10 Best Herbal Creams For Bursitis

Herbal creams for bursitis are topical ointments infused with natural herbs that help alleviate bursitis symptoms.

These creams contain anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that reduce swelling and discomfort in affected joints.

Examples include creams containing arnica, turmeric, and capsaicin, which have been shown to improve lives by providing relief from chronic pain and inflammation, allowing individuals to engage in daily activities and maintain their quality of life.

The following article describes in detail the most important creams for bursitis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Arnica montana

Arnica montana, also known as mountain arnica, creams helps with bursitis because it contains anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce swelling and pain.

The cream's active ingredients, including arnicoside and flavonoids, work to soothe inflamed tissues and promote healing. This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate pain and inflammation associated with bursitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints.

By applying the cream topically, individuals can experience relief from bursitis symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arnica montana creams that help with bursitis.

• Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds, particularly heliatriene, help with bursitis by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, reducing swelling and pain associated with the condition.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Arnica montana, such as kaempferol and quercetin, possess potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which aid in soothing and healing bursitis-affected areas.
• Thymoquinone: This sesquiterpene compound in Arnica montana has been found to possess analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, which help in alleviating pain, reducing inflammation, and promoting healing in bursitis cases.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of mountain arnica used to make creams for bursitis.

• Flowers: The flowers of Arnica montana are widely used to make creams for bursitis due to their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
• Roots: The roots of Arnica montana are also used to make creams for bursitis, as they contain a high concentration of arnica oil, which has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
• Leaves: The leaves of Arnica montana are utilized to make creams for bursitis, as they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mountain arnica for bursitis.

1. Harvest 1 pound of fresh arnica montana flowers on a sunny day in mid-summer.
2. Dry the flowers in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
3. Infuse 1 cup of dried flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil such as coconut oil at 100°f for 2 weeks.
4. Strain the oil through cheesecloth and add 1/4 cup of beeswax to 1 cup of infused oil for thickening.
5. Whip the mixture until light and fluffy then pour into jars for storage and use within 6 months.

2. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with bursitis because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The cream's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and flavonoids, soothe and calm inflamed tissues, reducing pain and swelling associated with bursitis. Additionally, calendula's antiseptic properties prevent infection and promote healing in the affected area.

By reducing inflammation and promoting healing, calendula cream provides effective relief from bursitis symptoms, promoting faster recovery and reducing discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with bursitis.

• Triterpenoids: These compounds in Calendula officinalis have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain associated with bursitis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Flavonoids: Acting as potent antioxidants, flavonoids in Calendula officinalis help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation in bursitis by neutralizing free radicals and modulating the immune response.
• Calendulin: Calendulin has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, which contributes to the reduction of pain and inflammation in bursitis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for bursitis.

• Flowers: The flowers are the most used part of Calendula officinalis due to their high concentration of flavonoids, triterpenoids, and carotenoids, which provide anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are another commonly used part of Calendula officinalis for bursitis creams due to their high content of flavonoids and terpenes, which aid in reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing.
• Seeds: The seeds of Calendula officinalis are often used to create creams for bursitis as they contain high levels of fatty acids and antioxidants that help to reduce inflammation and promote tissue repair.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for bursitis.

1. Infuse one ounce of dried calendula officinalis flowers in two cups of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes to create a tea.
2. Strain the tea through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bowl to remove solids.
3. Mix 1/2 cup of beeswax and 1/2 cup of coconut oil in a small saucepan over low heat to melt.
4. Combine the cooled tea with 1/2 cup of shea butter and 1/4 cup of vitamin e oil in the bowl to create a mixture.
5. Whip the mixture in a stand mixer until it thickens and forms a smooth, consistent cream.

3. Capsicum annuum

Capsicum annuum, also known as bell pepper, creams helps with bursitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The creams contain capsaicin, a natural compound that blocks the production of a chemical called substance P, which transmits pain signals to the brain. This leads to a reduction in swelling and pain in the affected area. Additionally, capsaicin has been shown to increase blood flow, which helps to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

As a result, applying Capsicum annuum creams can provide relief from bursitis symptoms, such as pain and stiffness.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Capsicum annuum creams that help with bursitis.

