By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Swollen Feet
Herbal creams for swollen feet are topical treatments that combine natural herbs with moisturizing properties to alleviate discomfort and reduce swelling.
Examples of these creams include arnica, aloe vera, and chamomile. By reducing inflammation and promoting circulation, these creams help to ease the pain and discomfort associated with swollen feet.
This can greatly improve the quality of life for individuals with conditions such as edema or varicose veins, allowing them to walk and engage in daily activities with greater ease.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for swollen feet, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Hamamelis virginiana
- 2. Aloe vera
- 3. Arnica montana
- 4. Calendula officinalis
- 5. Echinacea angustifolia
- 6. Gaultheria procumbens
- 7. Helichrysum italicum
- 8. Lavandula angustifolia
- 9. Matricaria chamomilla
- 10. Melaleuca alternifolia
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for swollen feet?
- What ailments similar to swollen feet are treated with herbal creams?
1. Hamamelis virginiana
Hamamelis virginiana, also known as American Witch Hazel, creams helps with swollen feet because it has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that reduce swelling and soothe irritated skin.
The cream's astringent properties help to tighten skin and reduce fluid buildup, alleviating discomfort and promoting relaxation. Additionally, Witch Hazel contains tannins that help to reduce inflammation and promote blood flow, further relieving swollen feet and promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
Regular use can lead to long-lasting relief from swollen feet.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hamamelis virginiana creams that help with swollen feet.
- Hamamelitannin: This tannin compound helps with swollen feet by reducing inflammation and improving blood circulation, which in turn alleviates swelling and discomfort.
- Hamamelis saponins: These saponins have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and pain in the feet, while also improving skin health and reducing the risk of infections.
- Gallic acid: This phenolic acid helps to reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation, which can help to alleviate swelling and discomfort in the feet, while also providing antioxidant properties to protect the skin from damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of american witch hazel used to make creams for swollen feet.
- Barks: Barks are often used due to their high tannin content, which helps reduce inflammation and soothe swollen feet.
- Leaves: Leaves are commonly used because of their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and ease discomfort in the feet.
- Roots: Roots are utilized for their antiseptic and astringent properties, which can help prevent infections and reduce the appearance of swollen feet.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic american witch hazel for swollen feet.
- Harvest 25 grams of dried hamamelis virginiana leaves and flowers to prepare for infusion.
- Infuse 250 ml of carrier oil with the dried plant material in a double boiler for 2 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain a clear liquid.
- Mix 25 grams of beeswax and 15 grams of shea butter with the infused oil in a heatproof bowl.
- Heat the mixture over low heat and stir until the beeswax and shea butter are fully dissolved and the cream is smooth.
2. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with swollen feet because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The cooling gel in aloe vera creams reduces swelling and eases pain by improving blood circulation. The moisture-rich properties of aloe vera also soothe and soften the skin, making it more pliable and reducing the discomfort associated with swollen feet. Regular application of aloe vera creams can help alleviate swelling and promote healthy skin, leaving feet feeling relaxed and comfortable.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate foot discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with swollen feet.
- Anthraquinones: These glycosidic compounds help reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with swollen feet by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators.
- Glucomannans: As a type of polysaccharide, glucomannans help improve circulation and reduce fluid retention in the feet, thereby alleviating swelling and discomfort.
- Vitamins and minerals: These essential nutrients help boost the immune system, improve circulation, and reduce fluid retention, which are all beneficial in reducing swelling and promoting overall foot health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for swollen feet.
- Leaves: They contain a high concentration of aloe vera gel, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and soothe pain.
- Stems: They contain a compound called aloin, which has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help to reduce swelling and prevent infection.
- Gel from leaves: The aloe vera gel is the clear, jelly-like substance from the inside of the Aloe vera leaves which is rich in vitamins and minerals and has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and soothe pain in the feet.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for swollen feet.
- Weigh 200 grams of aloe vera gel and blend it in a mixture to create a smooth consistency.
- Combine the aloe vera mixture with 50 grams of coconut oil and 20 grams of shea butter.
- Heat the mixture to 40 degrees celsius for 10 minutes to melt the shea butter and coconut oil.
- Add 10 grams of beeswax and 10 grams of vitamin e oil to the mixture and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a container and refrigerate it for 30 minutes to allow it to set.
