By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Joint Pain
Herbal tinctures for joint pain are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, herbs, and botanicals that have been traditionally used to alleviate joint discomfort, stiffness, and inflammation.
These tinctures work by reducing swelling, relieving pain, and improving mobility, allowing individuals to engage in daily activities with greater ease. Turmeric, ginger, and devil's claw are examples of herbal tinctures that have natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce joint pain and improve range of motion.
By incorporating these tinctures into their routine, individuals can experience a significant reduction in discomfort, allowing them to lead more active and fulfilling lives.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for joint pain, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 2. Curcuma longa
- 3. Capsicum annuum
- 4. Ruscus aculeatus
- 5. Equisetum arvense
- 6. Urtica dioica
- 7. Sambucus nigra
- 8. Ginkgo biloba
- 9. Boswellia serrata
- 10. Cissus quadrangularis
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for joint pain?
- What ailments similar to joint pain are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with joint pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort in the joints.
The glycyrrhizin present in licorice root has been shown to inhibit the production of inflammatory enzymes, thereby providing relief from arthritis, osteoarthritis, and other degenerative joint disorders. Additionally, licorice tincture's natural analgesic properties help to reduce pain and discomfort, allowing for improved mobility and reduced stiffness.
This natural remedy provides a safe and effective way to manage joint pain without relying on pharmaceutical medications.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with joint pain.
- Licorice glycosides: These compounds help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in joints, thus alleviating joint pain and swelling.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help protect joints from damage and reduce pain caused by inflammation.
- Terpenoids: Glycyrrhetic acid has anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects, which can help reduce joint inflammation and alleviate pain associated with conditions like arthritis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for joint pain.
- Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are the most commonly used part for tinctures related to joint pain due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are also used for tinctures due to their ability to reduce inflammation and alleviate joint pain.
- Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are sometimes used for tinctures, as they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help with joint pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for joint pain.
- Gather 250 grams of dried roots of glycyrrhiza glabra and ensure they are free of contaminants.
- Combine the dried roots with 1250 milliliters of 40 percent ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 14 to 21 days allowing for extraction to occur.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean container to remove the roots.
- Transfer the resulting tincture to dark glass bottles and store them in a cool dark place.
2. Curcuma longa
Turmeric tinctures helps with joint pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory compound, curcumin.
Curcumin has been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with arthritis, such as stiffness, swelling, and discomfort. When absorbed into the bloodstream through a tincture, curcumin is able to target affected joints directly, providing fast-acting relief from joint pain and improving overall joint health and flexibility.
Regular use of turmeric tinctures can lead to sustained improvement in joint mobility and comfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa tinctures that help with joint pain.
- Curcumin: Curcumin, a phenolic compound, helps with joint pain by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which are key factors in the development of joint pain and arthritis.
- Demethoxycurcumin: Demethoxycurcumin, a phenolic compound, helps with joint pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to joint inflammation and pain.
- Beta-caryophyllene: Beta-Caryophyllene, a sesquiterpene, helps with joint pain by reducing inflammation and pain by activating the body's natural anti-inflammatory pathways and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make tinctures for joint pain.
- Rhyzomes: They are rich in curcumin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate joint pain.
- Roots: The roots contain a high concentration of curcumin and other bioactive compounds that have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve joint health.
- Leaves: The leaves of Curcuma longa contain volatile oils and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making them useful for relieving joint pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for joint pain.
- Harvest fresh rhizomes of curcuma longa in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Dry the rhizomes at 40 degrees celsius for 24 hours to reduce moisture content.
- Chop the dried rhizomes into small pieces using a sharp knife or a mortar.
- Combine the chopped rhizomes with 80 proof ethanol in a ratio of 1:5 by weight for 2 weeks.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth to separate the liquid from the solid residues and filter.
3. Capsicum annuum
Bell pepper tinctures helps with joint pain because they contain potent anti-inflammatory compounds called capsaicinoids.
These natural analgesics work to reduce inflammation and relax muscles, providing relief from aching joints. The bell pepper's bioactive flavonoids also help to stabilize collagen structures, improving joint flexibility and reducing stiffness. Additionally, the tincture's antioxidant properties protect against free radical damage, promoting overall joint health and comfort.
