10 Best Herbal Creams For Inflammation

Herbal creams for inflammation are topical treatments containing plant-derived ingredients that help alleviate redness, swelling, and pain associated with inflammation.

These creams often feature anti-inflammatory herbs like arnica, aloe vera, and calendula, which soothe and calm irritated skin. For instance, creams with arnica can ease joint pain, while aloe vera-based creams can calm skin irritations.

This natural approach improves lives by reducing discomfort, promoting healing, and enhancing overall well-being.

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

1. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with inflammation because of its unique bioactive compound, curcumin.

Curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that work to reduce swelling and pain in the affected area. It inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which are responsible for triggering inflammation.

By applying curcuma longa creams topically, the curcumin is absorbed into the skin, where it can effectively target and combat inflammation, providing relief from conditions such as arthritis, wounds, and skin irritations.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Curcumin: Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound, helps with inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
• Demethoxycurcumin: DMC, another polyphenolic compound, helps with inflammation by suppressing the activity of inflammatory enzymes, such as COX-2 and 5-LOX, which contribute to the production of pro-inflammatory mediators.
• Bisdemethoxycurcumin: BDMC, a sesquiterpene, helps with inflammation by inhibiting the activation of inflammatory pathways, including the NF-κB signaling pathway, which plays a crucial role in the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make creams for inflammation.

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part of Curcuma longa as they contain high concentrations of curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound.
• Seeds: While not as widely used as rhyzomes, seeds of Curcuma longa are sometimes used in creams due to their potential to enhance the bioavailability of curcumin.
• Roots: Roots of Curcuma longa are also used in some creams, although less frequently than rhyzomes, as they contain some curcumin and other bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory properties.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for inflammation.

1. Extract curcuma longa root powder by drying and grinding 100g of the root in a mortar for 30 minutes.
2. Mix 10g of curcuma longa powder with 20g of beeswax in a double boiler for 10 minutes.
3. Combine the curcuma longa mixture with 50g of coconut oil and 20g of shea butter in the double boiler for 20 minutes.
4. Add 5g of vitamin e oil to the mixture and stir for 5 minutes to emulsify the ingredients.
5. Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar and let it cool and solidify at room temperature for 2 hours.

2. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with inflammation because of its active compound, gingerol, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The cream's ability to penetrate deep into the skin allows gingerol to reach affected areas, reducing pain and swelling. Studies have shown that ginger's anti-inflammatory effects are comparable to those of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) without the risks of gastrointestinal side effects.

The natural and gentle nature of ginger creams makes them an attractive alternative for managing inflammation and promoting overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: These sesquiterpene compounds help reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby alleviating pain and swelling.
• Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols have anti-inflammatory properties due to their ability to suppress the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thus providing relief from inflammatory conditions.
• Zingiberene: This sesquiterpene constituent has potent anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and enzymes, which contribute to the reduction of inflammation and pain.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for inflammation.

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes: The underground stems of Zingiber officinale, which contain high concentrations of active compounds like gingerols and shogaols that have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale also contain gingerols and shogaols, which are used to reduce inflammation and soothe skin irritations.
• Stems: Stems: The stems of Zingiber officinale contain a smaller amount of active compounds, but they are still used in some creams to provide a gentle anti-inflammatory effect.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for inflammation.

1. Harvest 500g of fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes from a trusted supplier.
2. Dry the rhizomes in a food dehydrator at 50c for 8 hours.
3. Grind 200g of dried rhizomes into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
4. Mix 50g of the powder with 100g of coconut oil and 50g of beeswax in a double boiler.
5. Stir the mixture continuously for 10 minutes until it reaches 40c and then pour into containers.

3. Arnica montana

Arnica montana, also known as mountain arnica, creams helps with inflammation because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The active compounds in Arnica, such as sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids, work to reduce swelling and pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes. This natural remedy has been traditionally used to soothe joint and muscle pain, as well as reduce redness and bruising.

