By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Bone Health
Herbal tinctures for bone health are liquid extracts made from concentrated plant materials, such as leaves, roots, or flowers, that have been traditionally used to support skeletal well-being.
These tinctures help promote bone health by providing essential nutrients and antioxidants that reduce inflammation, increase calcium absorption, and stimulate bone growth. Examples of herbal tinctures for bone health include Ashwagandha, which reduces osteoporosis symptoms, and Horsetail, rich in silica for stronger bones.
By incorporating these tinctures into their daily routine, individuals can improve bone density, reducing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis-related complications, ultimately enhancing overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for bone health, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Urtica dioica
- 2. Ginkgo biloba
- 3. Humulus lupulus
- 4. Avena sativa
- 5. Taraxacum officinale
- 6. Calendula officinalis
- 7. Echinacea angustifolia
- 8. Vitis vinifera
- 9. Althaea officinalis
- 10. Matricaria chamomilla
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for bone health?
- What ailments similar to bone health are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle tinctures helps with bone health because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds, including silicic acid, calcium, and other minerals.
These nutrients help to strengthen bone density by promoting collagen synthesis and enhancing bone mineralization. Additionally, stinging nettle's anti-inflammatory properties may also contribute to improved bone health by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
As a result, regular consumption of herbal stinging nettle tinctures may support healthy bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis and related fractures.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica tinctures that help with bone health.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Urtica dioica tinctures, such as kaempferol, may help promote bone health by inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, which are cells that break down bone tissue.
- Saponins: Saponins in Urtica dioica tinctures have been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body, a factor that contributes to bone loss and osteoporosis.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids, including histamine, present in Urtica dioica tinctures, may help stimulate the growth of new bone tissue by increasing the production of osteoblasts, which are cells responsible for bone formation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make tinctures for bone health.
- Roots: They contain a high concentration of saponins, which have been traditionally used to support bone health.
- Leaves: They are rich in vitamin K, which plays a crucial role in bone mineralization and density.
- Stems: They contain a mixture of flavonoids and alkaloids that may help promote bone growth and density.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for bone health.
- Harvest 100 grams of fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems in the morning after dew has evaporated.
- Dry the harvested urtica dioica in a single layer at 35 degrees celsius for 24 hours.
- Combine 100 grams of dried urtica dioica with 500 milliliters of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Allow the urtica dioica and vodka mixture to steep for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the liquid from the urtica dioica through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container.
2. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with bone health because it contains a rich concentration of calcium and silica, two essential minerals for building and maintaining strong bones.
The tincture's flavonoids also help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which can contribute to bone loss and degeneration.
Additionally, the Maidenhair tree's anti-inflammatory properties may help to stimulate collagen production, further supporting bone health and density.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with bone health.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhapontigenin, in Ginkgo biloba may help with bone health by inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, the cells responsible for bone resorption.
- Terpenoids: Terpenoids, including bilobalide and ginkgolides, may have a role in bone health by modulating the activity of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation.
- Proanthocyanidins: Proanthocyanidins, a type of polyphenol, may help with bone health by inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts and promoting the activity of osteoblasts, ultimately leading to an increase in bone density.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for bone health.
- Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which may help improve bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
- Seeds: Contain ginkgolides, which may have antioxidant properties that help protect bones from damage and promote bone health.
- Barks: Rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which may have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce bone inflammation and promote bone repair.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for bone health.
- Gather 250g of dried ginkgo biloba leaves and 750ml of 95% ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Combine the ginkgo biloba leaves and ethanol in a ratio of 1:3 by weight in a clean glass container.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking the container daily.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass container, discarding the solids.
- Store the tincture in a cool dark place and use within 2 years, dosing 20-30 drops sublingually.
3. Humulus lupulus
Hops tinctures helps with bone health because of its rich content of flavonoids, phenolic acids, and saponins.
These bioactive compounds have been shown to promote osteoblast activity, stimulate bone formation, and inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines that can lead to bone degradation. Additionally, hops tincture's ability to relax and calm the body can also help reduce stress and cortisol levels, which are known to exacerbate bone loss.
By incorporating hops tinctures into a daily regimen, individuals may experience improved bone density and overall skeletal health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Humulus lupulus tinctures that help with bone health.
