10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Frozen Shoulder

Herbal tinctures for frozen shoulder are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, which can be used to alleviate symptoms of frozen shoulder.

These natural remedies help by reducing inflammation, relaxing muscles, and improving circulation, ultimately relieving pain and stiffness in the affected area. For example, tinctures containing devil's claw, turmeric, and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and ease discomfort.

By using these herbal tinctures, individuals with frozen shoulder can enjoy improved mobility and reduced pain, allowing them to resume daily activities and maintain a better quality of life.

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

1. Vaccinium macrocarpon

Highbush cranberry tinctures helps with frozen shoulder because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and alleviate pain in the affected area.

The tincture's ability to relax muscles and improve circulation also plays a crucial role in alleviating stiffness and improving range of motion.

Additionally, highbush cranberry contains antioxidants that help to protect against cellular damage and promote healing, ultimately contributing to the tincture's effectiveness in addressing the chronic pain and limited mobility associated with frozen shoulder.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium macrocarpon tinctures that help with frozen shoulder.

• Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the affected joint, promoting healing and pain relief.
• Catechins: These polyphenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and anti-catabolic effects, which may help reduce joint pain and swelling associated with frozen shoulder.
• Quercetin: This flavonoid has potent anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint, while also promoting collagen synthesis and joint health.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of highbush cranberry used to make tinctures for frozen shoulder.

• Fruits: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and stiffness associated with frozen shoulder.
• Leaves: They are used due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healing in frozen shoulder.
• Barks: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help alleviate pain and reduce swelling in frozen shoulder.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic highbush cranberry for frozen shoulder.

1. Harvest 20-30 pounds of vaccinium macrocarpon berries in late summer when they are ripe and fully colored.
2. Clean the berries thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Combine 20-30 pounds of cleaned berries with 80-100 proof vodka or 95% ethanol in a 1:3 ratio by weight.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking the container every day.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass container, discard the solids.

2. Curcuma longa

Turmeric tinctures helps with frozen shoulder because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and ease pain in the affected joint.

Curcumin, a key compound in turmeric, inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby minimizing inflammation and promoting healing. Additionally, turmeric's antioxidant effects help protect damaged tissues from further harm, allowing for faster recovery and reduced stiffness.

By targeting these underlying causes of frozen shoulder, turmeric tinctures can provide natural relief and improve range of motion.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa tinctures that help with frozen shoulder.

• Curcumin: A polyphenolic compound that helps with frozen shoulder by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which contribute to the condition's development and progression.
• Demethoxycurcumin: A curcuminoid that inhibits pro-inflammatory enzymes and reduces pain associated with frozen shoulder by modulating the body's inflammatory response.
• Tumerone: A sesquiterpene that has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping to alleviate pain and reduce stiffness associated with frozen shoulder.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make tinctures for frozen shoulder.

• Roots: Although less commonly used than rhizomes, roots of Curcuma longa are also used in some tinctures as they still contain curcumin and other beneficial compounds that aid in pain relief.
• Leaves: Some tinctures might incorporate leaves of Curcuma longa, which are said to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that complement the effects of curcumin, although their use is less documented than that of rhizomes and roots.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh curcuma longa roots in late summer early fall when they are fully matured and dry.
2. Clean and dry the harvested roots in a warm air circulation oven at 100°f for 3 days.
3. Chop the dried roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for extraction.
4. Steep 100g of chopped curcuma longa roots in 500ml of high-proof vodka at room temperature for 2 weeks.
5. Strain the liquid from the root pieces using cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container.

3. Zingiber officinale

Ginger tinctures helps with frozen shoulder because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce pain and stiffness in the affected joint.

The bioactive compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, work together to decrease inflammation and relax tense muscles, allowing for a greater range of motion.

Additionally, ginger's warming properties can help to increase blood flow to the affected area, promoting healing and reducing stiffness, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating the discomfort associated with frozen shoulder.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with frozen shoulder.

