By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 04, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Swollen Feet
Herbal decoctions for swollen feet are natural remedies made by steeping herbs in hot water, which helps to alleviate swelling, reduce pain, and promote relaxation.
These decoctions work by increasing blood circulation, reducing inflammation, and relaxing muscles. Examples of herbal decoctions that help with swollen feet include peppermint tea, which cools the skin and reduces itching; chamomile tea, which calms the nerves and promotes relaxation; and ginger tea, which reduces inflammation and warms the skin.
By using these herbal decoctions, people can improve their quality of life by reducing discomfort and improving mobility, allowing them to engage in daily activities with ease and confidence.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for swollen feet, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Hamamelis virginiana
- 2. Calendula officinalis
- 3. Aloe vera
- 4. Echinacea angustifolia
- 5. Urtica dioica
- 6. Taraxacum officinale
- 7. Boswellia serrata
- 8. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 9. Vaccinium macrocarpon
- 10. Arctium lappa
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for swollen feet?
- What ailments similar to swollen feet are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Hamamelis virginiana
American witch hazel decoctions helps with swollen feet because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce swelling and relieve discomfort.
The decoction's astringent and antiseptic qualities also help to dry up excess moisture, reducing the appearance of puffiness.
Additionally, witch hazel's mild analgesic properties ease pain and stiffness in the feet, making it an excellent remedy for people who spend long hours on their feet or suffer from conditions like edema or plantar fasciitis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hamamelis virginiana decoctions that help with swollen feet.
- Hamamelitannin: This tannin is responsible for the anti-inflammatory and astringent properties of Hamamelis virginiana, which can help reduce swelling and ease pain in swollen feet.
- Quercetin: As a flavonoid, quercetin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help alleviate swelling, redness, and pain in swollen feet, as well as promote overall venous health.
- Glycosides: Specifically, the glycosides present in Hamamelis virginiana, such as hamameloside, have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and vasoprotective properties, which can contribute to the relief of swollen feet.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of american witch hazel used to make decoctions for swollen feet.
- Barks: Hamamelis virginiana barks are used to make decoctions due to their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling.
- Leaves: The astringent properties of Hamamelis virginiana leaves are utilized in decoctions to reduce inflammation and ease swelling in the feet.
- Roots: The roots of Hamamelis virginiana are used to make decoctions that help to reduce swelling and pain in the feet due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic american witch hazel for swollen feet.
- Gather 1 to 2 ounces of dried hamamelis virginiana leaves and twigs for decoction.
- Combine the gathered hamamelis virginiana with 32 to 64 ounces of water in a pot.
- Bring the water mixture to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Strain the decoction using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container.
- Allow the decoction to cool and then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before use.
2. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold decoctions helps with swollen feet because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
The decoction's antiseptic qualities also prevent bacterial growth, promoting a healthy environment for foot care. Additionally, the soothing and calming effects of pot marigold help to relax tired muscles and joints, providing relief from the pain and stiffness associated with swollen feet.
As a result, pot marigold decoctions offer a natural and effective solution for alleviating swelling and discomfort in the feet.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with swollen feet.
- Triterpenes: Triterpenes help reduce inflammation and swelling in the feet by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby alleviating pain and discomfort.
- Carotenoids: Carotenoids possess anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and promote wound healing in the feet by inhibiting the activity of inflammatory cells and enzymes.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce swelling and alleviate pain in the feet by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for swollen feet.
- Flowers: The flowers are the most used part due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain in the feet.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used due to their ability to soothe and calm irritated skin, providing relief from swollen feet.
- Roots: The roots are used for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce pain and swelling in the feet.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for swollen feet.
- Gather 20-30 dried flowers of calendula officinalis and store them in an airtight container for later use.
- Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried flowers per 1 cup of boiling water and add to a heat-resistant cup.
- Heat the mixture for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half in a double boiler.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container to remove solids.
- Store the calendula decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.
3. Aloe vera
Aloe decoctions helps with swollen feet because they possess anti-inflammatory properties that effectively reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.
The natural compounds present in aloe vera, such as aloin and aloe-emodin, have been shown to inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances responsible for causing inflammation. By reducing inflammation, aloe decoctions provide relief from pain and stiffness associated with swollen feet, promoting relaxation and comfort.
