By Leen Randell

Updated: Nov 13, 2024

10 Best Herbal Teas For Osteoarthritis

Herbal teas for osteoarthritis are a natural remedy that helps alleviate the symptoms of this chronic condition by reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and improving joint mobility.

The best herbal teas for osteoarthritis include Curcuma longa, Zingiber officinale, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Equisetum arvense, Rheum palmatum, Ginkgo biloba, Achillea millefolium, Vaccinium myrtillus, Cinchona officinalis, and Boswellia serrata.

If left untreated, osteoarthritis can severely limit daily activities, causing chronic pain, stiffness, and limited mobility, ultimately affecting one's quality of life, independence, and overall well-being.

1. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa teas helps with osteoarthritis because they contain curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound that reduces joint pain and inflammation.

Curcumin blocks the production of enzymes that cause inflammation, thereby slowing down the progression of osteoarthritis. Additionally, curcumin has antioxidant properties that help protect joints from oxidative stress and damage. By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, Curcuma longa teas can improve joint function, reduce pain, and enhance overall mobility in individuals with osteoarthritis.

This natural remedy promotes a healthier and more active lifestyle.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Curcumin: It helps with osteoarthritis by reducing inflammation and pain, as well as inhibiting the production of inflammatory enzymes and cytokines that contribute to joint damage.
• Demethoxycurcumin: It helps with osteoarthritis by acting as a potent antioxidant, reducing oxidative stress, and preventing the progression of joint degeneration.
• Bisdemethoxycurcumin: It helps with osteoarthritis by inhibiting the activity of enzymes involved in the breakdown of cartilage, thereby slowing down joint degeneration and alleviating pain and inflammation.

Parts Used

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

• Rhyzomes: Curcuma longa rhyzomes are used to make teas for osteoarthritis because they contain a high concentration of curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound.
• Roots: Curcuma longa roots are used to make teas for osteoarthritis due to their rich content of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Leaves: Curcuma longa leaves are used to make teas for osteoarthritis because they contain bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties, which can help alleviate symptoms.

2. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale teas helps with osteoarthritis because it contains compounds that reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger, a key component of Zingiber officinale, target the root cause of osteoarthritis - inflammation in the joints. By reducing inflammation, ginger tea helps to alleviate joint pain and stiffness. Additionally, ginger's antioxidant properties help to protect the joints from further damage, promoting overall joint health and well-being.

Regular consumption of Zingiber officinale teas may also improve mobility and reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: These phenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
• Shogaols: These gingerols-derived compounds have potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects that help alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis, such as pain and stiffness.
• Zingerone: This ginger-derived compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to the management of osteoarthritis symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Rhyzomes: They are rich in compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms.
• Roots: The roots of ginger contain gingerols and shogaols, which are responsible for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, making it effective for osteoarthritis treatment.
• Buds: Ginger buds contain a higher concentration of active compounds like gingerol and shogaol, making them a popular choice for teas aimed at reducing osteoarthritis pain and inflammation.

3. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra teas helps with osteoarthritis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce joint pain and swelling.

The licorice root extract in the tea has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thus alleviating discomfort and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis. Additionally, the tea's antioxidant properties help to protect joint tissues from oxidative damage, promoting overall joint health and mobility.

Regular consumption of Glycyrrhiza glabra tea may also improve joint function and overall quality of life for individuals with osteoarthritis.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Glycyrrhizin: Helps with osteoarthritis by reducing inflammation and pain due to its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
• Isoflavones: Contributes to osteoarthritis management by inhibiting the production of inflammatory mediators and promoting collagen synthesis.
• Flavonoids: Plays a role in osteoarthritis relief by scavenging free radicals, reducing oxidative stress, and modulating the immune response.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are widely used due to their high content of glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms.
• Leaves: The leaves of the plant are also used to make teas that help reduce inflammation and joint pain associated with osteoarthritis due to their flavonoid and saponin content.
• Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make teas that are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce pain and inflammation in people with osteoarthritis.

4. Equisetum arvense

Equisetum arvense teas helps with osteoarthritis because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to reduce joint pain and swelling.

The tea's active compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, which contribute to osteoarthritis. Additionally, Equisetum arvense is rich in antioxidants, which help to protect joints from oxidative damage and promote healing.

Studies have demonstrated that drinking Equisetum arvense tea regularly can improve joint mobility and reduce pain in individuals with osteoarthritis.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Sesquiterpenes: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
• Furanosesquiterpenes: These compounds have been shown to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to relieve pain and stiffness in osteoarthritis patients.
• Alkaloids: These compounds have been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in osteoarthritis, leading to improved symptoms and joint function.

Parts Used

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

• Rhyzomes: They are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help in reducing pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
• Stems: They are used for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in relieving pain and inflammation in joints.
• Roots: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help in reducing inflammation and promoting joint health.

5. Rheum palmatum

Rheum palmatum teas helps with osteoarthritis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce joint pain and swelling.

The tea's active compounds, such as rhein and emodin, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby alleviating symptoms associated with osteoarthritis. Additionally, Rheum palmatum's antioxidant properties help protect joint tissues from oxidative damage, promoting overall joint health and function.

Its natural anti-inflammatory action makes it a promising complementary therapy for managing osteoarthritis symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rhein: Acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing joint inflammation and pain associated with osteoarthritis.
• Palmitic acid: Exhibits anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping to alleviate pain and stiffness in joints affected by osteoarthritis.
• Emodin: Displays anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce joint inflammation and oxidative stress associated with osteoarthritis.

Parts Used

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

• Rhyzomes: They are used to make teas due to their high concentration of anthraquinones, which have anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for osteoarthritis.
• Roots: The roots are used to make teas due to their content of anthraquinones and other compounds that help reduce inflammation and pain associated with osteoarthritis.
• Leaves: The leaves are used to make teas due to their flavonoids and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms.

6. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba teas helps with osteoarthritis because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which reduce joint pain and inflammation.

The tea's flavonoids and terpenoids work together to improve blood flow to the affected joints, promoting healing and reducing stiffness. Additionally, ginkgo biloba tea's ability to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes helps to alleviate joint pain and discomfort.

This natural remedy can help alleviate symptoms associated with osteoarthritis, making it a popular choice for those seeking a non-pharmacological approach to managing the condition.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Bilobalide: This terpene helps with osteoarthritis by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow to the affected joints, thereby alleviating pain and discomfort.
• Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect the joints from oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby reducing symptoms of osteoarthritis.
• Ginkgolides: These diterpenes inhibit platelet-activating factor (PAF), a compound that promotes inflammation and blood clotting, thereby reducing joint inflammation and pain in osteoarthritis.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms.
• Seeds: Ginkgo seeds contain ginkgolic acids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
• (optional) barks: The bark of the Ginkgo biloba tree may also be used, but it's less commonly used compared to leaves and seeds. It contains flavonoids and terpenoids that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms.

7. Achillea millefolium

Achillea millefolium teas helps with osteoarthritis because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce joint pain and swelling.

The tea's flavonoids and phenolic acids work together to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, alleviating discomfort and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis. Additionally, Achillea millefolium contains saponins, which have been shown to promote collagen synthesis and protect cartilage, further contributing to its potential benefits in managing osteoarthritis symptoms.

Regular consumption may lead to improved joint health and mobility.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These compounds help with osteoarthritis by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the joints, thereby alleviating pain and improving joint function.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Achillea millefolium help with osteoarthritis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to joint inflammation and damage.
• Essential oils: Essential oils in Achillea millefolium help with osteoarthritis by acting as anti-inflammatory agents, reducing pain and inflammation in the joints, and promoting relaxation and reduced muscle tension.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves are used to make teas for osteoarthritis because they contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce joint pain and inflammation.
• Flowers: The flowers are used to make teas for osteoarthritis because they have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate symptoms of joint pain and inflammation.
• Roots: The roots are used to make teas for osteoarthritis because they contain compounds that help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the joints.

8. Vaccinium myrtillus

Vaccinium myrtillus teas helps with osteoarthritis because it contains compounds such as anthocyanins and flavonoids, which have potent anti-inflammatory properties.

These antioxidants help reduce joint inflammation and oxidative stress, alleviating the symptoms of osteoarthritis. The tea's ability to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes also contributes to its therapeutic effects.

Additionally, Vaccinium myrtillus has been shown to promote joint health by reducing cartilage degradation and improving joint function, making it a promising natural remedy for osteoarthritis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium myrtillus teas that help with osteoarthritis.

• Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the joints, alleviating symptoms of osteoarthritis.
• Quercetin: A flavonoid with potent anti-inflammatory properties, quercetin helps reduce joint pain and inflammation, while also promoting cartilage health and regeneration.
• Delphinidin: A type of anthocyanin, delphinidin has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, reducing joint inflammation and pain associated with osteoarthritis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Vaccinium myrtillus used to make teas for osteoarthritis.

• Leaves: They are used due to their high content of anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms.
• Fruits: They are used because of their rich source of antioxidants and flavonoids, which can help reduce inflammation and promote joint health.
• Buds: They are used due to their high concentration of anthocyanins and other bioactive compounds, which may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.

9. Cinchona officinalis

Cinchona officinalis teas helps with osteoarthritis because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce joint pain and swelling.

The tea contains quinine, a compound that has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby reducing inflammation in the joints. Additionally, Cinchona officinalis tea contains flavonoids and alkaloids, which have antioxidant properties that help protect joints from oxidative stress and promote healing.

This makes Cinchona officinalis tea a potentially effective natural remedy for managing osteoarthritis symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Quinovic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and pain associated with osteoarthritis.
• Quinoline alkaloids: They have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in joints affected by osteoarthritis.
• Tannins: These polyphenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help protect the joints from oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby reducing the severity of osteoarthritis symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They contain quinine, which is often used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with osteoarthritis.
• Barks: The bark of Cinchona officinalis contains quinine and other alkaloids that help in reducing pain and inflammation in osteoarthritis patients.
• Seeds: Cinchona seeds are also a source of quinine and other alkaloids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory properties used in osteoarthritis treatments.

10. Boswellia serrata

Boswellia serrata teas helps with osteoarthritis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

The active compounds in Boswellia, specifically boswellic acids, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to joint pain and inflammation. By reducing inflammation and pain, Boswellia serrata teas can help improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness, providing relief for individuals with osteoarthritis.

Additionally, Boswellia has been found to promote cartilage regeneration, further supporting its potential in managing osteoarthritis symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata teas that help with osteoarthritis.

• Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid: It helps reduce inflammation and pain associated with osteoarthritis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Β-boswellic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce joint inflammation and alleviate pain in osteoarthritis patients.
• Triterpenoids: They have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, leading to reduced pain and inflammation in osteoarthritis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Boswellia serrata used to make teas for osteoarthritis.

• Roots: The roots are the primary part used to make Boswellia serrata teas due to their high concentration of boswellic acids, which are believed to reduce inflammation and alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms.
• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are also used to make teas, as they contain similar boswellic acids as the roots, providing anti-inflammatory properties to help manage osteoarthritis pain and inflammation.
• Barks: The barks are occasionally used in teas due to their lower concentration of boswellic acids compared to roots and rhyzomes, but still offer some anti-inflammatory benefits for osteoarthritis relief.