By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Arthritis
Herbal tinctures for arthritis are concentrated liquid extracts derived from plants, often used to alleviate joint pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
These tinctures work by reducing inflammation, relieving stiffness, and improving joint mobility. Examples of herbal tinctures that help with arthritis include turmeric, ginger, and Boswellia, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
By taking these tinctures, individuals can experience significant relief from arthritic symptoms, allowing them to engage in daily activities with ease and enjoy improved quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for arthritis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Capsicum annuum
- 2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 3. Curcuma longa
- 4. Urtica dioica
- 5. Rheum palmatum
- 6. Salix alba
- 7. Hypericum perforatum
- 8. Vaccinium macrocarpon
- 9. Lavandula angustifolia
- 10. Rosa rugosa
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for arthritis?
- What ailments similar to arthritis are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Capsicum annuum
Bell pepper tinctures helps with arthritis because they contain a potent anti-inflammatory compound called capsicum.
This natural extract is rich in antioxidants, which help to reduce joint inflammation and alleviate symptoms of arthritis such as pain, stiffness, and swelling.
The tincture also contains other beneficial compounds like flavonoids and carotenoids, which have been shown to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, further enhancing its effectiveness in providing relief from arthritis symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Capsicum annuum tinctures that help with arthritis.
- Capsaicin: Capsaicin, a vanilloid compound derived from capsaicinoids, helps with arthritis by blocking the production of substance P, a neurotransmitter responsible for transmitting pain signals to the brain.
- Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, helps with arthritis by reducing inflammation and suppressing the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as COX-2 and lipoxygenase.
- Catechin: Catechin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, helps with arthritis by exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help reduce joint inflammation and oxidative stress.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of bell pepper used to make tinctures for arthritis.
- Fruits: They are used to make tinctures due to their high concentration of capsaicin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory properties.
- Seeds: They are used to make tinctures because they contain a higher concentration of capsaicin and other bioactive compounds compared to the fruit itself.
- Leaves: They are used to make tinctures due to their ability to contribute to the overall antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the tincture.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bell pepper for arthritis.
- Harvest ripe capsicum annuum fruits at the peak of their ripeness for optimal flavor and potency.
- Dry the harvested capsicum annuum fruits in a warm dry place for 7 to 10 days.
- Chop the dried capsicum annuum fruits into small pieces using a sharp knife or tool.
- Combine the chopped dried capsicum annuum pieces with 80 proof ethanol in a 1 to 5 ratio and steep for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused ethanol mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container.
2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with arthritis because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce joint pain and swelling.
The tincture's compounds, such as glycyrrhizin, work by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thus alleviating symptoms like stiffness and morning joint pain.
Additionally, licorice root has been shown to possess analgesic and anti-arthritic properties, making it a natural and effective remedy for managing arthritis symptoms and improving overall joint health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with arthritis.
- Saponins: Saponins, particularly glycyrrhizin and 18α-glycyrrhetinic acid, help alleviate arthritis symptoms by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as COX-2.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including isoflavones and flavanols, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce joint inflammation and oxidative stress associated with arthritis.
- Terpenoids: Terpenoids, particularly glycyrrhetic acid and its derivatives, have potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which may help regulate the immune response and reduce joint pain and inflammation in arthritis patients.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for arthritis.
- Roots: They are the primary source of glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that helps alleviate arthritis symptoms.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, beneficial in treating arthritis.
- Barks: The bark of Glycyrrhiza glabra is also used, as it contains triterpenoid saponins that have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, aiding in arthritis treatment.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for arthritis.
- Harvest 30 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and wash them with cold water to remove impurities.
- Chop the roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for better solvent extraction.
- Combine the chopped roots with 50 milliliters of 95 percent ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 14 days to allow for proper solvent extraction.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.
3. Curcuma longa
Turmeric tinctures helps with arthritis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce joint pain and swelling.
