By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 09, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Edema
Herbal tinctures for edema are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, roots, and leaves that have natural anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties.
These tinctures help to reduce fluid retention and swelling by stimulating the lymphatic system and improving circulation. Examples of herbal tinctures that help with edema include Dandelion root, Cornsilk, and Goldenseal.
By reducing swelling and discomfort, these tinctures can improve daily life for individuals suffering from conditions such as arthritis, menopause-related bloating, or post-surgical swelling, allowing them to move freely and regain a sense of normalcy in their daily activities.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for edema, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Hemidesmus indicus
- 2. Urtica dioica
- 3. Althaea officinalis
- 4. Echinacea purpurea
- 5. Taraxacum officinale
- 6. Crataegus monogyna
- 7. Ginkgo biloba
- 8. Viscum album
- 9. Aloe vera
- 10. Equisetum arvense
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for edema?
- What ailments similar to edema are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Hemidesmus indicus
Indian sarsaparilla tinctures helps with edema because they contain bioactive compounds like saponins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids that have potent anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties.
These compounds help to reduce swelling by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increasing urine output. Additionally, the antioxidants present in sarsaparilla tinctures neutralize free radicals that can contribute to edema.
By reducing inflammation and promoting fluid elimination, Indian sarsaparilla tinctures provide natural relief from edema-related discomfort and promote overall circulatory health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hemidesmus indicus tinctures that help with edema.
- Steroids: These help with edema by reducing inflammation and preventing the formation of excess fluid in the body due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Alkaloids: These help with edema by reducing swelling and water retention through their diuretic and anti-inflammatory actions, which help regulate fluid balance in the body.
- Saponins: These help with edema by reducing inflammation and preventing the formation of excess fluid in the body due to their anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties, which help regulate fluid balance and reduce swelling.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of indian sarsaparilla used to make tinctures for edema.
- Roots: They are the primary source of bioactive compounds, including alkaloids and glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have been shown to have vasodilatory and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce edema.
- Stems: The stems of Hemidesmus indicus contain volatile oils, which may help to reduce inflammation and promote lymphatic drainage, alleviating edema symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic indian sarsaparilla for edema.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh roots and 2 parts of dry roots of hemidesmus indicus.
- Chop the roots into small pieces to increase the surface area for infusion.
- Combine the chopped roots with 70 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio by volume.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking occasionally.
- Strain the liquid through a coffee filter into a clean glass container discarding solids.
2. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle tinctures helps with edema because of its natural ability to reduce inflammation and alleviate water retention.
The tannins present in stinging nettle leaves have a diuretic effect, which increases urine production and helps remove excess fluids from the body. Additionally, the plant's anti-inflammatory properties help to constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling, making it an effective remedy for conditions such as water retention, arthritis, and gout.
This natural approach can provide relief from discomfort and promote overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica tinctures that help with edema.
- Tannins: Tannins in Urtica dioica tinctures help to reduce inflammation and edema by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
- Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to reduce fluid retention and alleviate edema symptoms.
- Saponins: Saponins in Urtica dioica tinctures may help to reduce edema by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which is involved in blood pressure regulation and fluid retention.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make tinctures for edema.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and iridoid glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties that help reduce edema.
- Roots: The roots of Urtica dioica contain iridoid glycosides and other compounds that may help reduce swelling and alleviate edema symptoms.
- Stems: Stems of Urtica dioica contain flavonoids and other compounds that may have anti-inflammatory properties and help reduce fluid retention associated with edema.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for edema.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems in the morning after dew has evaporated for maximum potency.
- Chop the harvested material into small pieces using sharp scissors or a knife to increase surface area.
- Combine 1 part of the chopped plant material with 2 parts of 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks to allow for extraction.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
3. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow tinctures helps with edema because of its unique ability to soothe and protect inflamed tissues.
The mucilages present in the marshmallow plant create a protective barrier on the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Additionally, the antioxidant properties of marshmallow help to neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate swelling.
By reducing inflammation and promoting healing, herbal marshmallow tinctures can effectively alleviate symptoms of edema, providing relief for individuals suffering from this condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis tinctures that help with edema.
