10 Best Herbal Teas For Inflammation

Herbal teas for inflammation are a natural and effective way to alleviate chronic inflammation and promote overall well-being.

These teas are made from plants that contain anti-inflammatory compounds, which help to reduce swelling, pain, and discomfort.

Examples of herbal teas that help with inflammation include ginger, turmeric, and willow bark tea, which have been shown to improve symptoms and quality of life for individuals with conditions such as arthritis and fibromyalgia, allowing them to engage in activities they love.

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

1. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, teas helps with inflammation because of its high concentration of curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound.

Curcumin has the ability to suppress pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to the body's inflammatory response. By reducing inflammation, Curcuma longa teas can help alleviate symptoms associated with arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory conditions.

The tea's anti-inflammatory properties also aid in wound healing and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Curcumin: Curcumin acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes such as COX-2 and lipoxygenase, which contribute to the production of pro-inflammatory mediators.
• Demethoxycurcumin: DMC exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by suppressing the activity of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), a key transcription factor involved in the regulation of inflammatory gene expression.
• Bisdemethoxycurcumin: BDMC has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β).

Plant's Parts

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

• Stems: Although less commonly used than roots and rhyzomes, the stems of Curcuma longa are still used in some tea blends for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Recipe

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

1. Grind 1-2 teaspoons of dried curcuma longa root into a fine powder using a spice grinder.
2. Boil 1 liter of water in a saucepan over high heat for 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the ground curcuma longa powder to the boiling water and stir gently.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
5. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth immediately.

2. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, teas helps with inflammation because of its potent anti-inflammatory compounds.

The bioactive molecules in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, which contribute to swelling and pain. The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger teas have been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of arthritis, muscle soreness, and other inflammatory conditions.

Additionally, ginger's antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals, further reducing inflammation and promoting overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: These compounds, particularly [6]-gingerol, have anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to inflammation.
• Shogaols: Shogaols, similar to gingerols, have potent anti-inflammatory properties by blocking the activity of inflammatory mediators and reducing oxidative stress.
• Curcuminoids: Although not exclusive to ginger, curcuminoids have been found in ginger and have anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the activation of inflammatory pathways, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.

Plant's Parts

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

• Rhyzomes: The most commonly used part for teas, as they contain high amounts of active compounds that help reduce inflammation.
• Leaves: Used to make teas, as they have anti-inflammatory properties and can be easily dried and brewed.
• Buds: Used in some teas, as they contain compounds that help reduce inflammation and have a milder flavor than the rhyzomes.

Recipe

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

1. Gather 1 teaspoon of dried zingiber officinale root and 1 cup of boiling water for herbal tea preparation.
2. Steep the dried root in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to allow flavors to infuse.
3. Strain the mixture using a fine-mesh sieve to remove the dried root particles completely.
4. Add honey or sugar to taste if desired to sweeten the herbal tea.
5. Serve the zingiber officinale tea hot or chilled as a soothing beverage.

3. Salix alba

Salix alba, also known as white willow, teas helps with inflammation because it contains salicin, a compound similar to aspirin.

Salicin is converted into salicylic acid in the body, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to reduce swelling, pain, and stiffness by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.

As a natural alternative to conventional pain relievers, Salix alba teas offers a soothing and calming effect on the body, making it a popular choice for managing inflammation and promoting overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salix alba teas that help with inflammation.

• Salicin: Salicin, a phenolic glycoside, helps with inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and mediators, such as COX-2 and PGE2, which contribute to the inflammatory response.
• Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid, a phenolic acid, helps with inflammation by reducing inflammation and pain through its ability to inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, such as COX-2 and iNOS.
• Flavonoids: Quercetin, a flavonoid, helps with inflammation by acting as an anti-inflammatory agent by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, such as COX-2, iNOS, and IL-1β, which contribute to the inflammatory response.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of white willow used to make teas for inflammation.

• Leaves: They are used to make teas due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
• Barks: The barks are used to make teas because of their salicylic acid content, which is similar to aspirin and helps reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
• Stems: The stems are used to make teas due to their ability to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of conditions such as arthritis, thanks to their salicylic acid content.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 10-20 fresh white willow bark pieces in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Dry the harvested willow bark pieces in a warm place for 2-3 hours to reduce moisture content.
3. Grind 2-3 teaspoons of dried willow bark into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of the ground willow bark in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea and discard the solids then enjoy the tea within 30 minutes of brewing.

4. Urtica dioica

Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, teas helps with inflammation because it contains anti-inflammatory compounds like flavonoids and carotenoids.

These compounds help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can alleviate symptoms of conditions such as arthritis and gout. The tea's anti-inflammatory properties also help to soothe and calm irritated tissues, reducing redness and swelling.

Additionally, the tea's antioxidant properties help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, promoting overall health and well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica teas that help with inflammation.

• Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
• Polyphenolic compounds: These antioxidants have potent anti-inflammatory effects, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation by scavenging free radicals and modulating the activity of various pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Nordihydroguaiaretic acid: This polyphenolic compound has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids and cytokines, and reducing inflammation in various tissues.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make teas for inflammation.

