By Leen Randell

Updated: Nov 13, 2024

10 Best Herbal Teas For Arthritis

Herbal teas for arthritis are natural, plant-based remedies that help alleviate the symptoms and inflammation associated with this condition.

They work by reducing pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints, providing relief and improving mobility. The best herbal teas for arthritis include Curcuma longa, Zingiber officinale, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Ginkgo biloba, Equisetum arvense, Achillea millefolium, Salix alba, Rheum palmatum, Harpagophytum procumbens, and Cinchona officinalis.

If left untreated, arthritis can severely impact daily life, making simple tasks a struggle, reducing productivity, and affecting overall well-being and quality of life.

1. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa teas helps with arthritis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The active compound, curcumin, found in this spice, has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to joint inflammation and pain. Additionally, curcumin's antioxidant properties help to reduce oxidative stress and promote healing in damaged joints.

Studies have demonstrated that regular consumption of Curcuma longa teas can alleviate symptoms of arthritis, such as joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, improving overall quality of life for those affected.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa teas that help with arthritis.

• Curcuminoids: They have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce joint inflammation and alleviate pain associated with arthritis.
• Demethoxycurcumin: This constituent has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing inflammation and relieving symptoms of arthritis.
• Bisdemethoxycurcumin: It exhibits strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which help to reduce joint inflammation, alleviate pain, and improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from arthritis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Curcuma longa used to make teas for arthritis.

• Rhyzomes: They are used because they contain high levels of curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound effective in reducing arthritis symptoms.
• Roots: They are used because they have a higher concentration of curcumin than the rhyzomes, making them a popular choice for herbal teas.
• Stems: They are used because they contain a compound called kaempferol, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate arthritis symptoms.

2. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale teas helps with arthritis because it contains compounds like gingerols and shogaols, which have potent anti-inflammatory properties.

These compounds work by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Additionally, ginger has been shown to improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness, making it easier to perform daily activities.

Its warming and soothing effects also help to relax muscles and promote overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with arthritis.

• Gingerols: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which help alleviate the discomfort and swelling associated with arthritis.
• Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, making them beneficial for reducing joint pain and inflammation in individuals with arthritis.
• 6-gingerol: This constituent has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing the severity of arthritis symptoms and promoting overall joint health.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Zingiber officinale used to make teas for arthritis.

• Rhyzomes: Used due to their high concentration of gingerols and shogaols, compounds that have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
• Roots: Utilized for their rich content of bioactive compounds, which help reduce inflammation and provide relief from arthritis pain.
• Buds: Employed for their delicate flavor and aromatic properties, which complement the warming and anti-inflammatory effects of ginger when consumed as a tea.

3. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra teas helps with arthritis because it contains anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce joint pain and swelling.

The licorice root's flavonoids, such as glabridin and glabrene, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, which contribute to arthritis symptoms.

Additionally, the tea's antioxidant properties help to protect joints from oxidative stress, promoting overall joint health and reducing inflammation, thereby alleviating arthritis symptoms and improving quality of life for those suffering from the condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with arthritis.

• Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin constituent helps with arthritis by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, thereby alleviating joint pain and swelling.
• Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds, particularly isoflavones and flavanones, help with arthritis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thus reducing joint inflammation.
• Licoricidin: This triterpenoid saponin constituent helps with arthritis by modulating the immune system, reducing inflammation, and preventing the breakdown of cartilage in the joints.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Glycyrrhiza glabra used to make teas for arthritis.

• Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are the most commonly used part, as they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that helps alleviate arthritis symptoms.
• Leaves: The leaves of the plant are also used to make teas, as they possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce joint pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.
• Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are sometimes used to make teas, as they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help soothe and calm arthritic joints.

4. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba teas helps with arthritis because it contains flavonoids and terpenoids that have anti-inflammatory properties.

These compounds help reduce swelling and ease joint pain, making it easier to move and perform daily activities. The antioxidants in ginkgo biloba also help protect joints from oxidative stress, which can contribute to arthritis. Additionally, ginkgo biloba teas may improve blood flow to the affected areas, reducing stiffness and promoting healing.

This can lead to improved mobility and reduced discomfort for individuals with arthritis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba teas that help with arthritis.

• Flavonoids: They help with arthritis by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, thus alleviating joint pain and swelling.
• Terpenoids: They help with arthritis by inhibiting pro-inflammatory mediators and reducing pain-causing chemicals in the body.
• Phenolic acids: They help with arthritis by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, as well as inhibiting the production of pain-causing chemicals in the body.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Ginkgo biloba used to make teas for arthritis.

• Leaves: Ginkgo biloba leaves are commonly used in teas for arthritis due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds are used in teas for arthritis due to their high content of bilobalide, a compound that has been shown to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Leaves: Ginkgo biloba leaves are also used in teas for arthritis due to their ability to improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation, which can help alleviate arthritic symptoms.

5. Equisetum arvense

Equisetum arvense teas helps with arthritis because it is rich in flavonoids, caffeic acid, and other bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties.

These compounds work to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the joints, providing relief from the symptoms of arthritis. The tea also contains silica, which helps to strengthen connective tissue and improve joint mobility, reducing stiffness and discomfort.

Additionally, Equisetum arvense has been traditionally used to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the body.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Equisetum arvense teas that help with arthritis.

• Flavonoids: These compounds have potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce joint pain and swelling associated with arthritis.
• Saponins: Saponins have anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties, helping to reduce inflammation and alleviate joint pain in individuals with arthritis.
• Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides in Equisetum arvense teas have been shown to have immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the immune system's response to joint inflammation and reduce arthritic symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Equisetum arvense used to make teas for arthritis.