- Mucilages: Mucilages help with edema by forming a protective barrier on the skin and mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and preventing further fluid accumulation.
- Iridoid glycosides: Iridoid glycosides have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and edema by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals in the body.
- Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids exhibit diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to the reduction of fluid retention and swelling associated with edema.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for edema.
- Roots: The roots of Althaea officinalis are used to make tinctures for edema because they contain a high concentration of mucilages, which help to reduce inflammation and swelling.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used to make tinctures for edema due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in soothing and calming swollen areas.
- Barks: The barks of Althaea officinalis are used to make tinctures for edema because they contain bioactive compounds that help to reduce fluid retention and alleviate edema symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for edema.
- Harvest 25-30% of althaea officinalis roots in early spring or late summer for optimal potency.
- Clean and dry the harvested roots in a warm oven at 150-200 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Chop 100g of dried roots into small pieces and combine with 500ml of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle, discard the solids and store the tincture.
4. Echinacea purpurea
Purple coneflower tinctures helps with edema because of its unique blend of bioactive compounds, including triterpenoid saponins, phenolic acids, and flavonoids.
These compounds work synergistically to reduce inflammation and swelling in the body, making it an effective natural remedy for edema. The anti-inflammatory properties of purple coneflower tinctures also help to improve circulation and reduce fluid buildup in tissues, promoting a reduction in puffiness and discomfort associated with edema.
Regular use of this herbal tincture can provide long-lasting relief from edema symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea tinctures that help with edema.
- Iridoids: Iridoids, such as echinacoside, have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce fluid retention and alleviate edema symptoms.
- Alkylamides: Alkylamides, a class of non-volatile compounds found in Echinacea, have been found to have anti-inflammatory and anti-edematous effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes involved in edema.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including kaempferol and quercetin, have been demonstrated to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate edema by inhibiting the activity of enzymes involved in the inflammatory response.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make tinctures for edema.
- Roots: They are used due to their high concentration of compounds like echinacoside, which is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling.
- Leaves: They are used due to their content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate edema.
- Flowers: They are used due to their high concentration of alkylamides, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce swelling and improve circulation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for edema.
- Harvest 1 part of dried echinacea purpurea root and 1 part of dried echinacea purpurea flowers in the fall season.
- Chop 1 part of dried echinacea purpurea root and 1 part of dried echinacea purpurea flowers into small pieces.
- Combine 1 part of chopped echinacea purpurea root and 1 part of chopped echinacea purpurea flowers with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the echinacea purpurea mixture in the vodka for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the echinacea purpurea tincture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle after the steeping period.
5. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with edema because they contain potent phytochemicals that support healthy fluid circulation and lymphatic function.
The tincture's diuretic properties stimulate kidneys to eliminate excess water, reducing swelling in the body. Additionally, dandelion's anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce inflammation, which can contribute to edema. By supporting the body's natural detoxification processes, herbal dandelion tinctures promote a balanced and healthy fluid balance, effectively alleviating edema symptoms.
This natural remedy is an effective way to address fluid retention and related discomforts.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with edema.
- Taraxasterol: A triterpene saponin that helps reduce edema by inhibiting the activity of lipoxygenase enzymes, which are involved in the production of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids that contribute to swelling.
- Inulin: A polysaccharide that acts as a diuretic by increasing the excretion of water and electrolytes in the urine, thereby reducing fluid retention and edema.
- Taraxasterol esters: These triterpene esters have been shown to have diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help reduce edema by increasing urine production and decreasing the production of pro-inflammatory mediators.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for edema.
- Leaves: Used for their diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties to reduce swelling and fluid retention.
- Roots: Utilized for their anthelmintic and anti-inflammatory properties to help reduce swelling and alleviate edema.
- Flowers: Employed for their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties to soothe and calm irritated tissues, reducing edema.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for edema.
- Harvest taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in the early morning after the dew has fallen but before the sun is high.
- Chop the fresh taraxacum officinale roots and leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife for better extraction.
- Combine the chopped taraxacum officinale with 80 proof vodka at a 1:5 ratio by weight in a glass jar.
- Allow the mixture to steep in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another glass container discarding the solids.
