10 Best Herbal Creams For Edema

Herbal creams for edema are topical treatments that use plant extracts to reduce swelling and discomfort caused by fluid retention.

These creams help by improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and promoting lymphatic drainage. Examples include creams containing witch hazel, calendula, and peppermint, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

By reducing edema, these creams improve mobility, alleviate pain, and enhance overall quality of life for individuals affected by this condition.

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

1. Aloe vera

Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with edema because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The gel extracted from the aloe vera plant reduces swelling and promotes blood flow to the affected area. It also contains compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin that help to break down excess fluids and reduce inflammation. By applying aloe vera cream to the affected area, individuals can experience relief from edema and promote a faster recovery.

It's a natural and effective way to manage edema symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with edema.

• Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin, a anthraquinone glycoside, helps reduce edema by inhibiting inflammatory pathways and improving vascular permeability.
• Saponins: Saponins, a group of triterpenoid glycosides, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antiedematous properties, thereby reducing fluid accumulation and swelling associated with edema.
• Glucomannan: Glucomannan, a polysaccharide, helps reduce edema by inhibiting the absorption of sodium and water, thereby reducing fluid retention and swelling.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for edema.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most widely used part due to their high concentration of aloe vera gel, which contains anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce swelling.
• Stems: The stems of Aloe vera contain a high amount of aloin, a compound that helps to break down excess fluid and reduce edema.
• Gel from leaves: The gel extracted from the leaves is also widely used for its soothing and hydrating properties, which help to reduce swelling and discomfort associated with edema.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for edema.

1. Harvest a sufficient amount of aloe vera leaves with a thickness of about 1.5 inches for optimal use.
2. Crush the aloe vera leaves with a mortar and pestle to extract the gel for about 10 minutes.
3. Mix the extracted aloe vera gel with beeswax in a ratio of 3:1 and heat it gently to melt the beeswax in a double boiler for about 5 minutes.
4. Combine the melted mixture with coconut oil in a ratio of 2:1 and add a few drops of vitamin e oil and preservative to enhance skin health and shelf life for about 5 minutes.
5. Pour the final mixture into a clean container and let it cool completely before use in about 30 minutes to an hour.

2. Calendula officinalis

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

The cream's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and flavonoids, have been shown to reduce swelling and promote wound healing by improving circulation and reducing fluid retention. Additionally, calendula's natural antiseptic and antimicrobial properties help to prevent infection and promote a healthy environment for tissue repair, contributing to its effectiveness in alleviating edema.

This natural remedy offers a soothing and comforting solution for those affected by edema.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Carotenoids: These pigments, particularly beta-carotene, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and alleviate edema by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Flavonoids: Quercetin's anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties help reduce fluid retention, alleviate swelling, and promote the removal of excess fluids from the body, thereby alleviating edema.
• Triterpenes: Oleanolic acid has anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties that help reduce fluid retention, alleviate swelling, and promote the removal of excess fluids from the body, thereby alleviating edema.

Plant's Parts

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

• Flowers: They are rich in anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making them effective in reducing swelling and promoting wound healing.
• Leaves: They contain flavonoids, saponins, and triterpenoids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helpful in reducing edema.
• Stems: They are a good source of flavonoids and triterpenoids, which help to reduce inflammation and improve circulation, aiding in the reduction of edema.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh calendula officinalis flowers at peak bloom and dry them for 2 hours.
2. Infuse 2 tablespoons of dried flowers in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes.
3. Strain the infusion and mix with 1/4 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of coconut oil.
4. Heat the mixture in a double boiler for 10 minutes while stirring occasionally.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and solidify before whipping into a smooth cream.

3. Arnica montana

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

The cream's active compounds, such as flavonoids and sesquiterpenes, work to reduce swelling and ease pain associated with edema. By improving circulation and reducing inflammation, Arnica montana creams can help alleviate the symptoms of edema, promoting a faster recovery and reducing the risk of further complications.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to promote healing and reduce swelling in the body.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Triterpenes: These compounds, such as arnidiol and arnicol, help reduce inflammation and edema by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and mediators.
• Flavonoids: Specifically, flavonoids like kaempferol and quercetin, help alleviate edema by modulating the activity of inflammatory pathways and improving blood vessel function.
• Phenolic acids: Compounds like caffeic acid and ferulic acid, present in Arnica montana, contribute to the reduction of edema by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, thereby protecting tissues from oxidative damage and inflammation.

Plant's Parts

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

• Flowers: They are primarily used due to their high concentration of sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: Leaves contain a similar profile of compounds as the flowers, making them a suitable alternative for edema treatment.
• Roots: They are used for their expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties, although they are less commonly used in creams than the flowers and leaves.

Recipe

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

1. Infuse dried arnica montana flowers in a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil at a ratio of 1:10 for 2-4 weeks.
2. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove the plant material.
3. Mix the infused oil with a thickening agent like beeswax and shea butter in a double boiler.
4. Heat the mixture until the beeswax and shea butter are fully incorporated and melted into the infused oil.
5. Pour the mixture into a glass jar and allow it to cool and solidify before using the arnica montana cream.

4. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with edema because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to improve blood circulation.

