10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Knee Swelling

Herbal tinctures for knee swelling are concentrated liquid extracts of plants, flowers, and herbs that have been used for centuries to alleviate joint pain and inflammation.

These natural remedies help reduce knee swelling by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, improving circulation, and reducing oxidative stress. Examples of herbal tinctures that show promise in relieving knee swelling include Willow Bark (Salix alba), Turmeric (Curcuma longa), and Ginger (Zingiber officinale).

By using these tinctures, individuals can experience reduced pain and inflammation, allowing them to engage in daily activities with greater ease and comfort.

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

1. Curcuma longa

Turmeric tinctures helps with knee swelling because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, specifically curcuminoids.

These compounds work to reduce prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause inflammation and swelling in the joints. Additionally, turmeric's bioactive compounds have been shown to inhibit the production of enzymes that break down joint cartilage, helping to reduce joint damage and alleviate discomfort associated with knee swelling.

As a result, turmeric tinctures can provide natural relief from knee pain and inflammation.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Curcumin: It helps with knee swelling by inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as COX-2 and 5-LOX, which are involved in the production of inflammatory mediators that contribute to swelling and pain.
• Demethoxycurcumin: It exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by blocking the action of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), a protein complex that promotes the expression of genes involved in inflammation and swelling.
• Bisdemethoxycurcumin: It has potent anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α and IL-1β, which are involved in the inflammatory response that leads to knee swelling.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Curcuma longa are used to make tinctures because they contain curcumin and other bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
• Buds: The buds of Curcuma longa are used to make tinctures as they contain a high concentration of curcumin and other bioactive compounds that help 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 fresh curcuma longa roots in the early morning after the dew has dried completely.
2. Clean and dry the harvested roots in a low-temperature oven for 2 hours at 150 degrees fahrenheit.
3. Chop the dried roots into small pieces using a sharp knife and weigh out 1 part roots to 2 parts 95 percent ethanol.
4. Combine the chopped roots and ethanol in a clean glass jar and steep for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth and discard the solids then bottle the tincture and store in a cool dark place.

2. Salix alba

White willow tinctures helps with knee swelling because they contain salicin, a natural compound that has anti-inflammatory properties.

This allows it to effectively reduce inflammation and pain associated with knee injuries or conditions such as osteoarthritis. As an alternative to traditional NSAIDs, white willow tincture can help alleviate joint stiffness and discomfort, promoting improved mobility and reduced swelling in the knees.

Additionally, its natural composition makes it a gentle yet effective solution for managing chronic knee issues.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly salicin, found in Salix alba tinctures, have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain in the knee by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid, a phenolic compound present in Salix alba, has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which help alleviate knee swelling by reducing inflammation and pain.
• Tannins: Tannins, a class of polyphenolic compounds found in Salix alba, have astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce knee swelling by constricting blood vessels and reducing fluid accumulation in the affected area.

Parts Used

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

• Barks: The barks of Salix alba contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce swelling and pain in the knees.
• Leaves: The leaves of Salix alba are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate knee swelling.
• Buds: The buds of Salix alba contain salicin, a compound similar to aspirin, which helps to reduce inflammation and relieve knee pain.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 cup of salix alba bark and clean it thoroughly to remove dirt and debris.
2. Chop the bark into small pieces to increase its surface area for infusion.
3. Combine 1 cup of the chopped bark with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks to allow extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.

3. Zingiber officinale

Ginger tinctures helps with knee swelling because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation in the joint.

The bioactive compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory hormones, thereby reducing swelling and stiffness in the knees.

Additionally, ginger's antioxidant properties may also help protect the knee joints from damage caused by free radicals, promoting overall joint health and function.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: These sesquiterpenoid compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce knee swelling by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Shogaols: These ginger-derived compounds have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects that help alleviate knee pain and swelling by blocking the action of pain-causing neurotransmitters.
• Gingerol-6: These two gingerols have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce knee swelling by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines and scavenging free radicals.

Parts Used

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

• Buds: Zingiber officinale buds are used in tinctures due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, including gingerols and shogaols, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, making them suitable for treating knee swelling.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes in the fall or early spring when the plants are dormant.
2. Clean and peel the rhizomes then chop them into small pieces approximately 1 inch in length.
3. Combine 1 part chopped rhizomes with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks shaking it daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discard the solids.

4. Boswellia serrata

Frankincense tinctures helps with knee swelling because they contain boswellic acids, which have potent anti-inflammatory properties that target the root cause of swelling.

These acids inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, reducing inflammation and pain in the affected joint. Additionally, frankincense contains antioxidants that help to protect the joint tissues from further damage, promoting healing and reducing stiffness.

By addressing the underlying causes of knee swelling, frankincense tinctures can provide relief and improve overall knee health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata tinctures that help with knee swelling.

• Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid: AKBA is a boswellic acid that inhibits the production of inflammatory mediators, thereby reducing swelling and pain in the knee joints.
• Boswellic acids: These acidic compounds have anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties, which help reduce knee swelling by blocking the production of inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
• Terpenoids: Terpenoids in Boswellia serrata tinctures exhibit anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which may help alleviate knee swelling and associated pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory molecules.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make tinctures for knee swelling.

