10 best herbal essential oils for arthritis

Herbal essential oils for arthritis are a natural and effective way to alleviate symptoms of this chronic condition.

These oils, derived from plants such as turmeric, ginger, and willow bark, contain active compounds that work to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. By inhaling or applying these oils topically, individuals with arthritis can experience reduced stiffness, improved mobility, and a significant reduction in discomfort.

For example, peppermint oil has been shown to improve joint flexibility, while frankincense oil reduces inflammation and promotes healing.

The following article describes in detail the most important essential oils for arthritis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Cannabis sativa

Marijuana essential oils helps with arthritis because they contain powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that can reduce joint pain and swelling.

The terpenes and cannabinoids present in these oils interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, helping to modulate pain perception and inflammation. By applying topical oils directly to affected joints, users can experience fast-acting relief from arthritic symptoms, including reduced stiffness and improved mobility.

Additionally, some herbal marijuana essential oils may also help to reduce joint damage and promote cartilage repair.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in marijuana essential oils that aid with arthritis.

• Anti-inflammatory effects: CBD has been shown to reduce inflammation, which is a common symptom of arthritis, by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory molecules.
• Pain relief: CBD has been found to have analgesic and anxiolytic properties, helping to alleviate chronic pain associated with arthritis without producing psychoactive effects.
• Immune system modulation: CBD may help regulate the immune response in cases of arthritis, reducing joint inflammation and preventing further damage by modulating cytokine production.

The list below shows the primary parts of marijuana used to make essential oils for arthritis.

• Roots: The roots of the marijuana plant are rich in sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate joint pain and swelling associated with arthritis.
• Rhyzomes: Marijuana rhizomes contain a high concentration of beta-caryophyllene, a sesquiterpene known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, making it effective in reducing arthritis symptoms.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marijuana for arthritis.

1. Harvest 30g of dried cannabis sativa leaves and flowers from organic sources.
2. Dry the plant material in a warm dark place for at least 7 days to reduce moisture.
3. Fill a 100ml glass bottle 2/3 full with the dried plant material and add 10ml of carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba.
4. Heat the mixture in a double boiler or a slow cooker set on low heat for 6 hours to extract essential oils.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another container leaving behind the plant material.

2. Curcuma longa

Turmeric essential oils helps with arthritis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The curcuminoids present in turmeric oil work to reduce joint pain and stiffness, making it a natural remedy for relieving symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, turmeric's anti-inflammatory compounds help to reduce inflammation and swelling, promoting healthy joints and reducing the risk of further damage.

This natural alternative can provide relief from the debilitating effects of arthritis without harsh chemicals or prescription medications.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in turmeric essential oils that aid with arthritis.

• Curcuminoid compounds: Turmeric essential oil contains curcuminoids, which have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce joint pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.
• Cyclooxygenase (cox) inhibition: The oil's curcuminoids inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes called COX-1 and COX-2, thereby reducing the production of prostaglandins, which contribute to pain and swelling in arthritic joints.
• Pain relief: Turmeric essential oil contains a compound called bisabolol, which has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve joint pain and discomfort associated with arthritis.

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make essential oils for arthritis.

• Rhyzomes: The rhizomes of turmeric contain a high concentration of curcuminoids, which are responsible for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it effective in reducing joint pain and swelling associated with arthritis.
• Roots: Turmeric roots have been traditionally used to treat various inflammatory conditions, including arthritis, due to their rich content of volatile oils and flavonoids, which help reduce inflammation and improve joint mobility.

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

1. Harvest fresh turmeric rhizomes carefully selecting healthy ones with no signs of rot or mold.
2. Clean the harvested rhizomes thoroughly by rinsing them under running water and gently scrubbing off any dirt.
3. Dry the cleaned rhizomes in a well-ventilated area for at least 7 days or until they reach a moisture level of 10%.
4. Steam distill the dried turmeric rhizomes using a steam distillation apparatus with 1 part turmeric to 2 parts water for 30 minutes.
5. Collect and filter the resulting essential oil through cheesecloth or coffee filters to remove any impurities and store it in dark glass bottles.

3. Zingiber officinale

Ginger essential oils helps with arthritis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The oil's bioactive compounds, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to inhibit prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause pain and inflammation in the body. By reducing inflammation and pain, herbal ginger essential oils can help alleviate joint stiffness, swelling, and discomfort associated with arthritis, allowing individuals to enjoy improved mobility and reduced suffering.

Regular use of this oil may also promote relaxation and reduce overall stress levels.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginger essential oils that aid with arthritis.