Regular use can also help to improve circulation, further contributing to its beneficial effects on swollen feet.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera decoctions that help with swollen feet.
- Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates help reduce inflammation and promote healing of damaged tissues, thereby alleviating swelling in feet.
- Anthraquinones: Specifically, compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, help reduce swelling by inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory mediators and promoting the breakdown of edematous fluid.
- Glycosaminoglycans: GAGs such as glucuronic acid and galactose help maintain skin hydration, reduce inflammation, and promote the removal of excess fluid, thereby alleviating swelling in feet.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for swollen feet.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are rich in gel, which helps to reduce inflammation and soothe swelling in the feet.
- Stems: Aloe vera stems contain aloin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, helping to ease pain and swelling in the feet.
- Rhyzomes: Aloe vera rhyzomes (or roots) have antimicrobial properties, which help to prevent infection and promote healing of swollen feet.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for swollen feet.
- Harvest 5-7 fresh aloe vera leaves with a serrated knife to prevent injury.
- Wash the aloe vera leaves with cold water and remove the skin to expose the gel.
- Chop 2-3 tablespoons of the aloe vera gel into small pieces and place in a saucepan.
- Add 2 cups of water to the saucepan with the aloe vera gel and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes to extract the medicinal properties.
4. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower decoctions helps with swollen feet because its anti-inflammatory properties effectively reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
The decoction's antiseptic qualities also help to prevent bacterial growth, promoting a healthy environment for the skin. Furthermore, its natural astringent properties help to tighten and firm the skin, reducing the appearance of puffiness and leaving feet feeling refreshed and revitalized.
Overall, Kansas coneflower decoctions offer a natural and effective solution for alleviating swollen feet, allowing individuals to resume their daily activities with renewed comfort and confidence.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia decoctions that help with swollen feet.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help reduce inflammation and swelling in the feet by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
- Alkaloids: These alkaloids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate swollen feet by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the affected tissues.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce swelling and alleviate pain in the feet by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and reducing oxidative damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make decoctions for swollen feet.
- Roots: The roots of Echinacea angustifolia are commonly used due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling in the feet.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of Echinacea angustifolia are also used, as they contain compounds that can help to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation associated with swollen feet.
- Leaves: The leaves of Echinacea angustifolia are sometimes used, possibly due to their ability to act as an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic, helping to promote healing and reduce swelling in the feet.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for swollen feet.
- Harvest 1 to 2 pounds of fresh or 2 to 4 pounds of dried roots of the plant.
- Clean the roots thoroughly with water to remove dirt and debris.
- Cut the roots into small pieces and grind them into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Steep 1 to 2 teaspoons of the powdered root in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Strain the liquid and discard the solids to create a decoction for consumption.
5. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle decoctions helps with swollen feet because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.
The decoction's flavonoids and saponins work to reduce swelling by constricting blood vessels, which in turn reduces the amount of fluid accumulation in the tissues. Additionally, the decoction's antioxidant properties help to combat free radicals that can exacerbate inflammation.
By reducing inflammation and constriction, stinging nettle decoctions provide relief from swollen feet, promoting a sense of comfort and relaxation for those who suffer from this common issue.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica decoctions that help with swollen feet.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Urtica dioica decoctions have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling in the feet by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Saponins: Saponins in Urtica dioica decoctions have diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects that help to reduce fluid retention and swelling in the feet by promoting the excretion of excess fluids.
- Histamine-releasing glycosides: Histamine-releasing glycosides in Urtica dioica decoctions have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with swollen feet.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make decoctions for swollen feet.
- Leaves: They are rich in anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and ease pain in the feet.
- Roots: The roots contain compounds that have diuretic properties, helping to remove excess fluid from the body and reduce swelling in the feet.
- Stems: The stems contain urtication compounds that help to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and ease pain in the feet.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for swollen feet.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh or dried leaves and stems of urtica dioica for a decoction.
- Chop the harvested material into small pieces to release its active compounds.
- Combine the chopped urtica dioica with 1 quart of water in a saucepan.
