By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Swollen Feet
Herbal tinctures for swollen feet are concentrated plant extracts that can be applied topically or taken orally to alleviate inflammation, pain, and discomfort associated with swelling.
These natural remedies help by reducing fluid retention, improving circulation, and relaxing tense muscles. Examples of herbal tinctures effective in treating swollen feet include arnica, calendula, and ginger.
By using these tinctures, individuals can experience relief from painful swelling, allowing them to enjoy daily activities without discomfort or limitation, such as taking a walk or wearing comfortable shoes.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures 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 tinctures to use for swollen feet?
- What ailments similar to swollen feet are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Hamamelis virginiana
American witch hazel tinctures helps with swollen feet because of its unique combination of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The astringent nature of witch hazel constricts blood vessels, reducing swelling and relieving discomfort caused by fluid buildup in the feet. Additionally, the herbal extract's antiseptic and antimicrobial properties help to prevent infections and promote healthy skin, further alleviating swollen foot symptoms.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to provide relief from aching, puffy feet, making it a trusted solution for many.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hamamelis virginiana tinctures that help with swollen feet.
- Tannins: Tannins help reduce inflammation and swelling by constricting blood vessels and promoting the removal of excess fluid from the affected area.
- Hamamelitannin: Hamamelitannin, a specific type of tannin found in Hamamelis virginiana, has anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, which help to reduce swelling and promote healing in swollen feet.
- Astringent phenolics: Astringent phenolics, such as quercetin, help to reduce swelling and inflammation by constricting blood vessels and promoting the removal of excess fluid from the affected area, while also reducing oxidative stress and promoting wound healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of american witch hazel used to make tinctures for swollen feet.
- Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory and astringent properties to help reduce swelling and promote healing.
- Barks: Utilized for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties to reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
- Roots: Employed for their anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties to help reduce swelling and promote urination to alleviate fluid retention.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic american witch hazel for swollen feet.
- Harvest the hamamelis virginiana leaves and twigs in early morning when the dew is still present on the plant.
- Clean the plant material by gently shaking off excess debris to prevent contamination of the tincture.
- Combine 1 part of the plant material with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar to create a 1:2 ratio.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks to allow the tincture to mature and infuse.
- Strain the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to remove the plant material.
2. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold tinctures helps with swollen feet because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The tincture's active compound, calendula, penetrates deep into the skin to reduce swelling and discomfort by constricting blood vessels and preventing further inflammation. Additionally, calendula's soothing effects calm irritated skin, alleviating pain and stiffness associated with swollen feet.
Regular use of pot marigold tinctures can provide long-term relief from swollen feet, promoting overall foot health and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with swollen feet.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds help reduce inflammation and relieve swelling in the feet by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Phenolic acids: These polyphenols exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate swelling and promote the healing of damaged tissues in the feet.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help reduce swelling, soothe pain, and promote the healing of wounds in the feet.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for swollen feet.
- Flowers: They are commonly used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help reduce swelling and ease discomfort in the feet.
- Leaves: Leaves are often used for their astringent and antiseptic properties, which aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healing in swollen feet.
- Roots: Roots are sometimes used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce swelling and combat infections in the feet.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for swollen feet.
- Harvest fresh calendula officinalis flowers in the morning after dew has evaporated and before heat of day sets in.
- Rinse fresh flowers gently with cold water to remove dirt and debris from harvesting process.
- Use a mortar and pestle to finely chop 1 part of fresh flowers with 1 part of vodka to create a mixture.
- Combine chopped flower mixture with 2 parts of glycerin and 2 parts of distilled water in a clean glass jar.
- Allow the mixture to steep in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to extract active compounds.
3. Aloe vera
Aloe tinctures helps with swollen feet because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The bioactive compounds present in aloe vera, such as aloin and aloe-emodin, help to reduce inflammation and swelling by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes. Additionally, aloe's ability to improve blood circulation and break down excess fluids can also contribute to relief from swollen feet.
