By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Capsules For Inflammation
Herbal capsules for inflammation are natural supplements that combine herbs and botanicals to reduce inflammation in the body.
These capsules work by targeting specific inflammatory pathways, reducing pain and discomfort, and promoting healing. Turmeric, ginger, and boswellia are common ingredients found in herbal anti-inflammatory capsules, which have been shown to improve joint mobility, alleviate arthritis symptoms, and even help with chronic pain management.
By reducing inflammation, these supplements can significantly improve quality of life for individuals suffering from conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, and sports injuries.
The following article describes in detail the most important capsules for inflammation, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Curcuma longa
- 2. Zingiber officinale
- 3. Salix alba
- 4. Boswellia serrata
- 5. Harpagophytum procumbens
- 6. Withania somnifera
- 7. Hypericum perforatum
- 8. Camellia sinensis
- 9. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 10. Serenoa repens
- What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for inflammation?
- What ailments similar to inflammation are treated with herbal capsules?
1. Curcuma longa
Turmeric capsules help with inflammation because they contain curcumin, a potent bioactive compound that has natural anti-inflammatory properties.
Curcumin works by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and reducing oxidative stress in the body. This results in decreased swelling, pain, and stiffness associated with conditions such as arthritis, gout, and joint pain.
Additionally, curcumin's antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals, further reducing inflammation and promoting overall health and wellbeing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa capsules that help with inflammation.
- Curcumin: A polyphenolic compound that helps reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Demethoxycurcumin: A bioactive compound that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce inflammation by suppressing the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
- Bisdemethoxycurcumin: A curcuminoid that helps reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, suppressing the activity of inflammatory cytokines, and exhibiting antioxidant properties.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make capsules for inflammation.
- Rhyzomes: Turmeric rhyzomes are primarily used due to their high concentration of curcumin, a bioactive compound with potent anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: The roots of Curcuma longa also contain curcumin, which is responsible for its anti-inflammatory effects and is often used in capsule form for this purpose.
- Seeds: Turmeric seeds, although less commonly used, may be included in some capsule blends for their potential anti-inflammatory properties, although their efficacy is less well-studied compared to rhyzomes and roots.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for inflammation.
- Weigh 500 grams of curcuma longa rhizomes to ensure accurate dosage for capsule production.
- Grind 200 grams of the weighed rhizomes into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix 20 grams of gelatin with 50 milliliters of distilled water in a separate bowl.
- Combine the gelatin mixture with the curcuma longa powder and stir until well combined.
- Fill a capsule machine with the mixture and fill 200 capsules in about 10 minutes.
2. Zingiber officinale
Ginger capsules helps with inflammation because of its unique compound, gingerol, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties.
When taken as a supplement, ginger capsules can effectively reduce swelling and pain in the body by blocking the production of pro-inflammatory molecules. This natural remedy also contains antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals, further reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
As a result, herbal ginger capsules can provide relief from conditions such as arthritis, menstrual cramps, and digestive issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale capsules that help with inflammation.
- Gingerols: Gingerols, particularly 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol, exhibit anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to inflammation.
- Shogaols: Shogaols, similar to gingerols, possess anti-inflammatory properties, and they can also help reduce pain and discomfort associated with inflammation by blocking the activity of certain pain receptors.
- Curcuminoids: Although not exclusive to Zingiber officinale, curcuminoids are often found in combination with gingerols and shogaols in herbal capsules. Curcumin, in particular, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes and modulating the immune response.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make capsules for inflammation.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of active compounds such as gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: Roots are another commonly used part, as they contain a significant amount of ginger's active compounds, which help to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Stems: Stems are sometimes used, as they contain smaller amounts of the active compounds found in rhyzomes and roots, but still contribute to the overall anti-inflammatory effect.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for inflammation.
- Harvest fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes and dry them in a well-ventilated area for 7 to 10 days.
- Grind the dried rhizomes into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or spice mill.
- Mix 250 mg of the powder with 500 mg of gelatin powder in a small bowl.
- Add 250 ml of distilled water to the bowl and stir the mixture until the gelatin dissolves completely.
- Fill gelatin capsules with the herbal mixture and seal them immediately to preserve freshness.
