Updated: Nov 30, 2024
11 Herbal Creams For Knee Swelling
Herbal creams can be a great way to relieve knee swelling, and they work by reducing inflammation and pain.
When you apply an herbal cream to your knee, the active ingredients are absorbed into your skin and start to work on the underlying issues. For example, Arnica montana is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce swelling and ease pain. Another herb, Hamamelis virginiana, also has anti-inflammatory properties and can help to reduce swelling and ease pain. Aloe barbadensis is also used in herbal creams for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
When you apply an herbal cream to your knee, the cooling sensation can help to reduce pain and inflammation, making it easier to move around and go about your daily activities. Using herbal creams for knee swelling can bring many benefits to your life. For one, you may be able to reduce your reliance on over-the-counter pain medications, which can have negative side effects. You may also be able to reduce your risk of long-term damage to your joints, by addressing the underlying issues that are causing your knee swelling.
Additionally, herbal creams can be a more gentle and natural way to manage your symptoms, making them a great option for people who prefer not to use harsh chemicals or medications.
This article explains in detail what are the best herbal teas for knee swelling and wh.
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Table of Contents
1. Arnica montana
Arnica montana creams contains sesquiterpene lactones, particularly helenalin and dihydrohelenalin, which are responsible for its anti-inflammatory properties.
These compounds work by blocking the production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause pain and swelling. The flavonoids and phenolic acids in Arnica montana also contribute to its anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce swelling and pain in the knees. Additionally, the creams' ability to enhance blood circulation and reduce fluid retention helps to alleviate knee swelling.
The combination of these properties makes Arnica montana creams a popular natural remedy for knee swelling.
- Gather ingredients: 1 cup of Arnica montana flowers, 1/2 cup of coconut oil, 1/4 cup of beeswax, 2 tablespoons of shea butter, and 2 tablespoons of vitamin E oil.
- Make a tea by steeping the Arnica flowers in 2 cups of boiling water for 5-7 minutes. Let it cool.
- Melt the coconut oil and beeswax in a double boiler or in a microwave-safe bowl in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval.
- Add the cooled Arnica tea, shea butter, and vitamin E oil to the melted mixture. Stir well until combined.
- Pour the mixture into a container and let it cool and solidify. Once set, your Arnica cream is ready to use.
2. Hamamelis virginiana
Hamamelis virginiana creams contains a group of compounds called tannins and phenolic acids, including hamamelitannin, hamamelose, and gallic acid.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory and astringent properties, which help to reduce swelling and ease pain in the knees. The astringent properties of the tannins in Hamamelis virginiana creams also help to constrict blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the affected area, further reducing swelling. The anti-inflammatory properties of the phenolic acids in the cream, such as gallic acid, also help to reduce inflammation and pain in the knees.
By reducing inflammation and swelling, Hamamelis virginiana creams can help to provide relief from knee swelling and discomfort.
- Gather 1 cup of Hamamelis virginiana flowers, 1/2 cup of coconut oil, 1/4 cup of shea butter, 2 tablespoons of beeswax, and 2 tablespoons of vitamin E oil.
- Heat the coconut oil and shea butter in a double boiler until melted.
- Add the beeswax to the melted mixture and stir until melted and well combined.
- Add the Hamamelis virginiana flowers and vitamin E oil to the mixture. Let it steep for 2 hours, then strain the mixture through a cheesecloth.
- Pour the cooled mixture into a container and let it solidify. Once solid, use as a cream for knee swelling.
3. Aloe barbadensis
Aloe barbadensis creams contains bioactive constituents like glycoproteins, polysaccharides, and vitamins that help reduce knee swelling.
The glycoproteins in aloe vera have anti-inflammatory properties that decrease swelling and pain in the knees. The polysaccharides in aloe vera also promote collagen production, which helps repair damaged tissue and reduce swelling. Additionally, the vitamin C in aloe vera has antioxidant properties that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the knee joint.
By reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair, aloe barbadensis creams can help alleviate knee swelling and promote healthy joint function.
- Gather 1 cup of aloe vera gel, 1/2 cup of coconut oil, 1/4 cup of beeswax, and 2 tablespoons of vitamin E oil.
- Melt the coconut oil and beeswax in a double boiler or a microwave-safe bowl in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval, until melted.
- Add the aloe vera gel and vitamin E oil to the melted mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar or tin. Allow it to cool and solidify at room temperature.
- Once solid, your aloe vera cream is ready to use. Apply a thick layer to affected knees, 2-3 times a day, for relief from swelling.
4. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa creams contains turmeric, a plant with active constituents like curcumin and demethoxycurcumin.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce swelling and pain in the knees. Curcumin also acts as an antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals that cause inflammation and damage to joint tissues. The bioavailability of curcumin is enhanced by other constituents in turmeric, such as piperine, which increases its absorption in the body.
