By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Bunion
Herbal creams for bunion are topical treatments made from plant extracts, such as arnica, aloe vera, and tea tree oil, that help alleviate bunion pain and inflammation.
These creams work by reducing swelling, relieving pressure, and soothing irritated skin.
Examples of herbal creams include Arnica Gel and Tea Tree Oil Cream, which have been shown to improve mobility and reduce discomfort in individuals with bunions, allowing them to resume their daily activities with greater ease and confidence.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for bunion, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Salix alba
- 2. Aloe vera
- 3. Calendula officinalis
- 4. Camellia sinensis
- 5. Artemisia absinthium
- 6. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 7. Taraxacum officinale
- 8. Plantago major
- 9. Urtica dioica
- 10. Rhus aromatica
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for bunion?
- What ailments similar to bunion are treated with herbal creams?
1. Salix alba
Salix alba, also known as white willow, creams helps with bunion because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb's active compound salicin is converted into salicylic acid in the body, similar to aspirin. This process reduces swelling and pain associated with bunions. Furthermore, the soothing and cooling effects of Salix alba cream can provide relief from the friction and pressure on the affected area.
Regular application of the cream can lead to improved mobility and reduced discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salix alba creams that help with bunion.
- Salicin: A phenolic compound, salicin helps with bunion relief by reducing inflammation and pain due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, similar to aspirin.
- Tannins: Polyphenolic compounds, tannins in Salix alba creams may help reduce swelling and alleviate bunion pain by constricting blood vessels and reducing fluid retention.
- Flavonoids: As a type of phenolic compound, quercetin in Salix alba creams may help reduce bunion pain and inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of white willow used to make creams for bunion.
- Barks: The barks of Salix alba are used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Salix alba are used due to their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain.
- Roots: The roots of Salix alba are used due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic white willow for bunion.
- Harvest 50g of dried salix alba bark from sustainably managed sources to use in herbal cream production.
- Infuse 250ml of carrier oil with the dried salix alba bark for 4-6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the liquid extract.
- Combine 20g of beeswax with 50g of shea butter and 50ml of the salix alba extract in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 10-15 minutes or until the beeswax has fully melted to create a smooth cream.
2. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with bunion because of its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties.
The gel inside the aloe vera plant has been traditionally used to soothe and calm irritated skin, which is often the case with bunions. The cream's anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness and swelling, while its moisturizing properties help to hydrate and soften the skin around the bunion, promoting healthy skin and reducing discomfort.
This makes aloe vera cream a popular natural remedy for bunions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with bunion.
- Aloin: Aloin is a anthraquinone glycoside that helps to reduce pain and inflammation associated with bunions by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Vitamins: Vitamins A, C, and E present in Aloe vera creams have antioxidant properties that help to reduce oxidative stress and promote wound healing, which can aid in the treatment and prevention of bunion-related complications.
- Polysaccharides: Acemannan, a polysaccharide found in Aloe vera, has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and promote tissue repair, which can alleviate the discomfort and pain associated with bunions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for bunion.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of gel, which provides soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Seeds: They are used as they contain a high amount of aloin, a compound that helps to reduce pain and inflammation associated with bunions.
- Stems: They are used as they contain a significant amount of glucomannan, a polysaccharide that can help to reduce swelling and ease pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for bunion.
- Gather 100g of aloe vera gel 50g of beeswax 20g of coconut oil 10g of shea butter 5g of vitamin e oil in a clean workspace.
- Melt 20g of beeswax and 20g of coconut oil in a double boiler at 180f for 10 minutes.
- Add 50g of aloe vera gel to the melted mixture and stir until well combined for 2 minutes.
- Mix in 10g of shea butter and 5g of vitamin e oil into the mixture for 3 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a tin and allow it to cool and solidify at room temperature for 30 minutes.
3. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with bunion because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and flavonoids, help to reduce swelling and pain associated with bunions. By promoting healing and reducing inflammation, Calendula cream can provide relief and comfort to the affected area. Additionally, its antimicrobial properties help to prevent infection and promote a healthy environment for the skin to heal.
