By Leen Randell
Updated: Nov 13, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Rheumatoid Arthritis
Herbal teas for rheumatoid arthritis are plant-based infusions that help alleviate symptoms and manage the condition by reducing inflammation, improving joint mobility, and promoting relaxation.
The best herbal teas for rheumatoid arthritis include Curcuma longa, Zingiber officinale, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Achillea millefolium, Camellia sinensis, Urtica dioica, Rheum palmatum, Equisetum arvense, Cinchona officinalis, and Ginkgo biloba.
If left untreated, rheumatoid arthritis can lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, and fatigue, severely impacting daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.
1. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa teas helps with rheumatoid arthritis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce joint inflammation and pain.
The active compound curcumin has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thus alleviating symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, curcuma longa teas have antioxidant properties that help protect the joints from oxidative damage.
Studies have also found that curcumin can reduce the severity of joint damage and improve overall quality of life for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa teas that help with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Curcumin: It helps with rheumatoid arthritis by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which in turn reduces joint pain and swelling.
- Demethoxycurcumin: It helps with rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing inflammation and joint damage.
- Bisdemethoxycurcumin: It helps with rheumatoid arthritis by reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, which in turn reduces joint pain and inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Curcuma longa used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Rhyzomes: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of curcumin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: The roots contain a high amount of curcuminoids, which are responsible for the anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects in rheumatoid arthritis treatment.
- Leaves: The leaves of Curcuma longa also contain curcuminoids, although in smaller amounts than the rhyzomes and roots, making them a secondary option for tea preparation.
2. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale teas helps with rheumatoid arthritis because it contains compounds that have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active component, gingerol, inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, reducing joint pain and swelling. Additionally, ginger has been shown to improve circulation and reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to the progression of rheumatoid arthritis.
By reducing inflammation and promoting overall health, Zingiber officinale teas may help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Gingerols: These compounds help reduce inflammation and pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
- Shogaols: Shogaols have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate joint pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis by reducing oxidative stress and modulating immune responses.
- Curcuminoids: These compounds have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation, pain, and oxidative stress associated with rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Zingiber officinale used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Rhyzomes: They contain compounds that reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to ease symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
- Leaves: Although less commonly used than the rhyzomes or roots, some teas may include ginger leaves to take advantage of their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
3. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra teas helps with rheumatoid arthritis because of its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties.
The licorice root tea contains compounds like glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, which have been shown to reduce joint inflammation and pain in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. By inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, Glycyrrhiza glabra tea may help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life for those suffering from this condition.
Additionally, it has been found to possess antioxidant properties, further contributing to its potential therapeutic benefits.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce joint inflammation and pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help protect joints from oxidative damage and reduce inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis.
- Licoricidin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which can help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation in joints affected by rheumatoid arthritis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Glycyrrhiza glabra used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their high glycyrrhizin content, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate joint pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their flavonoid and saponin content, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce joint pain and inflammation.
- Roots (again, due to its high concentration of glycyrrhizin) - however i would replace this with flowers: The flowers are used for their flavonoid and saponin content, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce joint pain and inflammation.
4. Achillea millefolium
Achillea millefolium teas helps with rheumatoid arthritis because it contains anti-inflammatory compounds such as sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids, which help reduce joint inflammation and pain.
The tea's antioxidant properties also help protect the joints from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of Achillea millefolium may help reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are associated with the development and progression of rheumatoid arthritis, providing relief from symptoms.
This natural remedy may also promote relaxation and reduce stress.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium teas that help with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Cichoriin: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help mitigate the progression of rheumatoid arthritis and reduce joint damage.
- Luteolin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which help regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in the body, alleviating symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Achillea millefolium used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Flowers: Used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
- Roots: Used for their anti-inflammatory and anti-rheumatic properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
5. Camellia sinensis
Camellia sinensis teas helps with rheumatoid arthritis because they contain powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce joint inflammation and alleviate pain.
The high levels of antioxidants, particularly catechins and theaflavins, help to neutralize free radicals that contribute to tissue damage and inflammation. Additionally, Camellia sinensis teas have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which exacerbate rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
This leads to improved joint mobility, reduced stiffness, and enhanced overall quality of life for those suffering from the condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis teas that help with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Catechins: These polyphenolic compounds help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Theaflavins: These flavonoid compounds have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate joint pain and inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis.
- Quercetin: As a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, quercetin helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the joints, providing relief from rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Camellia sinensis used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Leaves: Leaves are the most widely used part of Camellia sinensis for teas due to their high content of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Stems: Stems are used in traditional Chinese medicine to make teas that help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
- Roots: Roots of Camellia sinensis are used in some herbal teas to reduce pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis, due to their rich content of bioactive compounds.