- Iso-alpha-acids: These compounds may help support bone health by acting as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, which can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, promoting healthy bone formation.
- Humulone: This sesquiterpene has been shown to have a positive effect on bone density, potentially due to its ability to stimulate osteoblasts (bone-building cells) and inhibit osteoclasts (bone-resorbing cells).
- Xanthohumol: This prenylated flavonoid has been found to exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help protect against bone loss and promote bone health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of hops used to make tinctures for bone health.
- Flowers: They are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which can help prevent bone loss and promote overall bone health.
- Stems: The stems of the plant are known to contain humulone and lupulone, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in bone health.
- Leaves: The leaves of Humulus lupulus contain various nutrients and flavonoids that can help in bone mineralization and density.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hops for bone health.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh humulus lupulus cones by cutting the plant at the base of the stem.
- Dry the harvested humulus lupulus cones in a well-ventilated area for 2 weeks.
- Combine 1 part of dried humulus lupulus cones with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discard the solids.
4. Avena sativa
Oats tinctures helps with bone health because they contain a unique combination of saponins, flavonoids, and other bioactive compounds that have been shown to promote bone density and strength.
These compounds help to stimulate the production of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for building new bone tissue, while also reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
This can lead to improved bone health, reduced risk of fractures, and even slowed down or stopped the progression of osteoporosis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Avena sativa tinctures that help with bone health.
- Avenacoside: Avenacoside, a saponin glycoside, may help with bone health by inhibiting the production of inflammatory enzymes that contribute to bone resorption.
- Avenanthramides: Avenanthramides, a class of phenolic compounds, may help with bone health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in bone tissue, promoting bone density and strength.
- Fatty acids: Fatty acids present in Avena sativa tinctures, particularly oleic and linoleic acids, may help with bone health by reducing inflammation and promoting the production of osteoprotective cytokines, which support bone growth and density.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of oats used to make tinctures for bone health.
- Seeds: Rich in saponins, which have been shown to promote bone health by inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, cells that break down bone tissue.
- Roots: Contain a variety of bioactive compounds, including saponins and flavonoids, which have been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties beneficial for bone health.
- Stems: Contain a compound called avenacoside, which has been reported to have anti-inflammatory and bone-protective effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic oats for bone health.
- Gather 1 part of avena sativa root and 3 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the avena sativa root in the vodka for 4 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to discard the solids.
- Store the tincture in the refrigerator to slow down the oxidation process for up to 2 years.
- Shake the tincture well before each use to ensure the ingredients are evenly mixed together.
5. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with bone health because it contains a wealth of nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
These essential minerals work together to support bone density and structure, promoting healthy bones from the inside out. Additionally, dandelion's high concentration of antioxidants helps protect bones from oxidative stress and inflammation, which can contribute to conditions like osteoporosis.
By supporting bone health through dandelion tinctures, individuals can enjoy stronger, healthier bones and a reduced risk of fractures and related complications.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with bone health.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin, found in dandelion tinctures, have been shown to inhibit osteoclast activity, which can help slow down bone loss and prevent osteoporosis.
- Coumarins: Coumarins, such as umbelliferone and scopoletin, present in dandelion tinctures, have been found to have a positive effect on bone density by promoting osteoblast activity, which is essential for bone growth and repair.
- Taraxasterol: Taraxasterol, a triterpenoid saponin found in dandelion tinctures, has been reported to have an anti-inflammatory effect on bone tissue, which can help reduce inflammation and promote bone health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for bone health.
- Roots: They contain a rich source of inulin, which supports bone health by promoting calcium absorption and reducing inflammation.
- Leaves: They are rich in calcium, vitamin K, and other minerals essential for bone health and density.
- Seeds: They contain a high amount of inulin and other prebiotic fibers that support gut health and calcium absorption, indirectly benefiting bone health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for bone health.
- Harvest fresh taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in the early morning or late evening when the plant is at its highest potency.
- Chop 500 grams of the freshly harvested taraxacum officinale roots and leaves into small pieces to release their active ingredients.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 1 liter of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar to create a solvent-rich mixture.
- Steep the mixture for 2-4 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking to facilitate the extraction of active compounds.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container discarding the solids and store the tincture in a cool dark place.
6. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold tinctures helps with bone health because of its unique combination of antioxidants, flavonoids, and terpenes.
