By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 04, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Frozen Shoulder
Herbal decoctions for frozen shoulder are a natural remedy that combines herbs to create a healing solution to alleviate symptoms associated with frozen shoulder.
These decoctions help by reducing pain and inflammation, improving range of motion, and relaxing muscles. Examples include Turmeric-Ginger decoction, which reduces inflammation and eases joint stiffness, and Willow Bark decoction, which relieves pain and promotes relaxation.
By using these herbal concoctions, individuals with frozen shoulder can enjoy improved mobility, reduced discomfort, and enhanced overall well-being, allowing them to live a more active and independent life.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for frozen shoulder, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Vaccinium macrocarpon
- 2. Curcuma longa
- 3. Zingiber officinale
- 4. Harpagophytum procumbens
- 5. Salix alba
- 6. Capsicum annuum
- 7. Boswellia serrata
- 8. Arnica montana
- 9. Hypericum perforatum
- 10. Valeriana officinalis
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for frozen shoulder?
- What ailments similar to frozen shoulder are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Vaccinium macrocarpon
Highbush cranberry decoctions helps with frozen shoulder because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and pain in the affected area.
The decoction's antioxidant compounds also help to prevent further damage to joint tissues, promoting healing and reducing stiffness. Additionally, highbush cranberry contains compounds that improve circulation, which can increase blood flow and reduce the formation of scar tissue, helping to alleviate symptoms of frozen shoulder.
As a result, herbal highbush cranberry decoctions may be a valuable natural remedy for managing this condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium macrocarpon decoctions that help with frozen shoulder.
- Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the affected joint, alleviating pain and stiffness associated with frozen shoulder.
- Quercetin: As a flavonoid and a potent anti-inflammatory, quercetin helps reduce inflammation and swelling in the shoulder joint, promoting healing and relaxation of the surrounding muscles.
- Catechins: These polyphenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which may help reduce pain and discomfort in the affected joint, promoting mobility and flexibility in the shoulder.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of highbush cranberry used to make decoctions for frozen shoulder.
- Fruits: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: They are used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Stems: They are used for their potential to reduce inflammation and pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic highbush cranberry for frozen shoulder.
- Gather 30-60 grams of dried vaccinium macrocarpon and rinse it under cold running water.
- Crush the vaccinium macrocarpon into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Combine the powder with 2 liters of boiling water in a large pot.
- Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes over low heat and then strain it.
- Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consumption.
2. Curcuma longa
Turmeric decoctions helps with frozen shoulder because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The curcuminoids present in turmeric work to reduce inflammation and pain, alleviating stiffness and limited mobility associated with this condition. Additionally, turmeric's natural analgesic properties help to soothe the affected area, promoting relaxation and reducing muscle spasms.
By incorporating turmeric decoctions into their treatment plan, individuals suffering from frozen shoulder can experience significant relief from symptoms and improved overall function.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa decoctions that help with frozen shoulder.
- Curcuminoids: Curcuminoids, particularly curcumin, have potent anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and inflammation associated with frozen shoulder.
- Volatile oils: sesquiterpenes such as curzerenone and furanosesquiterpenes : These volatile oils have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that help alleviate pain and stiffness associated with frozen shoulder.
- Furanosesquiterpenes: Furanosesquiterpenes exhibit anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities, which contribute to their potential benefits in managing the symptoms of frozen shoulder.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make decoctions for frozen shoulder.
- Rhyzomes: They contain a high concentration of curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that helps to reduce pain and inflammation in frozen shoulder.
- Roots: The roots of Curcuma longa are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing pain and promoting healing in frozen shoulder.
- Stems: The stems of Curcuma longa contain bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help to alleviate symptoms of frozen shoulder such as pain and stiffness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for frozen shoulder.
- Weigh 500 milligrams of dried curcuma longa tubers and place them in a glass container.
- Boil one liter of water for five minutes and then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Add the weighed curcuma longa tubers to the simmering water and steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
- Discard the solids and let the decoction cool to room temperature for 30 minutes.
3. Zingiber officinale
Ginger decoctions helps with frozen shoulder because it contains compounds that reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger, particularly gingerols and shogaols, help to decrease swelling in the affected joint, thereby alleviating stiffness and discomfort associated with frozen shoulder. Additionally, the warming effects of ginger can increase blood flow to the area, promoting relaxation and reducing muscle spasms.
