By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Foot Pain
Herbal tinctures for foot pain are concentrated liquid extracts made from plant-based herbs, which have been traditionally used to alleviate discomfort and pain in the feet.
These natural remedies help by reducing inflammation, relaxing muscles, and improving circulation. For example, peppermint tincture can soothe soreness and stiffness, while arnica tincture can reduce swelling and bruising.
By using these herbal tinctures, individuals with foot pain can regain mobility, enjoy daily activities without discomfort, and improve their overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for foot pain, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Salvia miltiorrhiza
- 2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 3. Curcuma longa
- 4. Zingiber officinale
- 5. Capsicum annuum
- 6. Aloe vera
- 7. Boswellia serrata
- 8. Celastrus paniculatus
- 9. Eucalyptus globulus
- 10. Helichrysum italicum
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for foot pain?
- What ailments similar to foot pain are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Salvia miltiorrhiza
Danshen tinctures helps with foot pain because it contains salvianolic acid, a compound that has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
When applied topically to the affected area, danshen tincture helps to reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with conditions such as plantar fasciitis, arthritis, and gout. The tincture also increases blood flow to the affected area, promoting healing and relaxation of the muscles and tissues in the foot.
As a result, danshen tinctures offer effective relief from foot pain and discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia miltiorrhiza tinctures that help with foot pain.
- Tansinones: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain associated with foot pain conditions such as plantar fasciitis.
- Salvianolic acids: These antioxidants can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can contribute to foot pain and improve circulation to promote healing.
- Danshensu: This compound has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help reduce pain and discomfort in the feet by inhibiting the production of inflammatory mediators.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of danshen used to make tinctures for foot pain.
- Roots: The roots are the primary source of salvinolic acid, a compound that helps to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Stems: The stems of Salvia miltiorrhiza contain a high concentration of flavonoids, which are known to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Barks: The barks of the plant are also used due to their high content of phenolic acids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic danshen for foot pain.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh salvia miltiorrhiza roots and dry them for 2 weeks in a well-ventilated area.
- Chop 1 part of dried salvia miltiorrhiza roots into smaller pieces and mix with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka.
- Steep the mixture in a glass jar for 2 weeks in a cool dark place, shaking daily.
- Strain the liquid from the jar and discard the solids, using a coffee filter to clarify the liquid.
- Transfer the tincture to a glass bottle and store it in a cool dark place, away from children and pets.
2. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with foot pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and discomfort in the feet.
The tincture's glycyrrhizin content also has a synergistic effect with other herbal ingredients to promote healing and repair of damaged tissues.
Additionally, licorice root's natural analgesic and anesthetic properties help alleviate pain and numbness associated with conditions such as plantar fasciitis and arthritis, providing quick relief from foot pain and discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with foot pain.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpene saponin helps alleviate foot pain by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune system, which in turn may help alleviate conditions like plantar fasciitis.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce pain and swelling in the feet, as well as promote wound healing in conditions like diabetic foot ulcers.
- Licoricidin: This triterpene glycoside has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which may help reduce pain and discomfort in the feet by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for foot pain.
- Roots: They are the primary source of glycyrrhizin, a compound responsible for the anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that contribute to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Stems: They contain glycosides and terpenoids that aid in reducing pain and inflammation in the feet.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for foot pain.
- Gather 250 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra root and 750 milliliters of 80% ethanol for tincture preparation.
- Grind the dried root into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for increased surface area.
- Combine the ground root powder with 750 milliliters of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar for infusion.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks with occasional shaking for extraction.
- Filter the mixture through a coffee filter to remove the root particles and obtain the glycyrrhizin-rich tincture.
3. Curcuma longa
Turmeric tinctures helps with foot pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce swelling and relieve discomfort in the feet.
The curcuminoid compounds found in turmeric work to block the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby alleviating pain and stiffness caused by conditions such as arthritis, plantar fasciitis, and heel spur syndrome.
Additionally, turmeric's antioxidant properties help to promote healthy tissue regeneration and repair, further contributing to its analgesic effects on the feet.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa tinctures that help with foot pain.
