus benedictus, commonly known as blessed thistle, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties.

When brewed into a tea, it may help reduce knee swelling by promoting the drainage of excess fluids and supporting the body's natural inflammatory response. This herb is believed to contain compounds that may inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines, thus alleviating joint discomfort. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using blessed thistle, especially for individuals with existing health conditions or those taking medications.

While some anecdotal evidence suggests its effectiveness, more scientific research is needed to fully understand its role in managing knee swelling.

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

Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's wort, is traditionally used in herbal teas to support overall health, though its primary use is for mild depression.

While it is not specifically known for reducing knee swelling, some studies suggest that its anti-inflammatory properties may provide mild relief for joint discomfort. When consumed as a tea, hypericum perforatum is often combined with other herbs like ginger or turmeric to enhance its potential anti-inflammatory effects. However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using it, especially if you are on medications, due to its potential interactions.

Despite its traditional use, it should not replace medical treatment for significant knee swelling or inflammation.

10. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it a popular ingredient in herbal teas aimed at reducing knee swelling.

The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, help to decrease inflammation and improve blood circulation, which can alleviate joint discomfort. Drinking ginger tea regularly may support the body's natural healing processes and reduce the risk of chronic knee issues. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using ginger tea, especially for individuals with existing medical conditions or those taking medications.

While ginger tea can be a beneficial complementary remedy, it should not replace professional medical treatment for severe or persistent knee swelling.