By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Bursitis
Herbal tinctures for bursitis are concentrated plant extracts that have been shown to alleviate symptoms of bursitis, a painful condition characterized by inflammation and swelling in the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) between joints.
These tinctures help reduce pain, stiffness, and inflammation by promoting relaxation and reducing swelling. Examples of herbal tinctures that can be effective for bursitis include Turmeric, Willow Bark, and St. John's Wort.
By using these tinctures, individuals with bursitis may experience improved mobility, reduced discomfort during daily activities, and enhanced overall well-being.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for bursitis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Artemisia absinthium
- 2. Capsicum annuum
- 3. Gaultheria procumbens
- 4. Lavandula angustifolia
- 5. Hypericum perforatum
- 6. Boswellia serrata
- 7. Curcuma longa
- 8. Zingiber officinale
- 9. Cissus quadrangularis
- 10. Ginkgo biloba
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for bursitis?
- What ailments similar to bursitis are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Artemisia absinthium
Wormwood tinctures helps with bursitis because its bioactive compounds, such as sesquiterpenes and flavonoids, possess potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
These properties help to reduce swelling and alleviate pain in inflamed joints and bursae, providing relief from discomfort and stiffness associated with bursitis. Additionally, wormwood's antimicrobial activity may also help prevent infections that can exacerbate the condition.
By targeting multiple aspects of bursitis, wormwood tinctures offer a natural and holistic approach to managing this common musculoskeletal issue.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium tinctures that help with bursitis.
- Thujone: A terpene, thujone may help with bursitis by reducing inflammation and pain due to its ability to modulate the body's immune response and interact with neurotransmitters.
- Absinthin: A sesquiterpene lactone, absinthin may contribute to bursitis relief by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain in affected joints.
- Artabsin: A sesquiterpene lactone, artabsin may aid in bursitis treatment by displaying anti-inflammatory activity, which can help mitigate the pain and swelling associated with bursitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make tinctures for bursitis.
- Leaves: Artemisia absinthium leaves are commonly used due to their high concentration of sesquiterpene compounds, which exhibit anti-inflammatory properties useful in treating bursitis.
- Stems: The stems of Artemisia absinthium are often used because they contain a significant amount of essential oils, including thujone and camphor, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Roots: Artemisia absinthium roots are sometimes used due to their high content of sesquiterpene lactones, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help alleviate bursitis symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wormwood for bursitis.
- Harvest the fresh or dried aerial parts of artemisia absinthium in the morning or late afternoon for maximum potency.
- Combine 1 part of dried artemisia absinthium with 2 parts of 80% grain vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks with occasional gentle shaking.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container discarding the solids.
- Bottle the clear herbal tincture in dark glass containers and label them with the date and contents.
2. Capsicum annuum
Bell pepper tinctures helps with bursitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The herbal extract contains bioactive compounds like capsaicin and flavonoids, which work together to reduce swelling and alleviate pain in affected joints. By reducing inflammation, bell pepper tincture can help to ease the discomfort associated with bursitis, allowing for improved mobility and reduced stiffness.
Additionally, its antioxidant properties may also help to promote tissue repair and overall joint health, further supporting the body's natural healing process.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Capsicum annuum tinctures that help with bursitis.
- Capsaicin: Capsaicin, a phenolic amide and the primary bioactive compound in Capsicum annuum, helps with bursitis by inhibiting the release of pain-causing chemicals like substance P and prostaglandins, reducing inflammation and pain.
- Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid and powerful antioxidant, helps with bursitis by reducing inflammation, preventing the release of inflammatory enzymes, and inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines, all of which contribute to reduced swelling and pain.
- Beta-caryophyllene: Beta-caryophyllene, a sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helps with bursitis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, reducing inflammation and pain, and promoting the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of bell pepper used to make tinctures for bursitis.
- Fruits: Capsaicin present in the fruits of Capsicum annuum is used to make tinctures for bursitis as it has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Leaves of Capsicum annuum contain capsaicin and other compounds that are used in tinctures to relieve pain and reduce inflammation associated with bursitis.
- Seeds: Capsaicin is also present in the seeds of Capsicum annuum, which are used to make tinctures that help in reducing inflammation and pain in bursitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bell pepper for bursitis.
- Harvest mature capsicum annuum fruits from the plant for tincture preparation.
- Dry the harvested fruits in a single layer at 30 to 50 degrees celsius for 7 days.