This natural remedy can be a valuable addition to conventional treatments for bunions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with bunion.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce the pain and swelling associated with bunions.
- Saponins: Saponins in Calendula officinalis may help to reduce inflammation and promote the healing of skin lesions, which can be beneficial in managing the symptoms of bunions, such as redness and swelling.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce pain and inflammation in the affected joint, making it more comfortable to walk and move around.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for bunion.
- Flowers: They contain anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making them effective in soothing and healing bunion-related skin irritations.
- Leaves: They have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with bunions.
- Seeds: They contain anti-inflammatory compounds that aid in reducing pain and swelling in the affected area, making them useful in bunion creams.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for bunion.
- Harvest 30-40 calendula officinalis flowers on a sunny day when they are in full bloom after 2 hours.
- Dry the flowers in a warm place with good air circulation for 1-2 weeks.
- Infuse 1 cup of dried calendula flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil such as coconut oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth and discard the solids then add 1 tablespoon of beeswax.
- Whip the mixture with a handheld electric mixer until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
4. Camellia sinensis
Camellia sinensis, also known as tea, creams helps with bunion because it contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The soothing and cooling effects of Camellia sinensis creams help to reduce swelling and pain in the affected area. The anti-inflammatory properties also help to reduce redness and irritation associated with bunions. Additionally, the antioxidants in Camellia sinensis creams promote healthy skin and tissue repair, which can help to alleviate bunion symptoms and promote overall foot health.
This natural remedy provides a safe and effective solution for bunion relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis creams that help with bunion.
- Catechins: These polyphenolic compounds help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with bunions by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and promoting the healing of damaged tissues.
- Theaflavins: Derived from the fermentation of Camellia sinensis, theaflavins have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and protect the skin around the bunion area, reducing redness and swelling.
- Gallic acid: This phenolic acid has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation associated with bunions by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoting the healing of damaged tissues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea used to make creams for bunion.
- Leaves: The leaves of Camellia sinensis are rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, making them suitable for hydrating and nourishing the skin.
- Seeds: Camellia sinensis seeds are a rich source of essential fatty acids, which are often used in skincare products to moisturize and protect the skin.
- Barks: The barks of Camellia sinensis contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them beneficial for soothing and protecting the skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea for bunion.
- Steep 2 teaspoons of dried camellia sinensis leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
- Combine 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 1 tablespoon of shea butter in a heat-proof bowl.
- Heat the beeswax-shea butter mixture over a double boiler at 115-120 degrees fahrenheit for 10 minutes.
- Mix the cooled tea liquid with the melted beeswax-shea butter mixture to create a smooth cream.
5. Artemisia absinthium
Artemisia absinthium, also known as wormwood, creams helps with bunion because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The active compounds in wormwood, such as thujone and borneol, work to reduce swelling and pain associated with bunions. The cream also promotes healing and reduces inflammation, allowing for improved mobility and flexibility in the affected area. Additionally, wormwood's antiseptic properties help prevent infection and promote a healthy environment for bunion recovery.
This makes it a popular natural remedy for bunion relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium creams that help with bunion.
- Thujone: A sesquiterpene ketone that may help reduce inflammation and pain associated with bunions by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
- Tannins: Polyphenolic compounds that can help reduce swelling and pain in bunions by constricting blood vessels and reducing fluid buildup in the affected area.
- Bornyl acetate: A monoterpene that may help alleviate pain and discomfort in bunions by blocking the production of pain-causing chemicals in the body and promoting relaxation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make creams for bunion.
- Leaves: The astringent and antiseptic properties of Artemisia absinthium leaves are often used to reduce inflammation and prevent infection in bunion creams.
- Roots: The roots of Artemisia absinthium are commonly used to create creams for bunions due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help to reduce pain and prevent infection.
- Stems: Artemisia absinthium stems are sometimes used in bunion creams because of their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain and swelling associated with bunions.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wormwood for bunion.
- Infuse 20 grams of dried artemisia absinthium leaves in 100 ml of a neutral oil such as jojoba oil.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 14 days to allow for a full extraction.
