By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Bone Health
Herbal creams for bone health are topical ointments infused with natural herbs and botanicals that promote bone density and overall skeletal health.
These creams typically contain ingredients such as saw palmetto, turmeric, and boswellia, which help reduce inflammation and stimulate collagen production.
Examples include creams containing ginger and ginseng that have been known to alleviate osteoporosis symptoms and improve mobility in individuals with arthritis, leading to enhanced quality of life and independence.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for bone health, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Ginkgo biloba
- 2. Boswellia serrata
- 3. Curcuma longa
- 4. Withania somnifera
- 5. Panax ginseng
- 6. Urtica dioica
- 7. Trifolium pratense
- 8. Equisetum arvense
- 9. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 10. Taraxacum officinale
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for bone health?
- What ailments similar to bone health are treated with herbal creams?
1. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, creams helps with bone health because of its unique combination of flavonoids and terpenoids.
These compounds have been shown to improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation, which can help to promote bone repair and density. The antioxidants present in Ginkgo biloba creams also protect bones from oxidative stress, supporting overall bone health.
Furthermore, Ginkgo biloba creams have been found to stimulate osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone growth and development, leading to a stronger and more resilient skeletal system.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba creams that help with bone health.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help with bone health by inhibiting the production of inflammatory cytokines, which can damage bone tissue and contribute to bone loss.
- Terpenoids: Bilobalide, a terpenoid found in Ginkgo biloba, has been shown to promote bone growth and density by stimulating the activity of osteoblasts, cells responsible for bone formation.
- Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid present in Ginkgo biloba, has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body and promote bone health by inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, cells that break down bone tissue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make creams for bone health.
- Leaves: The leaves of Ginkgo biloba are rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help promote bone health.
- Barks: The barks of Ginkgo biloba contain proanthocyanidins, which can help improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation, both essential for maintaining healthy bones.
- Seeds: The seeds of Ginkgo biloba contain ginkgolides, which have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with bone-related conditions.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for bone health.
- Melt 1 cup of beeswax in a double boiler at 180°f for 10 minutes.
- Combine 2 tablespoons of ginkgo biloba extract with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and heat for 5 minutes.
- Add 1/2 cup of shea butter and 1/4 cup of jojoba oil to the mixture and heat for 5 minutes.
- Blend the mixture until it reaches 120°f and add 2 teaspoons of vitamin e oil.
- Pour the mixture into a glass jar and let it cool completely at room temperature for 30 minutes.
2. Boswellia serrata
Boswellia serrata, also known as frankincense, creams helps with bone health because it reduces inflammation and promotes healing in the body.
The anti-inflammatory compounds present in Boswellia serrata cream, such as boswellic acids, help to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with bone disorders. Additionally, the cream's anti-oxidant properties may help to protect bones from oxidative damage and promote bone density, making it a potential natural remedy for conditions like osteoporosis and osteoarthritis.
This can lead to improved bone health and reduced risk of fractures.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata creams that help with bone health.
- Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid: AKBA, a triterpenoid compound, helps with bone health by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines that can contribute to bone degradation and osteoporosis.
- Α-boswellic acid: α-boswellic acid, another triterpenoid compound, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help in maintaining bone density and preventing bone loss associated with inflammation.
- Β-sitosterol: β-sitosterol, a phytosterol, has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help protect bone cells and tissues from damage, promoting bone health and density.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make creams for bone health.
- Roots: They are rich in boswellic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and promote bone health.
- Rhyzomes: They are a good source of boswellic acids and other bioactive compounds that have been shown to improve bone density and reduce osteoclast activity.
- Stems: The bark of Boswellia serrata stems contains boswellic acids and other compounds that have been traditionally used to treat bone-related disorders and promote bone health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for bone health.
- Combine 20 grams of boswellia serrata extract with 100 grams of a base cream containing 20 percent beeswax and 60 percent coconut oil.
- Heat the mixture to 180 degrees fahrenheit for 10 minutes to ensure the ingredients are well combined.
- Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool to 120 degrees fahrenheit within 15 minutes.
- Add 50 grams of a natural emulsifier and 10 grams of a preservative to the mixture and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into containers and let it cool and solidify for 30 minutes before use.
3. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with bone health because of its high content of curcuminoids, which have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
These compounds help reduce inflammation in the body, which is a major contributor to bone degeneration. By decreasing inflammation, curcuminoids promote the production of new bone tissue and strengthen existing bone cells.
