By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Back Pain
Herbal creams for back pain are topical remedies infused with natural herbs that provide relief from aching muscles and joints.
They work by reducing inflammation, relaxing tense muscles, and improving circulation, thereby alleviating back pain. Examples of herbal creams include arnica, capsaicin, and CBD-infused creams, which have been shown to provide effective pain relief.
By using these creams, individuals can enjoy improved mobility, reduced discomfort, and enhanced overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for back pain, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Artemisia absinthium
- 2. Cannabis sativa
- 3. Salvia officinalis
- 4. Capsicum annuum
- 5. Echinacea purpurea
- 6. Lavandula angustifolia
- 7. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 8. Rosa damascena
- 9. Helichrysum italicum
- 10. Cinchona officinalis
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for back pain?
- What ailments similar to back pain are treated with herbal creams?
1. Artemisia absinthium
Artemisia absinthium, also known as wormwood, creams helps with back pain because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The active compounds present in wormwood, such as thujone and flavonoids, work to reduce inflammation and relieve muscle tension. This helps to ease back pain and stiffness, promoting relaxation and flexibility in the affected area. The soothing effects of wormwood creams can also help to calm the nervous system, further reducing discomfort and promoting a sense of well-being.
Regular use can lead to improved mobility and reduced pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium creams that help with back pain.
- Thujone: Thujone, a sesquiterpene ketone, has been shown to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate back pain by reducing inflammation and pain sensitivity.
- Absinthol: Absinthol, a phenolic compound, has been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help ease back pain by reducing muscle spasms and inflammation in the affected area.
- Bornyl acetate: Bornyl acetate, a sesquiterpene, has been reported to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate back pain by reducing pain and inflammation in the muscles and joints.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make creams for back pain.
- Leaves: They are commonly used due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Stems: The stems of Artemisia absinthium contain a compound called absinthin, which is known for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Roots: The roots of the plant are used due to their ability to reduce inflammation and pain, making them suitable for back pain relief creams.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wormwood for back pain.
- Infuse 25 grams of dried artemisia absinthium leaves in 500 milliliters of cold-pressed oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth into a clean container discarding the solids.
- Combine 10 grams of beeswax and 20 grams of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Melt the beeswax and shea butter mixture stirring occasionally over low heat for 10 minutes.
- Mix the infused oil with the melted wax and butter mixture until well combined and smooth.
2. Cannabis sativa
Cannabis sativa, also known as marijuana, creams helps with back pain because of its unique combination of compounds, including cannabinoids and terpenes.
These natural agents work synergistically to reduce inflammation and relax tense muscles, providing relief from chronic back pain. The topical application of Cannabis sativa creams allows the active ingredients to directly target the affected area, promoting localized relief and reducing the need for systemic medication.
This targeted approach can lead to improved mobility and reduced discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cannabis sativa creams that help with back pain.
- Terpenes: These terpenes have potent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that may help reduce back pain by targeting the underlying inflammation and nerve signals causing discomfort.
- Cannabidiol: The non-psychoactive compound CBD and the psychoactive compound THC in Cannabis sativa may interact with the body's endocannabinoid system to reduce inflammation, modulate pain perception, and promote relaxation, thereby alleviating back pain.
- Beta-sitosterol: This phytosterol, also known as beta-sitosterol, has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce muscle spasms, pain, and stiffness associated with back pain by modulating the body's inflammatory response.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marijuana used to make creams for back pain.
- Leaves: They are often used to make creams for back pain due to their high content of cannabinoids, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Buds: The buds of the Cannabis sativa plant contain high levels of THC and CBD, which are commonly used to create topical creams for pain relief.
- Roots: The roots of the plant contain a high concentration of cannabidiol (CBD), which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making them useful in creams for back pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marijuana for back pain.
- Infuse 2 cups of coconut oil with 1 cup of dried cannabis sativa flowers in a double boiler for 2 hours.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean bowl and discard the solids immediately.
- Mix 1 cup of beeswax with 1/4 cup of shea butter in a double boiler until melted and smooth.
- Combine the infused oil mixture with the melted beeswax mixture and 1 teaspoon of vitamin e oil in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into sterilized jars and allow it to cool and thicken for 30 minutes.