3. Salix alba
White willow capsules helps with inflammation because they contain salicin, a natural compound that is closely related to aspirin.
Salicin is able to target the root cause of inflammation by blocking the production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that trigger pain and swelling.
By reducing the levels of these prostaglandins, white willow capsules can provide effective relief from conditions such as arthritis, joint pain, and muscle soreness, while also promoting overall health and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salix alba capsules that help with inflammation.
- Salicin: A phenolic glycoside that acts as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce pain and inflammation by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins and other inflammatory mediators.
- Salicylic acid: A phenolic acid that exerts anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for causing pain and inflammation in the body.
- Flavonoids: A class of plant compounds that have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the activity of enzymes involved in the inflammatory process and promoting the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of white willow used to make capsules for inflammation.
- Barks: The barks of Salix alba are commonly used due to their high concentration of salicin, a compound that acts as a natural anti-inflammatory.
- Leaves: Salix alba leaves are widely used for their salicylic acid content, which helps in reducing inflammation and pain.
- Stems: The stems of Salix alba contain salicin and other compounds that contribute to their anti-inflammatory properties and are often used in the production of herbal capsules.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic white willow for inflammation.
- Harvest 30-40 grams of salix alba bark from mature trees at the end of winter or early spring season.
- Dry the harvested bark in a low-temperature oven at 50-60 degrees celsius for 2-3 hours.
- Grind the dried bark into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Mix 1 part of the powdered bark with 2 parts of a binding agent like starch or cellulose to form a uniform blend.
- Fill gelatin capsules with 200-300 milligrams of the powder blend and seal them immediately.
4. Boswellia serrata
Frankincense capsules helps with inflammation because they contain boswellia, a natural anti-inflammatory compound that targets the root cause of swelling.
This powerful extract inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, reducing the pain and discomfort associated with inflamed joints, muscles, and tissues. Additionally, frankincense has antioxidant properties that help neutralize free radicals, further reducing inflammation and promoting overall health and wellness.
As a result, taking herbal frankincense capsules can provide significant relief from chronic pain and joint inflammation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata capsules that help with inflammation.
- Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid: AKBA is a boswellic acid that inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby reducing inflammation and pain.
- Boswellic acids: Boswellic acids, particularly AKBA and 11-keto-β-boswellic acid, exhibit anti-inflammatory properties by blocking the activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes.
- 3-acetyl-11-keto-boswellic acid: 3-Ac-KBA also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, which contribute to inflammation and pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make capsules for inflammation.
- Roots: They are the primary source of boswellic acids, which are responsible for the anti-inflammatory effects.
- Rhyzomes: They contain high concentrations of boswellic acids, making them a popular choice for supplements.
- Barks: They also contain boswellic acids and are often used as an alternative to roots and rhyzomes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for inflammation.
- Harvest 1 pound of boswellia serrata roots with a diameter of 1-2 inches from the plant.
- Dry the harvested roots in a dehydrator at 95°f for 24 hours to reduce moisture content.
- Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a high-speed blender or mill for 30 seconds.
- Mix the powder with 250 mg of gelatin and 100 mg of silicon dioxide as a filler.
- Fill 1000 gelatin capsules with the powder mixture using a capsule filling machine.
5. Harpagophytum procumbens
Devil's claw capsules helps with inflammation because they contain harpagoside, a natural compound that has potent anti-inflammatory properties.
This ingredient is derived from the roots of the devil's claw plant, which has been traditionally used to treat pain and inflammation in traditional medicine.
By consuming devil's claw capsules, individuals can potentially reduce swelling, redness, and discomfort associated with conditions such as arthritis, gout, and tendinitis, promoting overall joint health and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Harpagophytum procumbens capsules that help with inflammation.
- Harpagoside: A phenylethanoid glycoside, harpagoside is known for its potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds, including harpagide and procumbide, have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which help regulate the body's inflammatory response.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help protect against oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the body.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of devil's claw used to make capsules for inflammation.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their high content of harpagoside, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Seeds: The seeds are used due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help alleviate symptoms of inflammation and pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic devil's claw for inflammation.
- Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh harpagophytum procumbens roots in the early morning after the first frost.
- Dry the roots in a temperature-controlled environment at 40-50°c for 2-3 days to reduce moisture content.
- Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Mix the powder with 1 part of a natural capsule filler such as potato starch and 1 part of a binding agent like gum arabic.
- Fill 0.5-1 gram of the powder mixture into empty gelatin capsules using a capsule filling machine.
6. Withania somnifera
Ashwagandha capsules help with inflammation because they contain a powerful adaptogenic compound called withanolide, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
When consumed, withanolide works to reduce pro-inflammatory chemicals in the body, thereby decreasing swelling and pain associated with conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other inflammatory diseases.
Additionally, ashwagandha's antioxidant capabilities help neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate inflammation, promoting overall cellular health and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera capsules that help with inflammation.
- Withanolides: Withanolides, a type of steroidal lactone, have anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, thereby reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Withaferin a: Withaferin A, a specific withanolide, has potent anti-inflammatory activity by suppressing the activity of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB), a key transcription factor involved in the regulation of inflammatory genes.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids present in Withania somnifera, such as withananine and isowithanine, exhibit anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which contribute to inflammation and tissue damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make capsules for inflammation.
- Roots: Rich in bioactive compounds like withanolides, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Contain various alkaloids and saponins that contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
- Seeds: Rich in saponins and alkaloids, which help in reducing inflammation and promoting overall well-being.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ashwagandha for inflammation.
- Harvest 500g of dried withania somnifera roots in the morning when dew is still present on the plant.
- Clean the roots thoroughly under cold running water to remove dirt and debris completely.
- Dry the roots in a single layer at 50°c for 2 hours to remove excess moisture completely.
- Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a high-speed grinder with a 200-mesh sieve.
- Fill 100 empty gelatin capsules with 250mg of the powdered withania somnifera root powder each.
7. Hypericum perforatum
St John's Wort capsules helps with inflammation because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds, particularly hyperforin and hypericin.
These flavonoids and phenolic acids have potent anti-inflammatory properties that work by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines. As a result, they help to reduce swelling, pain, and discomfort associated with various inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis, gout, and muscle sprains.
Additionally, St John's Wort has been shown to possess antioxidant activity, further contributing to its anti-inflammatory effects.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum capsules that help with inflammation.
- Hyperforin: A phenolic compound that inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as COX-2 and 5-LOX, which contribute to inflammation.
- N-feruloylserotonin: A phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are molecules that promote inflammation.
- Flavonoids: A type of phenolic compound that has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make capsules for inflammation.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high content of hypericin and hyperforin, which are responsible for their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Flowers: They are used for their flavonoids and phenolic acids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
- Seeds: They are used due to their content of hypericin and other compounds with anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for inflammation.
- Harvest 100g of dried hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves from a trusted supplier or your own garden.
- Mix the harvested hypericum perforatum with 300g of gelatin and 100g of vegetable glycerin in a bowl.
- Add 100g of water to the bowl and stir the mixture for 10 minutes to create a uniform gel.
- Pour the gel mixture into a capsule machine and fill 100 capsules with the mixture.
- Label the capsules with the contents and dosages and store them in a cool dry place.
8. Camellia sinensis
Tea capsules helps with inflammation because they are packed with potent antioxidants, flavonoids, and polyphenols that work synergistically to reduce oxidative stress and alleviate discomfort.
The bioactive compounds in herbal tea capsules, such as turmeric curcumin, gingerol, and omega-3 fatty acids, have anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe and calm the body's response to injury or irritation.
By targeting the underlying causes of inflammation, these capsules can promote healing, reduce pain and swelling, and support overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis capsules that help with inflammation.
- Catechins: This polyphenolic compound has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce inflammation and protect against cell damage.
- Quercetin: As a flavonoid, quercetin has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines that contribute to inflammation.
- Theaflavins: These flavonoid compounds, formed during the fermentation process of green tea, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce inflammation and protect against cell damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea used to make capsules for inflammation.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high content of anti-inflammatory compounds, such as theaflavins and thearubigins.
- Flowers: Camellia sinensis flowers are used due to their high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Leaves: Some supplements may also use leaves as they contain flavonoids and catechins, which are known to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea for inflammation.
- Harvest fresh camellia sinensis leaves in early morning to ensure optimal oil content and flavor.
