By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Infection
Herbal creams for infection are topical ointments made from natural herbs and plants that help soothe and heal infected skin.
These creams contain antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that combat bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. Examples of herbal creams include tea tree oil, aloe vera, and calendula, which have been shown to improve wound healing, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue repair.
This can significantly improve lives by preventing the spread of infection, reducing scarring, and promoting faster recovery.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for infection, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Calendula officinalis
- 2. Melaleuca alternifolia
- 3. Aloe vera
- 4. Echinacea purpurea
- 5. Zingiber officinale
- 6. Lavandula angustifolia
- 7. Mentha x piperita
- 8. Matricaria chamomilla
- 9. Eucalyptus globulus
- 10. Ulmus rubra
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for infection?
- What ailments similar to infection are treated with herbal creams?
1. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with infection because of its potent antibacterial and antifungal properties.
The plant's flowers contain triterpenoid saponins and carotenoids, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, thereby promoting the healing of wounds and preventing infection.
Calendula creams can also stimulate collagen production, reduce inflammation, and promote tissue repair, making it an effective natural remedy for treating minor cuts, scrapes, and burns.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with infection.
- Nascentin: It has antimicrobial properties, which help inhibit the growth of bacteria and other pathogens that cause infections.
- Carotenoids: These compounds exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help reduce tissue damage and inflammation caused by infections, promoting healing and recovery.
- Calenduladiene: This sesquiterpene has been shown to exhibit antimicrobial activity, particularly against fungi, which can help prevent the spread of fungal infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for infection.
- Flowers: The flowers are rich in anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds that help soothe and protect the skin from infections.
- Leaves: The leaves of Calendula officinalis contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which have antimicrobial properties that aid in preventing the growth of bacteria and fungi.
- Seeds: The seeds contain saponins and other compounds that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making them useful in treating skin infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for infection.
- Infuse dried calendula flowers in a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil at a ratio of 1:2.
- Heat the infused oil in a double boiler for about 1 to 2 hours to enhance its potency.
- Strain the oil mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove the flower residue.
- Mix the infused oil with a thickening agent like beeswax and a natural emulsifier in a ratio of 2:1:1.
- Whip the mixture until it reaches a creamy consistency and pour it into a glass jar.
2. Melaleuca alternifolia
Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree, creams helps with infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties.
The active compound, terpinen-4-ol, has been shown to effectively combat a wide range of bacteria, fungi, and viruses that can cause infections. This natural antibacterial agent creates an environment that is hostile to the growth of pathogens, thereby promoting wound healing and reducing the risk of infection.
As a result, tea tree creams are often used to treat minor cuts, scrapes, and skin irritations.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia creams that help with infection.
- Cineole: This monoterpene acts as an antimicrobial agent, helping to reduce bacterial load and combat infection.
- Limonene: As a terpene, limonene exhibits potent antimicrobial and antifungal properties, effectively inhibiting the growth of pathogens that cause infection.
- Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene displays significant antimicrobial activity, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria and fungi, thereby helping to control infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make creams for infection.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of terpenes, particularly cineole, which provides antimicrobial properties.
- Stems: The stems of Melaleuca alternifolia contain terpenes and other compounds that contribute to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making them useful in creams for infections.
- Barks: The bark of Melaleuca alternifolia is also used due to its terpene content, which helps in reducing inflammation and fighting bacterial infections in creams.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for infection.
- Weigh 200 grams of beeswax and 100 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Combine the weighed ingredients in the double boiler and heat on low for 30 minutes.
- Gradually add 100 milliliters of melaleuca alternifolia essential oil to the melted mixture after 10 minutes.
- Remove the double boiler from heat and stir in 100 grams of shea butter for 5 minutes.
- Pour the cooled mixture into a container and allow it to solidify for 1 hour.
3. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with infection because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The cream contains compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. These properties make aloe vera creams effective in treating minor cuts, burns, and scrapes, reducing the risk of infection and promoting faster healing.
