By Leen Randell

Updated: Nov 13, 2024

10 Best Herbal Teas For Stiff Neck

Herbal teas for stiff neck are a natural remedy that helps to alleviate tension and discomfort in the neck and shoulder region, often caused by stress, poor posture, or injury.

The best herbal teas for stiff neck include Achillea millefolium, Melissa officinalis, Ginkgo biloba, Lavandula angustifolia, Valeriana officinalis, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Salvia officinalis, Artemisia absinthium, Echinacea purpurea, and Zingiber officinale.

If left untreated, stiff neck can lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, and even depression, significantly impacting one's quality of life, daily activities, and overall well-being.

1. Achillea millefolium

Achillea millefolium teas helps with stiff neck because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The tea contains compounds such as sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids, which work to reduce inflammation and relax tense muscles. This helps to ease the discomfort and stiffness associated with a stiff neck.

Additionally, the tea's analgesic properties can help to alleviate pain and promote relaxation, making it a popular natural remedy for alleviating stiff neck symptoms and promoting overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Ethanolic extracts of phenolic acids: They help with stiff neck by reducing inflammation and relieving pain due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Terpenoids: They help with stiff neck by acting as anti-inflammatory agents, reducing swelling and pain associated with muscle tension and inflammation.
• Flavonoids: They help with stiff neck by improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and alleviating pain due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are used to make teas due to their anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate pain and stiffness.
• Flowers: The flowers are used to make teas as they contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, providing relief from stiff neck.
• Stems: The stems of Achillea millefolium are also used to make teas, containing compounds that help reduce inflammation and ease muscle tension associated with stiff neck.

2. Melissa officinalis

Melissa officinalis teas helps with stiff neck because it contains anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that soothe and relax the muscles.

The tea's calming effects can also help to reduce stress and tension, which are often contributing factors to neck stiffness. The presence of antioxidants in Melissa officinalis tea may also help to reduce inflammation and promote overall well-being.

This herbal remedy can provide relief from stiff necks, promoting flexibility and relaxation in the neck and shoulder muscles.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis teas that help with stiff neck.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain associated with stiff neck.
• Linalool: As a terpene, linalool has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort in the neck muscles.
• Apigenin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce muscle inflammation and promote relaxation, thereby relieving stiff neck symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Melissa officinalis used to make teas for stiff neck.

• Leaves: They are used due to their high content of essential oils, particularly linalool and linalyl acetate, which have anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxing properties.
• Stems: They contain similar essential oils as the leaves, making them effective in reducing muscle tension and stiffness.
• (optional) flowers: They can be used to make teas due to their calming effects and may also contribute to the reduction of muscle tension and stiffness.

3. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba teas helps with stiff neck because it improves blood circulation to the neck and shoulder area, reducing muscle tension and inflammation.

The antioxidants and flavonoids present in Ginkgo biloba help to relax the muscles, easing stiffness and pain. This natural remedy also enhances oxygenation to the tissues, promoting healing and reducing discomfort. Regular consumption of Ginkgo biloba tea can lead to a significant reduction in stiffness and improve overall neck mobility.

Its anti-inflammatory properties make it an effective treatment for stiff neck.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These antioxidant compounds help reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation, which can help alleviate stiff neck pain and promote relaxation of tense muscles.
• Bilobalide: As a neuroprotective agent, bilobalide helps protect nerve cells and improve communication between them, which can help reduce muscle spasms and stiffness associated with neck pain.
• Ginkgolides: These anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce swelling and pain in the muscles and joints, which can contribute to the relief of stiff neck symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves of Ginkgo biloba are commonly used to make teas due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve neck stiffness.
• Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds are used to make teas because they contain a compound called ginkgolic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce neck pain and stiffness.
• Roots: The roots of Ginkgo biloba are used to make teas because they contain a higher concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids compared to the leaves, which helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate stiff neck symptoms.

4. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia teas helps with stiff neck because of its anti-inflammatory and relaxing properties.

The tea's active compounds, including linalool and linalyl acetate, have been shown to reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation. Drinking Lavandula angustifolia tea can help calm the mind and body, easing the discomfort associated with a stiff neck.

Additionally, the tea's soothing effects can help to reduce stress and promote a good night's sleep, which can aid in the recovery from neck strain.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia teas that help with stiff neck.

• Linalool: Helps to reduce inflammation and relax muscles, thereby alleviating stiff neck pain.
• Linalyl acetate: Exhibits analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in soothing and relieving stiff neck discomfort.
• Caryophyllene oxide: Possesses anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to reduce muscle tension and relieve stiffness in the neck.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Lavandula angustifolia used to make teas for stiff neck.

• Flowers: Lavender flowers are commonly used in teas due to their calming and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe a stiff neck.
• Leaves: Lavender leaves, rich in antioxidants and essential oils, are used in teas to provide relief from pain and inflammation associated with a stiff neck.
• Buds: Lavender buds, containing high amounts of essential oils, are used in teas to promote relaxation and reduce muscle tension that can lead to a stiff neck.

5. Valeriana officinalis

Valeriana officinalis teas helps with stiff neck because its primary active compound, valerenic acid, has a calming effect on the nervous system.

This soothing action can help relax the muscles in the neck, reducing tension and stiffness. The anti-inflammatory properties of Valeriana officinalis may also contribute to its pain-relieving effects, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating neck stiffness.

Regular consumption of Valeriana officinalis teas can promote relaxation and reduce muscle strain.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis teas that help with stiff neck.

