10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Inflammation

Herbal tinctures for inflammation are concentrated liquid extracts derived from plants, used to alleviate pain, swelling, and stiffness caused by inflammation.

These potent remedies help by reducing inflammation through anti-inflammatory compounds, antioxidant properties, and soothing effects on the body. Examples of herbal tinctures that help with inflammation include turmeric, ginger, and willow bark.

By using these tinctures, individuals can experience improved mobility, reduced pain, and enhanced overall well-being, allowing them to live life without limitations, whether it's enjoying a hike with friends or simply being able to play with grandchildren.

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

1. Curcuma longa

Turmeric tinctures helps with inflammation because of its potent anti-inflammatory compound, curcumin.

This bioactive compound has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and chemicals in the body, thereby reducing swelling and pain. Additionally, turmeric's antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals that can contribute to oxidative stress and inflammation.

As a result, turmeric tinctures have been found to be effective in alleviating symptoms associated with conditions such as arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory diseases.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Curcumin: Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound, helps with inflammation by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as COX-2 and LOX, which contribute to the production of inflammatory mediators.
• Demethoxycurcumin: DMC, a curcuminoid, helps with inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α and IL-1β, which promote inflammation and tissue damage.
• Bis-demethoxycurcumin: BDMC, another curcuminoid, helps with inflammation by scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress, which can contribute to the development of inflammation and tissue damage.

Parts Used

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

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes contain the highest concentration of curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound.
• Roots: Roots of Curcuma longa are also rich in curcumin and other bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation.
• Seeds: The seeds of Curcuma longa contain a high amount of essential oils and curcumin, making them a useful part for tincture production.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 to 2 pounds of fresh turmeric rhizomes and clean them thoroughly with water.
2. Chop the rhizomes into small pieces and dry them in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Combine 2 cups of the dried rhizome pieces with 4 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Seal the jar and let it steep in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks, shaking it daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another glass container and discard the solids.

2. Zingiber officinale

Ginger tinctures helps with inflammation because of its unique combination of compounds that have potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The active ingredients, gingerols and shogaols, work together to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals, reducing swelling and pain in the body. Additionally, ginger's antioxidants help to neutralize free radicals that can contribute to chronic inflammation.

This natural approach can provide relief from conditions such as arthritis, muscle soreness, and digestive issues, making it a popular alternative for those seeking a holistic solution to manage inflammation.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Shogaol: A gingerol derivative that inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing inflammation and pain.
• Gingerol: A phenolic compound that has potent anti-inflammatory properties, inhibiting the activation of inflammatory pathways and reducing the production of pro-inflammatory mediators.
• 6-gingerol: A gingerol derivative that has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as COX-2, and reduce inflammation and pain by blocking the activation of inflammatory pathways.

Parts Used

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

• Buds: The buds of Zingiber officinale are used to make tinctures for inflammation as they contain bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, making them useful for pain relief.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes and clean them thoroughly with a soft brush.
2. Chop the cleaned rhizomes into small pieces and weigh them to ensure a 1:2 ratio with the solvent.
3. Steep the chopped rhizome pieces in 80-100 proof vodka or glycerin at a 1:2 ratio for 2-6 weeks.
4. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
5. Store the herbal tincture in a cool dark place and allow it to mature for 2-4 weeks before use.

3. Harpagophytum procumbens

Devil's claw tinctures helps with inflammation because it contains harpagosides, a unique compound that has potent anti-inflammatory properties.

When taken as a supplement, harpagosides work by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals in the body and increasing the levels of anti-inflammatory compounds. This dual action helps to alleviate inflammation and discomfort associated with conditions such as arthritis, gout, and tendonitis.