- Curcumin: Curcumin is a polyphenolic compound that helps reduce inflammation and pain in the feet by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
- Demethoxycurcumin: Demethoxycurcumin is a curcuminoid that exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate foot pain by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Beta-caryophyllene: Beta-caryophyllene is a sesquiterpene that acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce pain and inflammation in the feet by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make tinctures for foot pain.
- Roots: Roots: The roots of Curcuma longa are used to make tinctures for foot pain due to their high content of curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Flowers: Flowers: The flowers of Curcuma longa are used to make tinctures for foot pain due to their essential oils and flavonoids, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for foot pain.
- Harvest 10-20 kg of fresh rhizomes preferably in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Clean the rhizomes thoroughly by rinsing them with cold water and then pat them dry.
- Cut the rhizomes into small pieces approximately 1-2 cm in length and weigh them.
- Combine 1 part of the rhizome pieces with 2 parts of a neutral solvent such as ethanol or glycerin in a clean glass container.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking the container occasionally to extract the active compounds.
4. Zingiber officinale
Ginger tinctures helps with foot pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
When applied topically, the active compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, penetrate deep into the skin and muscles to reduce swelling and ease stiffness. This natural remedy also increases blood flow and reduces oxidative stress, allowing for faster healing and relief from conditions like plantar fasciitis, arthritis, and other types of foot pain.
As a result, herbal ginger tinctures provide quick and effective relief from discomfort and pain in the feet and ankles.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with foot pain.
- Gingerols: These sesquiterpene compounds are known for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation in the feet.
- Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols are also sesquiterpene compounds that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making them effective in relieving foot pain and discomfort.
- Zingerone: A phenolic compound found in ginger, zingerone has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help to reduce pain and inflammation in the feet, making it an effective component in herbal remedies for foot pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for foot pain.
- Roots: Although often confused with rhizomes, roots are also used for their medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help alleviate foot pain.
- Buds: Young buds of the Zingiber officinale plant are sometimes used to make tinctures, as they contain a higher concentration of bioactive compounds compared to mature rhizomes or roots.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for foot pain.
- Harvest 250 grams of fresh or 500 grams of dried zingiber officinale rhizomes for tincture production.
- Chop the zingiber officinale rhizomes into small pieces for efficient solvent penetration.
- Combine 250 milliliters of 95% ethanol with the chopped zingiber officinale and steep for 2 weeks in a glass container.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a separate container to remove solids.
- Store the zingiber officinale tincture in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid for up to 2 years.
5. Capsicum annuum
Bell pepper tinctures helps with foot pain because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The tincture contains bioactive compounds like capsaicin, which targets the root cause of pain in the feet by reducing inflammation and releasing natural endorphins that alleviate discomfort. Additionally, bell pepper's antioxidants help to soothe and calm irritated tissues, promoting healthy blood flow and relaxation.
By incorporating herbal bell pepper tinctures into one's daily routine, individuals can experience relief from chronic foot pain and enjoy improved mobility and flexibility.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Capsicum annuum tinctures that help with foot pain.
- Capsaicin: Capsaicin helps alleviate foot pain by inhibiting the production of a chemical called substance P, which transmits pain signals to the brain.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as Quercetin, may contribute to pain relief by reducing inflammation and modulating the body's pain response.
- Alkaloid: Capsaicinoids, a class of alkaloids present in Capsicum annuum, exhibit analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate foot pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of bell pepper used to make tinctures for foot pain.
- Fruits: The fruits of Capsicum annuum are used to make tinctures for foot pain due to their high concentration of capsaicin, which has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Capsicum annuum are used to make tinctures for foot pain due to their secondary metabolites, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can help alleviate pain.
- Seeds: The seeds of Capsicum annuum are used to make tinctures for foot pain due to their rich oil content, which may have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help relieve pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bell pepper for foot pain.
- Harvest ripe capsicum annuum fruits in the morning when their moisture content is at its highest peak.
- Clean and dry the harvested capsicum annuum fruits thoroughly to prevent contamination and spoilage.
- Chop the dried capsicum annuum fruits into small pieces and combine them with 80% vodka in a ratio of 1:5.