The cream's ability to promote blood flow and reduce inflammation makes it a popular choice for athletes and individuals seeking a natural solution to alleviate pain and discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arnica montana creams that help with inflammation.

• Alkamides: These sesquiterpene lactones help reduce inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes and suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
• Flavonoids: As potent antioxidants, flavonoids in Arnica help mitigate oxidative stress and reduce inflammation by scavenging free radicals and modulating immune response.
• Triterpene saponins: These compounds help reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which contribute to the inflammatory process.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of mountain arnica used to make creams for inflammation.

• Flowers: The flowers of Arnica montana are commonly used to make creams for inflammation due to their high content of sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: The leaves of Arnica montana are often used to make creams due to their ability to provide a sustained release of anti-inflammatory compounds.
• Stems: The stems of Arnica montana are sometimes used to make creams for inflammation, as they contain a combination of compounds that contribute to the plant's anti-inflammatory effects.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mountain arnica for inflammation.

1. Infuse 25g of dried arnica montana flowers in 500ml of carrier oil like sweet almond oil at 60c for 2 hours.
2. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container to remove the plant material.
3. Melt 100g of beeswax and 100g of shea butter in a double boiler at 60c for 30 minutes.
4. Combine the infused oil with the melted beeswax and shea butter mixture in a ratio of 70:30.
5. Pour the final cream mixture into tin containers and allow it to cool and set for 30 minutes.

4. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with inflammation because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The plant's flowers contain triterpenoid saponins, sesquiterpene lactones, and flavonoids, which work together to reduce redness and swelling in the skin. These compounds inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby alleviating inflammation and promoting the healing process.

Calendula's anti-inflammatory effects have made it a popular choice for soothing irritated skin, wounds, and other inflammatory conditions.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids present in Calendula officinalis have potent anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and enzymes.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Calendula officinalis creams exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities by scavenging free radicals and suppressing the expression of pro-inflammatory genes.
• N-alkanoyl-4-hydroxyanthranilic acid: HAA, a unique compound found in Calendula officinalis, possesses anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, thereby reducing inflammation.

Plant's Parts

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

• Flowers: They contain anti-inflammatory compounds like triterpenoid saponins and sesquiterpene lactones, which help soothe and calm inflamed skin.
• Leaves: They have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which contribute to reducing inflammation and promoting skin health.
• Seeds: They contain triterpenoid saponins, which have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, beneficial for soothing inflamed skin.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for inflammation.

1. Harvest calendula officinalis flowers in large quantities for their potent medicinal properties and beauty applications.
2. Dry calendula flowers in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours to preserve their potency.
3. Infuse 1 cup of dried calendula flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil like coconut or olive oil for 2 weeks.
4. Strain the infused oil mixture through cheesecloth to separate the oil from the plant material in 30 minutes.
5. Mix 1 tablespoon of the infused oil with 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel to create a soothing cream.

5. Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, creams helps with inflammation because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The herb contains hyperforin and hypericin, which have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby reducing inflammation and pain. Additionally, its antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate inflammation, promoting healing and recovery in affected areas.

This makes Hypericum perforatum creams a popular natural remedy for soothing irritated skin and reducing inflammation.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Hyperforin: A potent phenolic compound that inhibits pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
• Naphthodianthrones: These naphthodianthrones exhibit potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help in reducing inflammation and protecting against cell damage.
• Flavonoids: As a group of polyphenolic compounds, flavonoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help in reducing inflammation, improving blood vessel function, and protecting against oxidative stress.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: Flavonoids, particularly hyperforin and hypericin, are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Flowers: Tannins and flavonoids are used due to their ability to soothe and reduce inflammation.
• Stems: Flavonoids, including rutin and quercetin, are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 250g of dried hypericum perforatum flowers at full bloom for maximum potency.
2. Mix 25g of dried hypericum perforatum flowers with 100g of sweet almond oil in a double boiler.
3. Steep the mixture for 4 hours at 70-80 degrees celsius to infuse the oil.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container to remove plant particles.
5. Add 10g of beeswax and 10g of vitamin e oil to the mixture and stir until combined.

6. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, creams helps with inflammation because of its potent anti-inflammatory compounds, such as menthone and limonene.

These active ingredients work by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which contribute to swelling and pain. The cooling effect of mentha x piperita creams also helps to reduce heat and discomfort associated with inflammation. Additionally, its antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals, further reducing inflammation and promoting a faster recovery.

This makes it a popular natural remedy for soothing irritated skin.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene helps with inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to the inflammatory response.
• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound exerts anti-inflammatory effects by scavenging free radicals, suppressing the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes, and modulating the activity of inflammatory cells.
• Menthone: This monoterpenoid has anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which play a key role in the inflammatory process.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make creams for inflammation.

• Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly menthol and menthone, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Stems: They contain similar essential oils to the leaves, which help to reduce inflammation and provide a cooling sensation.
• Roots: They also contain essential oils with anti-inflammatory properties, which are often used in combination with the leaves and stems to create a more potent cream.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for inflammation.

1. Harvest 50g of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers in the early morning to capture their peak essential oil content.
2. Steep 20g of the harvested plant material in 200ml of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release its oils.
3. Strain the infusion and combine it with 50g of beeswax and 50g of coconut oil to create a base mixture.
4. Heat the base mixture in a double boiler at 60-70°c for 10-15 minutes to melt the beeswax and mix the ingredients.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and thicken for 30-60 minutes before whipping it into a smooth and creamy texture.

7. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with inflammation because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The key active compounds, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, work to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines. As a result, this natural cream can help soothe and calm irritated skin, providing relief from redness, swelling, and discomfort associated with conditions like eczema, acne, and sunburn.

It promotes a healthy skin environment, reducing inflammation and promoting faster healing.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with inflammation.

• Linalool: A terpene that has anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to the development of inflammation.
• Linalyl acetate: A terpene that has anti-inflammatory effects by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and suppressing the activity of inflammatory cells, thereby alleviating inflammation.
• Caffeic acid: A phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the activity of enzymes involved in the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and by scavenging free radicals, which contribute to the development of inflammation.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for inflammation.

• Leaves: They contain essential oils that can be used to reduce inflammation.
• Flowers: They have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making them a key component in creams for inflammation.
• Essential oils extracted from the flowers: They have potent anti-inflammatory properties that can be used to soothe and calm irritated skin.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for inflammation.

1. Infuse 250ml of water with 20g of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers for 10 minutes.
2. Steep the infused mixture in a double boiler for 30 minutes to concentrate the properties.
3. Combine the concentrated mixture with 50g of beeswax and 50g of shea butter in a heatproof bowl.
4. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the beeswax and shea butter melt.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and thicken before pouring it into a clean container.

8. Matricaria chamomilla

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

The active compounds in chamomile, such as apigenin and bisabolol, have been shown to reduce swelling and ease pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes. Additionally, chamomile's anti-oxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate inflammation.

This makes chamomile creams an effective remedy for relieving inflammation and promoting relaxation, making it a popular ingredient in skincare products and treatments.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Apigenin: This flavonoid compound has anti-inflammatory properties, reducing inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
• Α-bisabolol: As a terpene, α-Bisabolol has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, soothing and calming irritated tissues, thereby reducing inflammation.
• Apigenin-7-o-glucoside: This flavonoid glycoside, a derivative of apigenin, also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and enzymes.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for inflammation.

• Flowers: They are rich in apigenin and luteolin, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
• Leaves: They contain flavonoids and terpenoids that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, making them useful in reducing inflammation.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for inflammation.

1. Harvest 20-30 fresh matricaria chamomilla flowers in the early morning to ensure optimal potency and freshness.
2. Dry the harvested flowers in a single layer at 30-40°c for 2-3 hours to preserve their therapeutic properties.
3. Infuse 50g of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers in 500ml of warm water for 10-15 minutes to create a tea-like liquid base.
4. Mix 100g of beeswax and 100g of coconut oil in a double boiler to create a stable emulsion base.
5. Blend the infused liquid base with the emulsion base and add 5-10 drops of vitamin e oil to enhance skin health and stability.

