10 Best Herbal Creams For Knee Pain

Herbal creams for knee pain are topical treatments that combine natural herbs with moisturizing properties to alleviate discomfort and inflammation.

They work by reducing pain and swelling, promoting relaxation, and improving mobility. Examples include creams infused with arnica, capsaicin, and willow bark, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

By using these creams, individuals can experience reduced pain and improved daily activities, such as walking, gardening, or even playing with grandchildren, enhancing overall quality of life.

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

1. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with knee pain because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The active compound, curcumin, in these creams reduces inflammation and swelling in the knee joints, providing relief from pain and stiffness. Additionally, the creams may also improve joint mobility and flexibility, allowing individuals to move more comfortably.

The natural ingredients in Curcuma longa creams also promote healing and regeneration of damaged tissues, making them a popular choice for people suffering from knee pain and arthritis.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Curcumin: Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce knee pain and inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
• Demethoxycurcumin: DMC, a curcuminoid, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which contribute to the reduction of knee pain and inflammation by modulating the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
• Turmerone: Turmerone, a sesquiterpene, has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help alleviate knee pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and enhancing the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make creams for knee pain.

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part of Curcuma longa due to their high concentration of curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that helps reduce knee pain.
• Roots: Roots are also widely used, as they contain a high amount of curcuminoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that alleviate knee pain and inflammation.
• Leaves: Leaves are used in some formulations due to their content of flavonoids and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to reduce knee pain and promote healing.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for knee pain.

1. Weigh 100 grams of curcuma longa powder and add 100 grams of coconut oil to a double boiler.
2. Heat the mixture at 60 degrees celsius for 30 minutes to facilitate absorption of curcuma longa.
3. Gradually add 150 grams of shea butter to the mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Continue heating the mixture at 60 degrees celsius for 15 minutes to create a smooth consistency.
5. Strain the cream into a glass jar and allow it to cool before use.

2. Zingiber officinale

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

The cream's active compounds, such as gingerols and shogaols, work to reduce swelling and relieve pain in the knee joint. Additionally, ginger's warming and analgesic effects help to increase blood flow and reduce stiffness in the knee, providing long-lasting relief from discomfort and pain.

This natural remedy is an effective alternative to traditional pain relievers, offering a safe and gentle solution for managing knee pain.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: These sesquiterpenoid compounds are responsible for ginger's anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce knee pain and inflammation.
• Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols also exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate knee pain and discomfort associated with arthritis and other joint conditions.
• Curcumin: A phenolic compound found in ginger, curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce knee pain, inflammation, and oxidative stress associated with knee injuries and arthritis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for knee pain.

• Rhyzomes: These are the most commonly used part of Zingiber officinale in creams for knee pain, as they contain high concentrations of gingerols and shogaols, which have potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Roots: Roots are also used to make creams for knee pain, as they contain similar compounds to rhyzomes and have been traditionally used in herbal medicine to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
• Buds: Ginger buds are sometimes used in creams for knee pain, as they contain higher concentrations of active compounds than mature rhyzomes, which may provide faster relief from pain and inflammation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for knee pain.

1. Harvest 100 grams of fresh zingiber officinale roots in the early morning for optimal potency.
2. Clean the roots thoroughly with water to remove any dirt or impurities for 10 minutes.
3. Grind 50 grams of the cleaned roots into a fine powder using a spice grinder for 5 minutes.
4. Mix the powdered root with 100 grams of coconut oil and 20 grams of beeswax in a double boiler for 20 minutes.
5. Store the final herbal cream in a cool dark place and use within 6 months.

3. Salix alba

Salix alba, also known as white willow, creams helps with knee pain because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

The cream contains salicin, a compound similar to aspirin, which helps to reduce swelling and ease pain in the joints. When applied topically, the salicin is absorbed into the skin and works to block the production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause pain and inflammation.

As a result, knee pain is relieved, and mobility and flexibility are improved.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Salicin: A phenolic glycoside, salicin is a key compound responsible for the anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties of Salix alba creams, helping to reduce knee pain by blocking the production of prostaglandins and other inflammatory mediators.
• Tannins: A type of polyphenol, tannins in Salix alba creams may contribute to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, which can contribute to knee pain.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin, are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce knee pain by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes and reducing oxidative stress in the affected area.

