10 Best Herbal Creams For Ankylosing Spondylitis

Herbal creams for ankylosing spondylitis are topical products infused with natural herbs and extracts that help alleviate the symptoms of this inflammatory condition.

They work by reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and improving joint mobility. Examples of herbal creams that help include those containing turmeric, ginger, and arnica, which have anti-inflammatory properties.

These creams improve lives by reducing morning stiffness, enabling better mobility, and enhancing overall quality of life for individuals with ankylosing spondylitis.

The following article describes in detail the most important creams for ankylosing spondylitis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Salix alba

Salix alba, also known as white willow, creams helps with ankylosing spondylitis because it contains salicin, a natural anti-inflammatory compound similar to aspirin.

Salicin helps to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints, which is a key symptom of ankylosing spondylitis. The cream works by penetrating deep into the skin and muscles, providing relief from stiffness and discomfort.

As a result, patients with ankylosing spondylitis may experience improved mobility and reduced pain, making it a valuable natural remedy for managing this chronic condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salix alba creams that help with ankylosing spondylitis.

• Salicin: It helps reduce inflammation and pain associated with ankylosing spondylitis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as COX-2.
• Salicortin: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis, including joint pain and stiffness.
• Triterpenes: Triterpenes, particularly salicin-derived triterpenes, have shown potential in reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response, which may help manage ankylosing spondylitis symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of white willow used to make creams for ankylosing spondylitis.

• Leaves: Salix alba leaves are used due to their anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties, which help alleviate symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis.
• Barks: The bark of Salix alba is used for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce pain and inflammation in patients with ankylosing spondylitis.
• Stems: Salix alba stems are used due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect joints and reduce inflammation associated with ankylosing spondylitis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic white willow for ankylosing spondylitis.

1. Infuse 100g of salix alba bark in 500ml of cold water for 2 hours to create the herbal extract.
2. Strain the infusion and discard the solids to obtain the clear liquid herbal extract.
3. Mix 200g of beeswax with 100g of coconut oil in a double boiler and heat until melted.
4. Combine 50g of the herbal extract with 50g of shea butter and 20g of vitamin e oil in the melted wax mixture.
5. Pour the mixture into a container and allow it to cool and solidify for 30 minutes.

2. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with ankylosing spondylitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The bioactive compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which contribute to the chronic inflammation and joint damage associated with the condition.

Additionally, ginger's ability to relax muscles and reduce pain makes it a useful adjunctive treatment for managing symptoms and improving quality of life for those with ankylosing spondylitis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with ankylosing spondylitis.

• Gingerols: Gingerols are a type of phenolic compound found in ginger, and they help with ankylosing spondylitis by reducing inflammation and pain through their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Shogaols: Shogaols are another type of phenolic compound found in ginger, and they aid in the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thus reducing inflammation and joint damage.
• Gingerols' analog: Paradol: While not a direct constituent of ginger, paradol, a gingerol analog, is often found in ginger extracts. It helps with ankylosing spondylitis by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as COX-2 and PGE2, and by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for ankylosing spondylitis.

• Roots: As the rhizomes are often derived from the roots, the roots themselves are also used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help in relieving the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis.
• Barks: Some studies suggest that the bark of Zingiber officinale contains compounds that can help reduce inflammation and pain, making it a potential ingredient in creams for ankylosing spondylitis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for ankylosing spondylitis.

1. Mix 500g of coconut oil with 100g of beeswax in a double boiler at 60c for 10 minutes.
2. Add 20g of dried zingiber officinale root powder to the mixture and stir well for 5 minutes.
3. Combine 100ml of distilled water with 10g of vitamin e oil in a separate container.
4. Gradually add the water mixture to the zingiber officinale mixture while continuously stirring for 10 minutes.
5. Pour the mixture into containers and let it cool and solidify at room temperature for 30 minutes.

3. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with ankylosing spondylitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The active compound curcumin in turmeric creams has been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in patients with ankylosing spondylitis. By inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, curcumin helps to reduce joint inflammation and promote healing.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various inflammatory conditions, making it a promising adjunct therapy for ankylosing spondylitis management.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa creams that help with ankylosing spondylitis.