Additionally, curcumin has been shown to enhance bone density and improve bone mineralization, making it an effective natural remedy for maintaining strong and healthy bones.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa creams that help with bone health.
- Curcuminoids: Specifically, curcumin, a major bioactive compound in Curcuma longa, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, promoting bone health by reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
- Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides, such as turmeric-derived arabinogalactan, have prebiotic properties that help stimulate the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, supporting the immune system and promoting bone health by enhancing calcium absorption and bone mineralization.
- Volatile oils: Volatile oils in Curcuma longa, such as alpha-curcumene and beta-curcumene, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, promoting bone health by reducing the risk of bone resorption and osteoporosis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make creams for bone health.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes: The thick, underground stems of Curcuma longa contain the highest concentration of curcumin, a bioactive compound that reduces inflammation and promotes bone health.
- Leaves: Leaves: The leaves of Curcuma longa are rich in antioxidants and contain curcuminoids, which help protect bones from oxidative stress and damage.
- Roots: Roots: The roots of Curcuma longa contain a significant amount of curcumin and other bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and promote bone density.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for bone health.
- Grate 500g of fresh curcuma longa tubers using a food grater for 5 minutes.
- Mix the grated curcuma longa with 200ml of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 30 minutes while stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container to remove solids for 10 minutes.
- Add 10ml of beeswax to the mixture and stir until it's fully melted and cooled to room temperature.
4. Withania somnifera
Withania somnifera, also known as ashwagandha, creams helps with bone health because of its rich antioxidant properties and ability to promote bone mineralization.
The herb's adaptogenic properties help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, creating an environment conducive to bone growth and density. Additionally, ashwagandha creams may increase osteoblast activity, the cells responsible for bone formation, and reduce osteoclast activity, the cells that break down bone tissue.
This results in stronger, healthier bones and potentially reduces the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera creams that help with bone health.
- Withanolides: These alkaloid compounds help with bone health by promoting osteoblast activity, which is essential for bone formation and repair, and also by reducing inflammation that can lead to bone loss.
- Withaferin a: This withanolide acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, which helps to protect bones from oxidative stress and inflammation that can cause bone degradation and osteoporosis.
- Withanoside iv: This saponin glycoside has been shown to promote osteoblast differentiation and bone mineralization, ultimately leading to improved bone health and density.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make creams for bone health.
- Roots: The roots of Withania somnifera are rich in alkaloids like withanolides, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help promote bone health.
- Leaves: The leaves of Withania somnifera contain withanolides and other compounds that may help to reduce inflammation and improve bone density.
- Seeds: The seeds of Withania somnifera are a good source of withanolides and other bioactive compounds that may help to protect bone cells and promote bone health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ashwagandha for bone health.
- Extract 30 grams of dried withania somnifera root in 1 liter of boiling water for 15-20 minutes.
- Filter the mixture through a cheesecloth to separate the liquid from the solids within 30 minutes.
- Combine the filtered liquid with 100 grams of beeswax and 50 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture and stir constantly until the beeswax and coconut oil are fully incorporated within 10-15 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a sterilized container and let it cool and solidify at room temperature for 2 hours.
5. Panax ginseng
Panax ginseng, also known as ginseng, creams helps with bone health because of its ability to stimulate osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation.
The cream's active compounds, such as ginsenosides, may also enhance bone density by increasing the expression of genes involved in bone growth and development. Additionally, ginseng creams may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to bone loss and osteoporosis.
This may lead to improved bone mineral density and reduced risk of fractures.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Panax ginseng creams that help with bone health.
- Ginsenosides: These triterpenoid saponins help with bone health by stimulating osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation, and inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, which break down bone tissue.
- Saponins: Specifically, the saponins in Panax ginseng, such as ginsenoside Rb1, help with bone health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in bone tissue, creating an environment conducive to bone growth and density.
- Friedelin: This triterpenoid is involved in the regulation of osteoblast and osteoclast activity, and helps with bone health by modulating the expression of genes involved in bone metabolism and promoting bone formation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginseng used to make creams for bone health.
- Roots: The roots of Panax ginseng are primarily used due to their high concentration of ginsenosides, which are believed to promote bone health.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are also used due to their high content of ginsenosides, which are thought to have anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit bone health.
- Leaves: Leaves are sometimes used because they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which may help to protect and support bone health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginseng for bone health.
- Extract 3 grams of panax ginseng roots using 2 liters of 70% ethanol for 2 hours.
- Filter the liquid through a buchner funnel to obtain a clear liquid extract.
- Melt 200 grams of candelilla wax in a double boiler at 160°f to 180°f temperature.
