By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 20, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Lymph Node Swelling
Herbal creams for lymph node swelling are topical applications that utilize natural ingredients to reduce inflammation and promote lymphatic drainage.
They work by stimulating the lymph nodes to remove toxins and excess fluids, thereby reducing swelling. Examples of herbal creams that help with lymph node swelling include arnica and calendula creams.
By reducing swelling, these creams can improve lives by alleviating discomfort and promoting faster recovery from illnesses such as Lyme disease and breast cancer.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for lymph node swelling, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Echinacea angustifolia
- 2. Calendula officinalis
- 3. Hamamelis virginiana
- 4. Aloe vera
- 5. Taraxacum officinale
- 6. Urtica dioica
- 7. Hypericum perforatum
- 8. Symphytum officinale
- 9. Althaea officinalis
- 10. Matricaria chamomilla
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for lymph node swelling?
- What ailments similar to lymph node swelling are treated with herbal creams?
1. Echinacea angustifolia
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, creams helps with lymph node swelling because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The herbal extract has been traditionally used to boost the immune system and combat infections, which can cause lymph node swelling. By reducing inflammation and promoting healing, Echinacea angustifolia creams may help alleviate swollen lymph nodes and promote overall well-being.
Its soothing and calming effects may also provide relief from discomfort and pain associated with swollen lymph nodes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia creams that help with lymph node swelling.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and alleviate lymph node inflammation.
- Alkylamides: Alkylamides in Echinacea angustifolia may have immunomodulatory effects, helping to regulate the immune response and reduce lymph node swelling.
- Cichoric acid: As a phenolic compound, cichoric acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help mitigate lymph node swelling and promote overall health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make creams for lymph node swelling.
- Roots: The root is the primary part used due to its high concentration of echinacoside, which has anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
- Barks: The bark is also used for its potential to reduce inflammation and swelling, which can help alleviate lymph node swelling.
- Stems: The stems may be utilized due to their possible contribution of anti-inflammatory compounds, although this is less documented than the root's benefits.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for lymph node swelling.
- Harvest echinacea angustifolia roots in the fall season when the plant is in full maturity.
- Dry the harvested roots in a warm place with good air circulation for 2 weeks.
- Grind 2 cups of dried roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
- Mix the powder with 1 cup of beeswax, 1/2 cup of coconut oil, and 1/4 cup of shea butter.
- Melt the mixture in a double boiler over low heat for 30 minutes, then let it cool before whipping.
2. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with lymph node swelling because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and flavonoids, help reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation associated with lymph node swelling. It also promotes wound healing, tissue repair, and regeneration, which can aid in reducing the swelling and discomfort caused by lymph node irritation.
The cream's soothing and calming effects can also help alleviate skin irritation and promote a healthy environment for lymph nodes to function properly.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with lymph node swelling.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain associated with lymph node swelling.
- Flavonoids: As a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, Quercetin can help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby reducing lymph node swelling.
- Calendulin: Calendulin has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties, which can aid in reducing lymph node swelling and promoting the body's natural healing processes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for lymph node swelling.
- Flowers: The flowers of Calendula officinalis are the most used parts for making creams for lymph node swelling, due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Calendula officinalis contain flavonoids and terpenoids that contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, making them a useful component in creams for lymph node swelling.
- Stems: The stems of Calendula officinalis contain sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, helping to reduce swelling and promote healing in lymph nodes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for lymph node swelling.
- Harvest calendula flowers in the morning when they are dry and free of dew for optimal quality.
- Dry the harvested calendula flowers in a warm oven at 105°f for 2 hours to remove moisture.
- Make a calendula infusion by steeping 1 cup of dried flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil such as olive oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the calendula infusion and discard the solids then add 1 teaspoon of beeswax to 8 ounces of infused oil.
- Blend the beeswax and infused oil mixture in a double boiler until the beeswax is fully incorporated and the mixture has cooled.
3. Hamamelis virginiana
Hamamelis virginiana, also known as American Witch Hazel, creams helps with lymph node swelling because of its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.
The hamamelose and gallic acid in Witch Hazel help to reduce swelling and inflammation in the lymph nodes, making it an effective remedy for lymphedema and swollen nodes.
Its ability to promote blood circulation and reduce fluid retention also aids in reducing swelling and promoting healing in the affected area, providing relief from discomfort and pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hamamelis virginiana creams that help with lymph node swelling.
