By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Back Pain
Herbal tinctures for back pain are concentrated liquid extracts derived from plants, herbs, and botanicals that provide natural relief from chronic back pain.
These tinctures work by targeting the underlying causes of back pain, such as inflammation, muscle tension, and joint stiffness. Examples of herbal tinctures that help with back pain include Willow Bark Tincture, which contains salicin, a compound similar to aspirin, and St. John's Wort Tincture, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
By taking these tinctures, individuals can experience significant relief from back pain, improving their daily activities, sleep quality, and overall well-being.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for back pain, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Salix alba
- 2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 3. Cannabis sativa
- 4. Ginkgo biloba
- 5. Curcuma longa
- 6. Angelica archangelica
- 7. Foeniculum vulgare
- 8. Urtica dioica
- 9. Rosa rugosa
- 10. Vaccinium macrocarpon
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for back pain?
- What ailments similar to back pain are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Salix alba
White willow tinctures helps with back pain because it contains salicin, a natural pain reliever similar to aspirin.
This compound is absorbed quickly into the bloodstream and works to reduce inflammation and ease muscle tension in the lower back, neck, and spine.
As a result, white willow tincture can provide effective relief from chronic pain, acute flare-ups, and stiffness, making it a popular natural remedy for back pain sufferers seeking an alternative or complementary treatment to traditional methods.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salix alba tinctures that help with back pain.
- Salicin: A phenolic glycoside that acts as a natural anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce pain and inflammation associated with back pain.
- Salicylic acid: A phenolic acid that has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate back pain by reducing swelling and inflammation in the affected area.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce pain and inflammation associated with back pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of white willow used to make tinctures for back pain.
- Leaves: Rich in salicylic acid, a compound similar to aspirin, which helps to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Buds: Contain flavonoids and phenolic acids with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping to alleviate back pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic white willow for back pain.
- Harvest fresh salix alba leaves and twigs when the plant is in full leaf in late spring or early summer.
- Clean and dry the harvested plant material at room temperature away from direct sunlight for 2-3 weeks.
- Chop the dried plant material into smaller pieces using a sharp knife or a herb cutter.
- Combine 1 part dried salix alba material with 2 parts 80% vodka in a clean glass jar to create a 1:2 ratio.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking the jar every few days to facilitate extraction.
2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with back pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and relieve tension in the muscles and joints.
The compound glycyrrhizin in licorice root has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory molecules, thereby reducing inflammation and discomfort in the back. Additionally, licorice tincture's relaxant properties can help to soothe muscle spasms and improve flexibility, allowing for greater mobility and reduced pain.
This natural remedy provides a safe and effective way to alleviate back pain without relying on pharmaceuticals.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with back pain.
- Licorice glycosides: These compounds help with back pain by reducing inflammation and pain-causing enzymes, such as COX-2, which contribute to the development of back pain.
- Glycyrrhetic acid: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate back pain by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the affected areas.
- Isoliquiritigenin: This flavonoid has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which contribute to its pain-relieving effects in back pain by inhibiting the production of pain-causing chemicals and reducing inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for back pain.
- Roots: These contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to reduce pain and inflammation in the muscles and joints.
- Roots: They also contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that contribute to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Roots: Additionally, the roots have been found to have a sedative effect, which can help to relax tense muscles and reduce stress-related pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for back pain.
- Harvest glycyrrhiza glabra roots in late summer or early fall when they are mature and dry.
- Clean and chop 500 grams of the dried roots into small pieces to increase surface area.
- Combine the chopped roots with 1000 milliliters of 95 percent ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the container every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
3. Cannabis sativa
Marijuana tinctures helps with back pain because of their unique ability to target and soothe sore muscles and joints.
The potent compounds in these tinctures, such as CBD and THC, work together to reduce inflammation and relax tense muscles, providing instant relief from chronic back pain.
Additionally, the rapid absorption of marijuana tinctures allows for quick and efficient delivery of therapeutic benefits, making them an effective solution for individuals seeking natural relief from back discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cannabis sativa tinctures that help with back pain.