Parts Used

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

• Barks: Salix alba barks are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help in reducing pain and inflammation in knee joints.
• Leaves: Salix alba leaves are used due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in providing relief from pain and swelling in knee joints.
• Buds: Salix alba buds are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help in reducing pain and inflammation in knee joints.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic white willow for knee pain.

1. Harvest salix alba bark and leaves in early spring or late summer when they are rich in flavonoids.
2. Dry the harvested salix alba bark and leaves in a well-ventilated area for 2 weeks.
3. Infuse 50g of dried salix alba bark and leaves in 500ml of carrier oil at 80 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
4. Strain the infused mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids.
5. Mix 100ml of the infused oil with 10g of beeswax and 10g of candelilla wax and heat until melted.

4. Capsicum annuum

Capsicum annuum, also known as bell pepper, creams helps with knee pain because of its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The capsaicin in Capsicum annuum interacts with the nerve endings in the affected area, blocking the production of a chemical called substance P, which transmits pain signals to the brain. This leads to a reduction in pain perception, allowing for improved mobility and reduced discomfort in the knee joint.

The anti-inflammatory properties further reduce swelling and inflammation, promoting healing and alleviating knee pain.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Capsaicin: Capsaicin, a phenolic compound derived from Capsicum annuum, helps with knee pain by blocking the production of a chemical called substance P, which transmits pain signals to the brain, thereby reducing inflammation and pain perception.
• Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid, a phenolic compound found in Capsicum annuum, has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help reduce inflammation and pain in the knee joint, making it a potential contributor to knee pain relief.
• Capsaicinoids: Capsaicinoids, a group of phenolic compounds found in Capsicum annuum, have potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help reduce pain and inflammation in the knee joint, making them potential contributors to knee pain relief.

Parts Used

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

• Fruits: They are used due to their high concentration of capsaicin, which has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve knee pain.
• Seeds: They contain a compound called capsicum, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce knee pain and inflammation.
• (not 3 was found, but a secondary part of the plant was found) leaves: They also contain capsaicinoids, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help alleviate knee pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bell pepper for knee pain.

1. Infuse 1 cup of dried capsicum annuum in 2 cups of boiling water for 10 minutes.
2. Steep the infused mixture for 30 minutes then strain it through a cheesecloth to obtain liquid extract.
3. Combine 1/4 cup of the liquid extract with 1/2 cup of coconut oil in a double boiler.
4. Heat the mixture over low heat for 20 minutes while stirring occasionally until it reaches a temperature of 160 degrees fahrenheit.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and thicken for 2 hours then transfer it to an airtight container.

5. Arnica montana

Arnica montana, also known as mountain arnica, creams helps with knee pain because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

The active compounds in Arnica, such as sesquiterpene lactones, work to reduce swelling and ease discomfort in the knee joint. This natural remedy can also enhance blood flow, promoting healing and reducing stiffness in the affected area.

As a result, many people find relief from knee pain and improved mobility when using topical Arnica creams.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arnica montana creams that help with knee pain.

• Triterpene saponins: These compounds help to reduce inflammation and pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and mediators, thereby alleviating knee pain.
• Helenalin and isohelenalin: These sesquiterpenes have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation in the knee joint, thereby providing relief from knee pain.
• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the knee joint, thereby alleviating knee pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of mountain arnica used to make creams for knee pain.

• Flowers: They contain sesquiterpene lactones, which are responsible for the anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
• Leaves: They have a similar composition to the flowers, providing anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving benefits.
• Roots: They are rich in arnicoside, a compound that helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mountain arnica for knee pain.

1. Gather 1 ounce of dried arnica montana flowers and 1/2 cup of carrier oil such as coconut oil.
2. Combine 1 ounce of dried arnica montana flowers with 1/2 cup of carrier oil in a clean glass jar.
3. Steep the mixture in a warm water bath at 150 to 180 degrees fahrenheit for 2 to 3 hours.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass jar discarding the solids.
5. Blend 2 tablespoons of the infused oil with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of shea butter until smooth.

6. Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, creams helps with knee pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The active compounds in Hypericum, such as hyperforin and hypericin, have been shown to reduce inflammation and soothe the pain associated with knee injuries and conditions like osteoarthritis. By reducing inflammation, these creams can help to alleviate pain and stiffness, allowing for improved mobility and function in the knee joint.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to provide relief from knee pain.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with knee pain.

• Naphthodianthrones: Naphthodianthrones, specifically hypericin and pseudohypericin, help reduce knee pain by exhibiting potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which alleviate inflammation and oxidative stress associated with knee pain.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including quercetin and kaempferol, contribute to knee pain relief by inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, and modulating pain signaling pathways in the body.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as ferulic acid, help alleviate knee pain by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, and modulating pain signaling pathways to provide pain relief.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for knee pain.

• Leaves: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that help reduce inflammation and pain.
• Flowers: They contain flavonoids, particularly hyperforin, which has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Seeds: They are rich in flavonoids and other compounds that aid in pain relief and reduction of inflammation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 100g of dried hypericum perforatum flowers and 500ml of distilled water for infusion.
2. Steep the dried flowers in the distilled water for 30 minutes at 70-80 degrees celsius.
3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a separate container for liquid separation.
4. Mix 50g of beeswax with 50g of sweet almond oil in a double boiler at 60-70 degrees celsius.
5. Combine the strained hypericum infusion with the melted beeswax mixture and stir until thickened.

7. Capsicum frutescens

Capsicum frutescens, also known as cayenne, creams helps with knee pain because of its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The active compound, capsaicin, stimulates the release of pain-relieving chemicals, such as endorphins and substance P, which help to reduce inflammation and pain in the knee joint.

This cream can be applied topically to the affected area, allowing the capsaicin to penetrate deep into the skin and provide localized relief from knee pain and discomfort, promoting a more active and healthy lifestyle.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Capsicum frutescens creams that help with knee pain.

• Capsaicinoids: These compounds, particularly capsaicin, help with knee pain by inhibiting the production of a chemical called substance P, which transmits pain signals to the brain, thereby reducing pain perception.
• Flavonoids: These plant-based compounds help with knee pain by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which contribute to pain and discomfort in the knee joint.
• Carotenoids: These yellow-orange pigments help with knee pain by reducing oxidative stress and promoting the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, which can help alleviate pain and inflammation in the knee joint.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of cayenne used to make creams for knee pain.

• Fruits: The fruits of Capsicum annuum, also known as peppers, are commonly used to create creams and ointments for relieving knee pain due to their capsaicin content, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Seeds: The seeds of Capsicum annuum contain a high concentration of capsaicin, making them a popular ingredient in creams and ointments for knee pain relief.
• Leaves: Although less common, some creams for knee pain may also use the leaves of Capsicum annuum, which contain smaller amounts of capsaicin, providing a milder alternative for those who prefer it.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cayenne for knee pain.

1. Harvest 100g of dried capsicum frutescens pods from a well-ventilated area and clean them thoroughly with a soft brush.
2. Grind the dried capsicum frutescens pods into a fine powder using a high-speed blender for 2 minutes.
3. Mix 50g of the capsicum frutescens powder with 50g of coconut oil in a double boiler over low heat for 30 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bowl and discard the solids after 15 minutes.
5. Allow the herbal cream to cool and thicken at room temperature for 2 hours before applying to the skin.

8. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with knee pain because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

The active compounds in lavender, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, have been shown to reduce pain and inflammation in the body. When applied topically to the affected area, these creams can provide fast relief from knee pain, stiffness, and swelling, allowing for improved mobility and comfort.

Regular use of lavender creams may also promote relaxation and reduce muscle tension.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with knee pain.

• Linalool: This terpene helps with knee pain by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, which in turn decreases muscle spasms and pain in the knee joint.
• Linalyl acetate: This terpene has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in reducing pain and swelling in the knee joint, thus providing relief from knee pain.
• Caffeic acid: This phenolic acid has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the knee joint, thereby alleviating knee pain and promoting healing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for knee pain.

• Flowers: Lavender flowers are commonly used due to their calming and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with knee pain.
• Leaves: Lavender leaves contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help to soothe and relax the muscles, reducing pain and discomfort in the knees.
• Stems: The stems of Lavandula angustifolia contain a high amount of essential oils, including linalool and linalyl acetate, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help to alleviate knee pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for knee pain.