• Leaves: The leaves of Urtica dioica are the most commonly used part to make teas due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory compounds.
• Roots: The roots of Urtica dioica are often used to make teas due to their ability to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
• Stems: The stems of Urtica dioica, which are rich in flavonoids and other anti-inflammatory compounds, are sometimes used to make teas for their medicinal properties.

Recipe

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

1. Gather 30-60 grams of dried urtica dioica leaves and stems from a reputable source.
2. Steep the dried urtica dioica in 1 quart of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl.
4. Discard the solids and store the tea in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
5. Serve the tea chilled or at room temperature in small quantities 2-3 times a day.

5. Boswellia serrata

Boswellia serrata, also known as frankincense, teas helps with inflammation because it contains boswellic acids, which have potent anti-inflammatory properties.

These acids work by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby reducing inflammation and pain. The tea has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various inflammatory conditions, including arthritis and gout.

The anti-inflammatory effects of Boswellia serrata tea may also help to reduce swelling and improve joint mobility, making it a popular natural remedy for managing inflammation and promoting overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid: AKBA is a triterpenoid that helps reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and mediators, such as COX-2 and 5-LOX.
• Boswellic acids: Boswellic acids, specifically 3-acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA) and 11-keto-β-boswellic acid (KBA), have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation by blocking the activity of NF-κB, a key transcription factor involved in the inflammatory response.
• Α-boswellic acid: ABA has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, such as COX-2 and TNF-α.

Plant's Parts

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

• Roots: They are the primary source of boswellic acids, which are responsible for the anti-inflammatory properties.
• Rhyzomes: Similar to roots, rhyzomes contain boswellic acids and are used to make teas for their anti-inflammatory effects.
• Leaves: Although less potent than roots and rhyzomes, Boswellia serrata leaves still contain boswellic acids and are used in some teas to provide relief from inflammation.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh boswellia serrata resin from sustainably managed trees or purchase from a reputable supplier.
2. Dry the resin in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Crush the dried resin into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of the boswellia serrata powder in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 minutes.
5. Strain and drink the tea immediately to reap its potential benefits.

6. Harpagophytum procumbens

Harpagophytum procumbens, also known as devil's claw, teas helps with inflammation because it contains a unique combination of iridoid glycosides, particularly harpagoside.

This compound has been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce pain and swelling in the body. By inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, harpagoside can help to calm inflammation and promote healing in the affected area.

This makes devil's claw teas a popular natural remedy for relieving arthritis, joint pain, and other inflammatory conditions.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Harpagophytum procumbens teas that help with inflammation.

• Harpagide: It has anti-inflammatory properties due to its ability to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to inflammation and pain.
• Triterpenes: These compounds have potent anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as COX-2 and lipoxygenase, which play a crucial role in the inflammatory response.
• Tannins: They exhibit anti-inflammatory properties by scavenging free radicals, inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, and reducing the activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which helps to alleviate inflammation and oxidative stress.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of devil's claw used to make teas for inflammation.

• Roots: The roots are the primary part used due to their high concentration of harpagoside, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: Leaves are sometimes used due to their presence of flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which may contribute to their anti-inflammatory effects.
• Barks: The bark of Harpagophytum procumbens is occasionally used, containing flavonoids and phenolic compounds that could help in reducing inflammation.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic devil's claw for inflammation.

1. Harvest 10-20 grams of dried harpagophytum procumbens root during the spring or fall seasons for optimal potency.
2. Boil 1 liter of water and then reduce heat to a simmer for 5-10 minutes to create a gentle brew.
3. Steep the dried root in the hot water for 5-7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse.
4. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a separate container to remove the solids.
5. Store the prepared tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to preserve its potency.

7. Withania somnifera

Withania somnifera, also known as ashwagandha, teas helps with inflammation because of its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The active compounds present in ashwagandha, such as withanolides and alkaloids, have been shown to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines. This leads to a decrease in oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting overall health and well-being.

Additionally, ashwagandha teas have been found to modulate the body's response to stress, further contributing to its anti-inflammatory effects.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera teas that help with inflammation.

• Withanolides: These steroidal lactones have anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to the development of inflammation.
• Withaferin a: This alkaloid has potent anti-inflammatory effects by blocking the activation of NF-κB, a protein complex that regulates the expression of genes involved in inflammation.
• Saponins: These triterpenoid compounds have anti-inflammatory properties by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α and IL-1β, which play a key role in the inflammatory response.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make teas for inflammation.

• Roots: The roots of Withania somnifera contain bioactive compounds like withanolides, which are responsible for their anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: The leaves of Withania somnifera are used in teas due to their high content of antioxidants and flavonoids, which help reduce inflammation and promote overall well-being.
• Seeds: Withania somnifera seeds are used in teas for their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help alleviate symptoms of inflammation and oxidative stress.

Recipe

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

1. Dry 30-60 grams of withania somnifera roots in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
2. Grind the dried roots into fine powder using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder.
3. Boil one teaspoon of the powder in 1 cup of water for 5-7 minutes to make the tea.
4. Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids.
5. Drink the tea immediately after straining and discard the solids.