The active compound curcumin in turmeric has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
This natural approach can provide relief from symptoms such as stiffness, limited mobility, and morning stiffness associated with arthritis, allowing individuals to regain their quality of life and maintain a more active lifestyle.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa tinctures that help with arthritis.
- Curcumin: A polyphenolic compound that helps with arthritis by reducing inflammation and pain through its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Demethoxycurcumin: A curcumin derivative that helps with arthritis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing inflammation and joint damage.
- Bisdemethoxycurcumin: A curcumin derivative that helps with arthritis by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing inflammation and joint damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make tinctures for arthritis.
- Rhyzomes: They are the most commonly used part due to their high curcumin content, a potent anti-inflammatory compound.
- Roots: Roots are often used in combination with rhyzomes to enhance the overall effectiveness of the tincture.
- Leaves: Leaves are sometimes used to create a more balanced tincture, although they may not be as effective as rhyzomes or roots in terms of curcumin content.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for arthritis.
- Gather 4-6 ounces of fresh or dried roots and 80 proof vodka or glycerin in a clean glass jar.
- Chop the roots into small pieces to increase surface area for infusion.
- Combine the chopped roots with 80 proof vodka or glycerin in a 1:5 ratio by weight in the jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks to allow infusion and extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
4. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle tinctures helps with arthritis because they contain powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce swelling and ease pain in affected joints.
The tannins present in nettle extracts also help to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, which can exacerbate joint inflammation.
Additionally, nettle's rich concentration of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants further contributes to its potent therapeutic effects, making it a natural and effective remedy for managing arthritis symptoms and promoting overall joint health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica tinctures that help with arthritis.
- Flavonoids: These plant-based compounds help alleviate arthritis symptoms by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, thus mitigating joint pain and swelling.
- Alkaloids: These compounds help with arthritis by reducing inflammation and pain through their anti-histamine and anti-inflammatory properties, while also modulating the immune response.
- Phenolic acids: These antioxidants help combat arthritis by reducing inflammation, scavenging free radicals, and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, ultimately leading to reduced pain and joint damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make tinctures for arthritis.
- Leaves: They contain high amounts of salicylic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: They have a higher concentration of ursolic acid, which is a potent anti-inflammatory compound.
- Stems: They contain a significant amount of histamine, which helps to reduce inflammation and pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for arthritis.
- Harvest fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems in the morning after dew has evaporated using sharp scissors.
- Clean the harvested urtica dioica material thoroughly by rinsing it with clean water to remove dirt.
- Combine 200-400 grams of the cleaned urtica dioica material with 750 milliliters of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place and allow it to steep for 2-6 weeks shaking it occasionally.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
5. Rheum palmatum
Chinese rhubarb tinctures helps with arthritis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which target the underlying inflammation that exacerbates joint pain.
The herb's unique combination of compounds, including anthraquinones and sennosides, works to reduce swelling and alleviate stiffness in the joints. Additionally, Chinese rhubarb has been shown to improve circulation and reduce oxidative stress, further contributing to its ability to provide relief from arthritis symptoms.
By addressing the root causes of inflammation, Chinese rhubarb tinctures can help individuals manage their condition and enjoy a more comfortable quality of life.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rheum palmatum tinctures that help with arthritis.
- Anthraquinones: These glycoside compounds help with arthritis by reducing inflammation and pain through their ability to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce joint inflammation and protect against oxidative stress, thereby alleviating arthritis symptoms.
- Rhein: This anthraquinone glycoside has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation in joints, making it effective in managing arthritis symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chinese rhubarb used to make tinctures for arthritis.
- Roots: They contain a high concentration of active compounds, such as rhein and emodin, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Rhyzomes: Similar to roots, rhyzomes are rich in active compounds that help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with arthritis.
- Leaves: The leaves of Rheum palmatum contain flavonoids and other compounds that contribute to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, making it useful for arthritis relief.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chinese rhubarb for arthritis.
- Harvest fresh rheum palmatum roots and clean them thoroughly under cold running water.