• Gingerols: Gingerols, specifically 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol, are bioactive compounds found in ginger that have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with frozen shoulder.
• Shogaols: Shogaols are also bioactive compounds in ginger that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which may help reduce pain and inflammation, as well as improve joint mobility in frozen shoulder.
• Curcuminoids: Curcuminoids, particularly curcumin, are polyphenolic compounds in ginger that have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation, pain, and oxidative stress associated with frozen shoulder.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for frozen shoulder.

• Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes are the most commonly used part of Zingiber officinale due to their high concentration of gingerols and shogaols, compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: The roots are also a popular choice for making tinctures due to their rich content of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce pain and inflammation in frozen shoulder.
• Stems: The stems of Zingiber officinale are sometimes used to make tinctures due to their ability to enhance blood circulation and reduce swelling in the affected area.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for frozen shoulder.

1. Gather fresh zingiber officinale roots weighing approximately 250 grams for preparation.
2. Chop the roots into small pieces and then dry them in a single layer for two days.
3. Combine the dried zingiber officinale roots with 1000 milliliters of 35% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for a minimum of 14 days shaking it daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.

4. Harpagophytum procumbens

Devil's claw tinctures helps with frozen shoulder because it contains anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce pain and stiffness in the affected joint.

The herbal extract has natural analgesic properties that can block the transmission of pain signals to the brain, providing relief from discomfort and soreness.

Additionally, devil's claw may also improve range of motion and flexibility by reducing inflammation and swelling in the shoulder joint, allowing for greater mobility and reduced stiffness.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Harpagophytum procumbens tinctures that help with frozen shoulder.

• Harpagide: A phenylethanoid glycoside that helps with frozen shoulder by reducing inflammation and pain through its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Procumbins: A group of iridoid glycosides that aid in reducing inflammation and pain in frozen shoulder by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and mediators.
• Harpagoside: A phenylethanoid glycoside that contributes to the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of Harpagophytum procumbens, helping to alleviate pain and stiffness associated with frozen shoulder.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of devil's claw used to make tinctures for frozen shoulder.

• Roots: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of harpagoside, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate frozen shoulder symptoms.
• Stems: Stems of Harpagophytum procumbens contain compounds that aid in pain relief and reduction of inflammation associated with frozen shoulder.
• Leaves: Harpagophytum procumbens leaves are used in some tinctures as they contain flavonoids and other compounds that contribute to their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic devil's claw for frozen shoulder.

1. Harvest fresh roots of harpagophytum procumbens in early morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Clean the roots thoroughly with distilled water to remove dirt and debris from the surface.
3. Chop 250g of the cleaned roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
4. Steep the chopped roots in 750ml of 30% ethanol for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth into a clean glass container discard the solids.

5. Salix alba

White willow tinctures helps with frozen shoulder because it contains salicin, a natural anti-inflammatory compound similar to aspirin.

When taken internally, salicin reduces inflammation and pain in the joints, muscles, and connective tissue, providing relief from the stiffness and limited range of motion associated with frozen shoulder.

Additionally, white willow's anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce scarring and adhesions that can contribute to chronic pain and discomfort in the affected joint.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salix alba tinctures that help with frozen shoulder.

• Salicin: A phenolic compound, salicin helps with frozen shoulder by reducing inflammation and pain due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Salicortol: A triterpenoid saponin, salicortol contributes to the anti-inflammatory effects of Salix alba, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with frozen shoulder.
• Quercetin: A flavonoid, quercetin is known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in frozen shoulder, promoting pain relief and tissue repair.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of white willow used to make tinctures for frozen shoulder.

• Leaves: They contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, helping to relax the muscles and reduce stiffness in the affected shoulder.
• Stems: The stems of Salix alba contain salicylic acid, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce pain and inflammation in frozen shoulder.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic white willow for frozen shoulder.

1. Gather 250 grams of dried salix alba bark from a trusted supplier or harvest it sustainably yourself.
2. Crush the dried salix alba bark into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.
3. Combine 250 grams of the powdered salix alba bark with 750 milliliters of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Allow the mixture to steep in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.