8. Filipendula ulmaria

Filipendula ulmaria, also known as meadowsweet, teas helps with inflammation because of its high salicylic acid content, similar to aspirin.

This natural anti-inflammatory compound reduces swelling and pain in the body. The tea's flavonoids and phenolic acids also have potent antioxidant properties, which help to neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative stress, further contributing to its anti-inflammatory effects.

By incorporating meadowsweet tea into one's routine, individuals can potentially alleviate inflammation and promote overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Filipendula ulmaria teas that help with inflammation.

• Salicylic acid: It helps with inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to the development and progression of inflammation.
• Flavonoids: They help with inflammation by acting as antioxidants, reducing oxidative stress, and inhibiting the activation of inflammatory cells and pathways.
• Saponins: They help with inflammation by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of meadowsweet used to make teas for inflammation.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part for making teas for inflammation due to their high content of salicylic acid, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties.
• Flowers: The flowers are also widely used for teas, as they contain flavonoids and other compounds that help to reduce inflammation and soothe pain.
• Roots: The roots of Filipendula ulmaria are used to make teas, as they contain a high concentration of glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 25-50g of dried filipendula ulmaria leaves and flowers from a trusted source in the morning.
2. Steep the herbs in 250ml of boiling water for 5-10 minutes to release the active compounds.
3. Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids from the liquid.
4. Combine the tea with honey to taste if desired to add sweetness to the beverage.
5. Store the prepared tea in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours and consume chilled.

9. Ulmus rubra

Ulmus rubra, also known as slippery elm, teas helps with inflammation because of its rich mucilaginous properties.

The gel-like substance in its inner bark soothes and protects the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and irritation. The anti-inflammatory compounds present in Ulmus rubra, such as salicylic acid and phenolic acids, help to reduce swelling and pain, making it a popular natural remedy for inflammatory conditions like IBS, arthritis, and skin irritations.

Its anti-inflammatory properties also promote healing and calmness.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra teas that help with inflammation.

• Flavonoids: These compounds help reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to the inflammatory response.
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, such as ursolic acid, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory mediators and enzymes.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including gallic acid, possess anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation by scavenging free radicals, inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes, and modulating the activity of inflammatory cytokines.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make teas for inflammation.

• Leaves: Ulmus rubra leaves are used to make teas for inflammation due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Barks: Ulmus rubra bark is used to make teas for inflammation due to its ability to reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation.
• Roots: Ulmus rubra roots are used to make teas for inflammation due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

Recipe

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

1. Gather 2 tablespoons of dried ulmus rubra bark and 1 teaspoon of dried ulmus rubra leaves for the tea blend.
2. Steep the dried ulmus rubra bark in 1 quart of boiling water for 5 minutes to release its medicinal properties.
3. Add the dried ulmus rubra leaves to the steeping mixture and continue to infuse for another 5 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids from the tea.
5. Allow the tea to cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consumption.

10. Althaea officinalis

Althaea officinalis, also known as marshmallow, teas helps with inflammation because of its rich mucilage content.

This thick, protective gel-like substance forms a barrier on the mucous membranes, reducing irritation and discomfort. As a result, it effectively soothes and calms irritated tissues, providing relief from inflammation and discomfort. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory properties of Althaea officinalis help to reduce swelling and promote healing, making it a popular natural remedy for various inflammatory conditions.

Its gentle and non-irritating nature makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a natural solution.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis teas that help with inflammation.

• Mucilages: Mucilages help with inflammation by forming a protective barrier on the mucous membranes, reducing irritation and inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract and respiratory system.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids help with inflammation by exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which reduce the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines that contribute to inflammation.
• Saponins: Saponins help with inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, such as COX-2 and NF-κB, which play a key role in the inflammatory response.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make teas for inflammation.

• Roots: They are rich in mucilages, which provide soothing and protective properties that help reduce inflammation.
• Leaves: They contain bioactive compounds that help to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing.
• Stems: Like roots, stems also contain mucilages that help to calm and protect tissues, reducing inflammation and promoting recovery.

Recipe

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

1. Gather 2-4 teaspoons of dried althaea officinalis roots and leaves in a clean container.
2. Boil 1 cup of water in a teapot for 5-7 minutes to reach a temperature of 212°f.
3. Steep the dried althaea officinalis mixture in the boiled water for 5-10 minutes.
4. Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove solids.
5. Serve the tea immediately and allow it to cool to a comfortable drinking temperature.

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

The best combination of herbal teas that help with inflammation is a blend of turmeric, ginger, and peppermint.

Turmeric contains curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound, while ginger's active ingredient, gingerol, reduces pain and inflammation. Peppermint, with its high menthol content, helps to relax muscles and reduce inflammation. This trio of teas works synergistically to alleviate symptoms associated with inflammation, promoting relaxation and reducing discomfort.

Drinking this blend can help to soothe and calm the body, promoting overall well-being and balance.