10 Best Herbal Creams For Joint Stiffness

Herbal creams for joint stiffness are topical creams infused with natural herbs and essential oils that help alleviate joint pain, inflammation, and stiffness.

They typically contain ingredients such as arnica, turmeric, and ginger, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Examples of such creams include arnica cream and capsaicin cream, which can improve mobility and reduce discomfort, enabling individuals to engage in daily activities with ease and enjoy a better quality of life.

The following article describes in detail the most important creams for joint stiffness, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with joint stiffness because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, which contribute to joint pain and stiffness. By reducing inflammation, ginger creams can help to relax and soothe the affected joints, improving range of motion and reducing discomfort. This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate joint pain and promote overall well-being.

Its benefits make it an attractive alternative to traditional treatments.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with joint stiffness.

• Gingerols: Gingerols, specifically 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol, have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, helping to reduce joint stiffness and inflammation.
• Shogaols: Shogaols, a type of ginger compound, have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to alleviate joint pain and stiffness.
• Zingiberene: Zingiberene, a sesquiterpene, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce joint inflammation and oxidative stress, contributing to joint stiffness relief.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for joint stiffness.

• Rhyzomes: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: Roots are another commonly used part as they contain similar active compounds to rhyzomes, providing relief from joint stiffness and pain.
• Barks: The barks are occasionally used as they possess some of the same medicinal properties as the rhyzomes and roots, although in lesser quantities.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for joint stiffness.

1. Harvest 2 tablespoons of zingiber officinale rhizomes in the early morning when they are at their peak potency.
2. Grind the rhizomes into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 30 seconds at medium speed.
3. Combine the powdered zingiber officinale with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and 1 teaspoon of beeswax in a double boiler.
4. Heat the mixture over low heat for 10 minutes stirring occasionally until the beeswax is fully dissolved.
5. Pour the mixture into a glass jar and let it cool for 30 minutes before applying to the skin.

2. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with joint stiffness because they contain curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound that reduces joint inflammation and pain.

The cream allows curcumin to penetrate deep into the skin and reach the affected joints, where it can soothe and calm inflammation, promoting healing and relaxation. As a result, users often experience reduced joint stiffness and improved mobility, making it easier to perform daily activities and enjoy a better quality of life.

It also promotes collagen production.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa creams that help with joint stiffness.

• Curcumin: Curcumin, a phenolic compound, helps with joint stiffness by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which are major contributors to joint pain and stiffness.
• Demethoxycurcumin: DMC, a curcuminoid, helps with joint stiffness by inhibiting inflammatory pathways and reducing the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes that contribute to joint pain and stiffness.
• Bis-demethoxycurcumin: BDMC, a curcuminoid, helps with joint stiffness by preventing the breakdown of joint cartilage and reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines that contribute to joint pain and stiffness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make creams for joint stiffness.

• Rhyzomes: The active compound curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, is extracted from the rhyzome of Curcuma longa.
• Roots: The roots of Curcuma longa contain curcumin and other bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and alleviate joint pain.
• Leaves: The essential oils extracted from the leaves of Curcuma longa, particularly the compound beta-caryophyllene, have anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to joint stiffness relief.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for joint stiffness.

1. Extract 500g of dried curcuma longa root powder by grinding the dried roots in a spice grinder for 5 minutes.
2. Combine the curcuma longa powder with 250ml of distilled water in a saucepan over low heat for 10 minutes.
3. Melt 100g of beeswax in a double boiler while stirring occasionally for 5 minutes then remove from heat.
4. Blend the curcuma longa mixture with the melted beeswax and 100g of sweet almond oil in a mixing bowl for 2 minutes.
5. Pour the blended mixture into a glass jar and let it cool and set at room temperature for 30 minutes.

3. Boswellia serrata

Boswellia serrata, also known as frankincense, creams helps with joint stiffness because it contains anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce inflammation and pain in the joints.

The active ingredients in Boswellia serrata work by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, which contribute to joint stiffness and swelling.

Regular application of Boswellia serrata creams can help to reduce joint pain and stiffness, improve mobility, and promote a sense of comfort and well-being, making it a popular natural remedy for joint health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata creams that help with joint stiffness.

• Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid: This pentacyclic triterpenoid compound has potent anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties, which help reduce joint inflammation and alleviate stiffness.
• Boswellic acids: These triterpenoid compounds possess anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties, which help suppress inflammation and oxidative stress in joints, thereby reducing stiffness and pain.
• Α-caryophyllene: This sesquiterpene compound has potent anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties, which help reduce joint inflammation and alleviate stiffness by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make creams for joint stiffness.