As a result, herbal ginger decoctions provide a natural and effective way to manage symptoms and promote healing in individuals suffering from frozen shoulder.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale decoctions that help with frozen shoulder.
- Gingerol: A phenolic compound that helps with frozen shoulder by reducing inflammation and pain through its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Shogaol: A phenolic compound that helps with frozen shoulder by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and reducing oxidative stress, which contributes to the development of frozen shoulder.
- 6-gingerol: A phenolic compound that helps with frozen shoulder by reducing pain and inflammation through its ability to block the production of pain-producing chemicals and reducing oxidative stress.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for frozen shoulder.
- Roots: Roots are used due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote blood circulation, helping to alleviate pain and stiffness associated with frozen shoulder.
- Buds: Buds are used due to their high antioxidant content and potential to reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to the development of frozen shoulder.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for frozen shoulder.
- Weigh 1-2 grams of dried zingiber officinale root in a small bowl.
- Chop the weighed zingiber officinale root into small pieces in a mortar and pestle.
- Combine 250 milliliters of boiling water with the chopped zingiber officinale root in a teapot.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid reduces slightly.
- Strain the decoction into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve and discard the solids.
4. Harpagophytum procumbens
Devil's claw decoctions helps with frozen shoulder because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties that can effectively reduce pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected joint.
The decoction's rich concentration of harpagosides and other bioactive compounds works to alleviate inflammation and relax muscles, allowing for improved mobility and reduced discomfort.
Additionally, devil's claw's ability to stimulate blood flow and promote collagen synthesis may help restore normal shoulder function and reduce the risk of long-term damage.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Harpagophytum procumbens decoctions that help with frozen shoulder.
- Harpagoside: Harpagoside is a glycoside compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with frozen shoulder.
- Triterpenes: Triterpenes, specifically those like ursolic acid, have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping to reduce pain and inflammation in frozen shoulder.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in frozen shoulder, promoting healing and reducing pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of devil's claw used to make decoctions for frozen shoulder.
- Roots: Harpagophytum procumbens roots are commonly used due to their high concentration of harpagoside, a key compound responsible for the plant's anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes, also known as underground stems, are used in Harpagophytum procumbens decoctions as they are rich in harpagoside and other bioactive compounds that aid in reducing inflammation and pain associated with frozen shoulder.
- Leaves: Leaves of Harpagophytum procumbens are used in decoctions due to their ability to contribute to the overall anti-inflammatory properties of the plant, although they may contain lower concentrations of harpagoside compared to the roots and rhyzomes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic devil's claw for frozen shoulder.
- Collect 500 grams of dried harpagophytum procumbens roots from a trusted supplier or harvest them from your own garden.
- Rinse the roots with clean water to remove any impurities and debris from the harvest or storage process.
- Chop the roots into smaller pieces to increase their surface area for decoction.
- Combine the chopped roots with 2 liters of water in a large pot and bring to a boil.
- Simmer the mixture for 10 to 30 minutes to release the active compounds from the roots into the water.
5. Salix alba
White willow decoctions helps with frozen shoulder because they contain salicin, a natural compound similar to aspirin that reduces inflammation and pain.
The decoction can be used topically or taken orally to alleviate symptoms of stiffness, limited mobility, and chronic pain associated with frozen shoulder.
By reducing inflammation and relaxing muscle tension, white willow decoctions may help restore range of motion and improve joint function in individuals suffering from this condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salix alba decoctions that help with frozen shoulder.
- Salicin: Salicin, a phenolic glycoside, helps reduce inflammation and pain associated with frozen shoulder by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Salipurpurin: Salipurpurin, a salicylate, has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which aid in reducing pain and inflammation in frozen shoulder by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, a class of plant-derived polyphenols, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing in frozen shoulder.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of white willow used to make decoctions for frozen shoulder.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate pain and inflammation associated with frozen shoulder.
- Buds: The buds are used to make decoctions for frozen shoulder due to their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which help reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic white willow for frozen shoulder.
- Measure out 2-4 grams of dried salix alba bark and place it in a clean glass container.
- Combine the measured salix alba bark with 500 milliliters of boiling water in a saucepan.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and allow the mixture to steep for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into another clean container.
- Discard the solids and let the decoction cool to room temperature before refrigerating or using.