- Store the mixture in a glass jar and let it steep in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
6. Aloe vera
Aloe tinctures helps with foot pain because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The gel-like substance found in aloe vera contains compounds that soothe sore muscles, reduce swelling, and alleviate discomfort. When taken orally as a tincture, these compounds are absorbed into the bloodstream, targeting areas of inflammation and pain in the feet.
This natural remedy can provide relief from conditions such as plantar fasciitis, arch pain, and even fungal infections like athlete's foot, allowing individuals to enjoy improved mobility and reduced discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with foot pain.
- Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin is a anthraquinone compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain in the feet.
- Aloin: Aloin is a anthraquinone glycoside that has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help alleviate pain and inflammation associated with foot conditions.
- Glycoproteins: Glycoproteins, specifically acemannan, are polysaccharide compounds that have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the feet.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for foot pain.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Aloe vera for tinctures, as they contain high concentrations of anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin.
- Gel (from leaves): Not listed but commonly referred to as the clear gel, the Aloe vera gel is often extracted from the leaf and used for tinctures, as it is rich in vitamins, minerals, and anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Pulp (from leaves): The pulp of the Aloe vera leaf is also used for tinctures, as it contains a high concentration of bioactive compounds like aloin, aloe-emodin, and other flavonoids that help alleviate foot pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for foot pain.
- Gather 1 cup of fresh aloe vera gel, 2 cups of 80 proof vodka, and a clean glass jar.
- Chop the aloe vera gel into small pieces and place it in the glass jar.
- Add the aloe vera gel pieces to the vodka, making sure they are completely covered.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking it daily.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.
7. Boswellia serrata
Frankincense tinctures helps with foot pain because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The boswellic acids present in frankincense work by reducing swelling and inflammation in the feet, which can help to alleviate chronic pain conditions such as plantar fasciitis. Additionally, the tincture's natural oils can help to soothe and calm irritated skin, making it an effective remedy for foot pain caused by conditions like athletes' foot or toe fungus.
By using frankincense tinctures, individuals can experience relief from discomfort and stiffness in their feet, promoting overall comfort and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata tinctures that help with foot pain.
- Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswelllic acid: This compound has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help reduce pain and swelling in the feet.
- Terpenoids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties, which help alleviate pain and stiffness associated with conditions like plantar fasciitis and heel pain.
- Beta-boswelllic acid: This terpenoid has potent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the feet, particularly in cases of arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make tinctures for foot pain.
- Roots: The roots of Boswellia serrata are primarily used to make tinctures for foot pain due to their high concentration of boswellic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of Boswellia serrata are used due to their ability to reduce inflammation and pain in the body, particularly in the feet.
- Barks: The barks of Boswellia serrata are used to make tinctures for foot pain as they contain boswellic acids that help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for foot pain.
- Gather 1 part of dried boswellia serrata resin and 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Add 1 cup of the vodka-resin mixture to a saucepan and warm it gently over low heat for 2 hours.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into the clean glass jar.
- Allow the mixture to steep for 4-6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
- Strain the tincture again and transfer it to smaller glass bottles for storage and use.
8. Celastrus paniculatus
Malkangani tinctures helps with foot pain because it has potent anti-inflammatory properties that target the affected areas, providing quick relief from discomfort and swelling.
The tincture's natural compounds also work to relax muscles and improve circulation, reducing tension in the feet and ankles.
As a result, individuals can experience a significant reduction in pain and stiffness, allowing them to resume their daily activities with ease and comfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Celastrus paniculatus tinctures that help with foot pain.
- Ampelopsin: This flavonoid compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce swelling and pain in the feet by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Ampelopside: As a flavonoid glycoside, ampelopside may help alleviate foot pain by exhibiting analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities, which could be beneficial in reducing discomfort and inflammation in the feet.
- Ampelopsin glucoside: This compound, similar to ampelopsin, may contribute to the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of Celastrus paniculatus, which could help alleviate foot pain by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation in the affected areas.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of malkangani used to make tinctures for foot pain.
- Seeds: They are often used due to their reported anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help in reducing pain and inflammation associated with foot pain.
- Barks: Barks are commonly used as they contain flavonoids and other compounds that help in reducing pain, inflammation, and improving blood circulation, which can be beneficial for foot pain relief.
- Stems: Stems are also used as they contain lignans, which have been reported to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, helping in the management of foot pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic malkangani for foot pain.