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part of Boswellia serrata to make creams for joint stiffness because they contain high concentrations of boswellic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: The roots of Boswellia serrata are used to make creams for joint stiffness because they contain boswellic acids and other compounds that help reduce inflammation and pain.
• Barks: The barks of Boswellia serrata are used to make creams for joint stiffness because they contain boswellic acids and other bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for joint stiffness.

1. Harvest 30 grams of boswellia serrata resin and dry it in a low-temperature oven at 50c for 2 hours.
2. Grind 10 grams of the dried boswellia serrata resin into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 30 seconds.
3. Mix 10 grams of beeswax and 10 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler at 60c for 10 minutes.
4. Combine 5 grams of the ground boswellia serrata powder with the beeswax and coconut oil mixture and stir well.
5. Pour the mixture into small containers and allow it to cool and solidify at room temperature for 30 minutes.

4. Harpagophytum procumbens

Harpagophytum procumbens, also known as devil's claw, creams helps with joint stiffness because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The harpagoside and other compounds in devil's claw work together to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the joints. This natural ingredient has been traditionally used in African medicine to relieve arthritis and other joint-related conditions.

By applying the cream topically, it can directly target the affected area, providing fast and effective relief from joint stiffness and discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Harpagophytum procumbens creams that help with joint stiffness.

• Harpagoside: A phenylethanoid glycoside, Harpagoside is believed to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping to reduce pain and inflammation associated with joint stiffness.
• Alkaloids: These compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help to reduce joint inflammation and alleviate stiffness.
• Terpenoids: Ursolic acid, a triterpenoid, has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce joint inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to joint stiffness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of devil's claw used to make creams for joint stiffness.

• Roots: They are rich in harpagoside, a bioactive compound responsible for the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Stems: They are a secondary source of harpagoside, which contributes to their pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Leaves: Although less prominent than roots, leaves also contain harpagoside and other flavonoids that aid in reducing joint stiffness and pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic devil's claw for joint stiffness.

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of harpagophytum procumbens roots from a reputable supplier or a controlled environment.
2. Dry the roots in a dehydrator at 50°c for 24 hours to remove excess moisture.
3. Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder at a speed setting of 10.
4. Mix 5 grams of the powder with 10 grams of beeswax and 5 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler.
5. Stir the mixture continuously for 10-15 minutes until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.

5. Salix alba

Salix alba, also known as white willow, creams helps with joint stiffness because it contains salicin, a natural compound similar to aspirin.

This anti-inflammatory agent works to reduce swelling and ease pain in the joints, allowing for greater mobility and flexibility. As salicin is absorbed into the skin, it provides localized relief from joint stiffness and soreness, making it an effective and natural remedy for individuals experiencing joint discomfort due to arthritis, overuse, or injury.

Regular application can lead to improved joint health and reduced stiffness.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salix alba creams that help with joint stiffness.

• Salicin: This phenolic compound is a precursor to aspirin and helps alleviate joint stiffness by reducing inflammation and pain due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Salicylic acid: This phenolic compound is a key active ingredient in Salix alba, providing relief from joint stiffness by reducing inflammation and modulating the body's response to pain.
• Flavonoids: As a type of phenolic compound, flavonoids like Quercetin have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce joint stiffness and alleviate pain caused by oxidative stress and inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of white willow used to make creams for joint stiffness.

• Barks: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help soothe and reduce joint pain.
• Leaves: They are used because of their ability to provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, which contribute to reducing joint inflammation and stiffness.
• Buds: They are used because of their potential to exhibit anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help alleviate joint pain and discomfort.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic white willow for joint stiffness.

1. Harvest 50g of salix alba bark and dry it in a dark place for 2 weeks.
2. Grind 25g of the dried bark into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
3. Mix the powder with 50g of beeswax and 25g of coconut oil in a double boiler.
4. Heat the mixture over low heat for 30 minutes to melt the beeswax and oil.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and store it in a cool dark place for 2 weeks.

6. Urtica dioica

Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, creams helps with joint stiffness because of its anti-inflammatory properties and rich antioxidant content.

The cream contains compounds such as flavonoids, carotenoids, and polyphenols, which work together to reduce inflammation and soothe joint pain.

Stinging nettle has been traditionally used to treat various health conditions, including arthritis and gout, and its topical application has been shown to provide quick relief from joint stiffness and discomfort, making it a popular natural remedy for joint care.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica creams that help with joint stiffness.