• Capsaicin: It helps reduce inflammation and pain in bursitis by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins and substance P, which are mediators of pain and inflammation.
• Quercetin: It acts as an anti-inflammatory agent by suppressing the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as COX-2 and lipoxygenase, thereby reducing swelling and pain in the affected bursae.
• Catechins: They possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the affected area, thereby providing relief from bursitis symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of bell pepper used to make creams for bursitis.

• Fruits: They are used because they contain capsaicin, a potent analgesic compound that helps relieve pain associated with bursitis.
• Leaves: They are used because they also contain capsaicin, which can be extracted and used in creams to reduce inflammation and pain in bursitis.
• Seeds: They are used because they contain a higher concentration of capsaicin than the fruits, making them a more potent ingredient in creams for bursitis relief.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bell pepper for bursitis.

1. Harvest 1 lb of ripe capsicum annuum fruits and wash them thoroughly with cool water.
2. Steam the fruits for 20 minutes to break down the cell walls and release the active compounds.
3. Mix 1 cup of the steamed capsicum annuum with 1 cup of coconut oil and 1/2 cup of beeswax in a double boiler.
4. Heat the mixture over low heat for 30 minutes or until it reaches 160°f to 180°f temperature.
5. Strain the mixture and pour it into sterile jars for storage and use within 6 months.

4. Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, creams helps with bursitis because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

The hypericin and hyperforin in the cream reduce swelling and pain in the affected area, while also preventing bacterial infection. The cream's soothing and calming effects also aid in the reduction of inflammation and promote the healing of damaged tissue, allowing the body to repair and recover from bursitis more effectively.

This natural remedy provides relief from bursitis symptoms in a gentle and non-invasive manner.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with bursitis.

• Hyperforin: This prenylated phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain in bursitis-affected areas.
• Naphthodianthrones: These compounds possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which contribute to the reduction of inflammation and relief from bursitis symptoms.
• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing in bursitis-affected joints and tissues.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for bursitis.

• Leaves: The leaves of Hypericum perforatum are used to make creams for bursitis because of their anti-inflammatory properties and flavonoid content.
• Flowers: The flowers of Hypericum perforatum are used to make creams for bursitis due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
• Roots: The roots of Hypericum perforatum are used to make creams for bursitis because of their high concentration of hyperforin, which has anti-inflammatory effects.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for bursitis.

1. Gather 25 grams of dried hypericum perforatum flowers and 100 grams of base cream.
2. Combine 25 grams of dried hypericum perforatum flowers with 100 grams of base cream in a double boiler.
3. Heat the mixture at 60-70 degrees celsius for 10-15 minutes to infuse the flowers.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to separate the flowers from the cream.
5. Fill sterilized containers with the strained cream and allow it to cool before use.

5. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with bursitis because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The active compounds in lavender, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, have been shown to reduce swelling and pain in the affected area. The cream's calming effects also help to relax the surrounding muscles, reducing tension and promoting healing. By applying the cream topically, individuals can experience relief from bursitis symptoms, including pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

This natural remedy offers a gentle and non-invasive approach to managing bursitis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with bursitis.

• Linalool: A terpene with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which helps reduce pain and inflammation associated with bursitis.
• Linalyl acetate: A terpene that has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which helps prevent infection and reduce inflammation in bursitis.
• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in bursitis, promoting healing and tissue repair.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for bursitis.

• Leaves: Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and swelling associated with bursitis.
• Flowers: Used for their calming and anti-inflammatory effects, which can aid in soothing bursitis symptoms.
• Seeds: Contain compounds that possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making them useful in reducing pain and inflammation caused by bursitis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for bursitis.

1. Infuse 100g dried lavender flowers in 1l water at 80c for 30-45 minutes.
2. Strain the infused liquid using a cheesecloth to obtain 800ml of lavender extract.
3. Melt 200g of beeswax in a double boiler and heat to 40c.
4. Combine 200g of shea butter with 100g of coconut oil in a separate container.
5. Mix the melted beeswax with the shea butter and coconut oil mixture then add 50g of lavender extract.

