10 Best Herbal Creams For Knee Swelling

Herbal creams for knee swelling are topical treatments infused with natural ingredients like arnica, aloe vera, and turmeric that help reduce inflammation and alleviate swelling in the knees.

These creams work by increasing blood flow, reducing pain, and promoting healing. Examples of herbal creams that help with knee swelling include creams containing arnica montana and capsaicin.

They can improve lives by allowing individuals to move freely and engage in daily activities without discomfort, enhancing overall quality of life and well-being.

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

1. Zingiber officinale

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

The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have been shown to reduce swelling and pain in the knees by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.

This natural anti-inflammatory effect helps to relax the muscles and improve blood circulation, which in turn reduces knee swelling and discomfort, making it a popular natural remedy for people suffering from knee pain and inflammation.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerol: Gingerol has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce knee swelling by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
• Shogaol: Shogaol is a bioactive compound that has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, helping to reduce pain and swelling associated with knee inflammation.
• Curcuminoid: Curcuminoids, particularly curcumin, have strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate knee swelling by reducing oxidative stress and inhibiting the activation of inflammatory pathways.

Parts Used

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

• Rhyzomes: The underground stem of the plant is used due to its high concentration of active compounds, including gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: The roots of Ginger are used for their ability to reduce pain and inflammation, making them a popular ingredient in creams for knee swelling.
• Buds: The buds of Ginger contain high amounts of bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and relieve pain, making them a valuable addition to knee swelling creams.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Infuse 10 grams of dried zingiber officinale root in 100ml of carrier oil for 2 weeks.
2. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids after 2 weeks.
3. Mix 20 grams of beeswax and 20 grams of shea butter in a double boiler.
4. Add the infused oil to the melted beeswax and shea butter mixture slowly.
5. Pour the mixture into a container and let it cool for 30 minutes.

2. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with knee swelling because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, particularly curcumin.

This natural compound reduces the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby alleviating swelling and pain in the knees. The curcumin in these creams also has antioxidant properties, which help to neutralize free radicals and promote healing in the affected area.

By reducing inflammation and promoting healing, Curcuma longa creams can provide relief from knee swelling and promote overall joint health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Curcumin: This polyphenolic compound has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the knees by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Tumerone: A sesquiterpene found in turmeric oil, tumerone has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help alleviate knee swelling and pain by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
• Demethoxycurcumin: A curcuminoid with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, demethoxycurcumin can help reduce knee swelling by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and reducing oxidative stress.

Parts Used

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

• Seeds: They contain a high concentration of essential oils, which are often used in topical creams for their anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: They are a rich source of curcuminoids, which are commonly used in creams to reduce inflammation and alleviate knee swelling.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100g of fresh curcuma longa rhizomes and clean them thoroughly with cold running water for 5 minutes.
2. Grind the rhizomes into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
3. Combine 30g of the powder with 100ml of distilled water in a double boiler and heat it gently for 20 minutes.
4. Mix the heated mixture with 20g of beeswax and 20g of coconut oil in a blender until well combined for 5 minutes.
5. Pour the mixture into a glass jar and store it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before use.

3. Capsicum annuum

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

The capsaicin content in these creams penetrates deep into the skin, blocking the production of a chemical called substance P, which transmits pain signals to the brain. This reduction in pain and inflammation helps to alleviate swelling and discomfort associated with knee injuries or conditions like arthritis.

Regular application of Capsicum annuum creams can provide relief and promote a smoother recovery process.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Capsaicin: Capsaicin helps with knee swelling by reducing inflammation and pain through its ability to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory substances and blocking the action of pain-sensing neurons.
• Quercetin: Quercetin helps with knee swelling by acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, reducing inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and preventing the activation of inflammatory cells.
• Ellagic acid: Ellagic acid helps with knee swelling by displaying anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, reducing inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and preventing the activation of inflammatory cells.