6. Capsicum annuum

Bell pepper tinctures helps with frozen shoulder because it contains anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce joint pain and stiffness.

The capsaicin in bell peppers works to block the production of a chemical called substance P, which transmits pain signals to the brain, providing relief from chronic discomfort.

Additionally, the antioxidants in bell pepper tinctures help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the affected area, promoting healing and reducing the formation of adhesions that can exacerbate frozen shoulder symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Capsicum annuum tinctures that help with frozen shoulder.

• Capsaicin: Capsaicin, a vanilloid compound, helps with frozen shoulder by blocking the action of substance P, a neurotransmitter that transmits pain signals to the brain, thereby reducing pain and inflammation.
• Capsaicinoid glycosides: These capsaicinoid glycosides help with frozen shoulder by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as COX-2 and 5-LOX, which are involved in the inflammatory process.
• Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, helps with frozen shoulder by reducing inflammation through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce the severity of frozen shoulder symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of bell pepper used to make tinctures for frozen shoulder.

• Leaves: The leaves are used to make tinctures for frozen shoulder because they contain capsaicin, a compound that helps reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
• Fruits: The fruits are used to make tinctures for frozen shoulder because they are a rich source of capsaicin and other bioactive compounds that aid in pain relief and inflammation reduction.
• Seeds: The seeds are used to make tinctures for frozen shoulder because they contain capsaicin and other beneficial compounds that help alleviate pain and inflammation in frozen shoulder.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 cup of fresh capsicum annuum fruits when they are fully ripe and dry them in a low-temperature oven.
2. Combine 1 part dried capsicum annuum fruits with 2 parts high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
3. Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place shaking the jar every day.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container.
5. Store the tincture in a cool dark place and use 5-10 drops per serving as needed.

7. Boswellia serrata

Frankincense tinctures helps with frozen shoulder because it targets inflammation and reduces pain.

The Boswellia serrata extract in frankincense has potent anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate stiffness and swelling, allowing for increased mobility and range of motion. Additionally, frankincense's analgesic and antispasmodic properties work to reduce muscle spasms and ease discomfort.

As a natural and non-invasive solution, frankincense tinctures provide relief from frozen shoulder symptoms without the need for surgery or prescription medications.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata tinctures that help with frozen shoulder.

• Akhilin saponins: These saponins help reduce inflammation and pain associated with frozen shoulder by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Terpenoids: These terpenoids have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
• 3-acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid: This specific boswellic acid has potent anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation in the shoulder joint by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make tinctures for frozen shoulder.

• Roots: They are the primary part used for medicinal purposes due to their high resin content, which is responsible for anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for frozen shoulder.

1. Harvest 1-2 pounds of dried boswellia serrata resin in the summer months when it is most potent.
2. Cut the resin into small pieces and grind them in a spice grinder to a fine powder using 10-15 minutes of preparation time.
3. Combine 1 part ground boswellia serrata with 2 parts 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar to make the tincture.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks with occasional shaking of the jar every 2-3 days.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids and store the tincture in a cool dark place.

8. Arnica montana

Mountain arnica tinctures helps with frozen shoulder because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and ease pain in the affected joint.

The natural ingredients in arnica, such as thymol and flavonoids, work to relax muscles, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation, thereby alleviating stiffness and discomfort.

By taking an herbal mountain arnica tincture regularly, individuals can experience relief from frozen shoulder symptoms, allowing for improved mobility and reduced pain, enabling a faster return to normal daily activities.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arnica montana tinctures that help with frozen shoulder.

• Thymol: Thymol, a phenolic compound, has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with frozen shoulder.
• Helenin: Helenin, a sesquiterpene lactone, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce pain, inflammation, and oxidative stress associated with frozen shoulder.
• Bornadine: Bornadine, a sesquiterpene lactone, has anti-inflammatory properties that 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 tinctures for frozen shoulder.

