10 Best Herbal Creams For Upper Abdominal Pain

Herbal creams for upper abdominal pain are topical ointments infused with natural herbs that provide relief from upper abdominal discomfort.

These creams help by reducing inflammation, calming the digestive system, and relaxing tense muscles.

Examples of herbal creams include peppermint, ginger, and chamomile creams, which have been shown to alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other digestive disorders, improving the quality of life for individuals suffering from chronic upper abdominal pain.

The following article describes in detail the most important creams for upper abdominal pain, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Matricaria chamomilla

Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with upper abdominal pain because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The apigenin and luteolin present in chamomile have been shown to calm the digestive system and reduce spasms, which can contribute to abdominal pain. Additionally, chamomile's ability to relax smooth muscles and reduce inflammation can help alleviate cramps and discomfort in the upper abdominal region, providing relief and promoting a sense of calmness.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to soothe digestive issues.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with upper abdominal pain.

• Apigenin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which helps alleviate upper abdominal pain by reducing muscle contractions and inflammation in the digestive tract.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which helps soothe upper abdominal pain by protecting the digestive tract from oxidative stress and inflammation, and promoting relaxation.
• Α-bisabolol: A sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which helps ease upper abdominal pain by reducing inflammation and muscle spasms in the digestive tract, and promoting relaxation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for upper abdominal pain.

• Flowers: They are used to make creams for upper abdominal pain because of their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
• Leaves: They are used to make creams for upper abdominal pain because of their ability to relax the muscles and reduce spasms.
• Seeds: They are used to make creams for upper abdominal pain because of their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for upper abdominal pain.

1. Harvest 20g of matricaria chamomilla flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated and dry them for 2 weeks.
2. Steep 10g of dried flowers in 100ml of boiling water for 5 minutes to create a floral infusion.
3. Strain the infusion through a cheesecloth or fine mesh to obtain a clear liquid and discard the solids.
4. Mix 20g of beeswax with 20g of coconut oil and heat the mixture in a double boiler at 60°c for 10 minutes.
5. Combine the floral infusion with the cooled wax-oil mixture and whip the blend until it thickens into a creamy texture.

2. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, creams helps with upper abdominal pain because of its calming and soothing effects on the digestive system.

The menthol content in peppermint creams relaxes the muscles in the stomach and intestines, reducing spasms and cramping. It also helps to increase the production of digestive enzymes and improve the movement of food through the digestive tract, providing relief from discomfort, bloating, and cramps associated with upper abdominal pain.

This natural remedy can offer fast and effective relief.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita creams that help with upper abdominal pain.

• Menthone: Menthone is a monoterpenoid that helps alleviate upper abdominal pain by reducing inflammation and muscle spasms through its analgesic and antispasmodic properties.
• Menthol: Menthol is a monoterpenoid that provides relief from upper abdominal pain by stimulating the cold-sensitive nerve endings, which can help reduce spasms and pain perception.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a polyphenolic dimer that helps reduce upper abdominal pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make creams for upper abdominal pain.

• Leaves: Used for their essential oils, particularly menthol and menthone, which provide a cooling effect and relief from pain.
• Stems: Used for their essential oils, which contain compounds like menthol and menthone, helping to soothe and calm abdominal discomfort.
• Roots: Used for their rhizome, which contains menthol and menthone, providing a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect to alleviate upper abdominal pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for upper abdominal pain.

1. Harvest fresh mentha x piperita leaves from your garden or local supplier in the morning when dew is still present.
2. Clean the leaves thoroughly with distilled water to remove dirt and debris from the surface.
3. Use a cold press or heat to extract 20 milliliters of essential oil from 100 grams of leaves in 30 minutes.
4. Combine 10 grams of beeswax and 20 milliliters of mentha x piperita essential oil in a double boiler and melt for 10 minutes.
5. Stir the mixture for 5 minutes and pour it into containers to cool and solidify within 30 minutes.

3. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with upper abdominal pain because it contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties.

The root extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra has been traditionally used to soothe digestive issues, including stomach ulcers and inflammation. The flavonoids and saponins present in the extract help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the stomach lining, providing relief from upper abdominal pain and discomfort.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate digestive issues and promote overall gut health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams that help with upper abdominal pain.