• Anti-inflammatory properties: Ginger essential oil reduces inflammation, which helps alleviate pain and swelling associated with arthritis by blocking the production of pro-inflammatory compounds in the body.
• Pain-relieving properties: Ginger essential oil contains compounds like gingerol and shogaol that have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce chronic pain and stiffness caused by arthritis.
• Antioxidant properties: Herbal ginger essential oil is rich in antioxidants that help protect joints from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to the development of arthritis symptoms.

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make essential oils for arthritis.

• Rhyzomes: Rich in bioactive compounds like gingerols and shogaols, which have potent anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate joint pain and stiffness associated with arthritis.
• Roots: The primary source of ginger's medicinal properties, roots contain a high concentration of gingerol and other bioactive compounds that reduce inflammation and improve symptoms of arthritis.

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

1. Harvest fresh ginger root, select pieces free of mold or mildew, cut into small cubes and weigh out 500 grams for the distillation process.
2. Combine the cubed ginger root with 500 milliliters of pure water in a stainless steel or enameled pot, cover with a lid and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer the mixture for 30-40 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half, straining the solids from the resulting decoction.
4. Use a steam distillation apparatus to extract the essential oil from the decoction, collecting 100 milliliters of zingiber officinale essential oil over a 2-hour period.
5. Filter the essential oil through a coffee filter or cheesecloth into a dark glass bottle, store in a cool dark place for up to one year, using within six months for optimal therapeutic benefits.

4. Salix alba

White willow essential oils helps with arthritis because they contain salicin, a natural compound similar to aspirin.

This powerful anti-inflammatory agent effectively reduces pain and swelling associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The oil also contains other bioactive compounds that help soothe joint discomfort and promote flexibility.

When applied topically or inhaled, white willow essential oils work to alleviate stiffness and pain, allowing individuals to enjoy improved mobility and reduced discomfort.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in white willow essential oils that aid with arthritis.

• Anti-inflammatory: Salicin in White Willow Bark has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of arthritis such as joint pain and swelling.
• Pain-relieving: The compound salicin also exhibits analgesic (pain-relieving) effects, making it an effective natural remedy for reducing chronic pain associated with arthritis.
• Antioxidant: White Willow Bark contains antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to chronic inflammation and arthritis.

The list below shows the primary parts of white willow used to make essential oils for arthritis.

• Barks: The barks of the white willow tree are rich in salicin, a natural compound that provides anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
• Roots: White willow roots have been traditionally used to treat joint pain and inflammation, making them an ideal part for creating essential oils for arthritis relief.

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

1. Harvest fresh white willow bark salix alba leaves and stems weighing approximately one pound.
2. Dry the harvested material in a warm dark place or using desiccant sachets for four to six weeks.
3. Grind dried white willow bark into fine powder using mortar and pestle or coffee grinder processing.
4. Mix two ounces of ground white willow bark with 12 ounces of high-proof vodka or grain alcohol in glass jar steeping.
5. Allow the mixture to infuse at room temperature for six to eight weeks shaking weekly then strain and discard solids.

5. Boswellia serrata

Frankincense essential oils helps with arthritis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The oil contains boswellic acids, which have been shown to reduce swelling and joint pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes. Additionally, frankincense has been found to increase blood flow to the affected area, promoting healthy tissue growth and reducing stiffness.

As a result, many people with arthritis find relief from their symptoms when using frankincense essential oils in combination with other natural remedies or as part of their regular self-care routine.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in frankincense essential oils that aid with arthritis.

• Anti-inflammatory: Frankincense oil's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling, pain, and stiffness associated with arthritis, making it an effective natural remedy for managing symptoms.
• Antioxidant: The antioxidant properties of frankincense oil help to neutralize free radicals in the body, which can contribute to joint damage and degeneration, reducing the risk of further inflammation and damage.
• Analgesic: Frankincense oil's analgesic properties provide pain relief by blocking pain signals to the brain, making it a natural alternative to over-the-counter painkillers for managing arthritis-related discomfort.

The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make essential oils for arthritis.

• Resin: Frankincense resin is a sticky, fragrant substance that exudes from the tree's bark and is highly prized for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it an effective ingredient in essential oils for arthritis relief.
• Barks: The barks of the frankincense tree contain bioactive compounds like terpenes and sesquiterpenes, which have potent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects when extracted as essential oils, providing natural relief from arthritis symptoms.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for arthritis.

1. Harvest fresh boswellia serrata leaves from a trusted source and wash them thoroughly with distilled water.
2. Dry the leaves using a dehydrator set at 60°c for 12 hours or air-dry them in a warm ventilated area.
3. Steam distill 100g of dried boswellia serrata leaves in 500ml of distilled water at 100°c for 4-6 hours.
4. Separate the essential oil from the hydrosol using a separator or decantation method and filter it through a coffee filter paper.
5. Transfer the pure boswellia serrata essential oil to dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids and store them in a cool place for future use.