The bioactive compounds present in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to reduce swelling by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes. Additionally, the warming sensation caused by ginger helps to increase blood flow to the affected area, promoting the removal of excess fluid and reducing edema.

This natural remedy offers a non-invasive and effective solution for managing edema.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: These phenolic compounds have potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and alleviate edema by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols are also phenolic compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities, making them effective in reducing edema by blocking the action of pro-inflammatory mediators.
• Zingiberene: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help mitigate the effects of edema by reducing oxidative stress and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Plant's Parts

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

• Rhyzomes: The rhizomes of Zingiber officinale are commonly used to make creams for edema because they contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are used to make creams for edema due to their ability to reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
• Buds: The buds of Zingiber officinale are also used to make creams for edema because they possess antioxidant properties that help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100g of fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes for their medicinal properties and store them in an airtight container for later use.
2. Grind the rhizomes into a fine powder using a spice grinder for 1 minute to release their active compounds.
3. Mix 50g of the ground zingiber officinale powder with 50g of beeswax and 50g of coconut oil in a double boiler.
4. Heat the mixture over low heat for 10-15 minutes while stirring occasionally to combine and melt the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean bowl and discard the solids to obtain a smooth cream.

5. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, creams helps with edema because of its potent anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory properties.

The menthol content in peppermint creams stimulates blood circulation, reduces swelling, and relaxes muscles. By improving lymphatic drainage and reducing fluid retention, peppermint creams alleviate edema symptoms. Furthermore, the cooling sensation of peppermint creams helps to ease discomfort and itching associated with swollen areas, providing relief and promoting overall well-being.

This natural remedy is a popular choice for managing edema.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Menthol: Acts as a vasodilator, helping to increase blood flow and reduce swelling in the affected area.
• Limonene: Exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and edema caused by injury or disease.
• Rosmarinic acid: Possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to protect the skin from oxidative stress and reduce the severity of edema.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: The leaves contain high amounts of menthol and menthone, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can help reduce swelling and ease pain associated with edema.
• Stems: The stems of Mentha x piperita contain oils that can help improve circulation and reduce inflammation, which can be beneficial in alleviating edema.
• Roots: The roots of the plant contain compounds that can help relax muscles and reduce swelling, making them a useful component in creams for edema relief.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100g of fresh mentha x piperita leaves in the early morning to ensure optimal oil content.
2. Steam distill the harvested leaves for 2 hours to extract the essential oil.
3. Combine 100g of beeswax with 100g of shea butter and 30g of mentha x piperita essential oil in a double boiler.
4. Heat the mixture for 30 minutes at a temperature of 160°f to create a smooth paste.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and thicken for 2 hours before transferring it to a storage container.

6. Lavandula angustifolia

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

The essential oil present in lavender cream reduces swelling and promotes relaxation, easing the constriction of blood vessels that can lead to fluid buildup. The cooling effect of the cream also aids in reducing inflammation and soothing irritated skin, which can be beneficial in reducing edema.

Additionally, its calming properties can help alleviate stress and anxiety, which can contribute to fluid retention.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Linalool: This terpene has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and alleviate pain associated with edema.
• Linalyl acetate: This terpene has a vasodilatory effect, which helps to improve blood circulation and reduce fluid accumulation in tissues, thus alleviating edema.
• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which contribute to the development of edema.

Plant's Parts

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

• Flowers: They are used due to their calming and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain associated with edema.
• Leaves: They are used due to their ability to promote relaxation and reduce inflammation, making them effective in treating edema symptoms.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers at full bloom for optimal oil content within 2 hours.
2. Dry the flowers in a single layer on paper towels for 2-3 days to remove excess moisture.
3. Steep 1 cup of dried flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil such as jojoba or sweet almond oil at 100°f for 2 weeks.
4. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids within 30 minutes.
5. Whip 1 cup of the infused oil with 1/4 cup of shea butter and 2 tablespoons of beeswax until smooth within 10 minutes.

7. Hypericum perforatum

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

The active compounds in Hypericum perforatum, such as hyperforin and hypericin, have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve circulation, which can help alleviate swelling and fluid buildup in the body. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing edema in the legs, feet, or hands.

The cream's soothing and calming effects can also promote relaxation and reduce discomfort associated with edema.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Hyperforin: Hyperforin is a phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and alleviate edema.
• N-acyltyrosine derivatives: N-Acyltyrosine derivatives, particularly hypericin, exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities that contribute to reducing edema and promoting tissue repair.
• Tannins: Tannins, a type of polyphenol, have astringent and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and alleviate edema by constricting blood vessels and reducing fluid accumulation.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: The leaves are rich in flavonoids and tannins, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, making them effective in reducing edema.
• Flowers: The flowers are a good source of hyperforin and hypericin, which have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to alleviate edema symptoms.
• Barks: The bark of Hypericum perforatum contains flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a useful component in creams for edema treatment.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 30g of fresh hypericum perforatum flowers at peak bloom when they are in full flower.
2. Dry the flowers in a low-temperature oven at 50c for 2 hours to preserve their properties.
3. Combine the dried flowers with 100ml of olive oil and steep them in a double boiler for 2 hours.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then add 10ml of beeswax to the oil.
5. Heat the mixture gently until the beeswax has melted and then pour it into a glass jar to cool.

8. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with edema because it contains curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory compound.

Curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to reduce swelling and inflammation in the body. When applied topically, curcumin in the cream can help to relieve edema by improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and promoting the breakdown of excess fluid in the affected area, providing relief from discomfort and pain.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to treat various health conditions, including edema.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Curcumin: Curcumin helps reduce edema by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as COX-2 and 5-LOX, which contribute to inflammation and swelling.
• Demethoxycurcumin: DMC has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate edema by suppressing the activity of NF-κB, a protein complex involved in the regulation of inflammation.
• Tumerone: Tumerone has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce edema by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and scavenging free radicals, which contribute to inflammation and tissue damage.

Plant's Parts

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

• Roots: The roots of Curcuma longa are commonly used because they contain high levels of curcumin, a bioactive compound with anti-inflammatory properties.
• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes of Curcuma longa are used due to their rich content of curcumin and other active compounds that help reduce inflammation and alleviate edema symptoms.
• Stems: The stems of Curcuma longa are utilized for their high concentration of volatile oils, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in edema creams.

Recipe

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

1. Weigh 50g of curcuma longa powder and 20g of beeswax into a double boiler.
2. Combine 20g of coconut oil and 20g of shea butter in the double boiler.
3. Gradually add 50g of distilled water to the mixture while constantly stirring with a spatula.
4. Stir the mixture for 10 minutes then remove it from the heat source and let it cool.
5. Once cooled, transfer the mixture to a blender and add 5g of vitamin e oil.

9. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, creams helps with edema because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The extract from the plant's roots and flowers contains compounds that reduce inflammation and swelling, making it an effective natural remedy for edema. Echinacea purpurea creams work by improving lymphatic circulation, which helps to remove excess fluids and reduce puffiness.

This natural approach can provide relief from edema symptoms without the need for harsh chemicals or medications, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more holistic approach to health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea creams that help with edema.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help reduce inflammation and edema by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes.
• Cichoric acid: This caffeic acid derivative has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate edema by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Alkylamides: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help reduce edema by regulating the immune response and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory molecules.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make creams for edema.

• Roots: Echinacea purpurea roots are commonly used to make creams for edema due to their high concentration of alkaloids and polysaccharides, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Flowers: Echinacea purpurea flowers are used in creams for edema because they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that help reduce swelling.
• Leaves: Echinacea purpurea leaves are used in creams for edema due to their high content of phenolic acids and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that aid in reducing edema.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for edema.

1. Harvest 1-2 cups of dried echinacea purpurea flowers in late summer when the petals have dropped off.
2. Infuse the dried flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil such as coconut oil for 2-6 weeks.
3. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids.
4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the infused oil with 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 1 tablespoon of shea butter in a double boiler.
5. Whisk the mixture constantly and heat until the beeswax and shea butter have melted and the mixture has cooled slightly.

10. Althaea officinalis

Althaea officinalis, also known as marshmallow, creams helps with edema because of its rich composition of mucilages and glycosides.

These compounds have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to reduce swelling and ease discomfort in affected areas. The cream's ability to lock in moisture also promotes the reduction of fluid retention, thereby alleviating the symptoms of edema.

Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of Althaea officinalis help to calm irritated tissues, promoting a faster recovery and relief from edema.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis creams that help with edema.

• Mucilages: These complex carbohydrates help to reduce inflammation and swelling by creating a protective barrier on the skin surface, preventing further irritation and allowing the skin to heal.
• Triterpenoid saponins: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties, which help to reduce swelling and alleviate pain associated with edema by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Gallic acid: A phenolic compound, gallic acid helps to reduce inflammation and edema by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, which contribute to swelling and pain.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make creams for edema.

• Roots: The roots are the most used part of Althaea officinalis to make creams for edema because they contain high concentrations of mucilage, which helps to reduce swelling and inflammation.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used, but to a lesser extent, due to their lower mucilage content, which still provides anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
• Stems: Although stems are not as commonly used as roots or leaves, they can be used to make creams for edema, providing additional mucilage and anti-inflammatory properties.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1/2 cup of dried althaea officinalis roots from a trusted supplier or your own garden.
2. Combine 1/2 cup of distilled water with 1/4 cup of glycerin in a small saucepan.
3. Simmer the mixture over low heat for 30 minutes to dissolve the glycerin and water.
4. Mix 1/2 cup of shea butter with 1/4 cup of the cooled althaea officinalis mixture in a large bowl.
5. Whip the mixture until it reaches a smooth consistency suitable for application to the skin.

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

The best combination of herbal creams that help with edema is a blend of comfrey, calendula, and arnica.

Comfrey promotes tissue repair and reduces inflammation, while calendula soothes and calms the skin. Arnica, with its anti-inflammatory properties, helps to reduce swelling and discomfort.

Applying a mixture of these creams to the affected area can provide relief and promote healing. Regular application can also help to reduce the frequency and severity of edema episodes.

Consult a healthcare professional before using herbal creams.