- Combine 500 grams of dried capsicum annuum fruits with 1000 milliliters of 80 proof ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks to allow the infusion to mature.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
3. Gaultheria procumbens
Wintergreen tinctures helps with bursitis because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which target the affected joints and surrounding tissues.
The methyl salicylate in wintergreen oil has been shown to reduce inflammation and pain associated with bursitis, allowing for improved mobility and reduced discomfort. Additionally, wintergreen's warming effects help increase blood flow to the affected area, promoting healing and reducing stiffness.
By incorporating herbal wintergreen tinctures into one's regimen, individuals can experience relief from the chronic pain and limited range of motion characteristic of bursitis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gaultheria procumbens tinctures that help with bursitis.
- Methyl salicylate: Helps with bursitis by providing anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects due to its analgesic properties, similar to aspirin.
- Gaultherin: Contributes to the alleviation of bursitis symptoms by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which may help reduce swelling and pain.
- Gentiopicrin: Plays a role in alleviating bursitis symptoms by displaying anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which may help reduce pain and swelling associated with the condition.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wintergreen used to make tinctures for bursitis.
- Roots: Rich in glycosides and phenolic compounds, roots are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate pain and swelling associated with bursitis.
- Leaves: Leaves contain salicin, a compound similar to aspirin, which provides analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, making them useful for treating bursitis.
- Barks: Barks of Gaultheria procumbens contain flavonoids and phenolic compounds that contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce bursitis symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wintergreen for bursitis.
- Harvest fresh gaultheria procumbens leaves and stems in the morning after dew has evaporated.
- Clean the harvested gaultheria procumbens material by gently shaking off dirt and debris.
- Use a 1:2 ratio of gaultheria procumbens to 80-proof vodka to create the tincture.
- Steep the gaultheria procumbens material in the vodka mixture for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter to separate the tincture from the solids.
4. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender tinctures helps with bursitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The bioactive compounds in lavender, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, have been shown to reduce swelling and pain in inflamed joints, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating bursitis symptoms. Additionally, lavender's calming effects can help soothe the nervous system, reducing muscle tension that often accompanies bursitis.
By promoting relaxation and relieving discomfort, English lavender tinctures offer a safe and gentle way to manage bursitis symptoms naturally.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia tinctures that help with bursitis.
- Linalool: As a potent anti-inflammatory compound, linalool helps alleviate pain and swelling associated with bursitis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Linalyl acetate: This terpene has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce the discomfort and inflammation caused by bursitis, promoting relaxation and reducing pain perception.
- Rosmarinic acid: As a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, rosmarinic acid helps protect against oxidative stress and inflammation in the affected area, reducing the severity of bursitis symptoms and promoting healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make tinctures for bursitis.
- Leaves: Contain anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce pain and swelling associated with bursitis.
- Flowers: Rich in essential oils with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help soothe and calm affected joints.
- Stems: Contain bioactive compounds that may help reduce inflammation and promote healing in bursitis-affected areas.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for bursitis.
- Harvest fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers at their peak potency in the early morning or late afternoon.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a warm place away from direct sunlight for 1-2 weeks.
- Combine 1 part dried lavandula angustifolia flowers with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place and steep for 2-6 weeks shaking the jar occasionally.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
5. Hypericum perforatum
St John's wort tinctures helps with bursitis because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The herb contains bioactive compounds such as hyperforin and hypericin, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in affected joints. By reducing swelling and discomfort, St John's wort tincture can provide relief from the characteristic symptoms of bursitis, including stiffness, redness, and warmth around the affected area.
This natural remedy can help promote a sense of calm and relaxation, allowing for improved mobility and reduced discomfort associated with this condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum tinctures that help with bursitis.
- Hyperforin: Hyperforin is a prenylated phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain associated with bursitis.
- Quercetin: Quercetin is a flavonoid with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help alleviate inflammation and oxidative stress in bursitis.
- N-alkanoyl-4-hydroxyanthranilic acid: NA4HA is a phenolic compound with anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation in bursitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make tinctures for bursitis.
- Leaves: Their bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, provide anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties to alleviate bursitis symptoms.
- Flowers: Rich in anthranoids and other bioactive compounds, they help reduce inflammation and pain associated with bursitis.
- Roots: Containing sesquiterpenoids and other compounds, roots provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help in managing bursitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for bursitis.