9. Eucalyptus globulus

Eucalyptus globulus, also known as Tasmanian blue gum, creams helps with inflammation because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The essential oil extracted from the leaves of this plant contains compounds like eucalyptol, which have been shown to reduce swelling and ease pain. The cream's cooling sensation on the skin helps to constrict blood vessels, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

As a natural and non-steroidal alternative, Eucalyptus globulus creams provide effective relief from minor aches and pains, making them a popular choice for people seeking a gentle and soothing remedy.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus creams that help with inflammation.

• Cineole: It acts as a potent anti-inflammatory agent by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes.
• Α-terpineol: It exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by reducing inflammation and pain through its analgesic and anti-nociceptive effects.
• Catechin: It is a type of polyphenol that helps to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, and also by scavenging free radicals.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make creams for inflammation.

• Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of eucalyptol, a natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic compound.
• Barks: The bark of Eucalyptus globulus is rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which exhibit potent anti-inflammatory properties.
• Essential oil (from leaves): Eucalyptus globulus essential oil is a concentrated extract of the leaves, often used in creams for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for inflammation.

1. Gather 20 grams of dried eucalyptus globulus leaves and 50 grams of carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba oil.
2. Steam distill the eucalyptus globulus leaves to extract the essential oil for 2 hours and 30 minutes.
3. Mix 10 grams of the essential oil with 100 grams of beeswax and 100 grams of carrier oil.
4. Heat the mixture in a double boiler at 160 degrees fahrenheit for 10 minutes to melt the beeswax.
5. Pour the mixture into a container and let it cool for 2 hours to set the cream.

10. Boswellia serrata

Boswellia serrata, also known as frankincense, creams helps with inflammation because they contain boswellic acids, which have potent anti-inflammatory properties.

These acids work by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby reducing swelling and pain. The cream also helps to improve blood flow and reduce oxidative stress, which can exacerbate inflammation.

As a result, Boswellia serrata creams have been found to be effective in managing conditions such as arthritis, joint pain, and skin irritations, providing relief and promoting overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata creams that help with inflammation.

• Boswellic acids: These triterpenoid compounds help with inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing swelling and pain.
• Terpenoids: These compounds help with inflammation by blocking the production of inflammatory mediators, such as leukotrienes and prostaglandins, which contribute to the inflammatory response.
• Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid: This boswellic acid derivative helps with inflammation by inhibiting the activity of enzymes and proteins involved in the inflammatory process, such as NF-κB and COX-2, which are key regulators of inflammation.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make creams for inflammation.

• Roots: They contain high concentrations of boswellic acids, which are the primary anti-inflammatory compounds responsible for the therapeutic effects of Boswellia serrata.
• Rhyzomes: They are also a rich source of boswellic acids, similar to roots, making them a key component in creams for inflammation.
• Barks: They contain boswellic acids and other bioactive compounds that contribute to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for inflammation.

1. Harvest boswellia serrata resin from sustainably sourced trees at the peak of resin flow usually in summer months.
2. Dry the harvested resin in a warm oven at 150°f for 4-6 hours or until completely dry.
3. Grind 2 tablespoons of dried boswellia serrata resin into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Combine 1/4 cup of coconut oil and 2 tablespoons of the ground boswellia serrata powder in a double boiler.
5. Whip the mixture for 10 minutes until smooth and creamy using a handheld electric mixer.

What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for inflammation?

The best combination of herbal creams that help with inflammation is a blend of arnica, aloe vera, and tea tree oil.

Arnica cream reduces swelling and pain, while aloe vera soothes and calms the skin. Tea tree oil, rich in antioxidants, further reduces inflammation and promotes healing. This trio works synergistically to provide rapid relief from inflammation and promote healthy skin.

Regular application can lead to long-term reduction in inflammation and improved overall skin health.