6. Eucalyptus globulus

Tasmanian blue gum essential oils helps with arthritis because of its unique blend of compounds that have potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The oil's active ingredients, such as caryophyllene and limonene, work to reduce inflammation in the joints, alleviating pain and discomfort associated with arthritis.

Additionally, Tasmanian blue gum's analgesic properties help to ease stiffness and promote relaxation, making it an effective natural remedy for managing arthritis symptoms.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in tasmanian blue gum essential oils that aid with arthritis.

• Anti-inflammatory: Tasmanian Blue Gum essential oil has potent anti-inflammatory compounds like eucalyptol and cineole, which can help reduce inflammation in joints and muscles associated with arthritis.
• Pain relief: The analgesic and antispasmodic properties of the oil's active ingredients can provide temporary pain relief from joint stiffness, swelling, and tenderness caused by arthritis.
• Antioxidant: Tasmanian Blue Gum essential oil has antioxidant properties that help protect joints from oxidative damage and reduce the progression of osteoarthritis.

The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make essential oils for arthritis.

• Roots: Rich in bioactive compounds, the roots are prized for their anti-inflammatory properties, making them an effective component in relieving arthritis pain.
• Barks: The barks contain a unique blend of terpenes and flavonoids that help reduce inflammation, swelling, and joint stiffness associated with arthritis.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for arthritis.

1. Harvest fresh eucalyptus globulus leaves in the early morning and rinse them gently with distilled water.
2. Steam distill the leaves for 30 minutes using a distillation apparatus and collect the resulting oil.
3. Mix 50 milliliters of sweet almond oil with 20 drops of the freshly collected essential oil and store it in an amber glass bottle.
4. Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for 2 weeks, shaking the bottle daily, before filtering it through a coffee filter paper.
5. Transfer the final product to a dark-tinted glass bottle, label it as "eucalyptus globulus essential oil" and use it within 6 months.

7. Thymus vulgaris

Thyme essential oils helps with arthritis because its anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce joint pain and stiffness.

The oil's natural antioxidants also work to combat oxidative stress, which can contribute to chronic inflammation. Additionally, thyme has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory molecules in the body, further reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with arthritis.

By incorporating thyme essential oils into a daily routine, individuals may experience improved mobility and reduced symptoms of this debilitating condition.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in thyme essential oils that aid with arthritis.

• Anti-inflammatory properties: Thyme oil's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce joint swelling and pain associated with arthritis, making it a natural remedy for alleviating symptoms.
• Antioxidant properties: Thyme oil's antioxidants can help neutralize free radicals in the body, which can contribute to inflammation and tissue damage that exacerbate arthritis.
• Pain-relieving properties: Thyme oil's analgesic and numbing properties can help reduce pain and discomfort associated with arthritis, making it a natural alternative for managing chronic pain.

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make essential oils for arthritis.

• Roots: Thyme roots have a high concentration of sesquiterpenes, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making them effective in relieving arthritis symptoms.
• Flowers: Thyme flowers contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve joint mobility in people with arthritis.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for arthritis.

1. Harvest fresh thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers on a sunny day.
2. Dry the plant material using a clean paper towel or cloth.
3. Steam distill the dried thymus vulgaris plant material.
4. Separate the essential oil from the distillation condensate using a separatory funnel.
5. Filter the essential oil using coffee filters or cheesecloth to remove impurities.

8. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender essential oils helps with arthritis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and ease joint pain.

The oil's analgesic compounds work to numb the affected areas, providing relief from discomfort and stiffness. Additionally, lavender's natural sedative effects promote relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety that often exacerbate arthritis symptoms.

By incorporating English lavender essential oils into their daily routine, individuals with arthritis may experience improved mobility and reduced joint inflammation, leading to a better quality of life.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in english lavender essential oils that aid with arthritis.

• Anti-inflammatory property: English lavender essential oil has anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce swelling and pain associated with arthritis, making it an effective natural remedy to manage inflammation.
• Analgesic property: Lavender oil contains analgesic compounds that can help ease pain caused by arthritis, providing relief from discomfort and improving overall quality of life.
• Antispasmodic property: English lavender essential oil's antispasmodic properties can help relax muscles and reduce stiffness, making it beneficial for people with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis who experience joint spasms and rigidity.

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make essential oils for arthritis.

• Roots: The roots of the English lavender plant contain a high concentration of sesquiterpenes, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in soothing joint pain and reducing inflammation associated with arthritis.
• Flowers: Lavender flowers are rich in linalool, a compound that has been shown to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, providing relief from the pain and stiffness associated with arthritis.