• Roots: Used for their anti-inflammatory properties to help reduce joint pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.
• Stems: Employed for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which aid in reducing pain and inflammation in individuals with arthritis.

6. Achillea millefolium

Achillea millefolium teas helps with arthritis because it contains anti-inflammatory compounds like sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids.

These compounds help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with arthritis. The tea also has antioxidant properties, which help to protect the joints from damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, Achillea millefolium has been traditionally used to reduce stiffness and improve joint mobility, making it a popular natural remedy for managing arthritis symptoms.

This can lead to improved quality of life for those suffering from the condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium teas that help with arthritis.

• Flavonoids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain in joints associated with arthritis.
• Terpenes: Terpenes in Achillea millefolium tea possess analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, alleviating joint pain and stiffness in arthritis patients.
• Phenolic acids: These acids have been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to the relief of arthritis symptoms such as pain and swelling.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Achillea millefolium used to make teas for arthritis.

• Leaves: The leaves of Achillea millefolium are used to make teas for arthritis because they are rich in anti-inflammatory compounds.
• Flowers: The flowers of Achillea millefolium are used to make teas for arthritis because they contain flavonoids and terpenes with anti-inflammatory properties.
• Stems: The stems of Achillea millefolium are used to make teas for arthritis because they have been found to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects due to their saponin content.

7. Salix alba

Salix alba teas helps with arthritis because its anti-inflammatory properties and flavonoids work together to reduce joint pain and inflammation.

The bark of the Salix alba tree, commonly known as willow, contains salicin, a compound similar to aspirin. When consumed as a tea, salicin is released, providing relief from arthritis symptoms.

Additionally, the tea's antioxidant properties help to combat oxidative stress, which can contribute to joint damage and inflammation, making it a natural and effective remedy for arthritis sufferers.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salix alba teas that help with arthritis.

• Salicin: It helps with arthritis by acting as a natural anti-inflammatory agent, reducing pain and swelling in the joints.
• Flavonoids: They help with arthritis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to joint inflammation and damage.
• Allo-quercetin: It helps with arthritis by acting as a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the joints.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Salix alba used to make teas for arthritis.

• Leaves: They are used to make teas for arthritis due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Barks: They are used to make teas for arthritis due to their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
• Roots: They are used to make teas for arthritis due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

8. Rheum palmatum

Rheum palmatum teas helps with arthritis because it contains anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce swelling and pain in the joints.

The plant's active ingredients, such as rhein and emodin, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which contribute to arthritis symptoms. Additionally, Rheum palmatum teas may help to reduce oxidative stress and improve joint mobility, making it a potential natural remedy for alleviating arthritis symptoms and promoting overall joint health.

Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a promising herbal solution.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rheum palmatum teas that help with arthritis.

• Emodin: Emodin has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain associated with arthritis.
• Palmaroside: Palmaroside has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the joints, alleviating arthritis symptoms.
• Anthraquinone glycosides: Anthraquinone glycosides have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties that help reduce inflammation and immune system overactivity contributing to arthritis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Rheum palmatum used to make teas for arthritis.

• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their high content of anthraquinones, which have been shown to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Roots: The roots are used because they contain a compound called rhein, which has been found to have potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

9. Harpagophytum procumbens

Harpagophytum procumbens teas helps with arthritis because it is rich in harpagoside, a unique compound that reduces inflammation and relieves pain.

The tea has been traditionally used to alleviate joint pain and stiffness associated with arthritis. Studies have shown that harpagophytum procumbens extracts can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, which contribute to joint damage.

By reducing inflammation and pain, harpagophytum procumbens teas can improve joint mobility and overall quality of life for individuals suffering from arthritis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Harpagophytum procumbens teas that help with arthritis.

• Harpagoside: Acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing joint pain and swelling associated with arthritis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory compounds.
• Harpagide: Exhibits analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to alleviate pain and discomfort in arthritic joints by blocking the activity of pain-producing chemicals.
• Procumbideside: Demonstrates antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to protect joints from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation, thereby alleviating arthritis symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Harpagophytum procumbens used to make teas for arthritis.

• Roots: They contain the highest concentration of the anti-inflammatory compound harpagoside, which is responsible for the plant's therapeutic effects.
• Leaves: While not as concentrated as roots, leaves also contain harpagoside and other bioactive compounds that contribute to the plant's medicinal properties.
• (optional) stems: Stems may also be used, although their use is less documented than that of roots and leaves, and may contain some of the same bioactive compounds.

10. Cinchona officinalis

Cinchona officinalis teas helps with arthritis because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and pain in the joints.

The quinine content in the tea acts as a natural pain reliever, providing relief from arthritis symptoms. Additionally, the tea's alkaloids, such as cinchonine and quinidine, have been shown to have analgesic and anti-rheumatic effects, making it a popular herbal remedy for arthritis sufferers.

Regular consumption may also help to reduce inflammation and promote overall joint health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinchona officinalis teas that help with arthritis.

• Quinine: It helps with arthritis by acting as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing pain and inflammation associated with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
• Quinovic acid glycosides: These compounds help with arthritis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which contribute to joint inflammation and pain.
• Alkaloids: They help with arthritis by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response, thereby alleviating symptoms of arthritis such as pain and swelling.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Cinchona officinalis used to make teas for arthritis.

• Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain quinine, a compound that helps reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with arthritis.
• Barks: The barks are used because they are a rich source of quinine and other alkaloids that have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes are used because they contain quinine and other compounds that help reduce pain and inflammation in people with arthritis.