6. Rosa rubiginosa

Rosa rubiginosa, also known as sweet briar, creams helps with bursitis because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

The herb's extracts have been traditionally used to reduce swelling, ease pain, and promote healing in inflamed joints and soft tissues. The creams' soothing and cooling effects can help calm irritated areas, while its antimicrobial properties can help prevent infection and promote a faster recovery. This makes Rosa rubiginosa creams a popular natural remedy for managing bursitis symptoms.

Regular use can provide relief and improve overall joint health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosa rubiginosa creams that help with bursitis.

• Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain in bursitis-infected areas.
• Flavonoids: Quercetin is a flavonoid that has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help alleviate bursitis symptoms by reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation associated with bursitis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of sweet briar used to make creams for bursitis.

• Leaves: Used in creams for bursitis due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
• Flowers: Used in creams for bursitis due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing effects.
• Stems: Used in creams for bursitis due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sweet briar for bursitis.

1. Harvest 100g of rosa rubiginosa flowers at peak bloom to ensure optimal potency and flavor.
2. Infuse the flowers in 500ml of cold-pressed carrier oil for 2-3 weeks to extract their medicinal properties.
3. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean container to separate the solids from the liquid.
4. Mix 10g of beeswax and 20g of cocoa butter into the infused oil to create a stable and nourishing cream base.
5. Whip the mixture until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency then transfer it to a glass jar.

7. Sambucus nigra

Sambucus nigra, also known as elder, creams helps with bursitis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The cream is made from the extract of the elder plant, which contains compounds that have been shown to reduce swelling and pain in inflamed joints. The active ingredients, such as flavonoids and terpenes, work to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

This makes Sambucus nigra cream a popular natural remedy for alleviating bursitis symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra creams that help with bursitis.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with bursitis, making Sambucus nigra creams a potential remedy for this condition.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help mitigate the swelling and discomfort experienced in bursitis, promoting a faster recovery.
• Ellagic acid: This phenolic acid has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help alleviate bursitis symptoms, including pain, redness, and swelling.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make creams for bursitis.

• Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate bursitis pain and swelling.
• Barks: They are used for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce bursitis pain and inflammation.
• Leaves: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce bursitis pain and prevent further inflammation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for bursitis.

1. Harvest 100g of sambucus nigra flowers and leaves on a sunny day in june or july.
2. Infuse 50g of the harvested flowers and leaves in 250ml of oil for 2 weeks.
3. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids.
4. Mix 50g of beeswax with 100g of the infused oil in a double boiler at 160-180°f.
5. Whip the cooled mixture until it thickens and has a creamy texture.

8. Tilia cordata

Tilia cordata, also known as littleleaf linden, creams helps with bursitis because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The cream is often made from the plant's leaves and flowers, which contain flavonoids and terpenoids that have been shown to reduce pain and inflammation in affected joints. By applying the cream topically, it can help to alleviate the symptoms of bursitis, such as pain, swelling, and stiffness, providing relief and promoting healing in the affected area.

This natural approach can also help to reduce reliance on pain medication.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tilia cordata creams that help with bursitis.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds may help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with bursitis by inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes and modulating immune responses.
• Terpenes: Terpenes, such as limonoids found in Tilia cordata, may contribute to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of the plant, helping to soothe and calm bursitis symptoms.
• Tannins: Tannins, a type of polyphenol present in Tilia cordata, may help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with bursitis by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of littleleaf linden used to make creams for bursitis.

• Leaves: Used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can help reduce pain and swelling associated with bursitis.
• Flowers: Used for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help relieve pain and discomfort caused by bursitis.
• Buds: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in affected areas.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic littleleaf linden for bursitis.

1. Harvest a sufficient quantity of tilia cordata leaves and flowers to meet your desired needs.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks to preserve its properties.
3. Create a herbal infusion by steeping 2 tablespoons of dried tilia cordata in 1 cup of boiling water.
4. Combine the herbal infusion with 1/4 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of coconut oil in a double boiler.
5. Stir the mixture continuously until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency that is ready to use.