• Glycyrrhizin: It helps with upper abdominal pain by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances responsible for pain and inflammation in the digestive tract.
• Flavonoids: These flavonoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the upper abdominal region.
• Saponins: Saponins in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams have a soothing and protective effect on the mucous membranes in the digestive tract, which can help to reduce irritation and alleviate upper abdominal pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for upper abdominal pain.

• Roots: They are used due to their high content of glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate abdominal pain.
• Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used in creams for their soothing and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce abdominal discomfort.
• Barks: The bark of the plant is also used in creams for its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help alleviate upper abdominal pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for upper abdominal pain.

1. Steep 100g of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots in 1l of distilled water for 30 minutes.
2. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container to discard solids.
3. Combine 100g of glycerin with 200g of distilled water in a separate container to create a base.
4. Mix the base with the strained glycyrrhiza glabra liquid in a ratio of 2:3 to create a final mixture.
5. Add 2% of a preservative and whip the mixture with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy texture forms.

4. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with upper abdominal pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The bioactive compounds present in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have been found to reduce inflammation and relax the muscles in the digestive tract. This can help alleviate cramping and spasms associated with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and menstrual cramps.

The topical application of ginger creams can also stimulate blood flow and promote healing in the affected area, further reducing discomfort and pain.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with upper abdominal pain.

• Gingerols: These sesquiterpenes, particularly [6]-gingerol, have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help reduce pain and inflammation in the upper abdominal region.
• Shogaols: These compounds, formed from the breakdown of gingerols, exhibit strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help alleviate pain and discomfort in the upper abdomen.
• Zingerone: A byproduct of gingerols, zingerone possesses potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help soothe and calm the upper abdominal area, reducing pain and discomfort.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for upper abdominal pain.

• Rhyzomes: The rhyzome of Zingiber officinale contains compounds like gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate upper abdominal pain.
• Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are used to extract gingerols and shogaols, which are then used in creams to provide relief from nausea and pain associated with upper abdominal issues.
• Stems: The stems of Zingiber officinale are not as commonly used as the rhyzomes and roots, but they still contain some of the same anti-inflammatory compounds that help alleviate upper abdominal pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for upper abdominal pain.

1. Infuse 200g of dried zingiber officinale roots in 1l of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
2. Strain the infusion through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
3. Mix 50g of beeswax and 50g of shea butter in a double boiler over low heat.
4. Combine the infused zingiber officinale liquid with 50g of coconut oil and 10g of vitamin e oil.
5. Whip the mixture of oils and waxes into a smooth cream using an electric mixer.

5. Cinnamomum verum

Cinnamomum verum, also known as Ceylon cinnamon, creams helps with upper abdominal pain because of its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.

The cream is often infused with Ceylon cinnamon oil, which has been traditionally used to soothe digestive issues and reduce inflammation in the abdominal area. The compound cinnamaldehyde present in Ceylon cinnamon is believed to have a positive effect on gut health, reducing pain and discomfort associated with conditions such as gastritis and irritable bowel syndrome.

This natural remedy provides a non-invasive and comforting approach to managing upper abdominal pain.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinnamomum verum creams that help with upper abdominal pain.

• Cinnamaldehyde: This terpene has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate upper abdominal pain caused by digestive issues.
• Eugenol: A phenolic compound found in Cinnamomum verum, eugenol has a relaxing effect on the smooth muscles of the digestive tract, which can help relieve cramps and spasms associated with upper abdominal pain.
• Coumarin: A phenolic compound, coumarin has been shown to have a soothing effect on the digestive system, which can help reduce symptoms of upper abdominal pain, such as nausea and bloating.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ceylon cinnamon used to make creams for upper abdominal pain.

• Barks: Used due to its anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm the stomach.
• Leaves: Utilized for its carminative properties, which help to relieve gas and reduce discomfort in the upper abdomen.
• Stems: Employed for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to alleviate pain and inflammation in the abdominal region.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ceylon cinnamon for upper abdominal pain.

1. Harvest 100g of cinnamomum verum roots and leaves in the early morning to ensure maximum potency.
2. Steam distill the harvested cinnamomum verum roots and leaves for 4 hours to extract essential oils.
3. Combine 200g of beeswax, 100g of coconut oil, and 50g of shea butter in a double boiler.
4. Add 20ml of the extracted cinnamomum verum essential oil to the melted beeswax mixture and stir well.
5. Pour the mixture into a mold and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow it to solidify.

6. Foeniculum vulgare

Foeniculum vulgare, also known as fennel, creams helps with upper abdominal pain because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.