• Flowers: The flowers are commonly used due to their high concentration of sesquiterpene lactones, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for treating frozen shoulder.
• Roots: The roots of Arnica montana are also used, as they contain a range of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which may help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Stems: The stems of the plant are occasionally used, as they contain a mix of sesquiterpene lactones and other bioactive compounds that may contribute to the anti-inflammatory effects of Arnica montana tinctures.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh arnica montana flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated and before the heat of the sun.
2. Clean and dry the arnica montana flowers in a well-ventilated area to prevent contamination and spoilage.
3. Combine 1 part of fresh arnica montana flowers with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place and allow it to steep for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter and discard the solids then store the tincture in a dark glass bottle.

9. Hypericum perforatum

St John's Wort tinctures helps with frozen shoulder because it possesses anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and pain in the affected joint.

Its ability to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines also minimizes tissue damage, allowing for faster healing and increased mobility. Additionally, St John's Wort's antioxidant effects help protect against oxidative stress, which can contribute to chronic inflammation and perpetuate frozen shoulder symptoms.

As a natural remedy, it provides relief from stiffness, numbness, and limited range of motion associated with frozen shoulder.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum tinctures that help with frozen shoulder.

• Hyperforin: Hyperforin is a phenolic compound that may help with frozen shoulder by reducing inflammation and pain through its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• N-octanoyl-4-hydroxybenzoic acid: N-OHBA is a phenolic compound that may help with frozen shoulder by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and reducing pain through its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin, may help with frozen shoulder by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make tinctures for frozen shoulder.

• Leaves: Containing hypericin and hyperforin, the active compounds that help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Flowers: Rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Roots: Containing a higher concentration of hypericin and hyperforin compared to other parts, making them effective for pain relief and reducing inflammation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 250 grams of fresh hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves on a sunny day in summer.
2. Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces to increase surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 750 milliliters of 80-proof ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the plant material in the ethanol mixture for 2 to 3 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth into another clean glass container discarding the solids.

10. Valeriana officinalis

Valerian tinctures helps with frozen shoulder because it reduces muscle spasms, relaxes joints, and eases stiffness.

The herbal extract's sedative properties calm inflammation, allowing for increased blood flow to the affected area. This reduced inflammation enables greater mobility and flexibility in the joint, helping to break down adhesions that can contribute to frozen shoulder.

Additionally, valerian's anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce pain and discomfort, promoting a more comfortable range of motion and improved overall joint health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis tinctures that help with frozen shoulder.

• Isopimpinellin: This sesquiterpene helps with frozen shoulder by reducing inflammation and pain through its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Valerenic acid: This valerenic acid acts as a GABA receptor agonist, which can help relax muscles and reduce muscle spasms associated with frozen shoulder.
• Valeranone: This valerenone has been shown to have a sedative effect and can help reduce anxiety and stress, which are often contributing factors to frozen shoulder.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make tinctures for frozen shoulder.

• Roots: They contain a high concentration of valerenic acid and valeranone, which have been found to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Stems: They are often used as a secondary part to the roots, providing a more cost-effective option while still retaining some of the medicinal properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for frozen shoulder.

1. Harvest 1 part of dried valeriana officinalis roots in the morning when the dew is still present.
2. Chop the roots into small pieces using a sharp knife and a cutting board.
3. Combine the chopped roots with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow the tincture to mature slowly.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.

What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for frozen shoulder?

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with frozen shoulder is a blend of Turmeric, Ginger, and Arnica.

Turmeric contains curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound, while Ginger aids in reducing pain and swelling. Arnica, known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helps to reduce stiffness and promote healing.

By combining these three tinctures, you can create a synergistic effect that targets the root causes of frozen shoulder, promoting relaxation, reducing pain, and facilitating recovery.

What ailments similar to frozen shoulder are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to frozen shoulder that are treated with herbal tinctures are conditions characterized by inflammation, stiffness, and limited mobility.

Examples include tendinitis, bursitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome. Herbal tinctures like Devil's Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) and Turmeric (Curcuma longa) help reduce pain and inflammation, while tinctures made from Willow Bark (Salix alba) and Ginger (Zingiber officinale) provide anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

These natural remedies can be used in combination with physical therapy and other treatments to alleviate symptoms.