- Chop 1 part of the cleaned rheum palmatum roots into small pieces and combine with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place and allow the mixture to steep for 2 weeks shaking it daily.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth into another clean glass jar discarding the solids and press on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Store the extracted liquid tincture in a cool dark place and allow it to mature for 4 weeks before using it.
6. Salix alba
White willow tinctures helps with arthritis because they contain salicin, a natural compound that is similar to aspirin.
When taken as directed, herbal white willow tinctures can help reduce inflammation and alleviate joint pain associated with arthritis.
The anti-inflammatory properties of salicin work to decrease swelling and stiffness in the joints, making it easier for people with arthritis to move and perform daily activities without discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salix alba tinctures that help with arthritis.
- Salicin: A phenolic glycoside, salicin has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping to reduce pain and swelling associated with arthritis.
- Salicylic acid: A phenolic acid, salicylic acid has potent anti-inflammatory and antirheumatic effects, helping to reduce inflammation and ease symptoms of arthritis.
- Oleuropein: A phenolic compound, oleuropein has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with arthritis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of white willow used to make tinctures for arthritis.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and salicylic acid, which have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Buds: They are rich in flavonoids and salicylic acid, which help reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling associated with arthritis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic white willow for arthritis.
- Harvest salix alba leaves and twigs in mid-summer when plant is in full growth and leaf density is high.
- Clean and dry the plant material by spreading it out in a single layer on paper towels for 7 days.
- Prepare the tincture by combining 1000 grams of dried plant material with 5 liters of 95% ethanol in a large glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 6 weeks shaking the jar every 2 days to ensure even extraction.
- Strain the tincture through cheesecloth into a separate container and discard the solids before bottling and labeling the finished product.
7. Hypericum perforatum
St John's Wort tinctures helps with arthritis because it is rich in hyperforin, a natural compound that has potent anti-inflammatory properties.
When consumed as a tincture, this herb reduces swelling and pain by blocking the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals in the body. Additionally, St John's Wort tinctures have been shown to improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness, making it an effective natural remedy for managing arthritis symptoms.
By reducing inflammation and improving joint function, St John's Wort tinctures provide relief from the discomfort and limited mobility associated with this chronic condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum tinctures that help with arthritis.
- Hyperforin: Hyperforin has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.
- Naphthodianthrones: These compounds have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate arthritis symptoms by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Hypericum perforatum have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation, pain, and oxidative stress associated with arthritis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make tinctures for arthritis.
- Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Flowers: Contain hyperforin and hypericin, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.
- Roots: High in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which are thought to contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them useful for arthritis relief.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for arthritis.
- Harvest 100 grams of fresh hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves and clean them thoroughly with a soft brush.
- Combine the cleaned hypericum perforatum with 500 milliliters of 40% ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Steep the mixture for 4 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional gentle shaking.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container to remove the solids.
- Store the final tincture in a dark glass bottle and label it clearly with the date and ingredients used.
8. Vaccinium macrocarpon
Highbush cranberry tinctures helps with arthritis because of its unique composition, which is rich in flavonoids, anthocyanins, and proanthocyanidins.
These potent bioactive compounds have been shown to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and improve joint mobility.
By inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and scavenging free radicals, highbush cranberry tinctures help mitigate the degenerative effects of arthritis on joints, ultimately leading to increased comfort and reduced stiffness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium macrocarpon tinctures that help with arthritis.
- Quercetin: Quercetin is a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce joint inflammation and pain associated with arthritis.
- Epicatechin: Epicatechin is a flavanol that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce the severity of arthritis symptoms by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Proanthocyanidins: Proanthocyanidins are a type of polyphenol that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reducing oxidative stress, which can contribute to the development and progression of arthritis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of highbush cranberry used to make tinctures for arthritis.
- Fruits: Fruits are commonly used due to their high concentration of anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Leaves are used due to their rich content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.
- Barks: Barks are used due to their high content of flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which have been found to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic highbush cranberry for arthritis.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh vaccinium macrocarpon berries in the early morning for optimal potency retention.
