By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Knee Pain
Herbal tinctures for knee pain are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, used to alleviate discomfort and stiffness in the knees.
These natural remedies help by reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and improving joint mobility. Examples of herbal tinctures that effectively combat knee pain include Turmeric, Ginger, and Willow bark.
By incorporating these tinctures into their daily routine, individuals can experience improved joint function, reduced morning stiffness, and enhanced overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for knee pain, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 2. Capsicum annuum
- 3. Curcuma longa
- 4. Artemisia absinthium
- 5. Cymbopogon citratus
- 6. Althaea officinalis
- 7. Zingiber officinale
- 8. Rheum rhaponticum
- 9. Echinacea angustifolia
- 10. Piper nigrum
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for knee pain?
- What ailments similar to knee pain are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with knee pain because it contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Glycyrrhizin, a key component of licorice root, has been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate joint pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
Additionally, licorice root's antioxidant activity helps to neutralize free radicals that can damage cartilage and surrounding tissues, further contributing to its effectiveness in alleviating knee pain and promoting overall joint health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with knee pain.
- Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin, has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and pain in the knee joint.
- Liquiritigenin: Liquiritigenin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help alleviate knee pain and inflammation.
- Isoflavans: Isoflavans, a type of isoflavonoid, have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties, which can help relieve knee pain and joint inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for knee pain.
- Roots: They contain glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and swelling in the knees.
- Barks: They are also a source of glycyrrhizin and other compounds that can help alleviate pain and inflammation in the knees.
- Leaves: Although less commonly used, the leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra contain smaller amounts of glycyrrhizin, which can still contribute to pain relief and inflammation reduction in tinctures.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for knee pain.
- Harvest 1 part of dried root of the plant, cut it into small pieces and dry further to reduce moisture content.
- Combine 1 part of dried root with 2 parts of high-proof spirits in a clean glass jar, ensuring root pieces are completely submerged.
- Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place, allowing the mixture to macerate for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar occasionally.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container, discarding the solids and reserving the liquid.
- Transfer the liquid to a dropper bottle, label it and store it in a cool dark place, ready for use after 4 weeks of aging.
2. Capsicum annuum
Bell pepper tinctures helps with knee pain because they contain a unique combination of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and analgesic properties.
The capsaicin in bell peppers has been shown to reduce inflammation and relieve joint pain by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are hormones that cause pain and swelling. Additionally, the vitamins A and C in bell pepper tinctures help to promote collagen synthesis, improving joint health and reducing the risk of injury.
This natural approach can provide long-lasting relief from knee pain without the need for harsh medications or surgical interventions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Capsicum annuum tinctures that help with knee pain.
- Capsaicin: Capsaicin, a compound found in Capsicum annuum, helps reduce knee pain by inhibiting the production of a chemical called substance P, which transmits pain signals to the brain, thereby reducing inflammation and pain perception.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin, a flavonoid present in Capsicum annuum, has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce knee pain by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which contribute to inflammation and pain.
- Carotenoids: Capsanthin, a carotenoid found in Capsicum annuum, has potent antioxidant properties that help alleviate knee pain by neutralizing free radicals, which can cause oxidative stress and inflammation in the knee joint.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of bell pepper used to make tinctures for knee pain.
- Fruits: The fruits of Capsicum annuum, also known as peppers or chili peppers, are commonly used to make tinctures for knee pain due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Capsicum annuum are also used in tinctures for knee pain, as they contain compounds that help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
- Seeds: Capsicum annuum seeds are sometimes used in tinctures for knee pain, as they are believed to possess anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bell pepper for knee pain.
- Gather 100g of fresh capsicum annuum fruit and 500ml of vodka at 40% abv.
- Chop the capsicum annuum fruit and place it in a clean glass jar with vodka.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks with occasional shaking.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
- Label the bottle and store it in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks before use.
3. Curcuma longa
Turmeric tinctures helps with knee pain because it contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound that targets the root causes of arthritis-related inflammation.
As we age, our joints naturally produce more inflammatory molecules, leading to stiffness and discomfort. The curcumin in turmeric tinctures works by reducing this inflammation, relieving pressure on the knee joint and alleviating pain.