- Harvest hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves at peak potency during mid to late summer when fully open.
- Clean and dry the gathered plant material thoroughly to prevent contamination and spoilage.
- Use a 1 part plant material to 2 part 80 proof vodka ratio for tincture preparation.
- Steep the plant material in the vodka mixture for 4 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the tincture and discard the solids then store it in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
6. Boswellia serrata
Frankincense tinctures helps with bursitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The boswellic acids present in frankincense work to reduce swelling and pain in affected joints, providing relief from stiffness and discomfort. Additionally, the tincture's ability to stimulate blood flow can help promote healing and repair of damaged tissue.
This natural remedy offers a gentle yet effective way to alleviate symptoms associated with bursitis, allowing for improved mobility and reduced dependence on pharmaceuticals.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata tinctures that help with bursitis.
- Boswellic acids: These terpenoid compounds help reduce inflammation and pain in bursitis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
- Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid: AKBA is a boswellic acid that has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help alleviate pain and swelling associated with bursitis.
- 3-o-acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid: Similar to AKBA, 3-O-AKBA has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help reduce pain and inflammation in bursitis, promoting faster recovery.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make tinctures for bursitis.
- Roots: They are rich in boswellic acids, which are responsible for the anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties beneficial for bursitis.
- Barks: They contain boswellic acids and other bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with bursitis.
- Rhyzomes: They are also a significant source of boswellic acids and are often used to make tinctures for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties in treating bursitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for bursitis.
- Harvest fresh boswellia serrata roots and cut them into small pieces weighing approximately 500 grams.
- Combine the chopped roots with 75% ethanol or a combination of ethanol and water as a solvent in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place and steep the mixture for 2 to 3 weeks shaking it occasionally.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container discarding the solids.
- Transfer the resulting tincture to smaller glass bottles and store them in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
7. Curcuma longa
Turmeric tinctures helps with bursitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
Curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, reducing swelling and pain associated with inflamed joints. Additionally, curcumin's antioxidant effects help to neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate inflammation. By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, turmeric tinctures can provide relief from bursitis symptoms, promoting healthy joint function and reducing stiffness.
As a result, turmeric tinctures have become a popular natural remedy for managing bursitis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa tinctures that help with bursitis.
- Curcumin: Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound, helps with bursitis by reducing inflammation and pain through its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Demethoxycurcumin: DMC, a curcuminoid, may help alleviate bursitis symptoms by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thus reducing inflammation and pain.
- Volatile oils: The volatile oils present in turmeric tinctures may help with bursitis by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can reduce pain and inflammation in affected joints.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make tinctures for bursitis.
- Roots: Contain a variety of bioactive compounds, including curcuminoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that aid in bursitis treatment.
- Leaves: Have been traditionally used to make herbal remedies, including tinctures, which help reduce inflammation and ease bursitis symptoms due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for bursitis.
- Chop 500 grams of fresh curcuma longa root into small pieces and set aside for later use.
- Combine the chopped root pieces with 1 liter of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place and steep for 2-3 weeks shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a separate clean container discarding the solids.
- Transfer the tincture to glass dropper bottles and store in a cool dark place for up to 5 years.
8. Zingiber officinale
Ginger tinctures helps with bursitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and alleviate pain in affected joints.
The tincture's bioactive compounds, such as gingerols and shogaols, work to suppress the production of pro-inflammatory hormones, thereby reducing inflammation and irritation in the bursae. This natural remedy also helps to improve blood circulation, promoting healing and relaxation in the affected area.
As a result, herbal ginger tinctures provide effective relief from the discomfort and stiffness associated with bursitis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with bursitis.
- Gingerol: Gingerol's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling and pain associated with bursitis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Shogaol: Shogaol's analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects help alleviate bursitis pain and reduce inflammation by modulating the activity of pain-sensing neurons and suppressing the production of inflammatory cytokines.
- Curcuminoids: Curcuminoids' potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help reduce bursitis inflammation and prevent tissue damage by inhibiting the activity of inflammatory enzymes and scavenging free radicals.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for bursitis.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes of Zingiber officinale contain compounds like gingerols and shogaols that have anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate bursitis symptoms.
- Roots: The roots of the plant are also rich in gingerols and other bioactive compounds that contribute to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects in treating bursitis.