By targeting the underlying inflammatory process, devil's claw tinctures can provide effective relief from pain and swelling.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Harpagide: This iridoid glycoside has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping to reduce pain and inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Procumbides: These iridoid glycosides have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory activity by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, contributing to reduced inflammation and pain.
• Harpagoside: This iridoid glycoside has been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes and free radicals.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They are the primary source of the plant's anti-inflammatory compounds, including harpagoside and procumbide.
• Rhyzomes: Similar to roots, they also contain harpagoside and other bioactive compounds that contribute to their anti-inflammatory effects.
• Leaves: They are often used in combination with roots and rhyzomes to enhance the overall efficacy of the tincture for inflammation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh root of harpagophytum procumbens in autumn when the plant is fully grown.
2. Clean and chop the root into small pieces weighing 30 grams per 100 ml solvent.
3. Steep the chopped root in 100 ml of 95% ethanol for 14 days in a cool dark place.
4. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and discard the solids then transfer to a clean glass bottle.
5. Label the tincture and store it in a cool dark place for at least 6 weeks before use.

4. Hypericum perforatum

St John's Wort tinctures helps with inflammation because of its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herb contains a unique combination of bioactive compounds, including hyperforin and hypericin, which have been shown to effectively reduce pro-inflammatory markers in the body.

By inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, St John's Wort tinctures can help alleviate symptoms associated with inflammation, such as pain, swelling, and redness, promoting overall health and well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Hyperforin: Hyperforin has potent anti-inflammatory properties due to its ability to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes.
• Naphthodianthrone: Naphthodianthrones, specifically hypericin and pseudohypericin, exhibit anti-inflammatory effects by scavenging free radicals and inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes such as cyclooxygenase (COX).
• Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid present in St. John's Wort, acts as a potent anti-inflammatory agent by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as COX and lipoxygenase, and by scavenging free radicals.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are used due to their high flavonoid content, particularly quercetin, which exhibits potent anti-inflammatory properties.
• Flowers: They are used because they contain a range of bioactive compounds, including hyperforin and hypericin, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
• Roots: They are used because they contain a variety of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 50-100 grams of fresh hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves in the morning.
2. Dry the collected plant material in a single layer for 1-2 weeks or until brittle.
3. Chop the dried plant material into smaller pieces and use 1:2 ratio with a neutral solvent.
4. Steep the chopped plant material in the solvent for 2-4 weeks with 1-2 inspections a week.
5. Strain the mixture and discard the solids then transfer the liquid to small dark glass bottles.

5. Salix alba

White willow tinctures helps with inflammation because they contain salicin, a natural compound similar to aspirin.

When taken orally, salicin is converted into salicylic acid in the body, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties. This helps to reduce pain and swelling by blocking the production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause inflammation.

Additionally, white willow tinctures have been shown to be effective in reducing joint pain and stiffness associated with conditions such as arthritis, making them a popular natural remedy for alleviating discomfort and promoting overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Salicin: Salicin is a glycoside that acts as a natural anti-inflammatory agent by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as COX-2, which contribute to the development of inflammation.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Salix alba have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation by scavenging free radicals and inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Tannins: Tannins in Salix alba have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, as well as by scavenging free radicals.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that contribute to their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm irritated tissues.
• Stems: The stems of Salix alba contain salicin and other compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, making them useful for treating inflammation and promoting overall well-being.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 50% of salix alba leaves and 50% of salix alba bark in the early morning when they are at their peak potency.
2. Chop 500g of the harvested leaves and 250g of the harvested bark into small pieces to release their active ingredients.
3. Combine 500g of the chopped leaves and 250g of the chopped bark with 750ml of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar every 2 days to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container and discard the solids.

6. Tanacetum parthenium

Feverfew tinctures helps with inflammation because they contain compounds like parthenolide, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties.

This natural ingredient is able to reduce prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause pain and swelling in the body. Feverfew tinctures also contain flavonoids, antioxidants that help to neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative damage.

By addressing the root causes of inflammation, feverfew tinctures can provide relief from conditions such as arthritis, headaches, and digestive issues, promoting overall health and well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tanacetum parthenium tinctures that help with inflammation.