- Tannins: Tannins help reduce inflammation and swelling by constricting blood vessels and limiting the flow of fluid to the affected area, thereby alleviating lymph node swelling.
- Hamamelitannin: Hamamelitannin, a type of gallic acid-derived tannin, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce lymph node swelling and infection.
- Oligomers of epigallocatechin gallate: EGCG oligomers, which are a type of polyphenol, have been found to possess anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce swelling and inflammation associated with lymph node swelling.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of american witch hazel used to make creams for lymph node swelling.
- Barks: Hamamelis virginiana barks are rich in tannins, which provide anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, helping to reduce swelling and promote healing.
- Leaves: Hamamelis virginiana leaves contain various compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, aiding in the reduction of lymph node swelling.
- Roots: Hamamelis virginiana roots are a source of hamamelitannin, a powerful astringent that helps to reduce inflammation and promote the healing process in swollen lymph nodes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic american witch hazel for lymph node swelling.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh hamamelis virginiana leaves and flowers on a dry sunny morning by 9 am.
- Steep the harvested plant material in 2 cups of hot distilled water for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Strain the liquid and combine it with 1 cup of distilled water and 1/2 cup of vegetable glycerin by 12 pm.
- Melt 1/4 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of shea butter in a double boiler for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Combine the strained liquid with the melted wax and butter mixture then pour into small jars by 3 pm.
4. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with lymph node swelling because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The gel extracted from the aloe vera plant contains compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which have been shown to reduce swelling and promote healing in the affected area. The cooling and soothing effects of aloe vera creams also help to reduce inflammation and promote lymphatic drainage, thereby reducing the swelling of lymph nodes.
This makes aloe vera creams a popular natural remedy for lymph node swelling.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with lymph node swelling.
- Phenolic acids: These plant-derived compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and inflammation in lymph nodes by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
- Apolipoprotein a-1: This lipid protein has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects and can help reduce swelling and inflammation in lymph nodes by inhibiting the activation of inflammatory cells and reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
- Glucosamine: This amino sugar has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and inflammation in lymph nodes by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoting the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for lymph node swelling.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are used due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which help reduce swelling and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for lymph node swelling.
- Gather ingredients including aloe vera gel 50 grams, coconut oil 100 grams, beeswax 20 grams, vitamin e oil 5 drops and shea butter 50 grams.
- Mix aloe vera gel with coconut oil in a double boiler over low heat for about 10 minutes stirring occasionally.
- Combine beeswax with aloe vera and coconut oil mixture in the double boiler and heat for another 5 minutes stirring constantly.
- Remove the mixture from heat and add vitamin e oil and shea butter stirring well to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a container let it cool and solidify completely before use.
5. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, creams helps with lymph node swelling because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream is often used to reduce swelling and promote the drainage of lymph fluid. The diuretic properties of Taraxacum officinale also help to increase urine production, which can aid in the removal of excess fluid from the body. This can be beneficial in reducing lymph node swelling and promoting overall lymphatic health.
Regular use may also help to prevent future occurrences of swelling.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale creams that help with lymph node swelling.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Taraxacum officinale help alleviate lymph node swelling by possessing anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and pain associated with lymphedema.
- Polyphenols: Polyphenols present in the herb exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which can aid in reducing lymph node swelling by preventing oxidative stress and promoting healing.
- Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol, a triterpene saponin found in Taraxacum officinale, has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help in reducing lymph node swelling and promoting the resolution of inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make creams for lymph node swelling.
- Leaves: Taraxacum officinale leaves are used to make creams for lymph node swelling because they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: Taraxacum officinale roots are used to make creams for lymph node swelling because they contain saponins and sesquiterpenes that have anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects.
- Flowers: Taraxacum officinale flowers are used to make creams for lymph node swelling because they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for lymph node swelling.
- Harvest 20-30 taraxacum officinale flowers on a sunny day when the dew has dried.
- Dry the flowers in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2-3 hours.
- Infuse 2 tablespoons of dried flowers in 4 ounces of jojoba oil for 4-6 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth and discard the solids in a compost bin.
- Whip the infused oil with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 1 tablespoon of shea butter until smooth.
6. Urtica dioica
Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, creams helps with lymph node swelling because of its anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as flavonoids and sesquiterpenes, help to reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort associated with lymph node inflammation. Additionally, the cream's ability to improve blood flow and reduce oxidative stress contributes to its therapeutic effects.