3. Salvia officinalis
Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, creams helps with back pain because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The salvinolic acids present in sage have been found to reduce inflammation and ease pain in affected areas, including the back. Additionally, sage creams have antioxidant properties that help to protect the muscles and joints from further damage. As a result, regular application of sage creams can help to alleviate back pain, improve mobility, and promote overall well-being.
This natural remedy provides a safe and effective solution for back pain relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis creams that help with back pain.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce pain and inflammation associated with back pain.
- Salvianol a: This terpene has potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate back pain by reducing inflammation and blocking pain signals.
- Ursolic acid: This triterpenoid has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help reduce back pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make creams for back pain.
- Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of salvinolic acids and rosmarinic acid, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Stems: Some herbal remedies use stems for their potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, although their use is less documented.
- Roots: The roots might be used in some herbal remedies for their potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, but their use is less common and less documented compared to leaves and stems.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for back pain.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh salvia officinalis leaves at dawn when the dew is still present on the plants.
- Dry the harvested leaves at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours to remove excess moisture from the leaves.
- Steep 1/2 cup of dried leaves in 2 cups of boiling water for 10-15 minutes to create the herbal infusion.
- Strain the infusion through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the clear liquid extract.
- Mix 2 tablespoons of the liquid extract with 8 ounces of a base cream or lotion to create the herbal cream.
4. Capsicum annuum
Capsicum annuum, also known as bell pepper, creams helps with back pain because it contains capsaicin, a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory compound.
When applied topically, capsaicin binds to pain receptors, reducing the transmission of pain signals to the brain. It also increases blood flow and reduces muscle spasms, providing relief from back pain caused by inflammation and strain.
Regular use of Capsicum annuum creams may help alleviate chronic back pain and improve overall mobility and comfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Capsicum annuum creams that help with back pain.
- Capsaicinoids: Capsaicinoids, particularly capsaicin, help alleviate back pain by blocking the production of a chemical called substance P, which transmits pain signals to the brain.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Capsicum annuum have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with back pain.
- Terpenes: Terpenes, such as capsanthin, in Capsicum annuum help reduce pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and promoting the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of bell pepper used to make creams for back pain.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high content of capsaicin, which acts as a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory agent.
- Seeds: They contain a higher concentration of capsaicinoids, including capsaicin, which is effective in reducing pain and inflammation.
- Fruits (specifically, the ripe peppers): They are used as a natural source of capsaicinoids, providing pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties in creams for back pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bell pepper for back pain.
- Harvest 200g of fresh capsicum annuum fruits and clean them thoroughly with distilled water.
- Infuse the capsicum annuum in 1000ml of carrier oil at 50-60°c for 2-3 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids.
- Mix 50g of beeswax with the infused oil and heat the mixture at 70-80°c until the wax is fully dissolved.
- Add 20g of vitamin e oil and 10g of essential oil to the mixture and stir well before pouring into containers.
5. Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, creams helps with back pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The extract from the plant's roots and flowers contains compounds like alkylamides and caffeic acid, which work together to reduce swelling and ease discomfort. This natural remedy promotes relaxation and reduces muscle tension, allowing for better mobility and comfort. By applying Echinacea purpurea cream topically, individuals can experience relief from back pain and improve their overall well-being.
It's a natural alternative to traditional pain-relieving methods.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea creams that help with back pain.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate back pain caused by inflammation.
- Polyphenols: These antioxidants have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with back pain, and also help reduce oxidative stress that can exacerbate pain.
- Cichoric acid: This polyphenol has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and improve overall well-being, potentially reducing the severity of back pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make creams for back pain.
- Roots: They contain a higher concentration of bioactive compounds, such as alkylamides and phenolic acids, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Barks: The barks of Echinacea purpurea contain compounds like isobutylamides that have been reported to possess analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, making them suitable for back pain relief creams.
- Roots: Some sources also suggest that the roots are used due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing, although the exact mechanism is not fully understood.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for back pain.
- Harvest 10-15 echinacea purpurea roots from a clean and pesticide-free area in late fall or early spring.