By targeting multiple mechanisms, herbal bell pepper tinctures offer a natural solution for managing chronic joint pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Capsicum annuum tinctures that help with joint pain.
- Capsaicinoids: These vanilloid compounds interact with pain receptors, blocking the production of a chemical called substance P, which transmits pain signals to the brain, thereby reducing joint pain and inflammation.
- Flavonoids: As potent antioxidants, flavonoids help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can contribute to joint pain and arthritis. They also have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate joint discomfort.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce joint pain and inflammation. They also have the ability to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, further contributing to their analgesic effects.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of bell pepper used to make tinctures for joint pain.
- Fruits: The fruits (specifically, the dried and powdered form of the fruit, known as cayenne pepper or chili powder) are the most commonly used part due to their high capsaicin content, which has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Seeds: The seeds are another commonly used part, as they contain a higher concentration of capsaicin than the fruits, making them a more potent ingredient for joint pain relief.
- Leaves: The leaves of the Capsicum annuum plant are also used to make tinctures for joint pain, although to a lesser extent than the fruits and seeds, due to their lower capsaicin content but still providing some anti-inflammatory benefits.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bell pepper for joint pain.
- Harvest fresh capsicum annuum fruits in the peak of ripeness for optimal potency and flavor.
- Clean and dry the harvested capsicum annuum fruits to remove any dirt or excess moisture.
- Chop the dried capsicum annuum fruits into small pieces to increase surface area for extraction.
- Steep the chopped capsicum annuum pieces in a high-proof neutral spirit like ethanol or glycerin.
- Strain the liquid and discard the solids to obtain the herbal capsicum annuum tincture.
4. Ruscus aculeatus
Dog holly tinctures helps with joint pain because it contains a unique combination of bioactive compounds that work synergistically to reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort.
The active ingredients, such as salicylates and flavonoids, have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to block the production of pro-inflammatory hormones and neutralize free radicals.
As a result, herbal dog holly tinctures can provide rapid relief from joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, making it an effective natural remedy for managing canine arthritis and other joint-related conditions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ruscus aculeatus tinctures that help with joint pain.
- Furostanol saponins: These saponins have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce joint pain and inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Triterpenes: Ursolic acid has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help reduce joint pain and inflammation by protecting cells from oxidative damage and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
- Phenolic acids: Quercetin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help reduce joint pain and inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, and protecting cells from oxidative damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dog holly used to make tinctures for joint pain.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate joint pain.
- Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce joint pain and inflammation.
- Stems: The stems are used due to their ability to provide a rich source of ruscogenin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help alleviate joint pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dog holly for joint pain.
- Collect ruscus aculeatus roots and leaves in quantities of about 1 part plant to 2 parts solvent.
- Chop the plant material into small pieces to increase surface area for solvent extraction.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 80 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio by volume in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks with occasional shaking.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
5. Equisetum arvense
Field horsetail tinctures helps with joint pain because of its rich source of silica, a mineral that helps to strengthen connective tissue and promote collagen production.
This natural anti-inflammatory agent also contains antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the joints, alleviating symptoms of arthritis and other joint disorders.
By reducing stiffness and discomfort, field horsetail tinctures provide relief from joint pain and improve mobility, making it an effective natural remedy for those seeking a holistic approach to managing joint health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Equisetum arvense tinctures that help with joint pain.
- Furanosesquiterpenes: These compounds help reduce inflammation and relieve joint pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Saponins: Saponins, such as equisetin, have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help alleviate joint pain and discomfort.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including ferulic acid and sinapic acid, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which contribute to the reduction of joint pain and inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of field horsetail used to make tinctures for joint pain.
- Stems: Stems are a primary source for Equisetum arvense tinctures due to their high content of equisetin, a compound that may help alleviate joint pain.
- Roots: Roots of Equisetum arvense are used for tinctures because they are rich in silica, which can contribute to reduced inflammation and joint pain relief.
- Leaves: Leaves are another commonly used part for Equisetum arvense tinctures, containing various bioactive compounds that may help reduce joint inflammation and pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic field horsetail for joint pain.
- Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh equisetum arvense rhizomes and roots in early spring or late summer.
- Dry the harvested material in a warm place for 1-2 weeks or use a dehydrator on low heat.
- Chop 1 part of the dried equisetum arvense into small pieces and combine with 2 parts of a neutral solvent.