By applying an herbal aloe tincture topically or taking it orally, individuals can experience reduced discomfort, improved mobility, and enhanced overall foot health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with swollen feet.
- Phenolics: Help reduce inflammation and swelling by neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress in the affected area.
- Glucomannans: Help reduce fluid retention and swelling by inhibiting the absorption of water and electrolytes in the body, thereby reducing the accumulation of fluid in the feet.
- Triterpenoids: Help reduce inflammation and pain associated with swollen feet by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and promoting the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for swollen feet.
- Leaves: They are the primary source of Aloe vera's medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce swelling.
- Stems: Some tinctures use the stems, which also contain anti-inflammatory compounds and can help soothe swollen feet.
- Barks: The barks of the Aloe vera plant contain flavonoids that help reduce inflammation and can be used to make tinctures for swollen feet.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for swollen feet.
- Harvest 10 fresh aloe vera leaves of 5-7 inches long with thick fleshy skin for tincture preparation.
- Chop the harvested aloe vera leaves into small pieces weighing 1 pound for extraction.
- Steep the chopped aloe vera pieces in 2 quarts of 80% ethanol at a ratio of 1:5 for 2 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into a glass bottle for tincture separation.
- Store the herbal aloe vera tincture in a cool dark place for 2 months before use.
4. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with swollen feet because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
The tincture's natural ingredients, such as Echinacea pallida, work to soothe and calm the affected area, allowing for a reduction in inflammation and pain.
Additionally, Kansas coneflower has been shown to improve blood circulation, which can also contribute to alleviating swelling and promoting overall foot health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with swollen feet.
- Alkaloids: These help reduce inflammation and pain associated with swollen feet by modulating the body's immune response and reducing the production of inflammatory compounds.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate swelling, pain, and discomfort in the feet by neutralizing free radicals and reducing inflammation.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may contribute to reduced swelling and pain in the feet by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and promoting blood vessel health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for swollen feet.
- Roots: They contain the highest concentration of echinacoside, a compound believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: They may contribute to the tincture's overall anti-inflammatory and soothing effects.
- Stems: Some herbalists include stems in the tincture to enhance its overall potency and medicinal properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for swollen feet.
- Harvest 1 pound of echinacea angustifolia roots in late summer or early fall when the plant is in full bloom.
- Dry the roots in a dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 8 hours or with the windows open for 7 days.
- Chop 1/2 cup of dried echinacea angustifolia roots into small pieces using a sharp knife or a coffee grinder.
- Steep the chopped roots in 2 cups of 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar for 2 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
5. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle tinctures helps with swollen feet because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which work to reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.
The herb contains compounds that inhibit the production of histamine, a chemical responsible for increased blood flow and swelling. Additionally, stinging nettle has been shown to improve circulation, reducing the likelihood of fluid accumulation in the feet.
As a result, using an herbal stinging nettle tincture can provide relief from swollen and tender feet, leaving them feeling soft and comfortable once again.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica tinctures that help with swollen feet.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids present in Urtica dioica, particularly stachydrine, help reduce inflammation and alleviate swelling in the feet by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids such as quercetin in Urtica dioica have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to reduce swelling, relieve pain, and promote the overall health of the skin in the feet.
- Tannins: Tannins in Urtica dioica help reduce swelling by constricting blood vessels and improving circulation, which in turn reduces fluid retention and alleviates discomfort in the feet.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make tinctures for swollen feet.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Urtica dioica for tinctures due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory compounds and bioflavonoids.
- Roots: The roots of Urtica dioica are used to make tinctures due to their ability to reduce inflammation and improve circulation.
- Stems: The stems of Urtica dioica are used in tinctures to help alleviate pain and reduce swelling in the feet, thanks to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for swollen feet.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems in the morning after dew has dried.
- Chop the harvested urtica dioica into small pieces with a clean sharp knife to release its oils.
- Combine 1 part chopped urtica dioica with 2 parts 80 proof ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Seal the jar and let it steep in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking daily.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into another clean glass container discarding the solids.
6. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with swollen feet because it is a natural diuretic that increases urine production, reducing water retention and alleviating swelling.
The tincture's ant-inflammatory properties also help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and discomfort. Additionally, dandelion's potassium-rich composition helps to balance sodium levels in the body, further contributing to its decongestant effects on the feet.
As a result, herbal dandelion tinctures can provide quick relief from swollen feet, making it an effective and natural solution for this common problem.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with swollen feet.
- Taraxasterol: Helps with swollen feet by acting as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing swelling and pain in the affected area.
- Apolactone: Contributes to the reduction of inflammation and swelling in the feet, possibly by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators.
- Scopoletin: Exhibits diuretic properties, which can help in reducing fluid retention and swelling in the feet.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for swollen feet.
- Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale are commonly used to make tinctures for swollen feet due to their anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties.
- Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale are used to make tinctures for swollen feet because they contain compounds that help reduce swelling and ease pain.
- Flowers: The flowers of Taraxacum officinale are used to make tinctures for swollen feet due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help soothe and calm irritated skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for swollen feet.
- Harvest 100g of fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers at the peak of bloom to ensure potency.
- Chop the taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers finely to increase the surface area for infusion.
- Combine the chopped taraxacum officinale with 500ml of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar daily for 1 minute.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass container to remove solids.
7. Boswellia serrata
Frankincense tinctures helps with swollen feet because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
The tincture's boswellic acid content also helps to break down excess fluids that can cause discomfort and stiffness in the feet. Additionally, frankincense has natural astringent properties, which help to constrict blood vessels and improve circulation, further reducing inflammation and promoting healthy foot function.
As a result, regular use of herbal frankincense tinctures can provide welcome relief for individuals experiencing swollen or achy feet.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata tinctures that help with swollen feet.
- Beta-boswellic acids: These triterpenoid compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain in swollen feet.
- Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid: A potent inhibitor of pro-inflammatory enzymes, AKBA can help reduce inflammation and alleviate swelling in the feet.
- Acylated terpenoids: These terpenoids have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and alleviate swelling and pain in swollen feet.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make tinctures for swollen feet.
- Roots: They are the primary source of boswellic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain.
- Rhyzomes: Similar to roots, rhyzomes contain boswellic acids that provide anti-inflammatory benefits and aid in reducing swelling.
- Barks: The bark of Boswellia serrata is also used for its anti-inflammatory properties, although it may contain lower concentrations of boswellic acids compared to roots and rhyzomes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for swollen feet.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh or 40-50 grams of dried boswellia serrata roots in the morning after the plant has dried overnight.
- Chop the harvested roots into small pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
- Combine the chopped roots with 500ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar in a 1:5 ratio.
- Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks in a dark place at room temperature, shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discard the solids.
8. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with swollen feet because it contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties.
When applied topically as a foot soak or added to a warm bath, the licorice tincture can help reduce swelling and ease discomfort caused by overexertion, poor circulation, or medical conditions such as edema. Additionally, the antispasmodic effects of glycyrrhizin can help relax muscles and ease cramps that often accompany swollen feet.
By reducing inflammation and relaxing muscles, licorice tinctures provide natural relief for achy and puffy feet.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with swollen feet.
- Saponins: Saponins help reduce inflammation and swelling in the feet by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby alleviating pain and discomfort.
- Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin, helps with swollen feet by inhibiting the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, which is involved in the production of cortisol. This leads to a decrease in water retention and swelling in the feet.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Glycyrrhiza glabra, such as licopyranocoumarin and licoflavone, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce swelling and pain in the feet by protecting tissues from oxidative damage and modulating the inflammatory response.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for swollen feet.
- Roots: Glycyrrhiza glabra roots are commonly used to make tinctures for swollen feet due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Glycyrrhiza glabra leaves are used in tinctures for swollen feet due to their diuretic properties, which help reduce swelling.
- Roots: Additionally, Glycyrrhiza glabra roots are used in tinctures for swollen feet due to their ability to inhibit 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, an enzyme that converts cortisol into a more potent form, thereby reducing water retention and swelling.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for swollen feet.