- Dry the harvested roots in a single layer at 30-40 degrees celsius for 2-3 weeks.
- Grind 2-3 tablespoons of dried echinacea root into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Mix 2 teaspoons of the powder with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture at 60-70 degrees celsius for 10-15 minutes then let it cool before transferring it to a container.
6. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with back pain because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The calming effects of the lavender oil can soothe muscle tension and reduce pain in the back. The cream's ability to penetrate deep into the skin allows the active ingredients to target the source of the pain, providing relief from muscle strain and discomfort.
Regular application of Lavandula angustifolia cream can lead to improved mobility and reduced back pain over time.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with back pain.
- Linalool: A terpene that acts as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce pain and inflammation associated with back pain.
- Linalyl acetate: A terpene that has a sedative and calming effect, which can help to reduce muscle spasms and tension that contribute to back pain.
- Lavandulol: A terpene that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected area, thereby alleviating back pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for back pain.
- Leaves: Known for their antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to relieve muscle tension and pain.
- Flowers: Packed with antioxidants and fragrances that promote relaxation and reduce inflammation, contributing to pain relief.
- Seeds: Contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which can help alleviate back pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for back pain.
- Gather 1 cup dried lavandula angustifolia flowers and 1/2 cup coconut oil for infusion.
- Infuse dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in coconut oil for 4-6 hours to create a base mixture.
- Combine 1/2 cup beeswax pellets with 1/4 cup shea butter and heat mixture to 120-140 degrees fahrenheit.
- Gradually add the infused oil mixture to the melted beeswax mixture and stir until well combined.
- Pour the final mixture into a container and let it cool and set for about 30 minutes.
7. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with back pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds in licorice root, such as glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, have been shown to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation. As a result, these creams can help alleviate tension and discomfort in the muscles, joints, and ligaments of the back, providing relief from chronic pain and stiffness.
Additionally, licorice creams may also help improve blood flow and reduce muscle spasms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams that help with back pain.
- Saponins: Saponins in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams may help alleviate back pain by reducing inflammation and improving joint mobility.
- Flavonoids: Glycyrrhizin, a flavonoid in Glycyrrhiza glabra, has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce pain and stiffness associated with back pain.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids present in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams may help in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, thereby providing relief from back pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for back pain.
- Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are commonly used due to their high content of glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate back pain.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation, which helps to ease back pain and promote overall well-being.
- Seeds: The seeds are used for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with back pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for back pain.
- Harvest 100g of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and grind them into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Weigh out 50g of beeswax and 50g of coconut oil in a double boiler to melt for 20 minutes.
- Combine 10g of the ground glycyrrhiza glabra powder and 5g of vitamin e oil with the melted wax and oil mixture.
- Stir the mixture continuously for 5 minutes and pour it into a glass jar to cool for 30 minutes.
- Allow the mixture to set at room temperature for 2 hours before applying it to the skin as needed.
8. Rosa damascena
Rosa damascena, also known as damask rose, creams helps with back pain because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The creams typically contain essential oils extracted from the Rosa damascena flowers, which have been traditionally used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. The anti-inflammatory compounds in the oil, such as geraniol and linalool, help to soothe and calm the muscles, providing relief from back pain and promoting relaxation.
This natural remedy has been shown to be effective in reducing back pain and improving overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosa damascena creams that help with back pain.
- Rosmarinic acid: A polyphenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping to reduce pain and inflammation associated with back pain.
- Beta-carophyllene: A terpene with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which may help to reduce pain and inflammation in the muscles and joints, contributing to back pain relief.
- Geraniol: A phenolic compound with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with back pain, promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of damask rose used to make creams for back pain.
- Flowers: They are rich in essential oils and fragrance compounds, which are often used in aromatherapy and skincare products to relieve muscle tension and pain.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and terpenes that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making them useful in topical creams for back pain relief.
- Roots: They are a source of glycosides and phenolic compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce pain and inflammation in the muscles and joints.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic damask rose for back pain.
- Infuse 2 cups of dried rosa damascena flowers in 4 cups of carrier oil at 100 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container to remove flower residue.