- Harvest fresh celastrus paniculatus roots and leaves in the early morning after the dew has evaporated and clean them thoroughly.
- Chop the celastrus paniculatus roots and leaves into small pieces and combine them with 70 percent ethanol in a ratio of 1:5.
- Steep the mixture in a dark glass container for 14 days in a cool dry place with occasional shaking.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean dark glass bottle and discard the solids.
- Label the bottle with the date of preparation and dosage instructions and store it in a cool dark place for up to 5 years.
9. Eucalyptus globulus
Tasmanian blue gum tinctures helps with foot pain because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively soothe and calm irritated tissues.
The tincture's potent compounds, such as eucalyptol and alpha-pinene, work to reduce swelling and ease pressure on the feet, providing instant relief from aching arches, plantar fasciitis, and other foot-related discomforts.
Additionally, Tasmanian blue gum's antioxidant properties help to protect against further damage and promote healing, making it an effective natural remedy for chronic foot pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus tinctures that help with foot pain.
- Cineole: A terpene that acts as a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce pain and swelling in the feet.
- Phenolic acids: Compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the feet, contributing to pain relief.
- Diterpenes: Terpenes that exhibit anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort in the feet.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make tinctures for foot pain.
- Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high eucalyptol content, which provides analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Barks: Barks are used for their high concentration of salicylic acid, which helps to reduce pain and inflammation in the feet.
- Stems: Stems are used for their eucalyptol content, which helps to relieve pain, reduce swelling, and promote healing in the feet.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for foot pain.
- Harvest fresh eucalyptus globulus leaves in the morning when the plant is at its peak potency and aroma.
- Clean and dry the eucalyptus globulus leaves completely in a well-ventilated area for at least 2 days.
- Combine 1 part dried eucalyptus globulus leaves with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks, shaking the jar every day or two.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
10. Helichrysum italicum
Curry plant tinctures helps with foot pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce swelling and ease stiffness in the feet.
The tincture's analgesic qualities also work to numb the pain, providing instant relief from aching and soreness. Additionally, curry plant tincture's natural antiseptic properties help to prevent infection and promote healing, making it an effective remedy for foot conditions such as athlete's foot and fungal infections.
This all-natural remedy provides long-lasting relief from foot pain without harsh chemicals or additives.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Helichrysum italicum tinctures that help with foot pain.
- Nerolidol: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation in the feet.
- Italidione: A sesquiterpene lactone found in Helichrysum italicum, italidione has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which contribute to its pain-relieving properties for foot pain.
- Α-pinene: This monoterpene has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation in the feet, making it an important component of Helichrysum italicum tinctures for foot pain relief.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of curry plant used to make tinctures for foot pain.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and other compounds that can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
- Buds: They contain oils and bioactive compounds that can help soothe and relax muscles, reducing pain and discomfort in the feet.
- Flowers: They have anti-inflammatory properties and contain sesquiterpenes that can help reduce pain, swelling, and discomfort in the feet.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic curry plant for foot pain.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh helichrysum italicum flowers in the morning after dew has fallen but before it gets too hot.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a warm place with good air circulation for 1-2 weeks to prevent mold.
- Grind 1 part of dried flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle to increase surface area.
- Combine 1 part of ground flowers with 2 parts of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar to create the tincture.
- Store the tincture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking the jar every day to allow extraction.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for foot pain?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with foot pain is a blend of arnica, turmeric, and ginger.
Arnica reduces inflammation and promotes healing, while turmeric's anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm the affected area. Ginger adds warmth and circulation, helping to ease pain and stiffness.
This combination can be applied topically or taken internally in small doses. Some studies suggest that this blend may also help alleviate symptoms of plantar fasciitis and other foot conditions.
Consult with a healthcare professional before using.
What ailments similar to foot pain are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to foot pain that are treated with herbal tinctures are joint and muscle pains, such as arthritis, tendonitis, and fibromyalgia.
Herbal remedies like turmeric, ginger, and willow bark help reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort.
Tinctures made from herbs like lavender, chamomile, and valerian root also soothe musculoskeletal tension and promote relaxation, providing relief for patients with conditions like sciatica, bursitis, and lower back strain.