6. Capsicum annuum
Bell pepper decoctions helps with frozen shoulder because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce swelling and pain in the affected joint.
The decoction's rich antioxidant content also promotes relaxation and reduces muscle tension, helping to alleviate stiffness and restricted mobility.
Additionally, bell peppers' natural analgesic properties provide relief from chronic pain, allowing patients to regain range of motion and improve overall flexibility.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Capsicum annuum decoctions that help with frozen shoulder.
- Capsaicin: Capsaicin helps with frozen shoulder by reducing inflammation and pain through its ability to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory substances, such as bradykinin and prostaglandin E2.
- Quercetin: Quercetin helps with frozen shoulder by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress through its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate pain and stiffness in the affected joint.
- Kaempferol: Kaempferol helps with frozen shoulder by inhibiting the production of inflammatory mediators, such as nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2, which may contribute to the pain and stiffness associated with frozen shoulder.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of bell pepper used to make decoctions for frozen shoulder.
- Leaves: Leaves of Capsicum annuum are commonly used due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce pain and stiffness associated with frozen shoulder.
- Fruits (commonly referred to as peppers): Fruits of Capsicum annuum are used for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help alleviate pain and swelling in frozen shoulder.
- Seeds: Seeds of Capsicum annuum are used for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce pain and inflammation associated with frozen shoulder.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bell pepper for frozen shoulder.
- Gather 1/2 cup of dried capsicum annuum peppers and 2 cups of water for decoction preparation.
- Boil 2 cups of water in a saucepan for 5 minutes before adding the dried peppers.
- Add the dried capsicum annuum peppers to the boiling water and reduce heat to simmer for 20 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove the solids.
- Store the herbal decoction in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
7. Boswellia serrata
Frankincense decoctions helps with frozen shoulder because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can reduce pain and stiffness in the affected joint.
The decoction's natural compounds, such as boswellic acids, can also improve circulation and reduce inflammation in the surrounding tissues, promoting relaxation and flexibility.
Additionally, frankincense has been shown to stimulate the production of collagen, which can help repair damaged tissue and promote healthy joint function.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata decoctions that help with frozen shoulder.
- Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid: This triterpenoid helps with frozen shoulder by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response to alleviate pain and stiffness.
- Boswellic acids: These triterpenoids have anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties that help to reduce pain and swelling associated with frozen shoulder.
- Α-boswellic acid: This triterpenoid has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in frozen shoulder, thus alleviating pain and improving mobility.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make decoctions for frozen shoulder.
- Roots: The roots of Boswellia serrata are commonly used due to their high concentration of boswellic acids, which are believed to reduce inflammation and pain associated with frozen shoulder.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes (or underground stems) of Boswellia serrata are often used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate the pain and stiffness associated with frozen shoulder.
- Barks: The barks of Boswellia serrata are sometimes used in decoctions to utilize their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation in frozen shoulder patients.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for frozen shoulder.
- Harvest 30-60 grams of boswellia serrata resin from mature trees in the wild or cultivated areas.
- Grind the harvested resin into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.
- Combine the ground resin powder with 2 cups of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer the mixture for 15-30 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container and discard the solids.
8. Arnica montana
Mountain arnica decoctions helps with frozen shoulder because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and ease stiffness in the affected joint.
The decoction's warmth and gentle stimulation also increase blood flow, promoting healing and relaxing tense muscles and connective tissue.
Additionally, arnica's analgesic effects help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with frozen shoulder, making it a popular herbal remedy for individuals seeking natural relief from this debilitating condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arnica montana decoctions that help with frozen shoulder.
- Terpenes: These help reduce inflammation and pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to the development of frozen shoulder.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing in frozen shoulder.
- Arnica montana's sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds have shown anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with frozen shoulder.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of mountain arnica used to make decoctions for frozen shoulder.
- Flowers: The flowers of Arnica montana are commonly used in decoctions for frozen shoulder due to their anti-inflammatory properties and ability to reduce pain.
- Leaves: The leaves of Arnica montana are used in decoctions for frozen shoulder because they contain flavonoids and terpenoids that help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Roots: The roots of Arnica montana are used in decoctions for frozen shoulder due to their ability to reduce pain and inflammation, and promote circulation and healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mountain arnica for frozen shoulder.