- Combine 1 cup of the infused oil with 1/2 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture in the double boiler at 160 degrees fahrenheit for 10 minutes to melt the beeswax and shea butter.
- Allow the mixture to cool and thicken before whipping it into a creamy consistency using a hand mixer.
9. Helichrysum italicum
Helichrysum italicum, also known as curry plant, creams helps with back pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream contains sesquiterpene compounds, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the muscles and joints. This natural remedy promotes relaxation and reduces muscle tension, allowing for improved range of motion and reduced discomfort. Additionally, its regenerative properties may aid in the repair of damaged tissue, contributing to long-term relief from back pain.
It provides a safe and natural alternative to traditional pain relief methods.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Helichrysum italicum creams that help with back pain.
- Neryl acetate: This terpene helps with back pain by reducing inflammation and promoting healing in the affected area.
- Italidione: This ester compound found in Helichrysum italicum has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help alleviate back pain.
- Phenolic compounds: These compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and inflammation associated with back pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of curry plant used to make creams for back pain.
- Leaves: They are rich in sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help alleviate back pain.
- Flowers: They contain flavonoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that contribute to pain relief and muscle relaxation.
- Buds: They are a good source of sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help reduce back pain and inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic curry plant for back pain.
- Harvest 100g of helichrysum italicum flowers when they are in full bloom and dry them in a single layer for 2 weeks.
- Infuse 100g of dried helichrysum italicum flowers in 500ml of carrier oil such as coconut or sweet almond oil for 4 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth into a clean bowl and discard the solids.
- Mix the infused oil with 10g of beeswax and 10g of vitamin e oil in a double boiler and heat until melted.
- Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool before whipping it with a hand mixer until light and fluffy.
10. Cinchona officinalis
Cinchona officinalis, also known as Jesuit's bark, creams helps with back pain because it contains quinine, a natural anti-inflammatory compound that reduces pain and swelling.
The cream also contains caffeine, which helps to relax tense muscles and increase blood flow to the affected area. Additionally, Cinchona officinalis has analgesic and antispasmodic properties that help to relieve muscle spasms and ease back pain.
This natural remedy provides relief without the need for harsh chemicals or medications.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinchona officinalis creams that help with back pain.
- Quinine alkaloid: Quinine has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate back pain by reducing inflammation and blocking pain signals to the brain.
- Quinidine alkaloid: Quinidine has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help relax muscles and reduce muscle spasms that contribute to back pain.
- Caffeine: Caffeine has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with back pain, as well as improve blood flow to promote healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of jesuit's bark used to make creams for back pain.
- Leaves: Used to make creams for back pain due to their high content of quinine and other alkaloids that help to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Barks: Used to make creams for back pain due to their rich content of quinine and other alkaloids that have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Stems: Used to make creams for back pain due to their presence of alkaloids that help to reduce inflammation and provide relief from pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic jesuit's bark for back pain.
- Harvest the cinchona officinalis leaves and flowers at dawn to ensure optimal potency and minimal contamination.
- Dry the cinchona officinalis leaves and flowers in a warm place for 7-10 days to preserve their medicinal properties.
- Grind the dried cinchona officinalis leaves and flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Combine 2 tablespoons of the cinchona officinalis powder with 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Stir the mixture continuously for 10-15 minutes until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency suitable for application.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for back pain?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with back pain is a blend of arnica, peppermint, and ginger creams.
Arnica cream reduces inflammation and soothes muscle tension, while peppermint cream cools and relaxes the area, alleviating spasms. Ginger cream, with its anti-inflammatory properties, further reduces pain and promotes healing. Applying a combination of these creams to the affected area can provide effective relief from back pain, allowing for a more comfortable and pain-free daily life.
Regular use can also promote long-term muscle recovery.
What ailments similar to back pain are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to back pain that are treated with herbal creams are various musculoskeletal issues, such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and sciatica.
Herbal creams containing ingredients like capsaicin, arnica, and menthol can provide relief from joint and muscle pain, reducing inflammation and discomfort.
These creams can also help alleviate symptoms of conditions like tendonitis, bursitis, and strain injuries, making them a natural alternative to conventional treatments for many painful conditions.