- Strain the infused oil from the plant material through a cheesecloth into a clean container.
- Combine 50 grams of beeswax with 100 ml of the infused oil in a heat-proof glass bowl.
- Blend the mixture over low heat until the beeswax has fully dissolved and the cream has reached a smooth consistency.
6. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with bunion because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The active compounds in licorice root, such as glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, have been shown to reduce swelling and pain associated with bunions. Additionally, the moisturizing properties of licorice creams help to soften and hydrate the skin, reducing friction and discomfort caused by bunion development.
This natural remedy provides a non-invasive and comforting solution for bunion sufferers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams that help with bunion.
- Licorice saponins: These saponins have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and swelling associated with bunions.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in bunion-affected areas.
- Triterpenoids: These triterpenoids have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with bunions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for bunion.
- Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Barks: The barks are used due to their astringent and antiseptic properties, which help to reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm the affected area.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for bunion.
- Harvest 500g of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and soak them in 1l of boiling water for 1 hour.
- Strain the liquid and discard the solids, then combine it with 300g of sweet almond oil and 200g of beeswax in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the beeswax has melted and the mixture reaches 60°c.
- Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool to 40°c, then add 20g of vitamin e oil and 10g of preservative.
- Whip the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, then pour it into containers and let it set at room temperature for 2 hours.
7. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, creams helps with bunion because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The cream contains taraxasterol, a compound that has been shown to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected area. It also contains other beneficial compounds like flavonoids and phenolic acids, which may help to reduce pain and discomfort associated with bunions.
The cream may also help to soften and reduce the callus formation around the bunion, promoting a more comfortable and healthy environment for the foot.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale creams that help with bunion.
- Taraxasterol: A triterpene saponin, Taraxasterol has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and swelling associated with bunions.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid, Luteolin exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing in bunion affected areas.
- Fatty acids: The presence of fatty acids in Taraxacum officinale creams, such as linoleic acid and oleic acid, can help reduce inflammation, promote skin health, and alleviate pain associated with bunions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make creams for bunion.
- Leaves: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help reduce pain and swelling associated with bunions.
- Flowers: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm irritated skin around the bunion area.
- Roots: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties, which can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain caused by bunions.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for bunion.
- Harvest taraxacum officinale flowers and leaves in the morning when they are at their highest potency levels.
- Dry the taraxacum officinale flowers and leaves in a warm place with good air circulation for 1-2 weeks.
- Steep 20 grams of dried taraxacum officinale in 200 milliliters of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil for 2 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth and discard the solids then mix with beeswax and shea butter in a double boiler.
- Whip the mixture with an electric mixer until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency suitable for application.
8. Plantago major
Plantago major, also known as plantain, creams helps with bunion because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The plantain extracts in these creams reduce swelling and ease pain associated with bunions. They also contain a compound called aucubin, which has been shown to inhibit inflammation and promote healing.
Additionally, plantain creams have been found to soften hardened skin and reduce friction, making them a popular natural remedy for people suffering from bunions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major creams that help with bunion.
- Apolypodol: A phenolic compound, Apolypodol has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce swelling and pain associated with bunions.
- Aucubin: A iridoid glycoside, Aucubin has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, potentially helping to alleviate pain, inflammation, and oxidative stress associated with bunion development.
- Ruscogenin: A steroidal saponin, Ruscogenin has been reported to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which may help reduce pain and discomfort caused by bunions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make creams for bunion.
- Leaves: Rich in mucilage, a natural gel-like substance that helps to soothe and moisturize the skin.
- Roots: Contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce pain and swelling associated with bunions.
- Seeds: Rich in flavonoids and other antioxidants that can help to promote skin healing and reduce inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for bunion.
- Harvest 1/2 cup of fresh plantago major leaves on a sunny day when the temperature is above 60°f.
- Cleanse the leaves with a gentle stream of water to remove dirt and debris for 5 minutes.
- Steep 1 tablespoon of the cleaned leaves in 2 cups of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container for 10 minutes.