• Roots: The roots of Boswellia serrata contain bioactive compounds such as boswellic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate knee swelling.
• Stems: The stems of Boswellia serrata contain resin, which is rich in boswellic acids and other anti-inflammatory compounds that contribute to the plant's therapeutic effects on knee swelling.
• Barks: The barks of Boswellia serrata also contain boswellic acids and other bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making them useful for treating knee swelling.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh boswellia serrata resin from trees between 5-7 years old during the dry season.
2. Dry the harvested boswellia serrata resin in a single layer at 50-60 degrees celsius for 24 hours.
3. Grind 1 part of dried boswellia serrata resin with 2 parts of 80% ethanol in a glass container.
4. Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter and store the tincture in a dark glass bottle.

5. Harpagophytum procumbens

Devil's claw tinctures helps with knee swelling because they contain a unique combination of compounds that work together to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

The tincture's anti-inflammatory properties help to diminish excess fluid accumulation in the knee joint, thus reducing swelling. Additionally, devil's claw's analgesic effects provide relief from pain and discomfort associated with knee swelling, allowing for improved mobility and reduced stiffness.

As a result, herbal devil's claw tinctures have become a popular natural remedy for managing knee health issues.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Harpagoside: This iridoid glycoside constituent has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain in knee joints.
• Procumbideside: Similar to harpagoside, this iridoid glycoside constituent is believed to contribute to the anti-inflammatory effects of Harpagophytum procumbens, helping alleviate knee swelling.
• Sesquiterpenes: The sesquiterpene constituents in Harpagophytum procumbens tinctures may exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce swelling and promote overall joint health.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of devil's claw used to make tinctures for knee swelling.

• Roots: The roots are the primary part used for tinctures as they contain the highest concentration of harpagoside, a key compound responsible for anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Stems: The stems of Harpagophytum procumbens are also used, although to a lesser extent, as they contain smaller amounts of harpagoside, which still provides therapeutic benefits.
• Leaves: Some sources suggest that the leaves may be used in combination with roots and stems to create tinctures, although their harpagoside content is generally lower than the roots and stems.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic devil's claw for knee swelling.

1. Harvest 1:5 ratio of fresh harpagophytum procumbens roots to menstruum such as glycerin or ethanol.
2. Chop the roots into small pieces to increase surface area for efficient extraction.
3. Combine chopped roots with menstruum in a clean glass jar and seal it.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks to allow for infusion.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.

6. Withania somnifera

Ashwagandha tinctures helps with knee swelling because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The herb contains a group of compounds called withanolides, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in joints. Additionally, ashwagandha's adaptogenic properties help to reduce stress and anxiety, which are common triggers for knee swelling.

By reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, ashwagandha tinctures can provide relief from knee swelling and discomfort, allowing individuals to enjoy greater mobility and comfort in their daily lives.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera tinctures that help with knee swelling.

• Withanolides: These alkaloids, particularly withaferin A, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce knee swelling by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes.
• Saponins: These triterpenoid glycosides have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can contribute to the reduction of knee swelling by modulating immune responses and protecting against oxidative stress.
• Withanone: This withanolide has been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate knee swelling by reducing inflammation and oxidative damage in the affected area.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make tinctures for knee swelling.

• Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds like withanolides, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are another key part used in tinctures for knee swelling as they contain withanolides and other compounds that help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
• Stems: The stems of Withania somnifera are also used in tincture production, as they contain a mixture of alkaloids and withanolides that contribute to their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100g of fresh or 300g of dried withania somnifera roots and leaves when they are in full bloom.
2. Chop the harvested material into small pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 500ml of 40% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar occasionally.
5. Strain and filter the liquid tincture using cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove plant residue.

7. Capsicum annuum

Bell pepper tinctures helps with knee swelling because they contain powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that effectively reduce joint pain and inflammation.

The bioactive ingredients in bell peppers, such as capsaicin and carotenoids, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing swelling and stiffness in the knees.

Additionally, the tinctures' antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate inflammation, promoting a faster recovery and improved mobility.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Capsaicin: Capsaicin helps with knee swelling by inhibiting the production of substance P, a neurotransmitter involved in pain signaling, thereby reducing inflammation and discomfort in the affected area.
• Quercetin: Quercetin helps with knee swelling by acting as a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound, which reduces oxidative stress and inflammation in the joints, thereby alleviating swelling and pain.
• Diosgenin: Diosgenin helps with knee swelling by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1β and TNF-α, which contribute to joint inflammation and swelling.

Parts Used

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

• Fruits: Capsaicin-rich peppers from the Capsicum annuum plant are used to make tinctures for knee swelling due to capsaicin's anti-inflammatory properties.
• Seeds: Capsicum annuum seeds are used to make tinctures for knee swelling due to their high concentration of capsaicin and other bioactive compounds.
• Leaves: Capsicum annuum leaves are used to make tinctures for knee swelling due to their high content of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, including capsaicin.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 pound of fresh capsicum annuum peppers when they are ripe and fully matured.
2. Chop the peppers into small pieces and combine them with 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
3. Steep the chopped peppers in the vodka for 2 weeks or 14 days in a cool dark place.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
5. Store the tincture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks or 14 days before using it.