Parts Used

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

• Fruits: The most commonly used parts of Capsicum annuum in creams for knee swelling are the fruits, which contain capsaicin and other compounds that help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Seeds: The seeds of Capsicum annuum are also used in creams for knee swelling, as they contain capsaicin and other bioactive compounds that help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
• Leaves: Some creams for knee swelling may use the leaves of Capsicum annuum, which contain capsaicin and other compounds that help reduce pain and inflammation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 500 grams of ripe capsicum annuum fruits and wash them thoroughly under running water.
2. Dry the capsicum annuum fruits in a low-temperature oven at 50 degrees celsius for 8 hours.
3. Grind the dried capsicum annuum fruits into a fine powder using a high-speed grinder for 5 minutes.
4. Mix 100 grams of the capsicum annuum powder with 200 grams of coconut oil and 50 grams of beeswax in a double boiler.
5. Stir the mixture in the double boiler for 20 minutes at 70 degrees celsius to create a smooth cream.

4. Arnica montana

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

The active compounds, such as sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids, reduce inflammation and pain in the affected area. Topical application of Arnica montana creams allows for direct penetration of these compounds into the skin, providing localized relief from swelling and discomfort.

By reducing inflammation, Arnica montana creams promote faster healing and recovery, making it a popular natural remedy for knee swelling and joint pain.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds, particularly helenalin and dihydrohelenalin, have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain associated with knee inflammation.
• Flavonoids: Specifically, flavonoids like kaempferol and quercetin, present in Arnica montana, possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate knee swelling and promote tissue repair.
• Thiophene derivatives: These compounds, particularly arnidiol and arnicol, exhibit potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which contribute to Arnica montana's effectiveness in reducing knee swelling and alleviating associated pain.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: The flowers are the most commonly used part of Arnica montana, as they contain the highest concentration of arnica oil, which is responsible for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
• Leaves: The leaves contain smaller amounts of arnica oil, but are still used in some creams, as they have a more subtle effect and are often used in combination with the flowers.
• Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes (underground stems) contain a smaller amount of arnica oil compared to the flowers, but are used in some creams for their additional anti-inflammatory properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 50g of dried arnica montana flowers in the early morning to ensure optimal potency.
2. Steep 20g of the dried flowers in 200ml of oil like sweet almond oil for 2-3 weeks.
3. Strain the oil through cheesecloth into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
4. Mix 10g of beeswax with 20g of shea butter and 10g of coconut oil in a double boiler.
5. Combine the infused oil with the melted wax mixture and stir until smooth consistency is achieved.

5. Salix alba

Salix alba, also known as white willow, creams helps with knee swelling because it contains salicin, a natural anti-inflammatory compound similar to aspirin.

The active ingredient targets and reduces inflammation and pain in the knee joint, providing relief from swelling. The cream also has an analgesic effect, numbing the pain and discomfort associated with knee swelling.

Additionally, Salix alba creams may help to relax muscles and improve blood circulation, further reducing swelling and promoting overall knee health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Salicin: Salicin, a phenolic compound, helps with knee swelling by reducing inflammation and pain due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which are similar to aspirin.
• Tannins: Tannins, a class of polyphenolic compounds, aid in reducing knee swelling by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and suppressing the activity of inflammatory cells.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, a subclass of phenolic compounds, help with knee swelling by exhibiting anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and vasodilatory effects, which contribute to reducing inflammation and alleviating pain in swollen knees.

Parts Used

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

• Barks: The barks of Salix alba are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce swelling and soothe knee pain.
• Leaves: The leaves of Salix alba are used because they contain salicylic acid, a compound similar to aspirin, which helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
• Stems: The stems of Salix alba are used due to their high content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce knee swelling.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of salix alba bark in late summer or early fall for its medicinal properties.
2. Dry the bark in a warm place for 2-3 weeks or until it reaches a crumbly texture.
3. Steep 2 tablespoons of dried salix alba bark in 1 cup of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain the liquid and add 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil to it.
5. Heat the mixture gently for 5-10 minutes or until the beeswax and coconut oil melt and blend.

6. Urtica dioica

Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, creams helps with knee swelling because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The herb contains compounds like flavonoids and polyphenols that reduce swelling and ease pain in the knee joint. Additionally, Urtica dioica creams may help improve circulation and reduce inflammation caused by conditions such as arthritis. Its natural anti-inflammatory agents promote healing and reduce the severity of symptoms associated with knee swelling, providing relief and comfort to those affected.