6. Urtica dioica
Urtica dioica teas helps with rheumatoid arthritis because it contains compounds such as histamine and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
These compounds help to reduce swelling and pain in the joints by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals. The tea also contains antioxidants that help to protect cells from damage, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
By reducing inflammation and promoting healing, Urtica dioica teas may help to alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, providing relief from pain and improving quality of life.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica teas that help with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and swelling associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Phenolic acids: They possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help protect joints from damage and alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
- Saponins: These compounds have been shown to have immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation and slow down disease progression in rheumatoid arthritis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Urtica dioica used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Leaves: Rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like flavonoids and phenolic acids, which help alleviate rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
- Stems: Contain bioactive compounds like quercetin and isorhapontigenin, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Roots: Used for their high content of triterpenoid saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects.
7. Rheum palmatum
Rheum palmatum teas helps with rheumatoid arthritis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The plant's unique compounds, such as emodin and rhein, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, thereby reducing joint inflammation and pain. Additionally, Rheum palmatum's antioxidant properties help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, promoting overall joint health.
By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, Rheum palmatum teas can provide relief from the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, improving quality of life for those affected.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rheum palmatum teas that help with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Flavonoids: They help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Saponins: They reduce inflammation and pain by suppressing the activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines and inhibiting the production of inflammatory mediators.
- Anthraquinones: They have anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties, which help reduce joint inflammation and slow down the progression of rheumatoid arthritis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Rheum palmatum used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their high content of anthraquinones, which are known to have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have been shown to have potential therapeutic effects on inflammation and pain.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes are used as they contain high amounts of rhein and emodin, which are compounds that have been found to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
8. Equisetum arvense
Equisetum arvense teas helps with rheumatoid arthritis because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe joint pain and swelling.
The tea's rich antioxidant content helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, alleviating symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, Equisetum arvense contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation in the joints, improving mobility and flexibility.
Studies have shown that regular consumption of Equisetum arvense tea can lead to significant improvements in symptoms, making it a popular natural remedy for managing rheumatoid arthritis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Equisetum arvense teas that help with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Silicic acid: Helps reduce inflammation and slows down joint degeneration by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
- Furanosesquiterpenoids: Exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by suppressing the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, leading to reduced inflammation and joint pain.
- Phenolic acids: Demonstrates antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, thereby alleviating symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Equisetum arvense used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Roots: They are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids that have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Stems: They contain silica, which helps reduce inflammation and improve joint mobility.
- Leaves: They have been traditionally used to treat various inflammatory conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
9. Cinchona officinalis
Cinchona officinalis teas helps with rheumatoid arthritis because its active compound, quinine, has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce joint pain and swelling.
The tea's alkaloids, such as cinchonine and quinidine, also exhibit potent antioxidant effects, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. Additionally, Cinchona officinalis has been found to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which contribute to the development of rheumatoid arthritis.
This makes Cinchona officinalis tea a potential natural remedy for managing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinchona officinalis teas that help with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Quinine: Quinine helps with rheumatoid arthritis by reducing inflammation and relieving pain due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Quinidine: Quinidine helps with rheumatoid arthritis by modulating the immune system and reducing inflammation, thereby alleviating symptoms of the condition.
- Quinovic acid glycoside: Quinovic acid glycoside helps with rheumatoid arthritis by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help in reducing joint inflammation and pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Cinchona officinalis used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Leaves: The leaves of Cinchona officinalis are primarily used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis because they are rich in quinine, a natural anti-inflammatory compound.
- Barks: The barks of Cinchona officinalis are also used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis due to their high concentration of quinine and other alkaloids that help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Fruits: Although less commonly mentioned, the fruits of Cinchona officinalis are occasionally used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis as they contain alkaloids that may provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
10. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba teas helps with rheumatoid arthritis because it has potent anti-inflammatory properties that reduce joint pain and swelling.
The tea's flavonoids and terpenoids help to block the production of inflammatory chemicals, thereby alleviating symptoms. Additionally, ginkgo biloba has antioxidant properties that protect against cell damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to arthritis progression.
By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, ginkgo biloba teas may help to alleviate the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, improving joint health and overall quality of life.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba teas that help with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Flavonoids: Help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and molecules.
- Terpenoids: Reduce inflammation and alleviate pain by modulating the activity of various neurotransmitters and inhibiting the production of inflammatory mediators.
- Bilobalane: Exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, thereby reducing the severity of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and slowing disease progression.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Ginkgo biloba used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
- Seeds: Ginkgo seeds contain bilobalide, a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce the pain and swelling associated with rheumatoid arthritis.