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

1. Harvest fresh or dried lavender flowers from lavandula angustifolia plants in the morning when they are at their peak potency.
2. Crush 500 grams of lavender flowers using a mortar and pestle to release their aromatic compounds and oils.
3. Steep the crushed lavender flowers in 750 milliliters of carrier oil such as sweet almond or grapeseed oil for 4 hours under warm sunlight.
4. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle, discarding the solids and reserving the infused oil for further processing.
5. Distill the infused oil using steam distillation equipment at a temperature range of 100-150°f to produce pure lavender essential oil in approximately 2 hours.

9. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint essential oils helps with arthritis because of its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which work to reduce joint pain and stiffness.

When applied topically or inhaled, peppermint oil's menthol content can help cool and soothe the affected joints, providing instant relief from discomfort. Additionally, peppermint's antioxidant properties may help combat oxidative stress, a factor that contributes to arthritis development.

By addressing both acute and chronic inflammation, peppermint essential oils offer natural and effective relief for individuals suffering from arthritis.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint essential oils that aid with arthritis.

• Anti-inflammatory properties: Peppermint essential oil's anti-inflammatory compounds, such as menthol and methyl salicylate, can help reduce inflammation in joints, which is a common symptom of arthritis.
• Pain-relieving properties: The analgesic and anesthetic properties of peppermint essential oil can help numb the pain associated with arthritis, providing relief from discomfort and stiffness.
• Antioxidant properties: Peppermint essential oil's antioxidant compounds can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can contribute to the development and progression of arthritis.

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make essential oils for arthritis.

• Roots: Peppermint roots have been traditionally used in herbal remedies to treat joint pain and inflammation, making them a popular choice for arthritis relief.
• Barks: The barks of the peppermint plant contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making them effective in reducing pain and swelling associated with arthritis.

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

1. Harvest mature mentha x piperita leaves at dawn to ensure optimal essential oil content.
2. Cleanly sort and separate the leaves from stems and other debris.
3. Steam distill the harvested leaves in a vacuum steam distillation apparatus for 30-45 minutes.
4. Collect the distilled essential oil and separate it from water using a decantation process or centrifugal separation.
5. Filter the collected essential oil through a micron filter to remove any remaining impurities.

10. Gaultheria procumbens

Wintergreen essential oils helps with arthritis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can effectively reduce joint pain and swelling.

The oil's main compound, methyl salicylate, is a natural analogue of aspirin, making it an effective pain reliever. When applied topically, wintergreen essential oil can penetrate deep into the skin, providing targeted relief to affected joints.

As the oil soothes and relaxes inflamed tissues, it can help reduce stiffness, improve mobility, and alleviate arthritis-related discomfort.

The list below shows the primary active constituents in wintergreen essential oils that aid with arthritis.

• Methyl salicylate content: Wintergreen essential oil contains high amounts of methyl salicylate, which is a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory compound similar to aspirin, making it effective in reducing joint pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.
• Analgesic properties: The analgesic properties of wintergreen essential oil help to numb the affected area, providing relief from chronic pain, stiffness, and discomfort associated with arthritis.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Wintergreen essential oil's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling, redness, and heat in joints, making it effective in managing symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other forms of arthritis.

The list below shows the primary parts of wintergreen used to make essential oils for arthritis.

• Roots: Wintergreen root contains high amounts of methyl salicylate, a natural compound similar to aspirin, making it effective in relieving pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.
• Rhyzomes: The rhizome is used to produce wintergreen oil, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce joint swelling and stiffness caused by arthritis.

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wintergreen for arthritis.

1. Harvest fresh gaultheria procumbens leaves and stems in the morning after dew has evaporated weighing around 500 grams.
2. Wash the harvested plant material gently with cold distilled water removing any dirt debris or impurities.
3. Dry the washed plant material using a food dehydrator at 60°c for 48 hours to reduce moisture content below 10%.
4. Steam distill the dried gaultheria procumbens plant material in a stainless steel still at atmospheric pressure and temperature around 100°c extracting essential oil.
5. Collect the resulting essential oil after distillation separating it from water using a decantation process and store it in dark glass bottles at room temperature.

How to best treat arthritis with herbal essential oils?

The best way to treat arthritis with herbal essential oils is by applying topical blends to affected joints, using a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil.

Essential oils such as ginger, turmeric, and frankincense have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and stiffness. Mix equal parts of each oil, dilute with a carrier oil, and apply twice daily for best results.

This natural remedy can provide relief without the side effects of pharmaceuticals.

What ailments similar to arthritis are treated with herbal essential oils?

Ailments similar to arthritis that are treated with herbal essential oils are fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel syndrome, and bursitis.

These conditions often cause joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation, which can be alleviated by using herbal essential oils like peppermint, wintergreen, and ginger.

Additionally, essential oils such as frankincense, lavender, and eucalyptus may help reduce swelling and promote relaxation, providing relief from discomfort and promoting overall well-being.