- Cbd: CBD is a non-psychoactive compound that has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, helping to reduce muscle spasms and inflammation associated with back pain.
- Cbg: CBG is a non-psychoactive compound that has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, potentially alleviating back pain by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation.
- Beta-caryophyllene: Beta-Caryophyllene is a terpene with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which may help alleviate back pain by reducing inflammation, pain, and muscle spasms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marijuana used to make tinctures for back pain.
- Leaves: They are the most widely used part for making tinctures due to their high concentration of cannabinoids, particularly THC and CBD, which are known for their pain-relieving properties.
- Flowers: They are a popular choice for tinctures because they contain a high percentage of trichomes, which are resinous glands that produce cannabinoids and terpenes, contributing to their analgesic effects.
- Buds: They are often used for tinctures due to their high concentration of cannabinoids, particularly THC, which is effective in reducing pain and inflammation associated with back pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marijuana for back pain.
- Harvest mature flowers from cannabis sativa plants when they are dry and free of moisture.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a warm dark place for 7 to 10 days to reduce moisture content.
- Combine 1 part dried flowers with 2 parts high-proof vodka in a clean dark glass jar.
- Seal the jar and steep it in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks shaking it every day.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
4. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with back pain because it contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The tannins present in maidenhair tree extract are known to reduce inflammation, which is a common underlying cause of back pain.
Additionally, the flavonoids and other bioactive compounds in the tincture work together to provide fast and effective relief from back pain, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating discomfort and promoting relaxation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with back pain.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which are often contributing factors to back pain.
- Terpenoids: These terpenoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate pain and improve mobility in individuals with back pain.
- Bilobalide: This terpenoid has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins, which contribute to pain and inflammation in the body.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for back pain.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part for tinctures due to their high flavonoid and terpenoid content, which are believed to contribute to their potential pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Buds: Ginkgo biloba buds are also used for tinctures as they contain bioactive compounds that may help reduce inflammation and alleviate back pain.
- Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds contain unique compounds, such as bilobalide, which may contribute to their potential pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects, making them a suitable choice for tinctures related to back pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for back pain.
- Harvest ginkgo biloba leaves in early morning when they are at their highest concentration.
- Dry the leaves in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours to prevent degradation.
- Combine 1 part of dried ginkgo biloba leaves with 2 parts of high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks while shaking the jar every other day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine mesh into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
5. Curcuma longa
Turmeric tinctures helps with back pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which target the root cause of discomfort.
The bioactive compound curcumin in turmeric tinctures reduces inflammation and pain in the muscles and joints, providing relief from backaches. Additionally, curcumin's antioxidant properties help to protect the spine from oxidative stress, promoting overall spinal health.
By reducing inflammation and promoting healing, turmeric tinctures offer a natural solution for alleviating back pain, allowing individuals to enjoy improved mobility and comfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa tinctures that help with back pain.
- Curcumin: Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound, helps alleviate back pain by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which contribute to muscle and joint pain.
- Demethoxycurcumin: DMC, a bioactive curcuminoid, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help mitigate back pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Turmerones: Turmerones, a class of sesquiterpenoids, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities that help reduce back pain by suppressing the activity of inflammatory mediators and promoting tissue repair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make tinctures for back pain.
- Rhyzomes: Rich in bioactive compounds like curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties to help alleviate back pain.
- Roots: Containing a high concentration of curcumin and other bioactive compounds, which contribute to their analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects.
- Buds: Packed with bioactive compounds, including curcumin and other flavonoids, that may help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with back issues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for back pain.
- Harvest fresh turmeric roots and wash them thoroughly with clean water to remove any dirt.
- Chop the turmeric roots into small pieces weighing a total of 500 grams for a standard batch.
- Combine the chopped turmeric with 80 percent 95 percent ethanol as a solvent in a 1:5 ratio by weight.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid mixture through cheesecloth and transfer it to a clean glass bottle for storage.
6. Angelica archangelica
Angelica tinctures helps with back pain because it possesses natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The herb contains compounds like angelic acid, isoangelicin, and paralytic alpha-santonin that work together to reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort in the muscles and joints of the lower back. Additionally, angelica has been traditionally used to relax and soothe the nervous system, which can help to reduce tension and stress that often contribute to back pain.