- Mix the liquid extract with 200 grams of shea butter and 100 grams of aloe vera gel.
- Stir the mixture and pour it into jars before allowing it to cool and set.
6. Urtica dioica
Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, creams helps with bone health because they are rich in silicic acid, a naturally occurring compound that supports collagen production and bone mineralization.
The silicic acid in stinging nettle creams may also enhance calcium absorption and reduce inflammation in the body, which can contribute to the development of osteoporosis.
Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of stinging nettle may help alleviate joint pain and promote overall bone health, making it a popular natural remedy for osteoporosis prevention.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica creams that help with bone health.
- Alkylamides: These compounds have been shown to stimulate osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation, and inhibit osteoclasts, the cells that break down bone tissue, thereby promoting bone health and density.
- Fatty acids: Specifically, the omega-3 fatty acids present in Urtica dioica cream, such as alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), have been found to reduce inflammation and promote bone regeneration, which can help alleviate bone-related disorders.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, contributing to improved bone health and reduced risk of bone-related diseases.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make creams for bone health.
- Leaves: They are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which help to promote bone health by reducing inflammation and improving collagen production.
- Roots: They contain a high concentration of mucilage, which helps to soothe and nourish the skin, promoting bone health by reducing inflammation and improving skin elasticity.
- Stems: They are rich in flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with bone health issues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for bone health.
- Harvest 1/2 cup of fresh urtica dioica leaves in late spring or early summer when they are at their peak potency.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a single layer on paper towels for 1-2 hours or until they reach a brittle consistency.
- Infuse 2 tablespoons of dried urtica dioica leaves in 2 cups of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to create a decoction.
- Strain the infused decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bowl and discard the solids.
- Mix the strained decoction with 1/2 cup of beeswax and 1/2 cup of shea butter in a double boiler until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
7. Trifolium pratense
Trifolium pratense, also known as red clover, creams helps with bone health because they are rich in isoflavones, specifically genistein and formononetin.
These isoflavones have been shown to promote bone density by stimulating the production of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone growth and repair. Additionally, red clover creams may help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to bone loss and other age-related health issues, ultimately supporting overall bone health and well-being.
This makes it a popular natural remedy for bone health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Trifolium pratense creams that help with bone health.
- Isoflavones: Isoflavones, particularly genistein and daidzein, have been shown to promote bone health by inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, which are cells responsible for bone resorption.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as kaempferol and quercetin, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help protect bone cells from oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting bone health.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including naringenin and fisetin, have been found to stimulate the activity of osteoblasts, which are cells responsible for bone formation, thereby promoting bone growth and density.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of red clover used to make creams for bone health.
- Flowers: Rich in isoflavones, particularly formononetin and genistein, which may help alleviate menopausal symptoms and promote bone health.
- Roots: Contain coumarins and flavonoids, which may have a potential role in bone health by modulating inflammatory responses and improving bone mineral density.
- Seeds: High in isoflavones, triterpenoids, and other bioactive compounds, which may contribute to their potential bone-protective and anti-inflammatory effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic red clover for bone health.
- Harvest trifolium pratense flowers at full bloom and dry them in a single layer at room temperature for 7-10 days.
- Steep 20g of dried trifolium pratense flowers in 100ml of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the oil mixture through cheesecloth and discard the solids then transfer it to a clean container.
- Mix the infused oil with beeswax in a ratio of 1:1 by weight to create a smooth paste.
- Heat the mixture gently in a double boiler for 10-15 minutes or until the beeswax is fully melted.
8. Equisetum arvense
Equisetum arvense, also known as field horsetail, creams helps with bone health because it is rich in silica, a mineral that plays a crucial role in bone formation and density.
Silica helps to strengthen bones, improve bone mineralization, and reduce the risk of fractures. Additionally, field horsetail creams may help to improve bone flexibility and reduce inflammation, making it a potential natural remedy for bone-related issues such as osteoporosis and arthritis.
Its anti-inflammatory properties also contribute to its bone health benefits.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Equisetum arvense creams that help with bone health.
- Silica: Helps with bone health by stimulating collagen synthesis, improving bone density, and enhancing calcium absorption, ultimately promoting bone strength and reducing the risk of fractures.
- Alkaloids: Contribute to bone health by inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, which are cells that break down bone tissue, thus reducing bone resorption and promoting bone preservation.
- Triterpenoids: Exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation in the joints and bones, alleviating pain and discomfort associated with bone-related disorders.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of field horsetail used to make creams for bone health.