By applying the cream topically, the body's natural healing processes can be supported, promoting the reduction of lymph node swelling and promoting overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica creams that help with lymph node swelling.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids present in Urtica dioica, such as berberine and palmitoylberberine, have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and inflammation associated with lymph node swelling.
- Phenolics: Phenolic compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids like quercetin and ferulic acid, exhibit potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, helping to alleviate lymph node swelling by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Saponins: Saponins, such as ursolic acid and oleanolic acid, present in Urtica dioica, possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the immune response and reduce lymph node swelling.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make creams for lymph node swelling.
- Leaves: Urtica dioica leaves are commonly used to make creams for lymph node swelling due to their high content of anti-inflammatory compounds like histamine and flavonoids.
- Stems: The stems of Urtica dioica are used for their ability to reduce inflammation and ease pain associated with lymph node swelling.
- Roots: Urtica dioica roots are used in creams for their anti-inflammatory properties and ability to promote healing in swollen lymph nodes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for lymph node swelling.
- Harvest fresh urtica dioica leaves in late spring or early summer when they are at their peak potency and flavor.
- Dry the harvested leaves using a food dehydrator at 40°c for 2 hours to preserve their medicinal properties.
- Combine 500 grams of dried urtica dioica leaves with 500 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler and heat for 30 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then transfer the liquid to a glass jar for storage.
- Whip 100 grams of beeswax and 100 grams of shea butter together then mix with the liquid urtica dioica extract and pour into a tin mold for a creamy texture.
7. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum, also known as St. John's Wort, creams helps with lymph node swelling because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as hyperforin and hypericin, have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve circulation, which can help to alleviate lymph node swelling.
By promoting the removal of toxins and waste products from the body, Hypericum perforatum creams may also help to reduce swelling and promote healing in the affected area, making it a potential natural remedy for lymph node issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with lymph node swelling.
- Hyperforin: Acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent, helping to reduce swelling and inflammation in lymph nodes.
- Naphthodianthrones: Exhibits photodynamic properties that help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in swollen lymph nodes, while also inhibiting bacterial growth.
- Flavonoids: Displays anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce swelling and promote the resolution of lymph node inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for lymph node swelling.
- Leaves: They are rich in hyperforin, a key compound responsible for the anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help reduce lymph node swelling.
- Roots: The roots of Hypericum perforatum contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that aid in healing and reducing swelling.
- Flowers: The flowers of Hypericum perforatum contain hyperforin and other bioactive compounds that contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, helping to alleviate lymph node swelling.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for lymph node swelling.
- Harvest fresh hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves in the early morning when dew is still present on them.
- Dry the harvested flowers and leaves in a low-temperature oven at 50-60 degrees celsius for 2-3 hours.
- Grind the dried flowers and leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Mix the powder with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or olive oil in a ratio of 1:10 to create a paste.
- Combine the herbal paste with beeswax and vitamin e oil in a double boiler and heat until melted and well combined.
8. Symphytum officinale
Symphytum officinale, also known as comfrey, creams helps with lymph node swelling because it contains allantoin, a compound that promotes tissue repair and reduces inflammation.
The cream's anti-inflammatory properties help to decrease swelling and pain associated with lymph node inflammation. Additionally, allantoin's ability to stimulate collagen synthesis and promote cell regeneration aids in the healing process, allowing the affected area to return to its normal function.
This makes Symphytum officinale creams a popular natural remedy for treating lymph node swelling.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Symphytum officinale creams that help with lymph node swelling.
- Allantoin: Allantoin helps break down lymphatic congestion by promoting the removal of dead cells, reducing inflammation, and improving lymphatic drainage.
- Saponins: Saponins have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce swelling and alleviate pain associated with lymph node swelling by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the lymphatic system, promoting a return to normal lymph node size and function.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of comfrey used to make creams for lymph node swelling.
- Leaves: They are rich in allantoin, a compound that helps in tissue repair and reduces inflammation.
- Roots: They contain a higher concentration of allantoin compared to leaves, which is beneficial for soothing and healing swollen lymph nodes.
- Flowers: They are also used due to their allantoin content and may have additional benefits when combined with other parts of the plant in creams for lymph node swelling.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic comfrey for lymph node swelling.