• Stylophorone: A polysaccharide found in Urtica dioica, stylophorone helps reduce inflammation and joint stiffness by inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Alkylamides: These bioactive compounds in Urtica dioica possess anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate joint stiffness and pain by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
• Histamine: While histamine is often associated with allergic reactions, its presence in Urtica dioica creams can also have anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce joint stiffness and inflammation by inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory mediators.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make creams for joint stiffness.

• Leaves: They are the primary source of anti-inflammatory compounds, such as histamine and phenolic acids, which help alleviate joint stiffness and pain.
• Stems: The stems of Urtica dioica contain high levels of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them useful in joint creams.
• Roots: The roots of Urtica dioica are rich in phenolic acids and flavonoids, which have been traditionally used to treat joint pain and inflammation, making them a popular ingredient in creams for joint stiffness.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for joint stiffness.

1. Gather 500g of dried urtica dioica leaves and stems and store them in an airtight container.
2. Combine 500g of dried urtica dioica leaves and stems with 1l of carrier oil in a saucepan.
3. Heat the mixture over low heat for 2-3 hours or until the oil turns greenish in color.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the infused oil.
5. Mix 100g of beeswax with 100g of shea butter and 150g of the infused urtica dioica oil in a double boiler.

7. Boswellia sacra

Boswellia sacra, also known as frankincense, creams helps with joint stiffness because it contains boswellic acids that reduce inflammation and promote healing.

These acids inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, which contribute to joint pain and stiffness. By applying Boswellia sacra cream topically, the boswellic acids can directly target the affected area, reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation of the muscles and connective tissues surrounding the joints, leading to improved mobility and reduced stiffness.

This natural approach can provide relief from joint stiffness without the need for harsh medications.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia sacra creams that help with joint stiffness.

• Boswellic acids: These compounds help reduce joint stiffness by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thus reducing inflammation and pain in the joints.
• Ferulic acid: As an antioxidant, Ferulic Acid helps protect the joints from oxidative stress, reducing inflammation and promoting healing, which in turn alleviates joint stiffness and pain.
• 3-acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid: AKBA has potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, leading to a decrease in joint stiffness and pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make creams for joint stiffness.

• Rhyzomes: They contain boswellic acids, which are responsible for the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help reduce joint stiffness.
• Barks: The bark of Boswellia sacra is rich in boswellic acids and other compounds that have potent anti-inflammatory effects, making it a popular choice for joint creams.
• Roots: The roots of the plant are also a significant source of boswellic acids, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate joint pain, making them a key component in joint creams.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for joint stiffness.

1. Harvest 500 grams of boswellia sacra resin, ensuring it is dried and free from contaminants.
2. Weigh 50 grams of the harvested resin and add it to a double boiler with 100 grams of carrier oil.
3. Heat the mixture at 100 degrees celsius for 2 hours, then let it cool for 30 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container, discarding the solids.
5. Mix 20 grams of beeswax with 100 grams of the cooled oil mixture and heat until the wax is fully incorporated.

8. Gaultheria procumbens

Gaultheria procumbens, also known as wintergreen, creams helps with joint stiffness because it contains methyl salicylate, a natural form of aspirin.

This active ingredient has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that help to reduce swelling and ease discomfort in joints. When applied topically, the cream can help to relax muscles and relieve tension, allowing for greater mobility and flexibility.

As a result, people often experience relief from joint stiffness and can engage in daily activities with greater ease and comfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gaultheria procumbens creams that help with joint stiffness.

• Gaultherin: Gaultherin, a sesquiterpenoid lignan, has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce joint stiffness by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Gentiopicroside: Gentiopicroside, a sesquiterpene glycoside, has been shown to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate joint pain and stiffness.
• Volatile oils: These volatile oils, particularly borneol and bornyl acetate, have been found to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help reduce joint inflammation and pain, thereby alleviating stiffness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of wintergreen used to make creams for joint stiffness.

• Roots: They contain salicin, which is converted to salicylic acid in the body, providing anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
• Leaves: They are a rich source of salicin, similar to the roots, contributing to their use in creams for joint stiffness.
• Barks: They are another part of the plant used for their salicin content and potential anti-inflammatory effects in creams for joint relief.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wintergreen for joint stiffness.

1. Harvest fresh gaultheria procumbens leaves and stems for their essential oils and medicinal properties.
2. Steep the harvested gaultheria procumbens in 1 liter of carrier oil at 50-70 degrees celsius for 2 weeks.
3. Strain the oil mixture through cheesecloth and collect the infused oil for further processing.
4. Mix the infused oil with 1/4 cup of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of distilled water at 60-70 degrees celsius to create a smooth consistency.
5. Pour the cream mixture into a clean container and let it cool and set at room temperature for 2 hours.