Regular application can lead to noticeable improvements in knee health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Furanocoumarins: These compounds help reduce knee swelling by inhibiting the production of inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which contribute to inflammation and swelling.
• Stylophorin a: This compound exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by modulating the activity of enzymes involved in the inflammatory response, leading to a reduction in swelling and pain.
• Nitrates: Urtica dioica contains nitrate compounds, which help reduce knee swelling by promoting the relaxation of blood vessels and improving blood flow to the affected area, thereby reducing inflammation and swelling.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Rich in anti-inflammatory compounds such as histamine and isoorientin, which help reduce knee swelling.
• Roots: Contain compounds like iridoid glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that alleviate knee swelling.
• Stems: Contain rhamnose, a polysaccharide with anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe knee swelling.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for knee swelling.

1. Harvest fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems in the morning after dew has evaporated for maximum potency.
2. Dry the harvested plant material at 40 degrees celsius for 2 hours to remove excess moisture.
3. Combine 20 grams of dried plant material with 100 grams of carrier oil such as coconut oil in a double boiler.
4. Steep the mixture in the double boiler for 2 hours to allow the plant's active compounds to infuse into the oil.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and transfer the infused oil to a clean glass container for storage.

7. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, creams helps with knee swelling because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The extract found in these creams has been shown to improve blood flow and reduce swelling, alleviating discomfort and pain associated with knee inflammation. Additionally, Ginkgo biloba's antioxidant properties help protect the knees from oxidative stress, promoting overall health and well-being.

By reducing inflammation and promoting healthy blood flow, Ginkgo biloba creams provide natural relief from knee swelling.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba creams that help with knee swelling.

• Bilobalide: A sesquiterpene lactone, bilobalide helps reduce knee swelling by its anti-inflammatory properties, which inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and promote the release of anti-inflammatory cytokines.
• Ginkgolides: Diterpenoid compounds, ginkgolides have potent anti-inflammatory effects that contribute to the relief of knee swelling by inhibiting platelet-activating factor (PAF) and other pro-inflammatory molecules.
• Quercetin: A flavonoid polyphenol, quercetin is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate knee swelling by scavenging free radicals, reducing oxidative stress, and inhibiting inflammatory pathways.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make creams for knee swelling.

• Leaves: They are used because they contain flavonoids and terpenoids that have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain.
• Seeds: They are used because they contain flavonoids and terpenoids that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate knee swelling and promote overall health.
• Barks: They are used because they contain flavonoids and terpenoids that have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain in the knees.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for knee swelling.

1. Weigh and combine 10 grams of dried ginkgo biloba leaves with 20 grams of base oil in a clean glass container.
2. Heat the mixture in a double boiler at 60 degrees celsius for 2 hours to infuse the oil.
3. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a separate glass container to remove the solids.
4. Add 1 teaspoon of vitamin e oil and 1 teaspoon of beeswax to the strained oil and heat until melted.
5. Pour the melted mixture into a glass jar and let it cool and harden before use.

8. Valeriana officinalis

Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, creams helps with knee swelling because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The valerenic acid and valeranone present in valerian root interact with the body's natural pain-relieving mechanisms, providing relief from swelling and discomfort. The cooling sensation of valerian creams can also reduce inflammation and promote relaxation in the affected area, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating knee swelling and promoting overall joint comfort.

Regular use can lead to improved mobility and reduced pain.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Valerenic acid: Valerenic acid is a sesquiterpene that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain associated with knee inflammation.
• Valeranone: Valeranone is a sesquiterpene that has been shown to exhibit analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate pain and reduce swelling in the knees.
• Valerenal: Valerenal is a sesquiterpene that has been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the knees, leading to reduced swelling and pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make creams for knee swelling.

• Roots: They are rich in valerenic acid and valeranone, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
• Rhyzomes: Similar to roots, rhyzomes of Valeriana officinalis contain valerenic acid and other compounds that help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
• Seeds: Although less commonly used, valerian seeds are also utilized for their potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which can help in reducing knee swelling.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for knee swelling.

1. Harvest valeriana officinalis roots in the morning after the dew has dried to ensure quality.
2. Dry the roots in a low-temperature dehydrator at 40°c for 8 hours to preserve potency.
3. Infuse 2g of dried roots in 20ml of carrier oil at 60°c for 6 hours to create a tincture.
4. Mix 5g of beeswax with 10g of shea butter to create a base for the cream.
5. Combine 10ml of tincture with 50g of base mixture and 20ml of distilled water to create the final cream.

9. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, creams helps with knee swelling because of its anti-inflammatory and cooling properties.

The menthol content in peppermint creams reduces inflammation and relaxes the muscles, easing pain and discomfort associated with swollen knees. Additionally, peppermint creams can improve blood circulation, helping to reduce swelling and promote faster recovery.

The refreshing scent and cooling sensation of peppermint creams can also provide mental comfort and relaxation, making it an effective remedy for knee swelling and associated discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita creams that help with knee swelling.

• Menthol: Menthol helps with knee swelling by reducing inflammation and pain due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help to reduce swelling and alleviate symptoms of knee inflammation.
• Eugenol: Eugenol's anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties help to reduce pain and swelling in the knees by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make creams for knee swelling.

• Leaves: The leaves of Mentha x piperita are used to make creams for knee swelling due to their high content of menthol, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: The roots of Mentha x piperita are used to make creams for knee swelling due to their concentration of menthone and menthyl acetate, which provide analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of Mentha x piperita are used to make creams for knee swelling due to their rich source of essential oils, which include menthone and limonene, that aid in reducing inflammation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for knee swelling.

1. Gather 100g of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and 200g of beeswax to create a base mixture.
2. Infuse 100g of fresh mentha x piperita leaves in 500ml of carrier oil for 2 weeks.
3. Combine 200g of infused oil with 100g of shea butter and 50g of coconut oil in a heat-proof bowl.
4. Heat the mixture over low heat for 20 minutes while stirring occasionally to achieve a smooth consistency.
5. Add 20g of vitamin e oil and 10g of essential oil to the mixture and stir well before pouring into containers.

10. Gaultheria procumbens

Gaultheria procumbens, also known as wintergreen, creams helps with knee swelling because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

The main active compound, methyl salicylate, mimics the effects of aspirin, reducing pain and inflammation in the affected area. As the methyl salicylate is absorbed into the skin, it targets the underlying causes of knee swelling, such as arthritis and other inflammatory conditions, providing relief from discomfort and promoting mobility.

Regular application can lead to sustained relief and improved joint health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Methyl salicylate: It acts as a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce swelling and alleviate pain in the knee joint.
• Salicin: It is a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory compound that inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby reducing inflammation and swelling in the knee area.
• Gaultherin: Although Gaultherin is the primary constituent of Gaultheria procumbens, its direct role in the relief of knee swelling is less studied. However, Gaultherin may have antioxidant properties, which could contribute to its anti-inflammatory effects and help in reducing swelling in the knee joint.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of wintergreen used to make creams for knee swelling.

• Roots: Used for their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties to reduce swelling and discomfort in the knees.
• Leaves: Employed for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe and calm knee swelling and pain.
• Roots or leaves: Both have been used, however, I included both as both are the most used but leaves have analgesic properties and roots have anti-inflammatory properties, in some cases both are used in combination.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wintergreen for knee swelling.

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of gaultheria procumbens leaves and stems from a clean and well-drained area in the morning.
2. Combine the harvested gaultheria procumbens with 1/2 cup of coconut oil in a small saucepan over low heat.
3. Steep the gaultheria procumbens mixture for 10-15 minutes then strain it using cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve.
4. Mix 1 tablespoon of beeswax with 2 tablespoons of shea butter and heat the mixture in a double boiler for 5 minutes.
5. Blend the gaultheria procumbens infused oil with the beeswax and shea butter mixture and pour it into containers for cooling.

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

The best combination of herbal creams that help with knee swelling is often a blend of arnica, ginger, and comfrey.

Arnica cream helps reduce inflammation and soothe pain, while ginger cream promotes blood circulation and warmth to ease stiffness. Comfrey cream supports tissue repair and regeneration, promoting a faster recovery. Applying these creams together in a rotation or alternating between them can provide long-lasting relief from knee swelling, promoting healthy healing and flexibility.

Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

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

Ailments similar to knee swelling that are treated with herbal creams are various musculoskeletal conditions, including arthritis, bursitis, and tendonitis.

These herbal creams often contain anti-inflammatory ingredients such as arnica, capsaicin, and ginger, which help to reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness in affected joints.

They can also promote healing and relaxation, providing relief from discomfort and improving overall joint health.