• Curcuminoids: Curcuminoids, particularly curcumin, have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
• Demethoxycurcumin: DMC is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects, which help in reducing joint inflammation and preventing the progression of ankylosing spondylitis.
• Beta-caryophyllene: BCP is a sesquiterpene that has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which help in reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response in ankylosing spondylitis patients.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make creams for ankylosing spondylitis.

• Rhyzomes: Curcuma longa rhyzomes are the most commonly used part due to their high content of curcumin, a bioactive compound with potent anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: Curcuma longa roots are also used as they contain a significant amount of curcuminoids, which are believed to help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis.
• Leaves: While less commonly used than rhyzomes, Curcuma longa leaves are sometimes used in creams due to their secondary metabolites, which may contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for ankylosing spondylitis.

1. Harvest 10-15 fresh turmeric rhizomes and wash them thoroughly in cold running water for 5 minutes.
2. Grind 2-3 turmeric rhizomes into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or spice grinder for 2 minutes.
3. Melt 50g of beeswax in a double boiler over low heat for 10 minutes.
4. Combine the ground turmeric powder with 50g of coconut oil and 20g of shea butter in a small saucepan.
5. Stir the mixture continuously over low heat for 10 minutes until it reaches a smooth creamy consistency.

4. Withania somnifera

Withania somnifera, also known as ashwagandha, creams helps with ankylosing spondylitis because it contains anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce joint inflammation and pain.

The cream's bioavailability of withanolides allows it to penetrate deep into the skin, reaching the affected areas and relieving stiffness and discomfort. Additionally, the antioxidant properties of ashwagandha help protect the joints from oxidative stress, promoting overall joint health and potentially slowing down the progression of ankylosing spondylitis symptoms.

This natural remedy provides relief and support for those suffering from this chronic condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera creams that help with ankylosing spondylitis.

• Withanolides: These steroidal lactones have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
• Alkaloids: These compounds have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help mitigate the progression of ankylosing spondylitis by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the affected joints.
• Withanosides: These saponins have anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties, which may help alleviate pain, stiffness, and inflammation associated with ankylosing spondylitis by modulating the immune response and reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make creams for ankylosing spondylitis.

• Roots: Used due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, including withanolides and alkaloids, which have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects.
• Leaves: Utilized for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and promote healing in ankylosing spondylitis.
• Seeds: Employed for their potential to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, as well as their ability to modulate the immune system.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ashwagandha for ankylosing spondylitis.

1. Harvest 100 grams of dried withania somnifera roots from a reputable supplier.
2. Combine the dried roots with 500 milliliters of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil in a heat-proof glass bowl.
3. Heat the mixture in a double boiler set to low temperature for 2 hours.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container.
5. Add 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 1 teaspoon of vitamin e oil to the mixture and stir until well combined.

5. Harpagophytum procumbens

Harpagophytum procumbens, also known as devil's claw, creams helps with ankylosing spondylitis because it contains harpogoside and other bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

These compounds work by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, thereby reducing inflammation and pain associated with ankylosing spondylitis. Additionally, devil's claw creams may also improve joint mobility and flexibility, making it easier to perform daily activities and manage symptoms of the condition.

This natural remedy offers a promising alternative to traditional treatments for ankylosing spondylitis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Harpagophytum procumbens creams that help with ankylosing spondylitis.

• Triterpenes: Triterpenes, especially harpagoside, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and inflammation associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as ferulic acid and sinapic acid, have antioxidant properties that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can contribute to the development of ankylosing spondylitis.
• Alkaloids: Alkaloids, specifically harpagoside and harpagoal, have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects that help reduce inflammation and improve joint mobility in individuals with ankylosing spondylitis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of devil's claw used to make creams for ankylosing spondylitis.

• Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part of Harpagophytum procumbens for making creams for ankylosing spondylitis due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory compounds.
• Seeds: The seeds are another used part, containing a high amount of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
• Leaves: The leaves are sometimes used, containing antioxidants and other bioactive compounds that contribute to the anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties of Harpagophytum procumbens creams.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic devil's claw for ankylosing spondylitis.

1. Harvest harpagophytum procumbens roots in the spring or fall when the plant is dormant for 2-3 years old roots.
2. Dry the harvested roots at 50-60 degrees celsius for 24 hours to achieve moisture content below 10%.
3. Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a food processor for 30 minutes.
4. Mix the ground harpagophytum procumbens powder with beeswax and coconut oil in a 1:2:1 ratio.
5. Heat the mixture at 40-50 degrees celsius for 30 minutes to achieve a smooth and consistent cream texture.

6. Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St. John's Wort, creams helps with ankylosing spondylitis because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The flavonoids and terpenoids present in Hypericum perforatum have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which contribute to the inflammation and pain associated with ankylosing spondylitis. Additionally, the cream's ability to reduce oxidative stress and promote cellular regeneration may help to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life for individuals suffering from this chronic condition.

This natural remedy offers a promising approach to managing ankylosing spondylitis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with ankylosing spondylitis.

• Naphthodianthrones: These compounds have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in ankylosing spondylitis.
• Flavonoids: These flavonoids have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which may help reduce inflammation and modulate the immune system's response to ankylosing spondylitis.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in ankylosing spondylitis, promoting joint health and function.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for ankylosing spondylitis.

• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their high concentration of flavonoids, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis.
• Flowers: The flowers are used because they contain a high amount of naphthoquinones, particularly hyperforin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects.
• Stems: The stems are used because they contain a mixture of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help manage ankylosing spondylitis symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for ankylosing spondylitis.

1. Harvest 30g of dried hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves from a reputable source by the end of summer.
2. Combine the dried herbs with 30ml of jojoba oil and 20g of beeswax in a double boiler.
3. Heat the mixture over low heat for 10-15 minutes to melt the beeswax and infuse the oil.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass jar and discard the solids after 30 minutes.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and thicken for 2 hours before applying it to the skin as needed.

7. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with ankylosing spondylitis because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

The active compounds in lavender, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, have been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the joints. Additionally, lavender has been found to improve sleep quality, which is often disrupted in individuals with ankylosing spondylitis.

By reducing stress and promoting relaxation, lavender creams can provide relief from the chronic pain and stiffness associated with this condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with ankylosing spondylitis.

• Linalool: A terpene that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
• Lavandulol: A terpene that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help protect joints from oxidative stress and inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis.
• Luteolin: A phenolic compound with anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation, suppress the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and modulate the immune response associated with ankylosing spondylitis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for ankylosing spondylitis.

• Flowers: Used due to their calming and anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
• Leaves: Utilized for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects that can help soothe joint pain and discomfort caused by the condition.
• Stems: Employed for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected joints.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for ankylosing spondylitis.

1. Harvest 1 pound of fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers in the early morning on a dry day.
2. Dry the harvested flowers in a single layer at room temperature for 7 to 10 days.
3. Steep 1/2 cup of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil for 2 to 3 weeks.
4. Strain the infused oil and mix it with 1/2 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of shea butter.
5. Heat the mixture over low heat for 10 to 15 minutes then pour it into jars.

8. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, creams helps with ankylosing spondylitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The menthol in peppermint creams penetrates deep into the muscles, providing relief from pain and stiffness associated with the condition. Additionally, peppermint's natural cooling sensation can help reduce inflammation and relax tense muscles, making it easier to move and perform daily activities.

This natural remedy can also help alleviate the fatigue and discomfort that often accompany ankylosing spondylitis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita creams that help with ankylosing spondylitis.

• Menthol: Menthol has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is an antioxidant that may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to the management of ankylosing spondylitis symptoms.
• Limonene: Limonene has anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties, which can help reduce joint pain and inflammation in individuals with ankylosing spondylitis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make creams for ankylosing spondylitis.

• Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of menthol, which helps to reduce inflammation and ease pain associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
• Roots: The roots of peppermint contain menthone, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making them suitable for use in creams for ankylosing spondylitis.
• Stems: The stems of peppermint contain menthol and other volatile oils that help to relax muscles and reduce pain, making them a useful ingredient in creams for ankylosing spondylitis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for ankylosing spondylitis.

1. Harvest 1 cup of fresh peppermint leaves at peak potency for optimal oil extraction and potency retention.
2. Combine the fresh peppermint leaves with 2 cups of carrier oil in a clean glass jar for infusion.
3. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks with occasional shaking to enhance oil extraction.
4. Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth into another container and discard the solids for a clear extract.
5. Mix the peppermint oil with beeswax and coconut oil in a 1:2:3 ratio to create a smooth and consistent cream.