- Clean the berries by gently rinsing them with filtered water to remove dirt and debris.
- Steep the berries in 2 cups of 80 proof vodka at a 1:2 ratio for 6-8 weeks to extract active compounds.
- Strain the liquid using cheesecloth or a coffee filter to separate the plant material from the tincture.
- Transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles and store them in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
9. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender tinctures helps with arthritis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb's bioactive compounds, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, have been shown to reduce swelling and ease joint pain by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemical messengers that promote inflammation. Additionally, lavender's antioxidant activity helps protect joints from oxidative damage, promoting a reduction in stiffness and improved mobility.
This natural remedy can be used topically or taken orally to provide relief from arthritis symptoms without harsh chemicals or medications.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia tinctures that help with arthritis.
- Linalool: It helps with arthritis by reducing inflammation and pain due to its potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Linalyl acetate: It helps with arthritis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing pain and inflammation.
- Rosmarinic acid: It helps with arthritis by its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the joints.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make tinctures for arthritis.
- Flowers: They are used due to their high content of anti-inflammatory compounds, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.
- Leaves: They are used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe and calm the joints affected by arthritis.
- Stems: They are used due to their ability to reduce inflammation and relieve pain, although they may not be as potent as the flowers and leaves.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for arthritis.
- Harvest 25-50 grams of fresh or dried lavandula angustifolia flowers at peak potency and dry them completely.
- Combine the dried flowers with 25-50 percent ethanol or vodka in a clean glass jar to create a 1:2 ratio.
- Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks to allow extraction to occur.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container to remove the solids.
- Transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles and store it in the refrigerator to preserve its potency.
10. Rosa rugosa
Beach rose tinctures helps with arthritis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce joint pain and swelling.
The herb's flavonoids and saponins work synergistically to ease stiffness and discomfort, allowing individuals to enjoy a better range of motion. Additionally, beach rose tinctures contain antioxidant compounds that help to protect joints from further damage, promoting long-term health and wellness.
As a result, many people turn to this natural remedy to alleviate the symptoms of arthritis and improve their overall quality of life.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosa rugosa tinctures that help with arthritis.
- Rosa rugosa flavonoids: These flavonoids have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with arthritis.
- Salicylic acid: A phenolic compound, salicylic acid has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, making it beneficial in treating arthritis pain and inflammation.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic acid, rosmarinic acid has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation in arthritic conditions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of beach rose used to make tinctures for arthritis.
- Roots: The roots of the beach rose plant contain a high concentration of bioactive compounds, such as sesquiterpenes and triterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate arthritic pain.
- Barks: The barks of the beach rose plant are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, making them effective for reducing inflammation and improving joint mobility in arthritis sufferers.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic beach rose for arthritis.
- Gather 1 part of dried rosa rugosa flowers and 1 part of dried rosa rugosa hips.
- Combine the dried flowers and hips in a clean glass jar with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka.
- Seal the jar and let it sit in a cool dark place for 6 to 8 weeks shaking it every week.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
- Store the tincture in a cool dark place and use it within 2 years.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for arthritis?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with arthritis is a blend of Turmeric, Ginger, and Willow Bark.
Turmeric contains curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties, while Ginger helps to reduce pain and inflammation. Willow Bark, a natural source of salicin, also reduces inflammation and pain. This combination works synergistically to reduce joint pain and inflammation, promoting healing and relaxation.
It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies to ensure safe and effective treatment.
What ailments similar to arthritis are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to arthritis/tinctures.html">arthritis/tinctures.html">arthritis that are treated with herbal tinctures are fibromyalgia, tendonitis, and bursitis.
These conditions often manifest with chronic pain, inflammation, and stiffness in joints, muscles, and connective tissues.
Herbal tinctures containing anti-inflammatory and analgesic compounds like turmeric, ginger, ashwagandha, and willow bark have been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms, promoting relaxation, reducing pain and swelling, and improving joint mobility.