This natural remedy provides a safe and effective way to manage back pain without the use of harsh chemicals or medications.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Angelica archangelica tinctures that help with back pain.
- Angelica acid: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate back pain by reducing inflammation and soothing irritated tissues in the muscles and joints.
- Ferulic acid: A phenolic compound, ferulic acid has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation associated with back pain, promoting relaxation and reducing discomfort.
- Butyl angelate: An ester compound, butyl angelate has been shown to exhibit analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to numb pain and reduce swelling in the affected areas, thereby providing relief from back pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of angelica used to make tinctures for back pain.
- Roots: Used for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties to alleviate back pain.
- Leaves: Utilized for their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties to soothe muscle spasms and ease back pain.
- Stems: Employed for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the back area.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic angelica for back pain.
- Harvest mature angelica archangelica roots and stems in late summer early fall when they are free of moisture.
- Clean and chop the angelica archangelica roots and stems into small pieces to enhance extraction.
- Combine 250 grams of chopped angelica archangelica with 750 milliliters of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for six to eight weeks to allow for infusion and extraction.
- Strain the liquid from the angelica archangelica mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass container.
7. Foeniculum vulgare
Fennel tinctures helps with back pain because it contains a unique combination of compounds that work synergistically to reduce inflammation, relax muscles, and improve circulation.
The essential oils present in fennel have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to alleviate joint and muscle pain, while its natural anesthetic effects provide relief from discomfort and stiffness.
Additionally, the digestive benefits of fennel tincture can help to reduce bloating and gas that often contribute to back pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Foeniculum vulgare tinctures that help with back pain.
- Anethole: Anethole, a phenolic compound, helps reduce inflammation and relax muscles, thereby alleviating back pain.
- Ferulic acid: Ferulic acid, a phenolic acid, acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, which helps to reduce pain and inflammation associated with back pain.
- Trans-anethole: Trans-anethole, a terpene, exhibits analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to relieve pain and discomfort in the back.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fennel used to make tinctures for back pain.
- Seeds: They are rich in essential oils, particularly anethole, which is responsible for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in relieving back pain.
- Leaves: The leaves contain compounds like estragole and limonene, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to soothe back pain and reduce inflammation.
- Stems: The stems of Foeniculum vulgare contain a mixture of essential oils, including anethole, which provides pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects, making them useful for back pain tinctures.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fennel for back pain.
- Harvest foeniculum vulgare roots and leaves when mature and dry them thoroughly in a warm dark place.
- Chop 500 grams of the dried plant material into small pieces and combine with 750 milliliters of 80 proof vodka.
- Steep the plant-vodka mixture in a glass container in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
- Store the foeniculum vulgare tincture in a cool dark place for at least 2 weeks before use to mature the flavor.
8. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle tinctures helps with back pain because it contains anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce inflammation and relax muscles.
The tincture's natural analgesic properties also help to block pain signals to the brain, providing instant relief from backaches caused by strain or injury.
Additionally, stinging nettle's ability to increase blood flow to the affected area helps to promote healing and reduce stiffness, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating back pain without the need for harsh medications or surgery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica tinctures that help with back pain.
- Saponins: Saponins in Urtica dioica tinctures help with back pain by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which contribute to pain and discomfort in the muscles and joints.
- Naphthoquinones: Naphthoquinones, particularly plumbagin, have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help alleviate back pain by reducing pain transmission and inflammation in the affected area.
- Stylopine: Stylopine, an alkaloid present in Urtica dioica, has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help relieve back pain by reducing pain perception and inflammation in the muscles and joints.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make tinctures for back pain.
- Leaves: They are rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like histamine and polysaccharides, making them effective in reducing pain and inflammation associated with back pain.
- Roots: The roots contain glycosides and phenolic acids, which have been shown to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate back pain.
- Stems: The stems contain rutoside and other flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation in the back.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for back pain.