Additionally, its antioxidant properties help to repair damaged tissues and promote healthy cartilage regeneration, providing long-lasting relief from chronic knee pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa tinctures that help with knee pain.
- Curcumin: Curcumin, a phenolic compound, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce knee pain by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes responsible for joint inflammation.
- Demethoxycurcumin: DMC, a curcuminoid, has been found to have anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects, helping to alleviate knee pain by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which contribute to joint inflammation and pain.
- Bisdemethoxycurcumin: BDMC, another curcuminoid, has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, contributing to its potential in alleviating knee pain by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the joints.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make tinctures for knee pain.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part of Curcuma longa for tinctures due to their high concentration of curcumin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- Roots: Roots of Curcuma longa are used to make tinctures for knee pain due to their ability to reduce inflammation and improve joint mobility.
- Leaves: Leaves of Curcuma longa are used to make tinctures for knee pain due to their high content of volatile oils, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help alleviate pain and discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for knee pain.
- Harvest curcuma longa rhizomes in late autumn or early spring when they are mature and the tops have begun to yellow.
- Dry the rhizomes in a warm well-ventilated area for 2-3 weeks or until they are brittle and completely dry.
- Chop the dried rhizomes into small pieces and combine them with 80% ethanol in a 1:5 ratio by weight.
- Steep the mixture in a glass container for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a separate container and discard the solids.
4. Artemisia absinthium
Wormwood tinctures helps with knee pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which target the underlying causes of discomfort and stiffness in the joints.
The tannins present in wormwood work to reduce inflammation and swelling, thereby alleviating pain and improving mobility.
Additionally, wormwood's ability to relax muscles and improve circulation may also help to ease tension and pressure on the knees, providing long-lasting relief from knee pain and discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium tinctures that help with knee pain.
- Thujone: Thujone, a sesquiterpene ketone, has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain associated with knee inflammation.
- Bornyl acetate: Bornyl acetate, a monoterpenic ester, acts as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent, helping to alleviate pain and discomfort in the knee joint.
- Absinthin: Absinthin, a sesquiterpene lactone, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which contribute to reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the knee joint, thereby alleviating pain and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make tinctures for knee pain.
- Leaves: Rich in essential oils and sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that may help alleviate knee pain.
- Stems: Contain sesquiterpenes and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that may help reduce knee pain and inflammation.
- Roots: Known for their bioactive compounds, including sesquiterpenes and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that may help soothe knee pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wormwood for knee pain.
- Harvest fresh or dried artemisia absinthium leaves and flowers in the morning when the dew is present for better quality.
- Clean the harvested material by gently shaking off loose particles and then air-drying it completely to prevent mold.
- Combine 1 part dried artemisia absinthium material with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
5. Cymbopogon citratus
Lemongrass tinctures helps with knee pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which target the root cause of discomfort.
The herbal extract contains compounds that work to reduce swelling and alleviate stiffness in the joints, providing fast and effective relief from chronic or acute knee pain. Additionally, lemongrass's natural analgesic properties help to numb the pain, allowing individuals to regain mobility and flexibility with ease.
This makes it a popular natural remedy for people suffering from osteoarthritis and other joint-related issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cymbopogon citratus tinctures that help with knee pain.
- Citral: This terpene helps reduce inflammation and pain in the knee by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
- Geraniol: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help alleviate pain and swelling in the knee joint.
- Limonene: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the knee joint, thereby alleviating pain and promoting healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make tinctures for knee pain.
- Leaves: The leaves of Cymbopogon citratus are rich in citral and geraniol, compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce pain and inflammation in the knee.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of Cymbopogon citratus contain oils with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce knee pain and inflammation.
- Stems: The stems of Cymbopogon citratus are a rich source of essential oils, including geraniol and citral, which have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, making them useful for knee pain relief.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for knee pain.
- Harvest 1 part of the fresh aerial parts of cymbopogon citratus by cutting them just above the node.
- Clean and dry the aerial parts in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 days to prevent mold.
- Use a glass jar with a lid to make the tincture by macerating the aerial parts in 2 parts of ethanol for 2 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove the plant material after 2 weeks of maceration.