As a result, the inflammation and swelling associated with knee problems are reduced, allowing for better joint mobility and comfort.
- Gather 2 cups of distilled water, 1 cup of coconut oil, 1/4 cup of beeswax, and 2 tablespoons of turmeric powder (Curcuma longa).
- Melt coconut oil and beeswax in a double boiler or a heat-proof bowl in a pot of simmering water.
- Remove the melted mixture from heat and stir in turmeric powder. Let it cool for 5 minutes.
- Slowly pour the mixture into a blender or food processor with 2 cups of distilled water. Blend until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a container and let it cool and set at room temperature before use. Apply a small amount to the affected knee area.
5. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra creams contains active constituents like glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, and triterpenoids.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling in the knee. Glycyrrhizin, in particular, blocks the production of a hormone called aldosterone, which can cause water retention and swelling. The flavonoids in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams also have antioxidant properties, which help protect the skin from damage and promote healing.
By reducing inflammation and promoting healing, Glycyrrhiza glabra creams may be beneficial for people with knee swelling.
- Gather ingredients: 1 cup of distilled water, 1/4 cup of glycerin, 1 tablespoon of beeswax, 1 tablespoon of coconut oil, 1 teaspoon of glycyrrhiza glabra root powder, and a few drops of vitamin E oil.
- Melt the beeswax and coconut oil in a double boiler or a microwave-safe bowl for 10-15 seconds.
- In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of distilled water with 1/4 cup of glycerin and 1 teaspoon of glycyrrhiza glabra root powder. Stir well to combine.
- Slowly add the melted beeswax and coconut oil mixture to the water-glycerin mixture, stirring constantly until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a container, add a few drops of vitamin E oil, and let it cool and solidify before applying to the affected knee area.
6. Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea purpurea creams contains alkylamides, glycosides, and phenolic acids, which are active constituents that help with knee swelling.
Alkylamides have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and pain. Glycosides, particularly echinacoside and isochlorogenic acid, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which help to soothe and calm the affected area. Phenolic acids, such as caffeic acid and chlorogenic acid, also have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and promote healing.
These properties work together to reduce knee swelling, promote healing, and provide relief from pain and discomfort.
- Gather 2 cups of distilled water, 1/2 cup of coconut oil, 1/4 cup of beeswax, 2 tablespoons of vitamin E oil, 2 tablespoons of Echinacea purpurea extract.
- Melt the coconut oil and beeswax in a double boiler or a heat-proof bowl set over a pot of simmering water.
- Add the distilled water to the melted oil mixture and stir until combined.
- Add the Echinacea purpurea extract and vitamin E oil to the mixture and stir well.
- Remove from heat and let cool. Pour into a container and store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
7. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale creams contains gingerols and shogaols, which are active compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties.
These compounds help reduce swelling and pain in the knee by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which cause inflammation. Gingerols and shogaols also have antioxidant properties that help protect the knee from damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of Zingiber officinale creams may help relax the muscles and improve blood flow to the affected area, which can help reduce swelling and promote healing.
The combination of these properties makes Zingiber officinale creams a potential treatment option for knee swelling.
- Gather 1 cup of coconut oil, 1/2 cup of beeswax, 2 tablespoons of shea butter, 2 tablespoons of ginger essential oil, and 2 tablespoons of vitamin E oil.
- Melt the coconut oil and beeswax in a double boiler or a heat-proof bowl set over a pot of simmering water.
- Add the shea butter to the melted mixture and stir until it's fully incorporated.
- Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool slightly, then stir in the ginger essential oil and vitamin E oil.
- Pour the mixture into small containers and let it cool and solidify before use. Apply a thin layer to affected knees for relief from swelling.
8. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis creams contains triterpenoids, flavonoids, and carotenoids as active constituents.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce swelling and pain in the knee. The triterpenoids, specifically, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby reducing inflammation. The flavonoids, such as quercetin and kaempferol, have potent antioxidant effects that help protect the knee joint from oxidative damage.
By reducing inflammation and protecting the joint, Calendula officinalis creams can help alleviate knee swelling and promote healing.
- Gather ingredients: 1 cup of Calendula officinalis flowers, 1/2 cup of coconut oil, 1/4 cup of shea butter, 1 tablespoon of beeswax, 1 tablespoon of vitamin E oil.
- Dry the Calendula flowers in a low-temperature oven (150°F) for 2 hours or until they are completely dry.
- Melt the coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax in a double boiler or a heat-proof bowl set over a pot of simmering water.