- Harvest fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems by cutting them with scissors at dawn when dew is still present.
- Dry the harvested urtica dioica plant material in a single layer at room temperature for 2-3 weeks.
- Combine 1 part dried urtica dioica plant material with 2 parts 80-proof ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks with occasional shaking of the jar.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and store in a cool dark place.
9. Rosa rugosa
Beach rose tinctures helps with back pain because they contain a unique combination of bioactive compounds that work synergistically to reduce inflammation, relax muscles, and improve joint mobility.
The tincture's anti-inflammatory properties help to ease stiffness and discomfort in the spine, while its analgesic properties numb pain receptors, providing quick relief from backaches.
Additionally, beach rose's gentle sedative effects promote relaxation, reducing muscle tension and promoting a sense of calm, making it an effective natural remedy for managing back pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosa rugosa tinctures that help with back pain.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the back.
- Rosmarinic acid: A polyphenolic compound found in Rosa rugosa, rosmarinic acid has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help alleviate back pain caused by inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds have been shown to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help provide pain relief and reduce inflammation in the back.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of beach rose used to make tinctures for back pain.
- Roots: Contain iridoids, which may help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
- Leaves: Contain flavonoids, which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
- Buds: Contain phenolic compounds, which may have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic beach rose for back pain.
- Harvest 20 fresh rosa rugosa flowers and leaves in the early morning to ensure optimal potency.
- Combine the harvested rosa rugosa flowers and leaves with 60% glycerin in a 1:2 ratio by weight.
- Steep the mixture in a glass jar for 2 to 3 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle.
- Label and store the tincture in a cool dark place for up to 2 years before using.
10. Vaccinium macrocarpon
Highbush cranberry tinctures helps with back pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothe and calm irritated muscles and joints.
The tannins present in highbush cranberries have a natural analgesic effect, reducing swelling and discomfort. Additionally, the antioxidants found in the tincture help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, promoting healing and relaxation.
By targeting the root cause of back pain, highbush cranberry tinctures provide a natural and effective solution for relief from chronic back pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium macrocarpon tinctures that help with back pain.
- Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants help alleviate back pain by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress associated with muscle strain and injury.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid with potent anti-inflammatory properties, quercetin helps reduce pain and inflammation in the muscles and joints, providing relief from back pain.
- Proanthocyanidins: These compounds have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby reducing pain and inflammation in the muscles and joints, contributing to back pain relief.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of highbush cranberry used to make tinctures for back pain.
- Roots: The roots of the highbush cranberry plant contain a compound called berberine, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with back pain.
- Barks: The barks of the highbush cranberry plant contain a compound called salicin, which is similar to aspirin and has natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects that may help alleviate back pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic highbush cranberry for back pain.
- Harvest 2 cups of vaccinium macrocarpon berries when ripe in late summer.
- Dry the vaccinium macrocarpon berries in a single layer at 80 degrees fahrenheit for 2 weeks.
- Grind 1 cup of dried vaccinium macrocarpon berries into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
- Steep 1 part of the ground vaccinium macrocarpon powder in 2 parts of 80 proof vodka for 2 weeks.
- Strain the tincture through cheesecloth and store it in a glass bottle in a cool dark place.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for back pain?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with back pain is a blend of Willow Bark, Turmeric, and Ginger.
Willow Bark contains salicin, a natural anti-inflammatory that reduces pain and inflammation. Turmeric's Curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that soothe and calm the body.
Ginger adds warmth and reduces muscle spasms, promoting relaxation and flexibility. Together, these tinctures work synergistically to alleviate back pain, promoting healing and well-being.
This blend can be taken sublingually or added to warm water for a soothing tea.
What ailments similar to back pain are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to back pain that are treated with herbal tinctures are conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and sciatica.
These herbal remedies help alleviate symptoms of inflammation, stiffness, and discomfort associated with these conditions. For example, turmeric-based tinctures have anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce joint pain and swelling, while willow bark tinctures contain salicin, a natural pain reliever similar to aspirin.
Other herbs like ginger and cayenne pepper may also provide relief from muscle and joint discomfort.