8. Hypericum perforatum

St John's Wort tinctures helps with knee swelling because it contains bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties.

The herb has been traditionally used to alleviate joint pain and inflammation, and its active ingredients, such as hyperforin and adhyperforin, are believed to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory molecules.

When taken as a tincture, these compounds can help reduce knee swelling by decreasing inflammation and promoting healing in the affected area, providing relief from discomfort and stiffness associated with swollen knees.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Hyperforin: A phenolic compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain in the knees by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Nortropane alkaloids: Bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which can help alleviate knee swelling and pain by blocking pain pathways in the body.
• Quercetin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce swelling in the knees by scavenging free radicals and inhibiting the production of inflammatory cytokines.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling in the knees.
• Flowers: Rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help alleviate knee swelling.
• Roots: Contain bioactive compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them useful for treating knee swelling and pain.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 grams of hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves on a sunny day.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a warm place for 1-2 weeks.
3. Combine the dried plant material with 60-80% ethanol in a 1:5 ratio by weight.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks or 2-3 weeks in the sun.
5. Strain and bottle the tincture after the steeping period and discard the solids.

9. Filipendula ulmaria

Meadowsweet tinctures helps with knee swelling because of its unique ability to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

The herb contains salicylates, which are similar in structure to aspirin, making it an effective natural alternative for managing arthritic symptoms. When taken as a tincture, meadowsweet's anti-inflammatory properties work to decrease the production of prostaglandins, which contribute to swelling and joint discomfort, providing relief from knee stiffness and pain.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to soothe sore joints and promote overall comfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Filipendula ulmaria tinctures that help with knee swelling.

• Flavonoids: Filipendula ulmaria is rich in flavonoids, such as quercetin and kaempferol, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling and pain in the knees.
• Phenolic acids: The phenolic acids present in Filipendula ulmaria, including ferulic and caffeic acids, have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that may help to alleviate knee swelling and promote healing.
• Triterpenoids: Filipendula ulmaria contains triterpenoids like ursolic acid, which has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties that may help to reduce knee swelling and improve joint mobility.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of meadowsweet used to make tinctures for knee swelling.

• Roots: The roots are used due to their high concentration of salicylic acid, a compound similar to aspirin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and pain in the knees.
• Leaves: The leaves are used for their diuretic properties, which can help reduce fluid retention and alleviate swelling in the knees.
• Flowers: The flowers are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help relax muscles and reduce inflammation and pain in the knees.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh or dried filipendula ulmaria flowers by cutting them above the node.
2. Chop 2 parts of vodka with 1 part of filipendula ulmaria flowers in a clean glass jar.
3. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking daily.
4. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
5. Label and store the tincture in a cool dark place for up to 5 years.

10. Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow tinctures helps with knee swelling because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce pain and stiffness in the joints.

The saponins present in marshmallow root bind to the mucous membranes, soothing inflamed areas and reducing fluid buildup. This natural remedy also possesses antioxidant capabilities, which help neutralize free radicals that can contribute to chronic inflammation.

By targeting both inflammation and oxidation, herbal marshmallow tinctures provide a holistic approach to alleviating knee swelling and promoting overall joint health.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Mucilages: Mucilages help to reduce inflammation and swelling by forming a protective barrier on the surface of the skin, allowing the affected area to heal and recover.
• Triterpenoid saponins: Triterpenoid saponins exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties, helping to reduce knee swelling by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
• Iridoid glycosides: Iridoid glycosides have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce knee swelling by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and protecting against oxidative stress.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make tinctures for knee swelling.

• Roots: The roots of Althaea officinalis are primarily used due to their high mucilage content, which helps reduce inflammation and swelling.
• Leaves: The leaves are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm swollen joints.
• Barks: The barks are used for their ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing, making them a valuable component in tinctures for knee swelling.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh roots of althaea officinalis in the morning after dew has evaporated.
2. Chop 1 part of the harvested root into small pieces to increase surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the chopped root with 2-3 parts of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with knee swelling is a blend of Turmeric, Ginger, and St. John's Wort.

Turmeric contains curcumin, which reduces inflammation and pain. Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties also alleviate swelling and discomfort.

St. John's Wort enhances blood circulation, promoting healing and reducing fluid retention. This synergistic combination can be taken in equal parts, 10-20 drops each, 2-3 times a day, mixed with water or a carrier oil.

Consult a healthcare professional before using these tinctures, especially if you're taking medications.

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

Ailments similar to knee swelling that are treated with herbal tinctures are conditions affecting joints, such as arthritis, gout, and rheumatism.

Herbal tinctures like turmeric, ginger, and willow bark have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and inflammation in the joints.

Other ailments, including sprains, strains, and tendonitis, can also be treated with herbal tinctures rich in antioxidants and natural analgesics.