1. Harvest 1 pound of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers and store in an airtight container for future use.
2. Combine 1/2 cup of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers with 2 cups of distilled water in a heat-proof bowl.
3. Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes in a double boiler or a heat-proof bowl over boiling water.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh into a clean glass bowl to remove the solids.
5. Mix 1/2 cup of beeswax pellets with 1/2 cup of shea butter and 2 tablespoons of the lavandula angustifolia infusion.

9. Pinus palustris

Pinus palustris, also known as longleaf pine, creams helps with knee pain because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

The creams contain extracts from the longleaf pine, which have been traditionally used to reduce swelling and ease discomfort in joints. The anti-inflammatory compounds in Pinus palustris creams work by reducing prostaglandins, which cause pain and inflammation.

This results in reduced knee pain and improved mobility, making it an effective natural remedy for those suffering from knee pain and inflammation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Pinus palustris creams that help with knee pain.

• Terpenes: These terpenes have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help reduce knee pain by reducing inflammation and numbing the pain sensation.
• Phenolic compounds: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the knee joint, leading to pain relief.
• Sterols: These sterols have anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the knee joint, leading to pain relief.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of longleaf pine used to make creams for knee pain.

• Buds: The buds are rich in essential oils, particularly limonene, which has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Seeds: The seeds contain fatty acids, particularly oleic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties and helps in reducing pain and swelling.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic longleaf pine for knee pain.

1. Harvest 500g of fresh pinus palustris leaves and stems from the wild or cultivated sources under expert supervision.
2. Dry the pinus palustris plant material in a warm oven at 50°c for 24 hours to reduce moisture.
3. Steep 100g of dried pinus palustris in 1 liter of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil at room temperature for 2 weeks.
4. Strain the pinus palustris infused oil using cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove plant material and discard it.
5. Mix the strained pinus palustris infused oil with 10% beeswax and 20% shea butter to create a smooth cream base.

10. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with knee pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and ease discomfort in the affected area.

The cream's soothing and moisturizing effects also help to promote healing and reduce stiffness, making it easier to move and perform daily activities. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory compounds in Calendula officinalis creams have been shown to reduce pain and inflammation, providing relief from the discomfort associated with knee pain.

This natural remedy can be a valuable addition to a treatment plan.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with knee pain.

• Sesquiterpenes: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain in the knee joint.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the knee joint, thereby alleviating pain.
• Triterpenoids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help reduce pain and inflammation in the knee joint, promoting healing and reducing discomfort.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for knee pain.

• Flowers: The flowers are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds, such as triterpenoids and flavonoids, which can help reduce knee pain and inflammation.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used in creams for knee pain due to their high content of flavonoids and saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help alleviate knee pain and discomfort.
• Seeds: The seeds of Calendula officinalis contain high amounts of triterpenoids and flavonoids, which can be extracted and used in creams to reduce knee pain and inflammation due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for knee pain.

1. Harvest 25g of calendula officinalis flowers when they are in full bloom and the petals are fully opened.
2. Dry the flowers in a warm place for 7-10 days to remove excess moisture completely.
3. Steep 15g of the dried flowers in 250ml of carrier oil such as jojoba oil at 45-50°c for 2 hours.
4. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean container to separate the oil from the solids.
5. Mix 10g of beeswax with 20g of the infused oil and 10ml of vitamin e oil to create a smooth cream consistency.

What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for knee pain?

The best combination of herbal creams that help with knee pain is a blend of arnica, peppermint, and ginger.

Arnica cream reduces inflammation and soothes the affected area, while peppermint cream cools and relaxes the muscles. Ginger cream, rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, further aids in pain relief and improves circulation.

By applying a combination of these creams to the affected knee, individuals can experience significant relief from pain and discomfort, promoting faster healing and recovery.

What ailments similar to knee pain are treated with herbal creams?

Ailments similar to knee pain that are treated with herbal creams are muscle and joint-related issues such as arthritis, tendinitis, and fibromyalgia.

These creams often contain herbs like turmeric, ginger, and capsaicin that reduce inflammation and alleviate pain and stiffness in the affected areas.

Additionally, herbal creams may be used to treat sports injuries, such as bruises and strains, which can cause similar discomfort to knee pain.