9. Tanacetum parthenium

Tanacetum parthenium, also known as feverfew, creams helps with ankylosing spondylitis because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

The presence of parthenolide, a sesquiterpene lactone, in feverfew is responsible for its therapeutic effects. It has been found to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, reducing joint inflammation and pain associated with ankylosing spondylitis.

Additionally, feverfew's antioxidant properties may also contribute to its potential benefits in managing the condition, making it a promising natural remedy for those suffering from ankylosing spondylitis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tanacetum parthenium creams that help with ankylosing spondylitis.

• Cichoriacin: This compound has anti-inflammatory properties that could help reduce inflammation in the joints and spine associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help alleviate the chronic inflammation and oxidative stress that contribute to ankylosing spondylitis symptoms.
• Tanacetone: This compound exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which could help mitigate the pain and discomfort associated with ankylosing spondylitis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of feverfew used to make creams for ankylosing spondylitis.

• Leaves: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
• Flowers: The flowers are used for their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which help to relax muscles and reduce inflammation in the joints.
• Roots: The roots are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative stress in ankylosing spondylitis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic feverfew for ankylosing spondylitis.

1. Harvest 10 grams of dried tanacetum parthenium flowers and leaves and clean them thoroughly.
2. Combine the clean plant material with 100 grams of jojoba oil in a small saucepan and heat gently.
3. Add 50 grams of beeswax and 20 grams of candelilla wax to the saucepan and continue heating.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool and solidify for 30 minutes.
5. Stir the mixture thoroughly and pour it into small containers for storage and use.

10. Valeriana officinalis

Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, creams helps with ankylosing spondylitis because it contains valerenic acids and isovaleric acid, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The cream's topical application allows the active compounds to directly interact with affected areas, reducing inflammation and pain. Valerian also has a calming effect on the nervous system, which may help alleviate stress and anxiety associated with chronic pain conditions like ankylosing spondylitis, promoting overall well-being and quality of life.

This natural approach may offer relief for those seeking alternative treatments.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis creams that help with ankylosing spondylitis.

• Valerenic acid: It has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help reduce pain and inflammation associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
• Isovaleric acid: It has a sedative effect, which can help alleviate stress and anxiety that often accompany chronic pain conditions like ankylosing spondylitis.
• Valeranone: It has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help reduce inflammation and spasms in the muscles and joints affected by ankylosing spondylitis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make creams for ankylosing spondylitis.

• Roots: The roots are the primary source of valerenic acid, a key compound responsible for the anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties of Valeriana officinalis.
• Stems: The stems contain isovaltrate and valtrate, which contribute to the sedative and anti-inflammatory effects of the plant, making them beneficial for ankylosing spondylitis.
• Leaves: The leaves of Valeriana officinalis contain valerenic acid and other compounds that help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, making them a valuable component in creams for ankylosing spondylitis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for ankylosing spondylitis.

1. Weigh 500 grams of unrefined shea butter and 200 grams of sweet almond oil and place them in a double boiler.
2. Melt the shea butter and sweet almond oil mixture over low heat for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
3. Add 100 grams of dried valeriana officinalis root and 10 grams of beeswax to the melted mixture.
4. Stir the mixture for 10 minutes to combine the valeriana officinalis root and beeswax with the melted mixture.
5. Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool and thicken for 2 to 3 hours before transferring to a container.

What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for ankylosing spondylitis?

The best combination of herbal creams that help with ankylosing spondylitis is a blend of Arnica, CBD, and Turmeric creams.

Arnica cream reduces inflammation and promotes healing, while CBD cream helps to manage pain and relax muscles. Turmeric cream, containing curcumin, has potent anti-inflammatory properties that alleviate joint stiffness and swelling. By applying these creams topically, individuals with ankylosing spondylitis may experience relief from pain, inflammation, and limited mobility, allowing for improved quality of life and reduced symptoms.

Consult a healthcare professional before use.

What ailments similar to ankylosing spondylitis are treated with herbal creams?

Ailments similar to ankylosing spondylitis that are treated with herbal creams are those characterized by inflammation, stiffness, and pain in the joints.

Herbal creams may help alleviate symptoms of conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and fibromyalgia.

These creams typically contain ingredients like arnica, capsaicin, and ginger, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help reduce joint pain and stiffness.