The anethole compound present in fennel has a soothing effect on the digestive system, reducing cramps and discomfort associated with bloating and gas. It also relaxes the smooth muscles in the digestive tract, promoting digestion and relieving spasms that can cause upper abdominal pain.

Regular application of fennel cream may help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and other digestive disorders.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare creams that help with upper abdominal pain.

• Trans-anethole: This terpene acts as an antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to relax the muscles in the upper abdominal region and reduce inflammation that may be contributing to pain.
• Phenolic compounds: These compounds exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the upper abdominal region, thereby alleviating pain.
• Apiol: This phenolic compound has antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to relax the muscles and reduce inflammation in the upper abdominal region, thereby providing relief from pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make creams for upper abdominal pain.

• Seeds: They are commonly used due to their carminative and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm the digestive system.
• Leaves: The leaves are used for their antispasmodic properties, which help to relax the muscles in the upper abdominal region and alleviate pain.
• Fruits: The fruits or seeds of Foeniculum vulgare contain essential oils, which are used in creams to help reduce inflammation and provide relief from upper abdominal pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for upper abdominal pain.

1. Harvest 100g of foeniculum vulgare roots and leaves in the early morning when the dew is still present.
2. Dry the harvested foeniculum vulgare in a warm place with good air circulation for 5 days.
3. Steep 50g of dried foeniculum vulgare in 1 liter of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
4. Strain and filter the foeniculum vulgare infusion through cheesecloth or a coffee filter to obtain the herbal extract.
5. Mix the herbal extract with 200g of beeswax and 100g of shea butter to create the cream base.

7. Coriandrum sativum

Coriandrum sativum, also known as coriander, creams helps with upper abdominal pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The compound linalool, present in coriander, has been shown to reduce inflammation and relax muscles in the abdominal region, providing relief from cramps and spasms. Additionally, coriander's carminative properties help to alleviate gas and bloating, further contributing to the reduction of upper abdominal discomfort.

Its natural analgesic properties also help to soothe and calm the affected area.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Coriandrum sativum creams that help with upper abdominal pain.

• Linalool: Linalool, a terpene, has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation in the upper abdominal region.
• Limonene: Limonene, a terpene, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and carminative effects, helping to alleviate digestive discomfort and relieve upper abdominal pain.
• Apigenin: Apigenin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, exhibits anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic properties, which can help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract and alleviate upper abdominal pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of coriander used to make creams for upper abdominal pain.

• Leaves: The leaves are used to make creams for upper abdominal pain due to their anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
• Seeds: The seeds are used to make creams for upper abdominal pain due to their carminative and anti-spasmodic effects.
• Roots: The roots are used to make creams for upper abdominal pain due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic coriander for upper abdominal pain.

1. Grind 50g of coriandrum sativum seeds in a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
2. Combine the ground coriandrum sativum with 50g of beeswax and 20g of coconut oil.
3. Melt the combination of coriandrum sativum and oils in a double boiler for 20 minutes.
4. Add 20g of distilled water to the melted mixture and stir for 5 minutes.
5. Pour the coriandrum sativum mixture into small containers and let it cool and solidify for 30 minutes.

8. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with upper abdominal pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The active compound, curcumin, reduces inflammation and improves digestion, relieving discomfort and pain in the upper abdomen. It also has natural antimicrobial properties that combat gut infections and promote a healthy gut microbiome.

Additionally, curcumin has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, leading to a decrease in pain and inflammation, providing natural relief for upper abdominal pain.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa creams that help with upper abdominal pain.

• Curcumin: Helps with upper abdominal pain by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which are often associated with conditions such as gastritis and peptic ulcers.
• Demethoxycurcumin: Contributes to the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of turmeric, thereby alleviating upper abdominal pain by blocking the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Beta-caryophyllene: Acts as a potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent, helping to alleviate upper abdominal pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make creams for upper abdominal pain.

• Roots: The roots are used as a secondary source of curcumin and contain other beneficial compounds that help alleviate upper abdominal pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for upper abdominal pain.

1. Extract 50g of dried curcuma longa rhizomes using a solvent like ethanol or glycerin within 2 hours.
2. Mix the extracted curcuma longa rhizomes with 100ml of distilled water and heat at 60-70°c for 30 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine mesh and discard the solids within 10 minutes.
4. Combine the filtered liquid with 20g of beeswax and 10g of shea butter in a double boiler setup for 20 minutes.
5. Whip the cooled mixture until it thickens and forms a smooth, even consistency within 15 minutes.

9. Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St. John's Wort, creams helps with upper abdominal pain because of its anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.

The active compounds in Hypericum, such as hypericin and hyperforin, have been shown to reduce inflammation and relax muscles, providing relief from cramps and discomfort.

Additionally, the cream's ability to increase blood flow and reduce oxidative stress may also contribute to its analgesic effects, making it a potential natural remedy for alleviating upper abdominal pain.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with upper abdominal pain.

• Hyperforin: Hyperforin helps alleviate upper abdominal pain by its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which reduce pain and inflammation in the abdominal region.
• Naphthodianthrones: Naphthodianthrones, particularly Hypericin, help with upper abdominal pain by exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which protect the stomach lining and reduce inflammation.
• Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid present in Hypericum perforatum, helps with upper abdominal pain by its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which reduce inflammation and protect the stomach lining from damage.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for upper abdominal pain.

• Leaves: Known for their high flavonoid content, particularly hypericin and hyperforin, which have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
• Stems: Rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, contributing to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects when used in creams for upper abdominal pain.
• Roots: Containing a higher concentration of hypericin and other bioactive compounds, making them a key component in herbal creams for pain relief.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for upper abdominal pain.

1. Harvest fresh or dried hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves in the morning when they are at their highest potency for a minimum of 2 cups.
2. Dry the harvested plant material at 50-60 degrees celsius for 2-3 hours to prevent degradation of its bioactive compounds.
3. Infuse 1 cup of dried plant material in 2 cups of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil at 60 degrees celsius for 4-6 hours.
4. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then add 2 tablespoons of beeswax to the oil for 10 minutes.
5. Whip the mixture until it thickens and reaches a consistency suitable for application as a topical cream in 10-15 minutes.

10. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with upper abdominal pain because it contains anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The cream may reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with digestive issues, such as gastritis or ulcers, by promoting wound healing and protecting the mucous membranes. Additionally, the antiseptic properties of calendula may help combat infections that can contribute to upper abdominal discomfort.

This natural remedy may provide relief from persistent or recurring pain.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with upper abdominal pain.

• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, such as calendulic acid and isocalendulic acid, found in Calendula officinalis have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate upper abdominal pain by reducing inflammation and discomfort in the digestive tract.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including quercetin and kaempferol, present in Calendula officinalis possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help mitigate upper abdominal pain by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the digestive system.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as ferulic acid and caffeic acid, found in Calendula officinalis have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate upper abdominal pain by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the digestive tract, promoting a soothing effect on the stomach.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for upper abdominal pain.

• Flowers: They are the most commonly used part due to their anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antispasmodic properties that help soothe and calm the digestive system.
• Leaves: They contain compounds like flavonoids and terpenoids, which have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help alleviate upper abdominal pain.
• Stems: The stems of Calendula officinalis contain a high concentration of saponins, which have been traditionally used to reduce inflammation and soothe digestive issues, making them a useful addition to creams for upper abdominal pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for upper abdominal pain.

1. Harvest calendula flowers at peak bloom and dry them thoroughly to preserve their medicinal properties.
2. Infuse dried calendula flowers in a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil 1:5 ratio for 2 to 6 weeks.
3. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean bowl to remove the plant material.
4. Mix the infused oil with a natural emulsifier like beeswax and shea butter in a 10% emulsifier ratio.
5. Whip the mixture until it thickens and forms a smooth creamy texture using an electric mixer.

What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for upper abdominal pain?

The best combination of herbal creams that help with upper abdominal pain is a blend of Calendula and Peppermint creams.

Calendula cream soothes and calms the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Peppermint cream, on the other hand, cools and relaxes the abdominal muscles, easing cramps and spasms. The combination of these two creams works synergistically to alleviate upper abdominal pain and discomfort, making it an effective and natural remedy for various gastrointestinal issues.

Apply both creams topically to experience relief.

What ailments similar to upper abdominal pain are treated with herbal creams?

Ailments similar to upper abdominal pain that are treated with herbal creams are digestive issues such as cramps, bloating, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Herbal creams like peppermint oil cream can soothe stomach upset and relax the muscles in the abdominal area.

Other conditions, including menstrual cramps, fibromyalgia, and chronic pain, may also be treated with herbal creams that contain ingredients like arnica, capsaicin, or willow bark extract.