- Boil the mixture for 5-10 minutes at a medium heat to release the herbal properties.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to separate the liquid from solids.
6. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion decoctions helps with swollen feet because of its unique composition of diuretic and anti-inflammatory compounds.
The decoction's high water content helps to flush out excess fluids and reduce swelling, while its flavonoids and terpenes soothe the skin and alleviate discomfort. Additionally, dandelion's natural antispasmodic properties ease muscle cramps and spasms that can contribute to swollen feet.
As a result, regular consumption of dandelion decoctions can provide lasting relief for individuals struggling with swollen feet.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with swollen feet.
- Taraxasterol: This triterpene helps reduce inflammation and swelling in the feet by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Inulin: As a prebiotic, Inulin helps improve gut health, which may contribute to reduced fluid retention and swelling in the feet.
- Taraxasterol glycosides: These compounds possess diuretic properties, helping to increase urine production and reduce fluid buildup in the feet.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for swollen feet.
- Roots: They are rich in inulin, a natural anti-inflammatory compound that helps to reduce swelling.
- Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and other bioactive compounds, they have anti-inflammatory properties that alleviate swelling and pain.
- Buds: They contain phenolic acids and other compounds that help to reduce inflammation and ease discomfort associated with swollen feet.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for swollen feet.
- Harvest fresh taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in the early morning to ensure optimal potency.
- Cleanse the harvested plant material with cold running water to remove impurities and debris.
- Chop the cleaned taraxacum officinale roots and leaves into small pieces for efficient extraction.
- Combine 1 part taraxacum officinale plant material with 4 parts boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
- Steep the taraxacum officinale mixture for 20-30 minutes to allow for complete decoction extraction.
7. Boswellia serrata
Frankincense decoctions helps with swollen feet because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The Boswellia serrata extract in frankincense has been shown to reduce swelling and relieve pain by inhibiting the production of inflammatory enzymes. When applied topically, the decoction can help reduce inflammation and discomfort caused by swollen feet, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating symptoms associated with conditions such as plantar fasciitis and edema.
Regular use can bring relief and promote overall foot health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata decoctions that help with swollen feet.
- Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid: AKBA has potent anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain in the feet.
- Boswellic acids: Boswellic acids, particularly AKBA, inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to inflammation and swelling in the feet.
- Terpenoids: Terpenoids in Boswellia serrata have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation in the feet.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make decoctions for swollen feet.
- Roots: They are rich in boswellic acids, which are anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce swelling and pain.
- Barks: The bark contains boswellic acids and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it effective in treating swollen feet.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes of Boswellia serrata also contain boswellic acids, which help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with swollen feet.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for swollen feet.
- Measure out 5-10 grams of dried boswellia serrata root material and place it in a clean glass container.
- Combine the measured boswellia serrata with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 10-30 minutes or until the desired strength is achieved.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container to remove any solids.
- Store the prepared boswellia serrata decoction in the refrigerator and use it within 3-5 days or freeze it for longer storage.
8. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice decoctions helps with swollen feet because of its unique combination of compounds that work together to reduce inflammation and relieve water retention.
The decoction's glycyrrhizinic acid has potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing swelling and discomfort. Meanwhile, its flavonoids improve blood circulation, helping to remove excess fluids from the body.
Additionally, licorice's natural astringent properties help to tighten and firm up the skin, further alleviating swelling and leaving feet feeling soft and relaxed.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions that help with swollen feet.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin helps reduce inflammation and edema in swollen feet by inhibiting the activity of 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, an enzyme involved in the regulation of cortisol levels, which in turn reduces fluid retention.
- Licoflavonoids: These flavonoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce swelling and pain in the feet by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and free radicals.
- Isoliquiritigenin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties, which help to reduce swelling in the feet by increasing urine production and reducing the reabsorption of sodium and water in the kidneys.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for swollen feet.
- Roots: They are used due to their high glycyrrhizin content, which helps to reduce inflammation and swelling in the feet.
- Roots: The roots also contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that aid in soothing and calming swollen feet.
- Roots: The anti-inflammatory compounds present in the roots help to reduce pain and discomfort associated with swollen feet.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for swollen feet.