- Leaves: The leaves of Zingiber officinale contain volatile oils and other compounds that may help reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with bursitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for bursitis.
- Harvest 10-20 roots of zingiber officinale from a sunny spot in late summer or early fall.
- Chop 50-100 grams of the harvested roots into small pieces and set aside for 24 hours.
- Combine 50-100 grams of the chopped roots with 500 milliliters of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks with occasional shaking.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
9. Cissus quadrangularis
Veldt grape tinctures helps with bursitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce swelling and pain in affected joints.
The tincture's flavonoids and phenolic acids work together to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby alleviating discomfort and stiffness. Additionally, veldt grape tincture contains antioxidants that help repair damaged tissues and promote healing.
As a result, regular consumption of this herbal remedy can provide significant relief from bursitis symptoms, allowing individuals to resume their normal activities with greater ease and comfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cissus quadrangularis tinctures that help with bursitis.
- Kaempferol: This flavonoid compound helps with bursitis by reducing inflammation and pain due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Quercetin: As a flavonoid with potent anti-inflammatory properties, quercetin helps alleviate bursitis symptoms by inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
- Glycosides: These compounds help reduce inflammation and pain associated with bursitis by modulating the body's response to injury and promoting tissue repair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of veldt grape used to make tinctures for bursitis.
- Stems: Stems are the most commonly used part due to their high content of anti-inflammatory compounds and flavonoids, which help alleviate bursitis symptoms.
- Leaves: Leaves are used due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which contribute to the reduction of inflammation and pain associated with bursitis.
- Roots: Roots are utilized for their purported anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may aid in the treatment of bursitis by reducing swelling and promoting healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic veldt grape for bursitis.
- Gather 500g of dried cissus quadrangularis root and 750ml of 80% ethanol in a clean environment.
- Combine the cissus quadrangularis root with 750ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking occasionally.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth into a clean glass container, discarding the solids.
- Transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles and store in a cool dark place for up to 5 years.
10. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with bursitis because it contains compounds that reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
The tannins in maidenhair tree have been shown to inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause pain and swelling. Additionally, the flavonoids present in the tincture have anti-inflammatory properties that help to calm irritated tissues and reduce stiffness.
As a result, maidenhair tree tinctures can provide effective relief from the symptoms of bursitis, allowing for improved mobility and reduced discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with bursitis.
- Bilobalide: A sesquiterpene lactone found in Ginkgo biloba, bilobalide helps with bursitis by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which are common contributors to bursitis pain and swelling.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid phenolic compound, quercetin in Ginkgo biloba has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate bursitis symptoms by reducing swelling and pain.
- Ginkgolide b: A sesquiterpene lactone, ginkgolide B in Ginkgo biloba has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help mitigate bursitis symptoms by reducing inflammation and protecting against cell damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for bursitis.
- Leaves: The leaves of the Ginkgo biloba tree are the most commonly used part for tinctures due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to help alleviate bursitis symptoms.
- Seeds: Ginkgo seeds have been traditionally used to make tinctures for treating bursitis, as they contain bilobalide, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: The roots of the Ginkgo biloba tree are also used to make tinctures for bursitis, as they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help reduce bursitis symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for bursitis.
- Harvest ginkgo biloba leaves in late summer or early fall when they are at their peak potency for tincture making.
- Dry ginkgo biloba leaves thoroughly in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 6 hours to prevent mold.
- Combine 1 part ginkgo biloba leaves with 2 parts 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar to achieve a strong tincture.
- Steep the ginkgo biloba leaf mixture in the vodka for 2 to 3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for bursitis?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with bursitis is a blend of arnica, turmeric, and willow bark.
Arnica helps reduce inflammation and pain, while turmeric's curcumin soothes and calms the affected area. Willow bark's salicylic acid has natural anti-inflammatory properties, which work synergistically with the other herbs to alleviate bursitis symptoms. This combination can be taken orally or applied topically to the affected area, providing quick relief and promoting healing of the inflamed bursa.
It's essential to consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies.
What ailments similar to bursitis are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to bursitis/tinctures.html">bursitis/tinctures.html">bursitis that are treated with herbal tinctures are tendonitis, tenosynovitis, and fibromyalgia.
These conditions all involve inflammation and pain in the muscles, tendons, and joints.
Herbal tinctures such as arnica, stinging nettle, and devil's claw have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and alleviate pain, providing relief for those suffering from these conditions.