6. Crataegus monogyna
Hawthorn tinctures helps with edema because of its potent bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenoids.
These compounds exhibit vasodilatory and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce blood pressure and alleviate swelling in the body. Hawthorn's ability to dilate blood vessels and improve circulation also enhances the removal of excess fluids from tissues, thereby reducing fluid accumulation in the limbs and other affected areas.
By addressing the underlying causes of edema, hawthorn tinctures can provide relief from discomfort, pain, and stiffness associated with this condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Crataegus monogyna tinctures that help with edema.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce fluid retention and swelling associated with edema.
- Triterpenoids: These triterpenoids exhibit anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties, contributing to the reduction of edema by promoting the removal of excess fluids and electrolytes from the body.
- Phenolic acids: These phenolic acids have vasodilatory effects, which help improve blood circulation and reduce blood pressure, thereby alleviating edema caused by increased fluid accumulation in the body.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of hawthorn used to make tinctures for edema.
- Leaves: The astringent and diuretic properties of Crataegus monogyna leaves can help reduce fluid retention and alleviate edema symptoms.
- Stems: The stems of Crataegus monogyna contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help to reduce inflammation and alleviate edema.
- Fruits: The fruits of Crataegus monogyna, particularly the berries, are used to treat various health issues, including edema, due to their diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hawthorn for edema.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh leaves and twigs of crataegus monogyna in early summer when they are at their peak potency.
- Chop 1 part of the harvested plant material into small pieces to increase the surface area for tincture extraction.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar to create a solvent.
- Steep the mixture for 4 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place shaking the jar every few days to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
7. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with edema because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb's flavonoids and saponins work synergistically to reduce swelling and ease discomfort. By inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, maidenhair tree tincture can help alleviate fluid retention and promote healthy circulation.
This natural remedy has been traditionally used in traditional medicine to treat various conditions related to edema, including water retention, arthritis, and circulatory disorders.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with edema.
- Ginkgolides: Ginkgolides help with edema by inhibiting the release of histamine and other pro-inflammatory mediators, which contribute to fluid accumulation and swelling in the body.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to edema.
- Bilobalide: Bilobalide has a diuretic effect, which helps increase urine production and reduce fluid retention in the body, thereby alleviating edema.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for edema.
- Leaves: Ginkgo biloba leaves are commonly used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate edema symptoms.
- Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds are used for their flavonoids and terpenoids, which have been shown to improve blood flow and reduce swelling associated with edema.
- Roots: Ginkgo biloba roots are used for their bioactive compounds, including bilobalide and ginkgolides, which have anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory effects that help treat edema.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for edema.
- Gather 4 ounces of ginkgo biloba leaves and 2 cups of 80 proof vodka and place them in a clean glass jar.
- Combine the ginkgo biloba leaves and vodka in a ratio of 1:5 and seal the jar tightly.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 4 weeks with occasional shaking.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
- Transfer the tincture to small glass bottles and store it in a cool dark place for up to 5 years.
8. Viscum album
Mistletoe tinctures helps with edema because of its unique ability to reduce inflammation and improve circulation.
The herbal extract contains compounds like lectic acid, which has been shown to decrease fluid retention by reducing the permeability of blood vessels. Additionally, mistletoe's vasodilatory properties help to dilate blood vessels, allowing excess fluids to be effectively eliminated from the body.
This dual action makes mistletoe tinctures a valuable natural remedy for alleviating edema-related discomfort and promoting overall fluid balance.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Viscum album tinctures that help with edema.
- Irradiatol: It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce swelling and fluid retention associated with edema.
- Viscum album aglycones: These compounds have been found to exhibit vasodilatory effects, improving blood circulation and reducing fluid accumulation in tissues.
- Quercetin: As a flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, quercetin can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to the alleviation of edema.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of mistletoe used to make tinctures for edema.
- Leaves: Rich in iridoid glycosides, which are responsible for their anti-inflammatory properties and help in reducing edema.
- Buds: Contain bioactive compounds that help in reducing inflammation and swelling associated with edema.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used due to their high concentration of iridoid glycosides, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antiedematous effects.