- Bottle the tincture in dark glass bottles and store it in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
6. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow tinctures helps with knee pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort in the joints.
The saponins present in marshmallow root interact with mucous membranes, forming a protective barrier that soothes and lubricates the joint space, reducing friction between bones and surrounding tissues.
This natural lubrication reduces pressure on the knee joint, allowing for smoother movement and relief from pain and stiffness associated with arthritis, bursitis, and other knee-related conditions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis tinctures that help with knee pain.
- Mucilages: Mucilages, particularly galactomannans and glucomannans, help to reduce knee pain by forming a protective barrier on the inflamed joints, reducing inflammation and providing anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as kaempferol and quercetin, possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to alleviate knee pain by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the affected area.
- Glucans: Glucans, including beta-glucans, have been found to stimulate the immune system and reduce inflammation, thereby contributing to the alleviation of knee pain caused by conditions such as osteoarthritis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for knee pain.
- Roots: The roots of Althaea officinalis are commonly used to make tinctures for knee pain due to their high mucilage content, which helps reduce inflammation and soothe joint pain.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used in tincture form to alleviate knee pain due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce swelling and promote healing.
- Barks: The barks of Althaea officinalis are sometimes used to make tinctures for knee pain, as they contain compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, providing relief from joint pain and discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for knee pain.
- Harvest 1:1 althaea officinalis root and leaf material in early morning after dew has fallen but before midday sun exposure.
- Dry the harvested althaea officinalis root and leaf material using a food dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 6 hours.
- Combine 250 grams of the dried althaea officinalis root and leaf material with 750 milliliters of 95 percent ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Allow the mixture to steep in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks, shaking the container daily.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container, discarding the solids.
7. Zingiber officinale
Ginger tinctures helps with knee pain because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds, gingerols and shogaols, work to reduce inflammation and stiffness in the joints, providing relief from chronic knee pain caused by arthritis, injuries, or overuse.
Additionally, ginger's warming effects help increase blood flow to the affected area, promoting healing and relaxation of the muscles and tendons around the knee joint.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with knee pain.
- Gingerols: These lipophilic compounds are responsible for the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of Zingiber officinale, helping to reduce knee pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and chemicals.
- Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols are bioactive compounds that have potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, contributing to the alleviation of knee pain by suppressing pain transmission and reducing inflammation in the affected area.
- 6-gingerol: A major constituent of ginger, 6-gingerol has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help mitigate knee pain by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the joints.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for knee pain.
- Rhyzomes: They are the primary source of ginger's medicinal properties and are often used in tinctures due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds.
- Roots: The roots of the ginger plant contain a higher concentration of gingerols and shogaols, which are responsible for its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Stems: The stems of the ginger plant contain a smaller but still significant amount of bioactive compounds, making them a suitable alternative when other parts are not available.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for knee pain.
- Harvest 1 pound of fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes in the morning when the dew is still present.
- Wash the harvested rhizomes with clean water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Chop 2 cups of the cleaned rhizomes into small pieces and fill a clean glass jar.
- Steep the chopped rhizomes in 4 cups of 95% ethanol for 2 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
8. Rheum rhaponticum
Turkey rhubarb tinctures helps with knee pain because of its unique combination of anti-inflammatory properties from the rhubarb plant and soothing compounds found in turmeric.
The tincture's natural ingredients work together to reduce inflammation and ease joint stiffness, providing relief for individuals suffering from osteoarthritis and other degenerative knee conditions.
Additionally, the herbal blend may also help to improve circulation and promote healthy joint function, leading to long-lasting pain reduction and improved mobility.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rheum rhaponticum tinctures that help with knee pain.
- Saponins: These compounds help reduce inflammation and pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and mediators, which are often involved in the development of knee pain.
- Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate knee pain by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the affected area.
- Glycosides: Specifically, rhein glycosides present in Rheum rhaponticum have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which can help relieve knee pain by reducing inflammation and modulating pain signaling pathways.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turkey rhubarb used to make tinctures for knee pain.
- Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of saponins, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce knee pain.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes are also used due to their similar saponin content to the roots, making them effective in relieving knee pain and inflammation.
- Stems: The stems are used as a secondary source of saponins, which are believed to contribute to the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of the tinctures.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turkey rhubarb for knee pain.
- Gather 250 grams of dried rheum rhaponticum roots and 750 milliliters of 80-proof ethanol.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase surface area.
- Combine the chopped roots with the ethanol in a clean glass jar and seal it tightly.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 weeks to allow for maceration and infusion.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a separate container to discard the solids.
9. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with knee pain because of its unique combination of anti-inflammatory compounds, particularly ursolic acid and rosmarinic acid.
These natural ingredients have been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort in the joints, including knees affected by osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. The tincture's analgesic properties also help to block pain signals to the brain, providing relief from stiffness and soreness.
As a result, herbal Kansas coneflower tinctures have become a popular natural remedy for knee pain management.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with knee pain.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and swelling in the knee joint, thereby alleviating pain.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids present in Echinacea angustifolia have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help soothe and heal knee joint inflammation and pain.
- Polyphenolic compounds: These antioxidants have been found to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the knee joint, which can contribute to pain relief and improved joint function.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for knee pain.
- Roots: They are commonly used for their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which make them effective in soothing knee pain.
- Leaves: The leaves of Echinacea angustifolia contain compounds that have been traditionally used to reduce inflammation and ease joint pain.
- Root buds (rhizome buds): The root buds, also known as rhizome buds, are used to make tinctures due to their high concentration of active compounds, which help alleviate knee pain and inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for knee pain.
- Harvest echinacea angustifolia roots in late summer or early fall after the plant has completed its life cycle.
- Dry the harvested roots in a warm well-ventilated area for 1-2 weeks to reduce moisture content.
- Combine the dried roots with 80 proof vodka or ethanol in a 1:5 ratio by weight for tincture preparation.
- Steep the mixture in a glass jar for 2-6 weeks with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the tincture and store it in a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid for up to 2 years.
10. Piper nigrum
Black pepper tinctures helps with knee pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.
The bioactive compound piperine in black pepper has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, reducing swelling and discomfort associated with knee osteoarthritis.
Additionally, piperine's ability to enhance bioavailability of other herbs and nutrients may help to further reduce inflammation and promote joint health, making it a natural and effective supplement for managing knee pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Piper nigrum tinctures that help with knee pain.
- Piperine: A bioactive alkaloid found in Piper nigrum, piperine has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with knee pain.
- Terpinolene: A terpene found in Piper nigrum, terpinolene has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which can help alleviate knee pain by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation.
- Β-caryophyllene: A sesquiterpene found in Piper nigrum, β-caryophyllene has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with knee pain by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of black pepper used to make tinctures for knee pain.
- Seeds: Piper nigrum seeds contain piperine, a bioactive compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce knee pain.
- Rhyzomes: Piper nigrum rhyzomes are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective in reducing knee pain and inflammation.
- Leaves: Piper nigrum leaves contain flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which can help alleviate knee pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic black pepper for knee pain.
- Harvest 100g of fresh p nigrum berries at peak ripeness for optimal potency.
- Dry the berries in a low-temperature oven at 40 degrees celsius for 24 hours.
- Combine 100g of dried berries with 500ml of vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
- Strain the tincture through cheesecloth into a glass bottle for storage purposes.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for knee pain?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with knee pain is a blend of Willow Bark, Turmeric, and Ginger.
Willow Bark contains salicin, a natural anti-inflammatory that reduces pain and swelling. Turmeric, rich in curcumin, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that soothe joint inflammation.
Ginger, with its warming properties, helps to reduce pain and stiffness, making this combination an effective natural remedy for knee pain relief.
What ailments similar to knee pain are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to knee pain that are treated with herbal tinctures are arthritis, fibromyalgia, and tendonitis.
Herbal tinctures like turmeric, ginger, and willow bark have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and swelling in joints and muscles. These tinctures can also be used to alleviate menstrual cramps, sprains, and strains.
They work by reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and relaxing muscle tension, providing natural relief from various musculoskeletal disorders.