These compounds work together to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which can contribute to osteoporosis and bone degeneration. The tincture's anti-inflammatory properties also help to promote healthy bone metabolism, while its antioxidant capabilities protect against free radical damage that can weaken bones over time.
By supporting overall bone health, pot marigold tinctures may help to reduce the risk of osteoporosis and related fractures.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with bone health.
- Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds may help maintain bone density and reduce bone resorption by modulating osteoclast activity and promoting osteoblast function.
- Carotenoids: These pigment compounds have antioxidant properties, which may protect bone cells from oxidative stress and promote bone health by reducing inflammation and improving bone mineralization.
- Terpenes: Some terpenes have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which may help regulate the immune response and prevent bone loss associated with chronic inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for bone health.
- Flowers: Calendula flowers are the most used part for making tinctures due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds.
- Leaves: The leaves of Calendula officinalis contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which contribute to their potential bone health benefits.
- Roots: Calendula roots may be used for their potential to stimulate bone growth and density, although more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for bone health.
- Gather 200g of fresh calendula officinalis flowers and 500ml of 80% ethanol to begin the tincture-making process.
- Combine the calendula flowers and ethanol in a clean glass jar and allow them to infuse for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Shake the jar daily to ensure even infusion and prevent settling of the plant material.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container to separate the liquid from the solids.
- Transfer the resulting tincture to dark glass bottles and store them in a cool dark place for at least 2 weeks before use.
7. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with bone health because of its unique composition of flavonoids, saponins, and phenolic acids.
These bioactive compounds have been shown to stimulate osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation, while also inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, which break down bone tissue. This dual action helps maintain healthy bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis, fractures, and other bone-related disorders.
Additionally, kansas coneflower's anti-inflammatory properties may help alleviate joint pain and swelling associated with conditions like arthritis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with bone health.
- Alkylamides: These non-nitrogenous compounds may help promote bone health by inducing the production of osteoprotegerin, a protein that inhibits osteoclast activity and bone resorption.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body and promote a healthy bone environment.
- Flavonoids: These plant-based compounds may help support bone health by inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, cells that break down bone tissue, and promoting the activity of osteoblasts, cells that build new bone tissue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for bone health.
- Roots: They are rich in compounds like alkylamides and caffeic acid, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties beneficial for bone health.
- Leaves: They contain high amounts of vitamins, minerals, and phenolic acids, which contribute to their potential bone-strengthening effects.
- Roots (again, as both roots and rhizomes are commonly used together in herbal remedies): The combination of roots and rhizomes is thought to provide a synergistic effect, enhancing the overall bone health benefits of Echinacea angustifolia.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for bone health.
- Harvest 1/2 cup of echinacea angustifolia roots in the fall when the plant is fully mature.
- Chop the harvested roots into small pieces to increase surface area for extraction.
- Steep 1/2 cup of the chopped roots in 2 cups of 80 proof vodka for 2 weeks.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle to remove solids.
- Store the tincture in a cool dark place for 2 months before using.
8. Vitis vinifera
Grape tinctures helps with bone health because they contain potent phytochemicals that stimulate bone growth and density.
The antioxidants present in grape tinctures help to reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to osteoporosis and other bone-related disorders. Additionally, the flavonoids and polyphenols found in grape tinctures have been shown to inhibit bone resorption, promoting stronger and healthier bones.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to support joint health and overall skeletal well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vitis vinifera tinctures that help with bone health.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin, a type of flavonoid, has been shown to inhibit the activity of osteoclasts, which are cells responsible for bone resorption, thus promoting bone health and density.
- Phenolic acids: Caffeic acid, a phenolic acid, has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body and promote bone healing and growth.
- Resveratrol: Resveratrol, a polyphenol found in Vitis vinifera, has been shown to stimulate the activity of osteoblasts, which are cells responsible for bone formation, and may also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that contribute to bone health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of grape used to make tinctures for bone health.
- Seeds: Resveratrol, a compound found in Vitis vinifera seeds, may help improve bone health by reducing inflammation and promoting bone density.
- Leaves: Flavonoids and polyphenols present in Vitis vinifera leaves may contribute to bone health by enhancing antioxidant activity and reducing oxidative stress.