3. Arnica montana
Arnica montana, also known as mountain arnica, creams helps with swollen feet because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The cream's active ingredients, such as sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids, work to reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.
By promoting blood flow and reducing inflammation, Arnica montana creams can help to relieve pain and discomfort associated with swollen feet, making it a popular natural remedy for people who experience foot swelling due to various reasons such as injury, overuse, or poor circulation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arnica montana creams that help with swollen feet.
- Thiophene derivatives: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and ease pain in swollen feet by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids possess potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate swelling, reduce oxidative stress, and promote the healing of tissues in swollen feet.
- Alkylamides: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antispasmodic properties, which help soothe pain, reduce inflammation, and relax muscle spasms in swollen feet, promoting overall comfort and relief.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of mountain arnica used to make creams for swollen feet.
- Flowers: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory compounds like sesquiterpene lactones.
- Leaves: The leaves are used as they contain sesquiterpene lactones and other bioactive compounds that can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Roots: The roots of Arnica montana are also used due to their ability to absorb and retain the bioactive compounds, making them a valuable ingredient in creams for swollen feet.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mountain arnica for swollen feet.
- Infuse dried arnica montana flowers in a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil at a ratio of 1:5.
- Heat the oil infusion over low heat for 2-3 hours to enhance the herbal properties.
- Strain the oil mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to separate the oil from the plant material.
- Add beeswax to the oil mixture in a ratio of 1:1 and heat it gently until the wax dissolves.
- Pour the cooled mixture into a container and let it set for at least 30 minutes before use.
4. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with swollen feet because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The antioxidants and flavonoids in Calendula officinalis reduce swelling and redness, promoting healing and relaxation. The cream's moisturizing properties also help to soften and tone the skin, reducing the appearance of swollen feet.
Additionally, Calendula officinalis has been traditionally used to treat skin irritations and wounds, making it an effective remedy for swollen feet, promoting overall foot health and comfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with swollen feet.
- Nashinone: Nashinone, a triterpenoid saponin in Calendula, has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and alleviate pain in swollen feet.
- Iridoid glycosides: Iridoid glycosides in Calendula have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate swelling, pain, and inflammation associated with swollen feet.
- Calendulin: Calendulin, a triterpene glycoside in Calendula, has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help prevent infection and promote wound healing in swollen feet.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for swollen feet.
- Flowers: They are used to make creams for swollen feet due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
- Leaves: They are used to make creams for swollen feet due to their soothing and cooling effects.
- Seeds: They are used to make creams for swollen feet due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for swollen feet.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh calendula officinalis flowers in full bloom and dry them completely in a warm place for 24 hours.
- Grind 2 tablespoons of dried flowers into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle for 5 minutes.
- Combine 1 cup of distilled water with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of shea butter in a double boiler and heat until melted for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the ground calendula powder and 2 drops of vitamin e oil into the melted mixture and continue heating for 5 minutes.
- Remove the double boiler from heat and let the mixture cool and thicken completely before transferring it to a clean container for 30 minutes.
5. Echinacea angustifolia
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, creams helps with swollen feet because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds in Echinacea angustifolia, such as alkylamides and caffeic acid derivatives, work to reduce swelling and ease discomfort. The cream's soothing and moisturizing effects also help to calm and hydrate the skin, promoting a faster recovery from swelling and inflammation.
Regular use of Echinacea angustifolia cream may provide long-lasting relief from swollen feet.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia creams that help with swollen feet.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling in the feet by reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
- Alkaloids: These alkaloids have been shown to possess analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate pain and reduce swelling associated with swollen feet.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the feet, thereby alleviating swelling and promoting overall health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make creams for swollen feet.
- Roots: Roots are commonly used due to their high concentration of phenolic compounds and alkylamides, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are used for their ability to absorb and retain moisture, making them a popular ingredient in creams for swollen feet to provide hydration and relief.
- Barks: Barks are used due to their antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent infection and promote healing in the skin, reducing the appearance of swelling.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for swollen feet.
- Harvest 1-2 pounds of echinacea angustifolia roots in the fall season after the first frost.
- Dry the roots at 40°c for 2-3 days to reduce moisture content to 10%.
- Extract the medicinal compounds from the dried roots using a solvent like ethanol at a ratio of 1:5.