- Steep the equisetum arvense and solvent mixture in a clean glass jar for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
6. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle tinctures helps with joint pain because it contains anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce swelling and ease discomfort in the joints.
The tincture's rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly GLA (gamma-linolenic acid), works to reduce inflammation and promote healthy joint function. Additionally, stinging nettle's ability to relax muscle spasms can also contribute to relief from joint pain, as tense muscles can exacerbate discomfort in the joints.
By addressing these underlying factors, stinging nettle tinctures offer a natural solution for joint pain relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica tinctures that help with joint pain.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds help alleviate joint pain by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response, which contributes to the alleviation of pain and swelling associated with joint conditions.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as quercetin, possess potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce joint inflammation, alleviate pain, and promote overall joint health.
- Alkaloids: The vasodilatory properties of these alkaloids help increase blood flow to the affected joints, which can aid in the removal of waste products and reduce pain and swelling associated with joint conditions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make tinctures for joint pain.
- Leaves: Urtica dioica leaves are the most commonly used part in tinctures for joint pain due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Roots: The roots of Urtica dioica contain compounds that help reduce inflammation and alleviate joint pain.
- Stems: The stems of Urtica dioica are also used to make tinctures for joint pain due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing in joints.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for joint pain.
- Harvest fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems in the morning after the dew has dried.
- Clean and dry the harvested urtica dioica plant material immediately to prevent spoilage.
- Use a 1:2 ratio of plant material to solvent and combine 250 grams of urtica dioica with 500ml of 95% ethanol.
- Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking and stirring.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and discard the solids then store the tincture in a dark glass bottle.
7. Sambucus nigra
Elder tinctures helps with joint pain because they contain powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that target specific receptors in the body.
The bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and polyphenols, work to reduce swelling and ease stiffness in joints, providing relief from conditions like arthritis, gout, and fibromyalgia.
Additionally, elder tinctures have been shown to improve joint mobility and flexibility, allowing for a greater range of motion and reducing discomfort associated with everyday activities.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra tinctures that help with joint pain.
- Flavonoids: These plant-based compounds may help alleviate joint pain by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, thereby mitigating joint damage and discomfort.
- Phenolic acids: As an anti-inflammatory agent, Chlorogenic Acid may help decrease joint inflammation and alleviate pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Ellagic acid: With its potent antioxidant properties, Ellagic Acid may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in joints, ultimately alleviating pain and discomfort associated with joint conditions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make tinctures for joint pain.
- Flowers: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce joint pain and inflammation.
- Leaves: Used for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to alleviate joint pain and inflammation.
- Stems: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce joint pain and inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for joint pain.
- Harvest fresh sambucus nigra flowers in late spring when they are fully open and fragrant.
- Clean and dry the flowers thoroughly using a clean cloth to remove any excess moisture.
- Combine the dried flowers with 80 proof vodka in a 1:2 ratio by weight for 2 weeks to macerate.
- Strain the mixture using cheesecloth or a coffee filter to separate the liquid from the solids.
- Transfer the resulting tincture to dark glass bottles and store in a cool dry place for 4 weeks before use.
8. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with joint pain because of its unique combination of flavonoids, saponins, and polyphenols.
These compounds work together to reduce inflammation and relieve stiffness in the joints. The anti-inflammatory properties of Maidenhair tree help to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with conditions such as arthritis, gout, and fibromyalgia.
Additionally, the tincture's ability to stimulate collagen production helps to strengthen joint connective tissue, providing long-lasting relief from joint pain and improving overall mobility.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with joint pain.
- Bilobalide: This triterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and inflammation in joints.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid phenolic compound, quercetin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help alleviate joint pain and inflammation.
- Ginkgolides: A group of sesquiterpene lactones, ginkgolides have anti-inflammatory and anti-platelet properties that help reduce joint pain and inflammation by preventing platelet aggregation and reducing inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for joint pain.
- Leaves: Ginkgo biloba leaves are the most commonly used part for making tinctures due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to aid in reducing joint pain.
- Barks: Ginkgo biloba barks are used in tinctures for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate joint pain and swelling.
- Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds are a potential source for tinctures, containing compounds like ginkgolic acid and bilobalide that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help with joint pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for joint pain.