Additionally, aloe vera creams can soothe and calm the skin, creating an ideal environment for wound healing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with infection.
- Acemannan: It helps with infection by stimulating the immune system and enhancing the production of cytokines, which are proteins that help fight off invading pathogens.
- Vitamins c and e: They help with infection by scavenging free radicals, reducing oxidative stress, and protecting the skin from damage caused by bacterial and fungal infections.
- Saponins: They help with infection by exhibiting antimicrobial properties, disrupting the cell membranes of pathogens, and preventing their growth and proliferation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for infection.
- Leaves: Their gel is the most widely used part of Aloe vera due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Seeds: Aloe vera seeds contain a compound called aloin, which has antibacterial and antifungal properties that help combat infections.
- Buds: The buds of Aloe vera contain a high concentration of anthraquinones, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that aid in wound healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for infection.
- Weigh 100 grams of aloe vera gel and mix it with 50 grams of distilled water in a blender.
- Add 10 grams of beeswax and 10 grams of shea butter to the blender and blend until smooth.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler for 10 minutes at 70 degrees celsius while stirring occasionally.
- Remove the mixture from heat and add 5 grams of vitamin e oil and 5 grams of glycerin to it.
- Pour the mixture into a container and let it cool and solidify for 30 minutes before use.
4. Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, creams helps with infection because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The active compounds in Echinacea purpurea, such as alkylamides and glycosides, stimulate the immune system and increase its response to infections. These compounds also exhibit antiviral and antibacterial properties, making Echinacea purpurea creams effective in reducing the severity and duration of infections.
Its topical application allows for direct delivery of these beneficial compounds to the affected area, promoting faster recovery and reducing the risk of infection.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea creams that help with infection.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help modulate the immune system, reducing inflammation and fighting off pathogens that cause infection.
- Caffeic acid: As a phenolic compound, caffeic acid has antimicrobial properties, helping to inhibit the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that cause infection.
- Cichoric acid: This phenolic compound exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce inflammation and combat the spread of infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make creams for infection.
- Roots: Rich in inulin and other compounds, making them effective in boosting the immune system and fighting off infections.
- Flowers: Contain alkylamides, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help in reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing.
- Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which exhibit antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, helping to combat infections and promote tissue repair.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for infection.
- Infuse 2 tablespoons of dried echinacea purpurea flowers in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container.
- Combine 1/4 cup of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Add the infused liquid to the beeswax mixture and heat until the beeswax is fully dissolved.
- Pour the mixture into a clean tin or container and let it cool and harden at room temperature.
5. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with infection because of its antimicrobial properties.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, exhibit potent antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal activities. These properties enable ginger creams to effectively combat various types of infections, including skin infections, wounds, and superficial fungal infections.
Additionally, ginger's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling and promote wound healing, making it a valuable ingredient in creams designed to prevent and treat infections.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with infection.
- Gingerols: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and prevent the spread of infection.
- Shogaols: These compounds exhibit antimicrobial activity, which helps to kill bacteria and other pathogens that cause infection.
- Zingiberene: This sesquiterpene has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help protect the skin from oxidative damage and reduce the severity of infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for infection.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzome, the underground stem of the plant, is used due to its high concentration of bioactive compounds, including gingerols and shogaols, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: The roots are used because they are rich in antioxidants and have been traditionally used to treat various skin infections and wounds.
- Buds: The buds, which contain high amounts of volatile oils, are used to create creams with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe and heal infected skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for infection.
- Harvest 10-15 fresh rhizomes of the plant and clean them thoroughly to remove dirt and debris.
- Grate 2-3 tablespoons of the cleaned rhizomes into a fine paste using a grater or food processor.
- Combine the grated paste with 1 cup of coconut oil and 1/4 cup of beeswax in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beeswax is fully melted.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container and let it cool.
6. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties.
The active compounds in lavender, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, have been shown to inhibit the growth of various pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. These compounds work by disrupting the cell membranes of microorganisms, ultimately leading to their death.
As a result, lavender creams can help to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing, making them an effective treatment for minor skin infections.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with infection.