• Parthenolide: A sesquiterpene lactone, parthenolide is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
• Chlorogenic acid: A phenolic compound, chlorogenic acid has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which help mitigate inflammation by scavenging free radicals and suppressing the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Α-bisabolol: A sesquiterpene alcohol, α-bisabolol has been found to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, and promoting the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of feverfew used to make tinctures for inflammation.

• Leaves: Leaves are commonly used due to their high content of sesquiterpene lactones, particularly parthenolide, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Flowers: Flowers are used for their parthenolide content as well, which is believed to contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects.
• Roots: Roots are often used because they contain a higher concentration of parthenolide compared to other parts, making them a popular choice for tincture production.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh tanacetum parthenium flowers when in full bloom and dry them completely within 2-3 weeks.
2. Combine 100g of dried tanacetum parthenium flowers with 500ml of 95% ethanol in a clean glass container.
3. Store the mixture in a cool dark place and steep it for 2-3 weeks shaking the container daily.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another clean glass container to separate the plant material.
5. Filter the tincture through a coffee filter and store it in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid.

7. Boswellia serrata

Frankincense tinctures helps with inflammation because of its potent anti-inflammatory compounds, including boswellic acids and terpenes.

These bioactive molecules have been shown to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and eicosanoids. Additionally, frankincense tinctures may also help to decrease oxidative stress and improve antioxidant defenses, further contributing to its anti-inflammatory effects.

As a result, frankincense tinctures can be an effective natural remedy for reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms associated with conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and chronic pain.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• 3-acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid: This boswellic acid derivative has potent anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
• Boswellic acids: These triterpenoid compounds, particularly AKBA, exhibit anti-inflammatory properties by blocking the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as COX-2 and 5-LOX, which contribute to the development of inflammation.
• Α-boswellic acid: This boswellic acid isomer has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, thereby reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: Boswellia serrata roots are the primary part used to make tinctures due to their high concentration of boswellic acids, which are responsible for anti-inflammatory properties.
• Rhyzomes: Boswellia serrata rhyzomes are used in tinctures for their bioactive compounds, including boswellic acids, which have potent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.
• Barks: Boswellia serrata barks are utilized in tinctures for their rich content of boswellic acids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 200g of dried boswellia serrata resin and 80% ethanol or vodka as the solvent.
2. Combine the dried boswellia serrata resin with 500ml of the solvent in a clean glass jar.
3. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks to allow for infusion.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container.
5. Bottle the filtered tincture and store it in a cool dark place for up to 5 years.

8. Withania somnifera

Ashwagandha tinctures helps with inflammation because of its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herb contains compounds like withanolides, which have been shown to reduce pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby alleviating swelling and pain. Additionally, ashwagandha's ability to modulate the body's stress response helps to mitigate chronic inflammation caused by prolonged stress.

By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, ashwagandha tinctures can provide relief from conditions such as arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory disorders.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Withanolides: Withanolides have anti-inflammatory properties due to their ability to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing inflammation in the body.
• Withaferin a: Withaferin A has potent anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), a key transcription factor involved in inflammation, leading to reduced inflammation and oxidative stress.
• Catechins: Catechins, a type of phenolic compound, have anti-inflammatory properties by scavenging free radicals, reducing oxidative stress, and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, thus helping to alleviate inflammation.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Withania somnifera are the most commonly used part for tinctures due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, particularly withanolides, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are often used in tinctures as they contain withanolides and other alkaloids that contribute to the plant's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
• Seeds: The seeds of Withania somnifera are sometimes used in tinctures, as they are a rich source of withanolides, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of withania somnifera root and 1 part of the aerial parts by cutting them above ground level in the morning.
2. Dry the harvested plant material by spreading it out in a single layer on paper bags for 7-10 days.
3. Combine the dried withania somnifera root and aerial parts in a 1:1 ratio and chop them into smaller pieces using a sharp knife.
4. Steep the chopped withania somnifera in 70% ethanol at a 1:5 ratio for 2-4 weeks in a dark glass container.
5. Strain the tincture from the plant material and discard the solids after 2-4 weeks of steeping time.