- Gather dried glycyrrhiza glabra root in a quantity of 3-5 grams per 250ml of water.
- Boil the water in a saucepan for 5-10 minutes to create a rolling boil.
- Add the dried root to the boiling water and reduce the heat to low.
- Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced to half its volume.
- Strain the decoction and discard the solids, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
9. Vaccinium macrocarpon
Highbush cranberry decoctions helps with swollen feet because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The plant's compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, help to reduce swelling by constricting blood vessels and preventing the formation of new blood vessels that contribute to inflammation. Additionally, highbush cranberry has natural astringent properties that can help to tighten skin and reduce fluid buildup in the tissues, providing relief from discomfort and pain associated with swollen feet.
Regular consumption of decoctions made from highbush cranberry may also improve circulation, which can further alleviate swelling.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium macrocarpon decoctions that help with swollen feet.
- Quercetin: As a flavonoid and powerful anti-inflammatory, quercetin may help reduce inflammation and alleviate swelling in the feet.
- Catechins: These phenolic compounds, especially epicatechin and epigallocatechin, may contribute to anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help ease swelling and discomfort in the feet.
- Ellagic acid: As a polyphenol with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, ellagic acid may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress that can contribute to swollen feet.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of highbush cranberry used to make decoctions for swollen feet.
- Fruits: Used for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
- Leaves: Utilized for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and promote healing.
- Roots: Employed for its diuretic properties, which can help relieve fluid retention and reduce swelling in the feet.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic highbush cranberry for swollen feet.
- Collect 1-2 cups of fresh vaccinium macrocarpon leaves and flowers for decoction.
- Chop the collected leaves and flowers into small pieces to release their medicinal properties.
- Combine the chopped vaccinium macrocarpon with 4 cups of water in a saucepan.
- Boil the mixture for 5-10 minutes then reduce heat to simmer for 20-30 minutes.
- Strain the decoction using a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to remove solids.
10. Arctium lappa
Burdock decoctions helps with swollen feet because of its exceptional diuretic properties, which help to eliminate excess fluids from the body.
The anti-inflammatory compounds in burdock root also reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort. Additionally, burdock's ability to promote lymphatic drainage and improve blood circulation helps to reduce fluid retention and ease swelling.
By increasing urine production and promoting detoxification, burdock decoctions provide natural relief for swollen feet, leaving them feeling lighter, softer, and more comfortable.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arctium lappa decoctions that help with swollen feet.
- Inulin: Inulin helps reduce inflammation and swelling in the feet by modulating the immune system and inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines.
- Lappaol f: Lappaol F has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate swelling and pain in the feet by blocking the production of inflammatory mediators.
- Arctigenin: Arctigenin exhibits strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the feet by scavenging free radicals and modulating the inflammatory response.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of burdock used to make decoctions for swollen feet.
- Roots: The roots are often used due to their high concentration of inulin and mucilage, which helps to reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help to soothe and calm swollen feet.
- Seeds: The seeds are used for their diuretic properties, which can help to reduce swelling and water retention in the feet.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic burdock for swollen feet.
- Gather arctium lappa roots in the wild or purchase from a reputable herbal supplier about 1 lb per 10 gallons of water.
- Clean and dry the roots thoroughly to prevent contamination and preserve their potency completely.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces about 1/4 inch in size for easier infusion.
- Combine the chopped roots with 10 gallons of water in a large pot bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for 30 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a container discard the solids and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for swollen feet?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with swollen feet is a blend of calendula, chamomile, and peppermint.
Calendula's anti-inflammatory properties reduce swelling and promote skin health, while chamomile's soothing effects calm and relax the feet. Peppermint's cooling properties help to ease pain and reduce inflammation.
Combine equal parts of dried calendula, chamomile, and peppermint flowers, steep in hot water, and soak the feet for 15-20 minutes to experience relief from swollen and aching feet.
What ailments similar to swollen feet are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to swollen feet that are treated with herbal decoctions are conditions such as edema, varicose veins, and cellulite.
Decoctions made from herbs like horse chestnut, butcher's broom, and bilberry are often used to reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort in these conditions.
These remedies help to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and strengthen vein walls, providing relief for affected individuals.