- Fruits (specifically, the skin and seeds): The anthocyanins and resveratrol found in the skin and seeds of Vitis vinifera fruits may help support bone health by reducing inflammation and promoting bone formation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic grape for bone health.
- Harvest fresh vitis vinifera leaves and stems in the morning when the dew is still present.
- Clean and dry the plant material thoroughly to prevent contamination and preserve its potency.
- Combine 250 grams of the dried vitis vinifera material with 1000 milliliters of vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks to allow infusion and extraction.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and discard the solids then transfer the tincture to a dark glass bottle.
9. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow tinctures helps with bone health because it contains mucilage, a gel-like substance that soothes and lubricates joints, reducing inflammation and discomfort.
The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties in marshmallow root also help to protect bones from damage caused by free radicals, promoting healthy bone density and strength.
Additionally, marshmallow tincture has been shown to support the body's natural collagen production, which is essential for maintaining strong and resilient bones.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis tinctures that help with bone health.
- Mucilages: These complex carbohydrates help with bone health by forming a protective barrier around bones, reducing inflammation, and promoting wound healing, which can aid in bone repair and regeneration.
- Glycosides: These compounds, particularly the glycosides of iridoid and secoiridoid types, have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation around bone tissues, promoting a healthier bone environment.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds have been shown to have antioxidant properties that can help reduce oxidative stress in bone tissues, which can contribute to bone loss and osteoporosis, and promote overall bone health and density.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for bone health.
- Roots: The roots are rich in mucilages, which provide anti-inflammatory and soothing properties to support bone health.
- Barks: The barks of Althaea officinalis contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help in reducing inflammation and promoting bone healing.
- Leaves: The leaves of the plant are also used for their mucilaginous properties, which may help in reducing inflammation and promoting bone health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for bone health.
- Harvest fresh roots of althaea officinalis in early morning or evening to minimize sun damage.
- Chop 100g of the harvested roots into small pieces to increase surface area for tincture.
- Combine the chopped roots with 500ml of 60% ethanol in a clean glass container to create tincture.
- Store the container in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks to allow maceration and extraction.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids to obtain tincture.
10. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile tinctures helps with bone health because it is rich in antioxidants, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
The apigenin present in chamomile has been shown to inhibit osteoclast activity, promoting bone formation and density. Additionally, chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties may help alleviate symptoms of conditions such as osteoarthritis, improving overall bone health.
By reducing inflammation and promoting bone growth, herbal chamomile tinctures can support strong and healthy bones.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with bone health.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid helps with bone health by promoting osteoblast activity, which is essential for bone formation and density.
- Chamazulene: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce oxidative stress and promote healthy bone remodeling.
- Α-bisabolol: This sesquiterpene alcohol has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help protect bone cells from damage and promote bone health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for bone health.
- Flowers: The flowers are the most used part of Matricaria chamomilla for making tinctures for bone health due to their high apigenin content, which has anti-inflammatory properties that aid in bone health.
- Leaves: The leaves are another used part, as they contain flavonoids and terpenoids that may help protect against bone loss and promote bone health.
- Seeds: The seeds are used as they contain apigenin and other flavonoids that may aid in bone health by reducing inflammation and promoting bone density.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for bone health.
- Harvest 1 part of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers by cutting them at the base of the stems.
- Combine the harvested flowers with 2 parts of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
- Strain the liquid through a coffee filter into another clean glass jar discarding the solids.
- Store the resulting tincture in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid at room temperature.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for bone health?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with bone health is a blend of Horsetail, Ginger, and Ashwagandha.
Horsetail tincture contains silica, which supports bone density and strength. Ginger tincture helps reduce inflammation and pain associated with bone conditions, while Ashwagandha tincture promotes bone healing and regeneration. Taking these tinctures together may help alleviate symptoms of osteoporosis, osteopenia, and other bone-related disorders.
However, consult a healthcare professional before using these herbal remedies, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or take prescription medications.
What ailments similar to bone health are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to bone health that are treated with herbal tinctures are those related to joint and musculoskeletal issues.
For example, herbal tinctures may be used to alleviate symptoms of arthritis, fibromyalgia, and tendonitis.
Turmeric and ginger tinctures have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and swelling in the joints, while ashwagandha and devil's claw tinctures may help reduce inflammation and improve joint flexibility.