- Linalool: This terpene has antimicrobial properties, helping to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, thus reducing the risk of infection.
- Linalyl acetate: This terpene has been shown to possess antiseptic properties, which can help to prevent the spread of infection by killing or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms.
- Caffeic acid: This phenolic compound has been found to exhibit antimicrobial activity, which can help to combat bacterial, fungal, and viral infections by disrupting the cell membrane and preventing the growth of microorganisms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for infection.
- Leaves: They contain compounds like linalool and linalyl acetate, which have antimicrobial properties that help combat infections.
- Flowers: They are rich in essential oils, particularly linalool and linalyl acetate, which possess antimicrobial and antifungal properties to treat skin infections.
- Stems: The stems contain a significant amount of essential oils, including linalool and linalyl acetate, which contribute to their antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making them useful in treating skin infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for infection.
- Harvest 1 cup of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers at peak potency and store them in airtight containers.
- Combine 1 cup of beeswax and 1/2 cup of shea butter in a double boiler and heat until melted slowly.
- Add 1/2 cup of sweet almond oil and 1/4 cup of lavender essential oil to the melted mixture and stir well.
- Remove the double boiler from heat and let the mixture cool slightly before whipping until light and fluffy.
- Pour the cream into sterilized jars and seal them immediately to preserve the herbal properties and shelf life.
7. Mentha x piperita
Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, creams helps with infection because of its antimicrobial properties.
The menthol content in peppermint creams has been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and viruses, thereby preventing the spread of infection. This helps to reduce inflammation and promote healing in affected areas.
Additionally, the cooling sensation of peppermint creams can help to reduce swelling and ease discomfort, creating a conducive environment for the body's natural healing processes to take place.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita creams that help with infection.
- Menthol: Menthol has antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial and fungal infections by disrupting cell membranes and inhibiting the growth of pathogens.
- Catechins: Catechins, a type of polyphenol present in peppermint, exhibit antiseptic and antibacterial properties, which help reduce the risk of infection by inhibiting the proliferation of microorganisms.
- Caryophyllene: Caryophyllene, a sesquiterpene found in peppermint, has been shown to possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing inflammation and preventing the spread of infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make creams for infection.
- Leaves: Essential oils extracted from peppermint leaves are commonly used in creams for infections due to their antimicrobial properties.
- Leaves: The menthol content in peppermint leaves helps to reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with infections.
- Leaves: The antifungal properties of peppermint leaves make them effective in treating fungal infections, such as athlete's foot.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for infection.
- Harvest 100g of fresh mentha x piperita leaves on a dry sunny morning to ensure optimal potency.
- Steam distill the harvested leaves with 1000ml of water to extract the essential oil.
- Combine 20g of the extracted essential oil with 100g of beeswax in a double boiler setup.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 30 minutes while stirring constantly to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Pour the mixture into small glass containers and allow it to cool and solidify at room temperature for 2 hours.
8. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with infection because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The cream contains apigenin, an active compound that inhibits the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms, reducing the severity of infections. Additionally, its soothing and calming effects help to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing. This natural remedy has been traditionally used to treat a variety of skin infections, including minor cuts, scrapes, and burns, making it a valuable alternative to synthetic treatments.
Its effectiveness lies in its ability to promote a healthy environment for healing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with infection.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid has antimicrobial properties, inhibiting the growth of various bacteria and fungi, thereby reducing the risk of infection.
- Alpha-bisabolol: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce inflammation and inhibit the growth of pathogens that cause infection.
- Matricine: This sesquiterpene lactone has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce the severity of infections and promote healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for infection.
- Flowers: The flowers are rich in antioxidants and essential oils, such as chamazulene and bisabolol, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help in treating infections.
- Leaves: The leaves contain flavonoids and terpenoids that exhibit antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making them effective in treating skin infections and promoting wound healing.
- Seeds: The seeds contain essential oils and fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help in reducing inflammation and preventing infection in wounds and skin conditions.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for infection.