- Harvest 250 grams of fresh symphytum officinale leaves and flowers in the early morning.
- Clean and dry the harvested plant material in a warm place for 24 hours.
- Infuse 50 grams of the dried plant material in 500 milliliters of carrier oil such as jojoba oil.
- Strain the infused oil mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids.
- Mix the strained oil with 250 grams of beeswax and 50 grams of shea butter to create a smooth cream.
9. Althaea officinalis
Althaea officinalis, also known as marshmallow, creams helps with lymph node swelling because of its anti-inflammatory properties and soothing effects on the skin.
The mucilages present in the marshmallow plant create a protective barrier that reduces swelling and discomfort in the affected area. The cream's ability to reduce inflammation and promote tissue repair helps to alleviate lymph node swelling, making it a popular natural remedy for individuals seeking alternative solutions to manage this condition.
Regular application can provide relief and promote healing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis creams that help with lymph node swelling.
- Mucilages: Mucilages in Althaea officinalis creams help reduce inflammation and swelling in lymph nodes by forming a protective barrier that soothes and calms irritated tissues.
- Glycosides: Glycosides, particularly inositol, in Althaea officinalis may aid in reducing inflammation and promoting lymphatic drainage by enhancing the body's natural fluid circulation and reducing swelling.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as quercetin, in Althaea officinalis creams may help reduce inflammation and alleviate lymph node swelling by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and promoting antioxidant activity.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make creams for lymph node swelling.
- Roots: They are used due to their high mucilage content, which helps to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Leaves: They are used because they contain flavonoids and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate lymph node swelling.
- Barks: They are used for their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and promote healing in the affected area.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for lymph node swelling.
- Infuse 2 tablespoons of dried althaea officinalis roots in 2 cups of boiling water for 5 minutes then let it steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove the solids.
- Combine 1/2 cup of distilled water with 1/4 cup of a natural emulsifier such as cetearyl alcohol in a heat-proof mixing bowl.
- Gradually add the infused liquid to the emulsifier mixture while whisking constantly until a smooth consistency is achieved.
- Pour the cream into clean glass jars and allow it to cool to room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator.
10. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with lymph node swelling because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The active compounds in chamomile, such as apigenin and bisabolol, have been shown to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation, which can help alleviate swelling and discomfort in the lymph nodes. Additionally, chamomile's antimicrobial properties may help prevent infections that can cause lymph node swelling, making it a popular natural remedy for promoting lymphatic health.
Its gentle and calming effects can also help reduce stress and promote overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with lymph node swelling.
- Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds help reduce inflammation and improve lymphatic circulation, thereby alleviating lymph node swelling.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid present in Matricaria chamomilla, apigenin has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and promote the drainage of lymph nodes.
- Bisabolol: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to soothe the affected area, reduce inflammation, and promote the healing process, ultimately alleviating lymph node swelling.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for lymph node swelling.
- Flowers: They are used due to their high content of apigenin and bisabolol, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling.
- Leaves: They are utilized for their bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
- Seeds: They are used due to their rich content of fatty acids and other bioactive compounds, which can help soothe and reduce inflammation in the affected areas.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for lymph node swelling.
- Harvest 100 grams of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers at their peak potency to ensure optimal benefits.
- Combine the dried flowers with 50 grams of beeswax and 100 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture gently over low heat for 20-30 minutes or until the beeswax is fully dissolved.
- Add 10 grams of vitamin e oil and 5 grams of lavender essential oil to the mixture and stir well.
- Pour the final mixture into a glass jar and let it cool and solidify completely before use.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for lymph node swelling?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with lymph node swelling is a blend of calendula, chamomile, and echinacea creams.
Calendula cream soothes and calms the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Chamomile cream has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and promote relaxation. Echinacea cream boosts the immune system, helping to fight off underlying infections that may be causing the lymph node swelling.
Using these creams together can provide effective relief from lymph node swelling and promote overall well-being.
What ailments similar to lymph node swelling are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to lymph node swelling that are treated with herbal creams are conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
These creams often contain anti-inflammatory and soothing herbs like aloe vera, tea tree oil, and chamomile, which help to reduce redness and swelling. They may also contain antibacterial agents to combat infections and promote healing.
By applying these herbal creams topically, individuals can find relief from skin irritations and inflammation without resorting to harsh chemicals or medications.