9. Capsicum annuum

Capsicum annuum, also known as bell pepper, creams helps with joint stiffness because of its high concentration of capsaicin, a natural anti-inflammatory compound.

Capsaicin works by blocking the production of a chemical called substance P, which transmits pain signals to the brain. By reducing inflammation and blocking pain signals, Capsicum annuum creams can provide relief from joint stiffness and pain, making it easier to move and perform daily activities.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate joint discomfort and improve overall mobility.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Capsicum annuum creams that help with joint stiffness.

• Capsaicin: Capsaicin helps with joint stiffness by inhibiting the release of substance P, a neuropeptide that transmits pain signals to the brain, thereby reducing inflammation and pain.
• Beta-carotene: Beta-carotene helps with joint stiffness by acting as an antioxidant, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation that contribute to joint pain and stiffness.
• Quercetin: Quercetin helps with joint stiffness by inhibiting inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, reducing inflammation and alleviating pain in joints.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of bell pepper used to make creams for joint stiffness.

• Fruits: The most used part of Capsicum annuum for making creams for joint stiffness is its fruits, as they contain capsaicin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that helps alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
• Leaves: The second most used part is its leaves, which also contain capsaicin, although in lower concentrations than the fruits, and are often used in combination with other ingredients to enhance the cream's therapeutic effects.
• Seeds: The seeds are also used, as they contain a smaller amount of capsaicin, making them a more cost-effective alternative to the fruits, and are often used as a substitute in recipes for creams and ointments.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bell pepper for joint stiffness.

1. Harvest 10-15 ripe red capsicum annuum fruits from a well-maintained garden to ensure optimal potency.
2. Dry the capsicum annuum fruits in a single layer at 50°c for 24 hours to remove excess moisture.
3. Grind 2 tablespoons of dried capsicum annuum into a fine powder using a high-speed blender for 1 minute.
4. Mix 2 tablespoons of the capsicum annuum powder with 8 tablespoons of coconut oil in a double boiler for 10 minutes.
5. Filter the capsicum annuum mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass jar to obtain a smooth cream.

10. Withania somnifera

Withania somnifera, also known as ashwagandha, creams helps with joint stiffness because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The active compounds in ashwagandha, such as withanolides, have been shown to reduce inflammation and promote healing in joints affected by arthritis and other conditions. Additionally, ashwagandha creams may help to improve range of motion and reduce pain associated with joint stiffness, providing relief and improved mobility for individuals with joint-related issues.

This natural remedy offers a potential alternative to traditional treatments.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera creams that help with joint stiffness.

• Withanolides: Withanolides, a group of steroidal alkaloids, have potent anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce joint pain and stiffness.
• Withaferin a: Withaferin A, a specific withanolide, has been shown to inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes and reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to joint stiffness.
• Withanoside iv: Withanoside IV, a phenolic glycoside, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities that may help alleviate joint pain and stiffness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make creams for joint stiffness.

• Roots: As the primary source of withanolides, the bioactive compounds responsible for the herb's anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties.
• Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and withanolides, which help reduce inflammation and alleviate joint stiffness.
• Seeds: Contain withanolides and other bioactive compounds that contribute to the herb's potential benefits for joint health.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ashwagandha for joint stiffness.

1. Harvest fresh withania somnifera roots in the early morning or evening for optimal potency.
2. Dry the harvested roots in a shaded area at 35 degrees celsius for 7 days.
3. Grind 100 grams of dried withania somnifera roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
4. Infuse 200 grams of beeswax with 100 grams of withania somnifera powder and 30 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler for 30 minutes.
5. Whip 100 grams of aloe vera gel with the cooled herbal mixture for 5 minutes until smooth and creamy.

What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for joint stiffness?

The best combination of herbal creams that help with joint stiffness is typically found in blends of arnica, capsaicin, and CBD creams.

Arnica helps reduce inflammation and ease pain, while capsaicin increases blood flow to the affected area, promoting healing. CBD cream adds anti-inflammatory properties and helps reduce muscle tension. This combination is often used to treat arthritis, tendonitis, and other joint-related issues.

When applied topically, these creams can provide relief from stiffness and discomfort, promoting a more active and comfortable lifestyle.

What ailments similar to joint stiffness are treated with herbal creams?

Ailments similar to joint stiffness that are treated with herbal creams are various forms of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Other conditions that may benefit from herbal creams include tendonitis, bursitis, and fibromyalgia.

These creams often combine natural ingredients like arnica, ginger, and capsaicin to reduce inflammation, relax muscles, and improve circulation, providing relief for joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.