- Roots: Rich in silica and other minerals, which are believed to support bone health.
- Stems: Contain a high concentration of silica, which can help strengthen bones and improve bone density.
- Leaves: Contain silica, flavonoids, and other compounds that may help promote bone health and reduce inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic field horsetail for bone health.
- Harvest 1-2 bunches of equisetum arvense in the early morning or late evening when the moisture is highest.
- Dry the harvested equisetum arvense in a single layer at room temperature for 1-2 weeks or until brittle.
- Steep 2-3 tablespoons of dried equisetum arvense in 1 cup of hot water for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the equisetum arvense infusion through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
- Mix 2-3 tablespoons of the equisetum arvense infusion with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil to create the cream.
9. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with bone health because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
These creams may also help to increase bone density by regulating the activity of osteoblasts, cells responsible for bone formation, and inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, cells that break down bone tissue.
Additionally, licorice creams may help to balance hormone levels, which is essential for maintaining healthy bones.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams that help with bone health.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin helps with bone health by inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, cells responsible for bone breakdown, thereby promoting bone formation and density.
- Licoricidin: This phenolic compound has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in bones and joints, promoting healing and reducing the risk of bone-related disorders.
- Liquiritigenin: This phenolic compound has been reported to have antioxidant properties, which may help protect bones from oxidative stress and damage, promoting overall bone health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for bone health.
- Roots: Glycyrrhizin, a compound found in licorice root, has anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate bone pain and reduce inflammation.
- Roots: Glycyrrhizin also helps in regulating cortisol levels, which can contribute to bone health by reducing the breakdown of bone tissue.
- Roots: Glycyrrhizin has been shown to inhibit the activity of certain enzymes that contribute to bone resorption, thereby promoting bone health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for bone health.
- Combine 150g of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots with 250ml of boiling water and let steep for 15 minutes.
- Strain the mixture and discard the solids then add 250ml of cold water and stir well.
- Mix 100g of beeswax with 100g of shea butter in a double boiler and melt until smooth.
- Gradually add the herbal infusion to the melted wax mixture and stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a container and let cool and set for at least 30 minutes.
10. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, creams helps with bone health because it contains high levels of calcium and other minerals essential for bone development and density.
The cream's anti-inflammatory properties also reduce joint pain and swelling, making it easier for bones to absorb and utilize calcium. Additionally, the cream's antioxidant properties help protect bones from oxidative stress, promoting overall bone health and reducing the risk of osteoporosis and related conditions.
This natural remedy supports bone strength and density.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale creams that help with bone health.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Taraxacum officinale creams may help promote bone health by inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, which are cells responsible for bone breakdown and resorption.
- Saponins: Saponins in Taraxacum officinale creams may help support bone health by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which can contribute to bone loss and osteoporosis.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Taraxacum officinale creams may help promote bone health by reducing the activity of osteoclasts and increasing the activity of osteoblasts, which are cells responsible for bone formation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make creams for bone health.
- Flowers: They are used in creams for bone health due to their high content of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Leaves: Leaves are used in creams for bone health due to their rich source of calcium, which is essential for bone mineralization and density.
- Roots: Roots are used in creams for bone health due to their high content of saponins, which have been shown to promote bone mineralization and reduce inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for bone health.
- Harvest fresh taraxacum officinale flowers and leaves in the early morning after dew has fallen.
- Dry the harvested taraxacum officinale flowers and leaves in a warm dark place for 2 weeks.
- Infuse 200 grams of dried taraxacum officinale flowers and leaves in 1 liter of carrier oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth and discard the solids then mix with beeswax to create a 20% concentration.
- Whip the mixture with a hand mixer until it reaches a smooth creamy consistency taking about 5 minutes.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for bone health?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with bone health is a blend of Turmeric, Ginger, and Horsetail creams.
Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce joint pain and inflammation. Ginger has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in pain relief and improve circulation.
Horsetail, rich in silica, promotes bone growth and density. By combining these creams, individuals can enjoy a natural, holistic approach to maintaining bone health and alleviating symptoms associated with bone disorders.
Regular application can lead to improved bone density and reduced risk of osteoporosis.
What ailments similar to bone health are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to bone health that are treated with herbal creams are joint pain and inflammation, skin conditions such as eczema and acne, and even hair and nail problems.
Herbal creams containing ingredients like arnica, aloe vera, and saw palmetto can help alleviate symptoms of arthritis, psoriasis, and other skin irritations, while also promoting healthy hair and nail growth.