9. Yucca schidigera

Mojave yucca tinctures helps with inflammation because its unique compounds, such as saponins and flavonoids, possess potent anti-inflammatory properties.

These bioactive molecules have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing swelling and pain in affected areas. Additionally, Mojave yucca's antioxidants help neutralize free radicals that contribute to chronic inflammation, promoting a natural and sustained reduction in inflammation levels.

As a result, Mojave yucca tinctures have become a popular natural remedy for alleviating inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and digestive disorders.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Yucca schidigera tinctures that help with inflammation.

• Saponins: Saponins in Yucca schidigera have anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, thus reducing inflammation.
• Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides in Yucca schidigera have anti-inflammatory effects by modulating the immune system and reducing the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, leading to decreased inflammation.
• Saponin glycosides: Saponin glycosides in Yucca schidigera exhibit anti-inflammatory activity by scavenging free radicals and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby reducing inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of mojave yucca used to make tinctures for inflammation.

• Stems: They contain saponins, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: They contain saponins and other compounds that have been traditionally used to reduce inflammation and pain.
• Roots: They are a rich source of saponins and other bioactive compounds that help to alleviate inflammation and promote healing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100g of fresh yucca schidigera leaves and flowers for optimal tincture production during the full moon phase.
2. Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase surface area.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 500ml of 90% ethanol in a clean glass jar for a ratio of 1:5.
4. Steep the plant material in the ethanol mixture for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place to allow for proper extraction.
5. Strain the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter and discard the solids to obtain a clear liquid concentrate.

10. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with inflammation because of its rich content of flavonoids, particularly quercetin, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The tannins present in the herb also contribute to its ability to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes. Additionally, the antioxidant properties of the tincture help neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate inflammation, promoting a state of balance and reducing oxidative stress in the body.

This natural synergy makes maidenhair tree tinctures an effective herbal remedy for soothing joint pain and other inflammatory conditions.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with inflammation.

• Ginkgotoxins: These diterpene lactones have anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes that contribute to inflammation.
• Bilobalide: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory effects by scavenging free radicals, reducing oxidative stress, and inhibiting the activity of enzymes involved in the inflammatory process.
• Flavonoids: As a type of phenolic compound, flavonoids in Ginkgo biloba have anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, suppressing the activity of inflammatory enzymes, and reducing oxidative stress.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for inflammation.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part for tinctures due to their high flavonoid and terpene content, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Seeds: The seeds are used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, particularly for their ginkgolides content, which helps in reducing inflammation.
• Barks: The barks are sometimes used for their anti-inflammatory properties, although less common than leaves and seeds, they still contain flavonoids and terpenes that may aid in reducing inflammation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100g of dried ginkgo biloba leaves and flowers from a reputable supplier or cultivated plant.
2. Chop the dried plant material into small pieces to increase surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 500ml of 60% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks with occasional shaking and agitation.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a separate container and discard the solids.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with inflammation is a blend of Turmeric, Ginger, and Boswellia.

Turmeric contains curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Ginger has anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce pain and swelling.

Boswellia, also known as frankincense, has been shown to inhibit the production of inflammatory enzymes. Combining these three tinctures can provide a synergistic effect, effectively reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

This blend can be taken sublingually or added to water to alleviate inflammation and promote overall well-being.

What ailments similar to inflammation are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to inflammation/tinctures.html">inflammation/tinctures.html">inflammation that are treated with herbal tinctures are various, including pain and discomfort associated with arthritis, gout, and fibromyalgia.

Herbal tinctures like willow bark, ginger, and turmeric can help reduce pain and swelling.

Other conditions that may benefit from herbal tincture treatment include sprains, strains, and bruises, as well as skin issues such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.