- Harvest 1 pound of ginkgo biloba leaves and flowers in the fall season when they are mature and dry.
- Dry the ginkgo biloba leaves and flowers in a warm place for 1 to 2 weeks at 100°f.
- Combine 1 part ginkgo biloba leaves and flowers with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- Strain the tincture through cheesecloth and store it in a dark glass bottle with a dropper lid.
9. Boswellia serrata
Frankincense tinctures helps with joint pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The resin's active compounds, such as boswellic acids and incensole, work to reduce inflammation in the joints, which can alleviate swelling and stiffness. Additionally, frankincense has been shown to block the production of pro-inflammatory molecules, thereby reducing joint pain and discomfort.
By targeting these underlying causes, herbal frankincense tinctures provide natural relief for individuals suffering from chronic joint pain and arthritis-related conditions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata tinctures that help with joint pain.
- Boswellic acids: Boswellic acids have potent anti-inflammatory properties that inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing joint pain and inflammation.
- Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid: AKBA is a major active constituent of boswellic acids, which has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, leading to reduced joint pain and inflammation.
- Α-acyl-β-boswellic acid: α-ABBA has been found to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce joint pain and inflammation 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 joint pain.
- Roots: The roots of Boswellia serrata are primarily used due to their high concentration of boswellic acids, which are responsible for reducing joint inflammation and pain.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes, or underground stems, are also used for their boswellic acid content, which helps to alleviate joint pain and inflammation.
- Barks: The bark of Boswellia serrata is another commonly used part, often used to make tinctures, due to its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to reduce joint pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for joint pain.
- Gather 100 grams of dried boswellia serrata resin and 80 proof vodka in a clean glass container.
- Combine the boswellia serrata resin with 40 percent vodka by volume in a ratio of one to one.
- Steep the mixture for 2 to 4 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking required.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
- Store the boswellia serrata tincture in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
10. Cissus quadrangularis
Veldt grape tinctures helps with joint pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce swelling and ease stiffness in the joints.
The tannins present in veldt grapes also help to strengthen connective tissue and improve joint mobility, making it an excellent natural remedy for alleviating chronic joint pain caused by conditions such as arthritis or fibromyalgia.
Additionally, veldt grape tinctures have been shown to reduce inflammation and promote healing by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cissus quadrangularis tinctures that help with joint pain.
- Quassinoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce joint pain and inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds, such as caffeic acid and ferulic acid, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities that help alleviate joint pain by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Furanocoumarins: These compounds, including psoralen and bergapten, have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help relieve joint pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and activating pain-relieving pathways.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of veldt grape used to make tinctures for joint pain.
- Roots: The roots of Cissus quadrangularis are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds that target joint inflammation.
- Stems: The stems of Cissus quadrangularis are used to make tinctures due to their ability to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, reducing joint pain.
- Leaves: The leaves of Cissus quadrangularis are used in tincture form to alleviate joint pain due to their anti-inflammatory properties and ability to promote collagen synthesis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic veldt grape for joint pain.
- Harvest 100g of cissus quadrangularis vines with 70% of leaves and 30% of stem.
- Dry the harvested material in a dark place at a temperature of 40°c for 7 days.
- Chop the dried material into small pieces and mix with 70% vodka and 30% water in a ratio of 1:2.
- Steep the mixture for 14 days in a dark glass container with a tight-fitting lid at room temperature.
- Strain the liquid and discard the solids before transferring the tincture to dark glass bottles for storage.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for joint pain?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with joint pain is a blend of Turmeric, Ginger, and Willow Bark.
Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound that reduces joint inflammation and pain. Ginger adds a warming effect, helping to relieve stiffness and promote circulation. Willow Bark contains salicin, a natural pain reliever similar to aspirin, which helps to reduce inflammation and ease joint discomfort.
Taking these tinctures together can provide a synergistic effect, offering effective relief from joint pain and inflammation.
What ailments similar to joint pain are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to joint pain that are treated with herbal tinctures are often related to inflammation and musculoskeletal discomfort.
These include conditions such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, tendonitis, bursitis, and muscle spasms.
Herbal tinctures containing ingredients like turmeric, ginger, ashwagandha, and willow bark have been traditionally used to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve joint mobility, providing relief from these conditions.