- Add the dried Calendula flowers to the melted mixture and stir well. Remove from heat and let it steep for 2 hours.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Add the vitamin E oil and mix well. Pour into a tin or jar and let it cool before use.
9. Capsicum annuum
Capsicum annuum creams contains capsaicin, a key bioactive constituent that helps reduce knee swelling.
Capsaicin has anti-inflammatory properties, which block the production of a chemical called substance P, that causes pain and swelling. The creams also contain flavonoids, like quercetin, that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce inflammation and swelling in the knees. Additionally, capsaicin causes blood vessels to dilate, increasing blood flow and helping to remove excess fluid from the knee joint.
By reducing inflammation and increasing blood flow, Capsicum annuum creams can help alleviate knee swelling and promote a faster recovery.
- Gather 2 cups of fresh Capsicum annuum (sweet peppers), 1 cup of coconut oil, and 1/2 cup of beeswax.
- Peel and chop the Capsicum annuum into small pieces. Then, heat them in a pan over low heat for 10 minutes.
- In a separate pan, melt the coconut oil and beeswax over low heat, stirring constantly.
- Add the heated Capsicum annuum to the coconut oil mixture and stir well. Remove from heat.
- Let the mixture cool and solidify. Once set, scoop it into a container and store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
10. Cinchona officinalis
Cinchona officinalis creams contains a compound called quinine, which is a natural anti-inflammatory.
This property helps to reduce swelling in the knee by blocking the production of chemicals that cause inflammation. Cinchona officinalis also contains another compound called quinidine, which has a similar effect. Additionally, the cream contains alkaloids like cinchonine and cinchonidine, which have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe and calm the affected area.
By reducing swelling and inflammation, Cinchona officinalis creams can help to relieve knee pain and discomfort.
- Gather ingredients: 1 cup of distilled water, 1/2 cup of coconut oil, 1/4 cup of beeswax, 2 tablespoons of Cinchona officinalis tincture, and 2 tablespoons of vitamin E oil.
- Melt the coconut oil and beeswax in a double boiler or a microwave-safe bowl in 10-second increments, stirring between each heating until smooth.
- Add the distilled water and stir until well combined.
- Add the Cinchona officinalis tincture and vitamin E oil, and stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a clean, sterilized container and let it cool and solidify before use. Apply a small amount to the affected knee as needed.
11. Vitis vinifera
Vitis vinifera creams contains flavonoids and polyphenols, which are powerful antioxidants that help reduce inflammation in the body.
These antioxidants, including quercetin and kaempferol, have anti-inflammatory properties that specifically target swollen joints and tissues. The saponins in Vitis vinifera creams also help to reduce swelling by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body. Additionally, the creams contain resveratrol, a polyphenol that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which helps to protect the joints from further damage.
By reducing inflammation and promoting healthy joint function, Vitis vinifera creams can provide relief from knee swelling and promote overall joint health.
- Gather 2 cups of Vitis vinifera leaves, 1 cup of coconut oil, 1/2 cup of beeswax, and 2 tablespoons of vitamin E oil.
- Dry the Vitis vinifera leaves in a low-temperature oven (150°F) for 1 hour.
- Melt the coconut oil and beeswax in a double boiler over low heat.
- Add the dried Vitis vinifera leaves and vitamin E oil to the melted mixture. Stir well.
- Let the mixture cool and solidify. Once solid, use a spoon to scoop out the Vitis vinifera cream and apply it to the affected knee area.
FAQ
Can drinking herbal tea prevent knee swelling from forming?
Some herbal teas, like ginger and turmeric tea, may help with knee swelling.
They contain anti-inflammatory compounds that might reduce swelling and ease pain. Drinking these teas regularly might make a difference, but it's not a replacement for medical treatment.
It's more like a natural complement to help manage symptoms.
Is it safe to consume herbal teas for knee swelling every day?
Herbal teas can be a helpful addition to your daily routine for knee swelling.
However, it's essential to consume them in moderation. Some herbal teas, like peppermint or chamomile, can cause stomach upset if drunk excessively.
Drinking herbal teas daily may also interact with other medications you're taking, so it's crucial to be mindful of your consumption.
How long does it take for herbal teas to show results in knee swelling?
Herbal teas can take a few days to a week to show some relief from knee swelling.
Some people notice a reduction in swelling within 24-48 hours, while others may take a bit longer.
It's essential to drink the tea regularly, ideally 2-3 times a day, to see noticeable improvements.
What time of day is best to drink herbal tea for knee swelling?
For knee swelling, it's best to drink herbal tea in the morning or early afternoon.
This is when your body has its highest water content and can absorb the tea's anti-inflammatory properties more effectively.
Drinking herbal tea during this time may help reduce swelling and ease discomfort throughout the day.