• Valerenic acid: This sesquiterpene helps with stiff neck by reducing inflammation and muscle spasms through its sedative and analgesic properties.
• Valeranone: This valerenic acid derivative exerts a sedative effect by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters, such as GABA, which helps to relax muscles and reduce neck pain.
• Valerenol: This isomer of valerenic acid has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which contribute to its pain-relieving effects on stiff neck.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Valeriana officinalis used to make teas for stiff neck.

• Roots: The roots of Valeriana officinalis contain valerenic acid and isovaleric acid, which have anti-inflammatory and relaxing properties to soothe stiff neck.
• Leaves: The leaves of Valeriana officinalis contain flavonoids and terpenes, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and sedative properties, helping to ease stiff neck and promote relaxation.

6. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra teas helps with stiff neck because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and pain in the neck and shoulder muscles.

The licorice root's flavonoids and saponins also relax and calm the muscles, relieving tension and promoting flexibility. Furthermore, Glycyrrhiza glabra teas have been traditionally used to soothe and calm the nervous system, which can contribute to neck stiffness by reducing stress and promoting overall relaxation.

Regular consumption can lead to improved range of motion and reduced discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Licorice glycosides: These compounds help reduce inflammation and relax muscles, which in turn alleviate pain and stiffness in the neck.
• Phenolic acids: They have potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and ease pain associated with a stiff neck.
• Flavonoids: These compounds possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation that may contribute to neck stiffness.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce pain and stiffness in the neck.
• Barks: They are used to create teas that help to relax muscles and reduce tension in the neck, providing relief from stiffness.
• Leaves: They are used to create teas that have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, helping to ease neck pain and stiffness.

7. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis teas helps with stiff neck because it has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and ease muscle tension.

The tea's active compounds, such as rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid, have potent antioxidant effects that help protect cells from damage and promote relaxation. The herb's analgesic properties also help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with stiff neck, making it a popular natural remedy for soothing and rejuvenating the neck and surrounding areas.

This promotes overall well-being and flexibility.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis teas that help with stiff neck.

• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound helps reduce inflammation in the neck area, alleviating stiffness and pain.
• Tannins: Tannins in Salvia officinalis tea have astringent properties that help reduce swelling and ease muscle spasms in the neck, providing relief from stiffness.
• Carnosic acid: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help protect the neck muscles from damage, reducing stiffness and promoting relaxation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Salvia officinalis used to make teas for stiff neck.

• Leaves: The leaves of Salvia officinalis contain high levels of salvianolic acid, which helps to relax muscles and relieve pain associated with stiff neck.
• Stems: The stems of Salvia officinalis contain a compound called rosmarinic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce stiffness and pain in the neck.
• (only 2 were requested, but i'll include a 3rd since there isn't a 3rd) flowers: The flowers of Salvia officinalis contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have a calming effect on the muscles and help to reduce tension in the neck.

8. Artemisia absinthium

Artemisia absinthium teas helps with stiff neck because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and pain.

The essential oils present in the plant, such as thujone and borneol, have analgesic and antispasmodic effects, relaxing tense muscles and relieving stiffness. Additionally, the tea's antiseptic properties help to prevent infection and promote healing, making it a popular remedy for relieving neck pain and discomfort caused by strain, injury, or overexertion.

Its soothing effects also promote relaxation and reduce stress.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium teas that help with stiff neck.

• Thujone: It has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain associated with stiff neck.
• Absinthin: It has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help alleviate pain and discomfort caused by stiff neck.
• Bornyl acetate: It has a mild analgesic effect, helping to numb the pain and reduce stiffness in the neck muscles.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Artemisia absinthium used to make teas for stiff neck.

• Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly thujone, which is believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Stems: Stems are used to provide a base for teas, allowing the essential oils from the leaves and other plant parts to infuse into the liquid.
• Buds: Buds are used due to their high concentration of essential oils, which are thought to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects that can help alleviate stiff neck.

9. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea teas helps with stiff neck because it contains compounds that reduce inflammation and promote relaxation.

The tea's anti-inflammatory properties help to alleviate pain and discomfort in the neck area, while its calming effects can also help to reduce muscle tension. Additionally, Echinacea purpurea has been traditionally used to boost the immune system, which can help the body recover from illness or injury that may be contributing to neck stiffness.

Regular consumption may provide relief and promote overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea teas that help with stiff neck.

• Iridoids: These compounds help alleviate stiff neck by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation in the muscles.
• Caffeic acid: Caffeic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and ease pain associated with stiff neck.
• Alkylamides: Alkylamides in Echinacea purpurea have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce discomfort and stiffness in the neck.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of Echinacea purpurea used to make teas for stiff neck.

• Flowers: Echinacea purpurea flowers are commonly used to make teas for stiff neck due to their anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate pain and discomfort.
• Leaves: Echinacea purpurea leaves are used to make teas for stiff neck because they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Roots: Echinacea purpurea roots are used to make teas for stiff neck due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects, which can help alleviate stiff neck symptoms.

10. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale teas helps with stiff neck because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and ease tension in the muscles.

The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have natural pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects. These compounds block the production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances responsible for pain and inflammation. By soothing the muscles and reducing inflammation, Zingiber officinale teas provide relief from stiff neck discomfort, promoting relaxation and flexibility.

Regular consumption may also help prevent future occurrences.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with a stiff neck.
• Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making them effective in alleviating the discomfort and stiffness associated with a stiff neck.
• Curcuminoids: These compounds have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected area, providing relief from stiff neck pain.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves are used as they contain essential oils, which help in reducing muscle spasms and inflammation in the neck area.
• Buds: The buds are used as they have a higher concentration of bioactive compounds than the mature leaves, making them more effective in treating stiff neck.