- Clean the leaves thoroughly by rinsing with filtered water to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Dry the leaves using a food dehydrator at 40°c for 6 hours to preserve potency.
- Grind the dried leaves into a fine powder using a spice grinder to enhance bioavailability.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with approximately 250mg of the powder and seal securely.
9. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice capsules helps with inflammation because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that has potent anti-inflammatory properties.
Glycyrrhizin inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which are responsible for causing tissue damage and pain. Additionally, licorice root has been shown to possess antioxidant and immune-modulating effects, further contributing to its ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the body.
As a result, herbal licorice capsules can be a natural and effective way to alleviate symptoms of inflammation and improve overall health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra capsules that help with inflammation.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin compound has anti-inflammatory properties due to its ability to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, thereby reducing inflammation.
- Licoricidin: A phenolic compound found in Glycyrrhiza glabra, licoricidin has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which helps in reducing inflammation.
- Licorinic acid: This phenolic compound has been found to exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties by scavenging free radicals and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, thus reducing inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make capsules for inflammation.
- Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part due to their high glycyrrhizin content, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are also used in capsule form to treat inflammation due to their ability to modulate the immune system and reduce oxidative stress.
- Barks: The barks of the plant contain glycyrrhizin and other bioactive compounds that help alleviate inflammation and are often used in capsule form for therapeutic purposes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for inflammation.
- Crush 500 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots into fine powder using a mortar and pestle for about 30 minutes.
- Mix 250 grams of the crushed powder with 750 grams of gelatin powder in a large bowl for 10 minutes.
- Add 500 milliliters of distilled water to the mixture and stir for 5 minutes to dissolve the gelatin completely.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler at 60 degrees celsius for 2 hours to gel the mixture fully.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the prepared herbal mixture and seal them immediately to preserve freshness.
10. Serenoa repens
Saw palmetto capsules helps with inflammation because they contain fatty acids and sterols that inhibit the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that contributes to inflammation in the body.
This natural anti-inflammatory action can help reduce swelling, pain, and stiffness associated with conditions such as arthritis, tendinitis, and bursitis.
Additionally, saw palmetto's ability to modulate hormonal balance may also contribute to its anti-inflammatory effects, making it a popular natural remedy for managing inflammation-related health issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Serenoa repens capsules that help with inflammation.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
- Iridoids: Aucubin has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory activity, potentially by inhibiting the activity of COX-2 enzymes, which play a role in inflammation.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin has been demonstrated to exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, which may be attributed to its ability to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of saw palmetto used to make capsules for inflammation.
- Roots: The roots of Serenoa repens are commonly used due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, particularly fatty acids and sterols, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: The leaves are widely used due to their rich content of lipophilic extracts, which are known to inhibit the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to inflammation and hair loss.
- Stems: The stems of Serenoa repens are also utilized due to their high levels of phytosterols and other bioactive compounds, which may help reduce inflammation and promote overall health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic saw palmetto for inflammation.
- Sift 500 grams of serenoa repens powder through a fine-mesh sieve to remove lumps.
- Weigh 25 grams of the sifted powder and transfer it to a mortar and pestle.
- Mix the powder with 25 grams of gelatin and 5 grams of water in the mortar.
- Use a dropper to add 5 milliliters of glycerin to the mixture and stir well for 2 minutes.
- Fill empty vegetable capsules with 250 milligrams of the gelatin mixture and seal them immediately.
What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for inflammation?
The best combination of herbal capsules that help with inflammation is a blend of Turmeric, Ginger, and Boswellia.
Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound, while Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that aid in pain relief. Boswellia, also known as Frankincense, reduces inflammation and promotes healing. These three herbs work synergistically to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and promote overall well-being.
This combination is often used to treat arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other inflammatory conditions, providing a natural and effective solution.
What ailments similar to inflammation are treated with herbal capsules?
Ailments similar to inflammation/capsules.html">inflammation/capsules.html">inflammation that are treated with herbal capsules are arthritis, gout, and fibromyalgia.
Herbal supplements like turmeric, ginger, and ashwagandha have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and swelling. Additionally, herbs such as boswellia, willow bark, and devil's claw are commonly used to alleviate symptoms of joint pain and stiffness.
These herbal capsules offer a natural alternative for managing these conditions without the side effects of conventional medications.