- Stems: Contain compounds that help in reducing inflammation and swelling associated with edema.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mistletoe for edema.
- Gather 50g of dried viscum album and 500ml of 40% ethanol in a clean dark room.
- Combine the viscum album with 500ml of 40% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for 2-4 weeks shaking daily.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a separate container.
- Transfer the tincture to a dark glass bottle and store it in a cool dark place indefinitely.
9. Aloe vera
Aloe tinctures helps with edema because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and fluid retention in the body.
The bioactive compounds present in aloe, such as aloin and aloe-emodin, work to decrease inflammation and promote lymphatic drainage, allowing excess fluids to be removed from the body more efficiently.
Additionally, aloe tinctures' natural diuretic properties help increase urine production, further aiding in the elimination of excess water and reducing edema-related discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with edema.
- Anthraquinones: These glycosides have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and alleviate edema by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Friedelin: A triterpenoid saponin, friedelin has been shown to exhibit anti-edematous and anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the activity of phospholipase A2, an enzyme involved in the production of pro-inflammatory mediators.
- Aloin: A glycoside anthraquinone, aloin has been found to possess anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties that help reduce fluid retention and alleviate edema by stimulating the kidneys to increase urine production.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for edema.
- Leaves: They contain a high concentration of the bioactive compounds responsible for reducing inflammation and swelling associated with edema.
- Stems: The stems of Aloe vera contain mucilages, which help to soothe and reduce inflammation in the affected areas.
- Roots: The roots of Aloe vera are rich in saponins, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to alleviate edema symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for edema.
- Harvest mature aloe vera leaves with a thick green skin and a yellow base.
- Chop the leaves into small pieces and weigh 250 grams for a standard batch.
- Combine the chopped aloe vera with 750 milliliters of 95 percent ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Store the container in a cool dark place for two weeks to allow for infusion and maceration.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
10. Equisetum arvense
Field horsetail tinctures helps with edema because of its unique composition, rich in flavonoids, saponins, and other bioactive compounds.
These compounds have been traditionally used to address water retention issues by promoting healthy circulation, reducing inflammation, and supporting the body's natural detoxification processes.
By improving blood flow and tissue permeability, field horsetail tinctures can help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort associated with edema, making it a popular natural remedy for individuals seeking an alternative to conventional treatments.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Equisetum arvense tinctures that help with edema.
- Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and alleviate edema by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Equisetum arvense have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which help protect tissues from oxidative damage and reduce inflammation that contributes to edema.
- Saponins: Saponins in Equisetum arvense have anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties, which help reduce fluid retention and alleviate edema by promoting urine production and reducing inflammation in the body.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of field horsetail used to make tinctures for edema.
- Roots: The roots of Equisetum arvense are used due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and swelling associated with edema.
- Stems: The stems of Equisetum arvense are used due to their rich content of saponins, which are known to have diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce fluid retention and edema.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic field horsetail for edema.
- Harvest equisetum arvense fresh or dried roots and rhizomes in the morning after dew has evaporated.
- Dry the harvested roots and rhizomes in a well-ventilated area for 1-2 weeks at 50-60°c.
- Grind 100 grams of dried equisetum arvense roots and rhizomes into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
- Mix the powder with 500 milliliters of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar for 2-3 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and discard the solids then store the tincture in a dark glass bottle.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for edema?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with edema is a blend of Dandelion root, Cleavers, and Juniper berries.
Dandelion root promotes lymphatic circulation and diuresis, helping to reduce fluid retention. Cleavers supports the lymphatic system, enhancing its ability to remove toxins and excess fluids. Juniper berries aid in kidney function, promoting the elimination of excess water and minerals.
Together, these tinctures work synergistically to alleviate edema symptoms and promote overall fluid balance in the body.
What ailments similar to edema are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to edema/tinctures.html">edema/tinctures.html">edema that are treated with herbal tinctures are lymphedema, chronic venous insufficiency, and fibromyalgia.
Herbal remedies such as butcher's broom, horse chestnut, and witch hazel may help alleviate swelling, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation in these conditions.
Additionally, herbal tinctures like St. John's Wort, chamomile, and valerian root may also be used to address associated symptoms of pain, anxiety, and insomnia.