- Mix the extracted echinacea angustifolia extract with a carrier oil like coconut oil in a ratio of 1:10.
- Whip the mixture with beeswax at a ratio of 1:1 to create a smooth and creamy texture.
6. Gaultheria procumbens
Gaultheria procumbens, also known as wintergreen, creams helps with swollen feet because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream contains methyl salicylate, a natural pain reliever derived from the plant's leaves. It helps reduce swelling and discomfort in the feet by reducing inflammation and relaxing muscles.
Additionally, wintergreen creams have antiseptic and antispasmodic properties, which promote healing and relieve pain, making it a popular natural remedy for swollen feet and tired legs.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gaultheria procumbens creams that help with swollen feet.
- Salicin: A phenolic glycoside that acts as a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent, which helps reduce swelling and pain in the feet.
- Methyl salicylate: A volatile oil that has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate swelling and pain associated with conditions like plantar fasciitis or ankle sprains.
- Gaultherin: A phenolic compound that has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and promote healing of damaged tissues in the feet.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wintergreen used to make creams for swollen feet.
- Roots: Used to create creams due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties to soothe and calm swollen feet.
- Barks: Used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties to reduce inflammation and promote healing in creams for swollen feet.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wintergreen for swollen feet.
- Harvest 1 to 2 ounces of fresh gaultheria procumbens leaves and stems when the plant is in full bloom.
- Steep 2 ounces of the harvested gaultheria procumbens in 2 cups of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Add the strained gaultheria procumbens liquid to the beeswax and coconut oil mixture and heat until combined.
7. Helichrysum italicum
Helichrysum italicum, also known as curry plant, creams helps with swollen feet because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as bornyl acetate and italidione, work to reduce swelling and ease pain. This natural remedy promotes blood circulation, which helps to flush out excess fluids and reduce inflammation in the feet. By applying Helichrysum italicum cream, individuals can find relief from swollen feet, improving their overall comfort and mobility.
Its soothing effects also promote relaxation and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Helichrysum italicum creams that help with swollen feet.
- Neryl acetate: This sesquiterpene helps reduce inflammation and edema in swollen feet by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Italidione: A sesquiterpene lactone, italidione has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate swelling and pain in the feet by blocking the action of inflammatory mediators.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in swollen feet, promoting faster healing and relief.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of curry plant used to make creams for swollen feet.
- Leaves: Leaves are commonly used in creams for swollen feet due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Flowers: Flowers are used to make creams for swollen feet because they contain compounds that help reduce swelling and pain.
- Roots: Roots are used in creams for swollen feet due to their diuretic properties, which help reduce fluid retention and swelling.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic curry plant for swollen feet.
- Harvest 1-2 pounds of helichrysum italicum flowers at peak bloom for optimal potency and flavor.
- Dry the flowers in a single layer at 40°c for 2 hours or until they reach 10% moisture content.
- Infuse 1 tablespoon of dried flowers in 2 ounces of carrier oil like sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass container and discard solids.
- Add 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 ounces of vitamin e oil to the infused oil mixture then heat until melted.
8. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with swollen feet because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The calming effects of lavender can help reduce swelling and ease discomfort. The cream's ability to improve circulation and reduce inflammation makes it an effective remedy for swollen feet. Additionally, the relaxing scent of lavender can help alleviate stress and promote better sleep, which is essential for overall foot health.
This natural remedy provides a gentle and non-invasive solution for swollen feet.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with swollen feet.
- Linalool: This terpene has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and alleviate pain in swollen feet.
- Linalyl acetate: As a terpene ester, linalyl acetate exhibits a sedative and anti-inflammatory effect, which can contribute to the relief of swollen feet by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation.
- Lavandulol: This terpene has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce swelling and promote healing in swollen feet.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for swollen feet.
- Leaves: Known for their calming properties, which help reduce inflammation and soothe swollen feet.
- Flowers: Used for their antiseptic and antispasmodic properties, which aid in reducing swelling and promoting relaxation.
- Stems: Utilized for their astringent properties, helping to reduce fluid retention and alleviate swollen feet.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for swollen feet.
- Harvest 100g of fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers at dawn on a dry day when in full bloom.
- Dry the flowers in a single layer at 35°c for 2 hours or until crumbly.