- Harvest 30-60 grams of dried arnica montana flowers and leaves in the morning to ensure freshness.
- Rinse the dried arnica montana with cold water to remove any impurities and debris from the harvest.
- Combine the rinsed arnica montana with 1 liter of cold water and bring to a boil in a pot.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the arnica montana decoction steep for 30-60 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine mesh into a clean container to discard the solids.
9. Hypericum perforatum
St John's wort decoctions helps with frozen shoulder because it has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce pain and stiffness in the affected area.
The herb's bioactive compounds, such as hyperforin and hypericin, have been shown to inhibit prostaglandins, which contribute to inflammation and swelling. Additionally, St John's wort decoctions may improve circulation and relax muscles, allowing for greater range of motion and reduced discomfort.
By reducing pain and inflammation, these decoctions can provide relief from the symptoms of frozen shoulder.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum decoctions that help with frozen shoulder.
- Hyperforin: It has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain associated with frozen shoulder.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve joint mobility in frozen shoulder.
- N-feruloylserotonin: It has been shown to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with frozen shoulder, promoting healing and recovery.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make decoctions for frozen shoulder.
- Leaves: They are rich in hypericin and hyperforin, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and swelling associated with frozen shoulder.
- Stems: The stems contain flavonoids, which may help reduce inflammation and promote healing in frozen shoulder.
- Flowers: The flowers have antispasmodic properties, which can help relax muscles and reduce pain in frozen shoulder.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for frozen shoulder.
- Harvest 25-30 grams of fresh hypericum perforatum flowers or 10-15 grams of dried flowers at peak bloom.
- Clean the plant material by gently shaking off dirt and debris from the flowers.
- Chop the plant material into small pieces to increase the surface area for infusion.
- Steep one teaspoon of the chopped plant material in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup and discard the solids.
10. Valeriana officinalis
Valerian decoctions helps with frozen shoulder because of its remarkable ability to reduce inflammation, relax muscles, and promote circulation.
The anti-inflammatory properties of valerian root help to alleviate pain and stiffness in the affected joint, while its muscle-relaxant properties ease tension and spasms that often accompany frozen shoulder.
Additionally, valerian's stimulating effect on blood flow helps to restore proper mobility and flexibility to the joint, making it an effective natural remedy for managing this debilitating condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis decoctions that help with frozen shoulder.
- Valerenic acid: This terpenoid compound has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with frozen shoulder.
- Isovalerenol: This sesquiterpene has sedative and anti-anxiety effects, which can promote relaxation and reduce muscle tension, contributing to improved range of motion in frozen shoulder.
- Valeranone: This valerenic acid derivative has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate pain and swelling in frozen shoulder.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make decoctions for frozen shoulder.
- Roots: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of valerenic acid, which is believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Stems: Valeriana officinalis stems may also be used to make decoctions, as they contain some of the same bioactive compounds found in the roots.
- Leaves: Valeriana officinalis leaves can be used to make decoctions, although they are less commonly used than the roots or stems, as they may contain some of the same medicinal properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for frozen shoulder.
- Harvest fresh valeriana officinalis roots and clean them thoroughly with water to remove dirt and debris.
- Chop the roots into small pieces and measure out the required dosage of 4 to 6 grams per 200 milliliters.
- Combine the chopped roots with 200 milliliters of boiling water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 5 to 7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for frozen shoulder?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with frozen shoulder is a blend of turmeric, ginger, and ashwagandha.
Turmeric contains curcumin, which reduces inflammation and promotes healing. Ginger's warming properties help to increase blood flow and reduce pain.
Ashwagandha's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties aid in reducing stiffness and promoting relaxation. Together, these herbs work synergistically to alleviate symptoms of frozen shoulder, promoting pain relief, improved mobility, and overall well-being.
A typical preparation involves simmering 1 teaspoon of each herb in 2 cups of water for 10-15 minutes.
What ailments similar to frozen shoulder are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to frozen shoulder that are treated with herbal decoctions are tendonitis, bursitis, and osteoarthritis.
Decoctions made from herbs such as turmeric, ginger, and willow bark help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in these conditions. These herbal remedies also improve joint mobility and flexibility, making them effective alternatives to synthetic medications.
By promoting natural healing processes, herbal decoctions can provide long-term relief for patients suffering from these chronic pain disorders.