9. Gaultheria procumbens

Gaultheria procumbens, also known as wintergreen, creams helps with bursitis because it contains methyl salicylate, a natural anti-inflammatory compound similar to aspirin.

This compound reduces pain and inflammation in the affected area, providing relief from the discomfort and swelling associated with bursitis. Additionally, the cream's soothing properties help to calm irritated tissue, promoting a faster recovery and reducing the risk of further irritation.

As a result, wintergreen creams are often used to alleviate bursitis symptoms and promote overall joint health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gaultheria procumbens creams that help with bursitis.

• Iridoids: Iridoids, such as aucubin, help with bursitis by reducing inflammation and pain through their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including caffeic acid and chlorogenic acid, contribute to the relief of bursitis symptoms by exerting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, thus reducing swelling and pain.
• Essential oils: Essential oils, including borneol and bornyl acetate, help alleviate bursitis symptoms by acting as anti-inflammatory agents, reducing pain and inflammation through their topical application.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of wintergreen used to make creams for bursitis.

• Roots: High in glycosides, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in treating bursitis.
• Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and volatile oils, they help reduce inflammation and promote healing in bursitis.
• Barks: Containing salicin, a compound similar to aspirin, they help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in bursitis.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wintergreen for bursitis.

1. Harvest 1-2 cups of gaultheria procumbens leaves and stems fresh from the wild in late summer.
2. Dry the harvested gaultheria procumbens in a single layer at 100 degrees fahrenheit for 1-2 hours.
3. Infuse 1 cup of dried gaultheria procumbens in 2 cups of carrier oil like coconut oil for 2 weeks.
4. Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container.
5. Mix 1/2 cup of the infused gaultheria procumbens oil with 1/4 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of shea butter to create the final cream.

10. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with bursitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The active compound curcumin in turmeric cream reduces inflammation and swelling in the affected area, providing relief from pain and discomfort. It also promotes healing and reduces oxidative stress, which can contribute to bursitis.

Furthermore, turmeric's natural antiseptic properties help prevent infection and promote a healthy environment for tissue repair, making it an effective natural remedy for bursitis sufferers.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa creams that help with bursitis.

• Curcumin: A polyphenolic compound that helps reduce inflammation and pain in bursitis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
• Demethoxycurcumin: A bioactive compound that helps suppress the activity of enzymes responsible for inflammation and pain, thereby alleviating bursitis symptoms.
• Turmerones: A group of sesquiterpenes that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help in reducing inflammation and promoting the healing of bursitis-affected joints.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make creams for bursitis.

• Rhyzomes: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory compound.
• Roots: The roots of Curcuma longa are also used to make creams due to their curcumin content, which helps reduce inflammation and pain associated with bursitis.
• Stems: The stems are occasionally used, but their primary role is to support the growth of the plant, and they may contain some curcumin, although less than the rhyzomes and roots.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for bursitis.

1. Measure out 500g of base cream typically made from coconut oil and shea butter, heated until melted.
2. Combine 200g of curcuma longa powder with 100g of beeswax and stir until well combined.
3. Mix the powder mixture into the heated base cream and stir continuously for 5 minutes.
4. Add 50g of vitamin e oil and 20g of essential oil and stir until fully incorporated.
5. Pour the mixture into containers and refrigerate for 2-3 hours before use.

What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for bursitis?

The best combination of herbal creams that help with bursitis is a blend of arnica, calendula, and St. John's Wort.

Arnica reduces inflammation and relieves pain, while calendula promotes healing and soothes the skin. St. John's Wort, with its antiseptic properties, helps to prevent infection and promote a quick recovery. Applying a topical cream containing these herbs can provide effective relief from bursitis symptoms, reducing swelling and promoting a faster healing process.

Regular use may also help prevent future episodes.

What ailments similar to bursitis are treated with herbal creams?

Ailments similar to bursitis/creams.html">bursitis/creams.html">bursitis that are treated with herbal creams are tendinitis, tenosynovitis, and arthritis.

These conditions involve inflammation or irritation of tendons, ligaments, or joints, leading to pain and stiffness.

Herbal creams containing ingredients such as arnica, capsaicin, and devil's claw can help reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and promote healing in these areas.