- Harvest 1 lb of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers with a minimum of 3% apigenin content.
- Infuse 1 cup of the dried flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter and discard the solids.
- Mix 1/2 cup of the infused oil with 1/4 cup of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of candelilla wax.
- Pour the mixture into a double boiler and heat until the waxes melt and the mixture reaches 120-140°f.
9. Eucalyptus globulus
Eucalyptus globulus, also known as Tasmanian blue gum, creams helps with infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties.
The active compounds in Eucalyptus globulus, such as cineole and globulol, have been shown to exhibit antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal activities, effectively inhibiting the growth of various pathogens.
These properties make Eucalyptus globulus creams an effective treatment for wound infections, skin irritations, and other infections, promoting faster healing and reducing the risk of further complications.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus creams that help with infection.
- Cineole: This terpene has antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause infections.
- Α-pinene: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce swelling and combat bacterial and viral infections.
- Catechin: This phenolic compound has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make creams for infection.
- Leaves: Eucalyptus globulus leaves are rich in eucalyptol, a compound that helps to reduce inflammation and fight infection-causing bacteria.
- Barks: Eucalyptus globulus barks contain a high concentration of salicylic acid, an ingredient that promotes wound healing and reduces inflammation.
- Stems: Eucalyptus globulus stems are a source of flavonoids, antioxidants that aid in reducing inflammation and preventing infection.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for infection.
- Infuse 20g of dried leaves in 100ml of carrier oil like sweet almond oil for 2-3 weeks.
- Strain the infusion using cheesecloth or a coffee filter and discard the solids.
- Mix 10g of beeswax with 20g of shea butter in a double boiler and heat until melted.
- Combine the infused oil with the melted wax mixture and stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into glass jars and allow it to cool and solidify before use.
10. Ulmus rubra
Ulmus rubra, also known as slippery elm, creams helps with infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties.
The cream's active compounds, including tannins and flavonoids, work together to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, while also promoting the healing of damaged tissue. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling and promote a healthy environment for wound healing.
As a result, Ulmus rubra creams can aid in the resolution of various skin infections, promoting a speedy recovery and minimizing the risk of further complications.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra creams that help with infection.
- Tannins: Tannins help with infection by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi, which reduces the severity of infections.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids possess antimicrobial properties, which help prevent the spread of infections by killing or inhibiting the growth of pathogenic microorganisms.
- Salicin: Salicin, a compound similar to salicylic acid, has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which aid in reducing inflammation and preventing infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make creams for infection.
- Barks: The barks of Ulmus rubra contain antimicrobial properties that help combat infections and promote healing.
- Leaves: The leaves of Ulmus rubra have been traditionally used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties to treat various skin infections.
- Roots: The roots of Ulmus rubra contain compounds that exhibit antimicrobial and antifungal activities, making them useful in treating infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm for infection.
- Harvest 1 cup of dried ulmus rubra bark and 1 cup of dried flowers at dawn.
- Steep 2 tablespoons of the mixture in 4 cups of boiling water for 15 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and discard the solids within 30 minutes.
- Mix 1/4 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of coconut oil in a double boiler for 10 minutes.
- Combine the strained liquid with the melted wax mixture and pour into a container.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for infection?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with infection is a blend of tea tree oil, aloe vera, and neem.
Tea tree oil contains antimicrobial properties that combat bacterial and fungal infections, while aloe vera soothes and calms the skin. Neem cream has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness and swelling. When applied together, these herbal creams create a powerful synergy that accelerates healing, reduces the risk of infection, and promotes healthy skin regeneration.
This combination can be used topically to treat minor cuts, scrapes, and wounds.
What ailments similar to infection are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to infection/creams.html">infection/creams.html">infection that are treated with herbal creams are skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
Herbal creams containing ingredients like tea tree oil, aloe vera, and chamomile have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and inflammation. They can also promote healing and prevent further infection.
These herbal creams offer a natural alternative to conventional treatments and are often preferred for their gentle and non-irritating effects.