- Mix 1 tablespoon of the cooled liquid with 1/2 cup of coconut oil and 2 tablespoons of beeswax in a double boiler for 15-20 minutes.
9. Urtica dioica
Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, creams helps with bunion because of its anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and pain in the affected area.
The cream's high concentration of antioxidants and flavonoids helps to soothe and calm the skin, reducing inflammation and discomfort. Additionally, the cream's natural astringent properties help to tighten the skin around the bunion, reducing pressure and stress on the joint.
This can lead to improved mobility and reduced pain in the affected foot.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica creams that help with bunion.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with bunions by inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
- Saponins: Saponins in Urtica dioica may help reduce swelling and alleviate pain in bunion-affected areas by acting as anti-inflammatory agents and improving blood circulation.
- Stigmastane saponins: These saponins may contribute to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Urtica dioica creams, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with bunions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make creams for bunion.
- Leaves: Used due to their high content of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and histamine-releasing properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with bunions.
- Stems: Utilized for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce swelling and promote healing in the affected area.
- Roots: Employed for their rich content of saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, helping to alleviate bunion symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for bunion.
- Harvest 1 ounce of fresh or dried urtica dioica leaves and stems in early summer morning when the dew is still present.
- Dry the collected plant material in a low-temperature oven at 105°f for 2 hours to prevent degradation.
- Combine 1/2 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of coconut oil in a double boiler and melt the mixture over low heat.
- Add 2 tablespoons of dried urtica dioica powder to the melted wax and oil mixture and stir for 5 minutes.
- Pour the blended mixture into small tin containers and let it cool and solidify for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
10. Rhus aromatica
Rhus aromatica, also known as fragrant sumac, creams helps with bunion because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The cream's active compounds help reduce pain and inflammation associated with bunions, allowing for easier movement and reduced discomfort. The anti-inflammatory properties also aid in reducing swelling and redness around the affected area, promoting faster healing and recovery.
Additionally, the cream's soothing and moisturizing effects help soften the skin, reducing friction and irritation that can exacerbate bunion symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rhus aromatica creams that help with bunion.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with bunions by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Tannins: Tannins in Rhus aromatica have astringent properties, which can help to reduce swelling and ease discomfort caused by bunions by constricting blood vessels and reducing fluid accumulation.
- Glycosides: Glycosides in Rhus aromatica may help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with bunions by modulating the body's response to pain and reducing the production of pro-inflammatory mediators.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of fragrant sumac used to make creams for bunion.
- Roots: They may be used in creams due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: They could be used in creams because of their antiseptic and astringent properties, which may help soothe skin irritations.
- Barks: They might be used in creams for their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which could aid in reducing skin inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fragrant sumac for bunion.
- Gather 30g of dried rhus aromatica leaves and 20g of beeswax in a clean environment for preparation.
- Mix 30g of dried rhus aromatica leaves with 20ml of cold-pressed oil in a glass bowl for infusion.
- Steep the mixture for 2 hours at room temperature then strain it through a cheesecloth for liquid.
- Combine 10g of beeswax with 10ml of shea butter and 10ml of the rhus aromatica liquid in a double boiler for melting.
- Whip the mixture for 10 minutes then pour it into a clean glass jar for final product preparation.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for bunion?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with bunion is a blend of arnica, tea tree, and peppermint oil-based creams.
Arnica helps reduce inflammation and pain, while tea tree oil's antibacterial properties prevent infection. Peppermint oil's cooling effect eases discomfort and promotes blood circulation. Additionally, creams containing comfrey and calendula can aid in the healing process by promoting tissue repair and reducing swelling.
A balanced mix of these herbal creams can provide effective relief from bunion symptoms.
What ailments similar to bunion are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to bunion/creams.html">bunion/creams.html">bunion that are treated with herbal creams are corns, calluses, and plantar fasciitis.
Herbal creams containing ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree oil, and lavender oil can help soothe and relieve pressure on the affected areas, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
These creams can also be used to treat other foot problems such as fungal infections and dry skin.