- Steep 20g of dried flowers in 100ml of jojoba oil at 60°c for 2 hours.
- Strain and filter the infused oil through a coffee filter paper to remove plant residues.
- Mix 20g of beeswax and 10g of emulsifying wax with the cooled infused oil in a double boiler.
9. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with swollen feet because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The active compounds in chamomile, such as apigenin and luteolin, have been shown to reduce swelling and ease pain in the feet. Additionally, chamomile's calming effects can help to relax tense muscles and improve circulation, which can contribute to reduced swelling and discomfort.
Regular application of chamomile cream can lead to relief from swollen feet, promoting overall foot health and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with swollen feet.
- Apigenin: As a flavonoid, apigenin helps with swollen feet by reducing inflammation and relaxing muscles, providing relief from pain and discomfort.
- Luteolin: With its potent anti-inflammatory properties, luteolin helps alleviate swollen feet by decreasing swelling and promoting blood flow to the affected area.
- Α-bisabolol: This sesquiterpene alcohol helps with swollen feet by reducing inflammation and promoting the healing of damaged tissues, while also providing a soothing effect on the skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for swollen feet.
- Flowers: They are rich in anti-inflammatory and soothing compounds, making them effective in reducing swelling and discomfort.
- Leaves: They contain apigenin, a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties that help to alleviate swelling and pain.
- Seeds (note: Not all sources confirm that the seeds of Matricaria chamomilla are used, but the flowers and leaves are confirmed to be used, and the seeds are sometimes used in herbal medicine)
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for swollen feet.
- Harvest 1 pound of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers in mid-summer when in full bloom and dry them completely.
- Infuse 8 ounces of dried flowers in 4 cups of boiling water for 10-15 minutes to make a strong tea.
- Strain the tea through cheesecloth into a bowl and discard the solids to obtain a clear liquid extract.
- Combine 8 ounces of the cooled liquid extract with 8 ounces of distilled water and 2 ounces of beeswax in a saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 10-15 minutes and then let it cool and thicken into a creamy consistency.
10. Melaleuca alternifolia
Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree, creams helps with swollen feet because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The active compound, terpinen-4-ol, reduces swelling and soothes irritated skin, providing relief from discomfort and pain. The cream's cooling effect also helps to reduce heat and inflammation, promoting blood flow and relaxation in the affected area.
Regular use of tea tree cream can lead to improved circulation, reduced swelling, and a sense of comfort and well-being in the feet.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia creams that help with swollen feet.
- Cineole: As an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic compound, cineole helps reduce swelling and relieve pain in swollen feet by reducing inflammation and promoting blood circulation.
- Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate swelling and pain in swollen feet by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair.
- Limonene: As an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory compound, limonene helps reduce swelling and relieve pain in swollen feet by promoting blood circulation, reducing inflammation, and preventing bacterial growth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make creams for swollen feet.
- Leaves: Rich in tea tree oil, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
- Seeds: Contain compounds that may help reduce swelling and ease pain.
- Buds: May contribute to the overall anti-inflammatory and soothing effects of the creams.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for swollen feet.
- Infuse 250 grams of melaleuca alternifolia leaves in 1 liter of distilled water for 30 to 40 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean container discarding the solids after 10 minutes.
- Combine the infused liquid with 250 grams of beeswax and 100 grams of cocoa butter in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture gently while stirring occasionally until the beeswax and cocoa butter have melted in 20 minutes.
- Add 20 grams of vitamin e oil and 50 grams of shea butter to the mixture then whip until smooth in 10 minutes.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for swollen feet?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with swollen feet is a blend of arnica, peppermint, and chamomile.
Arnica helps reduce inflammation and soothe pain, while peppermint cools and relaxes the feet. Chamomile, with its calming properties, promotes relaxation and reduces swelling. These creams can be applied topically, massaged into the affected area, and left on overnight for maximum effect.
This combination works synergistically to provide relief from swollen and tired feet, promoting overall foot health and well-being.
What ailments similar to swollen feet are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to swollen feet that are treated with herbal creams are varicose veins, eczema, and acne.
Herbal creams containing ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree oil, and witch hazel help reduce inflammation, soothe skin irritation, and promote wound healing.
These creams can also improve circulation, reduce swelling, and relieve pain associated with these conditions.