- Harvest fresh roots of glycyrrhiza glabra in late summer when the plant is in full bloom.
- Dry the harvested roots in a warm dry place for 2 weeks to reduce moisture content.
- Grind 500 grams of dried roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Mix 500 grams of powdered roots with 2 liters of 70% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place then strain and bottle the tincture.
9. Vaccinium macrocarpon
Highbush cranberry tinctures helps with swollen feet because of its powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
The plant's bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, work to reduce swelling and pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes. Additionally, highbush cranberry's diuretic properties help to increase urine output, which can further alleviate excess fluid retention in the feet.
As a result, regular use of highbush cranberry tinctures may provide effective relief from swollen, achy feet and ankles.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium macrocarpon tinctures that help with swollen feet.
- Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants help reduce inflammation and alleviate swelling in the feet by protecting against oxidative stress and promoting healthy blood vessel function.
- Quercetin: As a potent flavonoid, quercetin helps reduce inflammation and swelling in the feet by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and promoting the breakdown of excess fluid.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds help reduce inflammation and alleviate swelling in the feet by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoting healthy blood flow and circulation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of highbush cranberry used to make tinctures for swollen feet.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Fruits: They contain anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help reduce swelling.
- Roots: They have been used in traditional medicine to treat various health issues, including inflammation and pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic highbush cranberry for swollen feet.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh vaccinium macrocarpon berries and clean them thoroughly in cold running water.
- Combine the cleaned vaccinium macrocarpon berries with 2 parts of 80-proof ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
- Store the resulting tincture in a cool dark place for 4 weeks to mature before use.
10. Arctium lappa
Burdock tinctures helps with swollen feet because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb's bioactive compounds, such as arctiin and lactucopicrin, work to reduce swelling and inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes. This natural remedy also helps to improve circulation, which can become restricted due to poor footwear or prolonged periods of standing or sitting.
By reducing inflammation and improving blood flow, burdock tincture can provide relief from achy, swollen feet, promoting a sense of comfort and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arctium lappa tinctures that help with swollen feet.
- Inulin: Inulin is a type of fructan that can help reduce inflammation and edema in swollen feet by promoting diuresis and improving lymphatic drainage.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in feet by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and free radicals.
- Arctigenin: Arctigenin is a lignan that has anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in feet by inhibiting the activity of inflammatory cells and enzymes, and preventing the formation of new blood vessels that contribute to edema.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of burdock used to make tinctures for swollen feet.
- Roots: The roots of Arctium lappa are commonly used due to their high content of inulin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling.
- Leaves: The leaves of the plant are utilized for their diuretic properties, which can help alleviate fluid retention and swelling in the feet.
- Seeds: The seeds of Arctium lappa are also used to make tinctures for swollen feet due to their ability to stimulate the lymphatic system and promote drainage, thereby reducing swelling.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic burdock for swollen feet.
- Harvest 100-150g of fresh arctium lappa roots and wash them thoroughly with water.
- Chop the roots into smaller pieces and dry them in a low-temperature oven at 40°c for 24 hours.
- Combine 500g of the dried root pieces with 75% vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Seal the jar and let it steep in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking occasionally.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for swollen feet?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with swollen feet is a blend of arnica, calendula, and witch hazel.
Arnica reduces inflammation and relieves pain, while calendula promotes skin health and reduces swelling. Witch hazel, rich in tannins, helps to constrict blood vessels and reduce fluid buildup. This synergistic blend can be applied topically to the affected area, or taken sublingually in small amounts to promote overall circulation and reduce swelling.
Consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies.
What ailments similar to swollen feet are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to swollen feet that are treated with herbal tinctures are conditions such as arthritis, gout, and edema.
Herbal tinctures like St. John's Wort, Ginger, and Turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain.
Other herbs like Cayenne Pepper and Devil's Claw also ease joint discomfort and stiffness, providing relief from these similar ailments.