By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Lower Back Pain
Herbal creams for lower back pain are topical ointments infused with natural herbs and essential oils that provide relief from chronic pain and inflammation.
These creams help by reducing muscle tension, promoting relaxation, and improving circulation. Examples of herbal creams include arnica, capsaicin, and CBD-infused creams.
They can improve lives by reducing reliance on pain medications, promoting a good night's sleep, and enabling individuals to resume their daily activities with increased mobility and comfort.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for lower back pain, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Cannabis sativa
- 2. Salvia officinalis
- 3. Arnica montana
- 4. Capsicum annuum
- 5. Zingiber officinale
- 6. Salix alba
- 7. Curcuma longa
- 8. Hypericum perforatum
- 9. Eucalyptus globulus
- 10. Tanacetum parthenium
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for lower back pain?
- What ailments similar to lower back pain are treated with herbal creams?
1. Cannabis sativa
Cannabis sativa, also known as marijuana, creams helps with lower back pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The active compounds, such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), work together to reduce swelling and ease pain in the lower back. By targeting specific pain receptors, these creams can provide long-lasting relief and improve mobility, making everyday activities more manageable and comfortable.
This natural remedy has been shown to be an effective alternative to traditional pain management methods.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cannabis sativa creams that help with lower back pain.
- Cannabidiol: CBD has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with lower back pain.
- Cannabigerolic acid: CBGA has been shown to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate lower back pain by reducing inflammation and pain signaling.
- Beta-caryophyllene: BCP has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with lower back pain, as well as promote relaxation and reduce muscle tension.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marijuana used to make creams for lower back pain.
- Leaves: They contain cannabinoids like CBD, which has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that help reduce lower back pain.
- Buds: They have high concentrations of cannabinoids, particularly THC and CBD, which are effective in reducing pain and inflammation in the lower back.
- Flowers: They are a rich source of cannabinoids and terpenes, which work together to provide pain relief and reduce inflammation in the lower back.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marijuana for lower back pain.
- Infuse a mixture of 1 part dried cannabis sativa flowers and 2 parts carrier oil in a saucepan over low heat.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 hours then strain it through a cheesecloth into a clean container.
- Combine 1 part of the infused oil with 2 parts of beeswax and 1 part of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture until the beeswax and shea butter are fully melted and well combined then remove from heat.
- Add 10 drops of vitamin e oil and 10 drops of essential oil to the mixture and stir well to combine.
2. Salvia officinalis
Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, creams helps with lower back pain because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The active compounds in Salvia officinalis, such as thujone and camphor, have been found to reduce inflammation and ease muscle spasms, providing relief from lower back pain. Additionally, the antioxidant properties of sage may help to reduce oxidative stress and promote healing in the affected area, making it a popular natural remedy for lower back pain sufferers.
Its soothing effects also promote relaxation and improve overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis creams that help with lower back pain.
- Ursolic acid: This triterpenoid has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the lower back.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which help reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and pain associated with lower back pain.
- Salvianolic acids: These polyphenolic compounds have potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic activities, which help reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and pain associated with lower back pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make creams for lower back pain.
- Leaves: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to soothe and relieve pain in the lower back area.
- Roots: They are used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate lower back pain.
- Stems: They are used due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce pain and inflammation in the lower back area.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for lower back pain.
- Harvest fresh salvia officinalis leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated for optimal potency.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a single layer at room temperature for 1-2 weeks or until brittle.
- Combine 1 part dried salvia officinalis with 2 parts base oil such as coconut oil in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks shaking the jar daily to facilitate infusion.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container and discard the solids.
3. Arnica montana
Arnica montana, also known as mountain arnica, creams helps with lower back pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as sesquiterpene lactones, reduce swelling and inflammation in the affected area, relieving tension and pressure on the muscles and joints. This allows for improved blood flow and relaxation of the muscles, providing long-lasting relief from lower back pain.
Additionally, Arnica's analgesic properties numb the pain, providing instant relief and comfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arnica montana creams that help with lower back pain.
- Thiophene derivatives: These compounds, particularly sesquiterpene lactones, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain in the lower back.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Arnica montana creams, such as kaempferol and quercetin, have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which contribute to their pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Alkamides: Alkamides in Arnica montana creams have been shown to exhibit analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help alleviate lower back pain by reducing inflammation and modulating pain perception.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of mountain arnica used to make creams for lower back pain.
- Flowers: Arnica flowers are used to make creams for lower back pain because they contain sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Arnica leaves are used to make creams for lower back pain due to their high content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Stems: Arnica stems are used to make creams for lower back pain because they contain a mixture of sesquiterpene lactones and other compounds that aid in reducing inflammation and pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mountain arnica for lower back pain.
- Harvest 1 pound of fresh arnica montana flowers and 1/2 cup of dried flowers for future use.
- Dry the fresh flowers in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours or until brittle.
- Combine 1/4 cup of dried arnica montana flowers 2 ounces of beeswax and 2 ounces of coconut oil.
- Melt the beeswax and coconut oil mixture in a double boiler and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add 2 tablespoons of vitamin e oil and 2 tablespoons of jojoba oil to the cooled mixture and stir.
4. Capsicum annuum
Capsicum annuum, also known as bell pepper, creams helps with lower back pain because it contains capsaicin, a natural compound that blocks the production of a chemical called substance P. Substance P is responsible for transmitting pain signals to the brain.
When applied topically, capsaicin in the creams creates a sensation of heat, which in turn reduces inflammation and relaxes muscles, providing relief from lower back pain.
Regular use can also improve circulation and reduce pain associated with arthritis and fibromyalgia.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Capsicum annuum creams that help with lower back pain.
- Capsaicin: Capsaicin, a vanilloid compound found in Capsicum annuum, helps with lower back pain by activating TRPV1 receptors, which reduces the release of pain-producing substances and increases the release of pain-relieving substances in the body.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Capsicum annuum, such as quercetin and kaempferol, have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and alleviate lower back pain.
- Carotenoids: Carotenoids like beta-carotene and lycopene in Capsicum annuum have antioxidant properties that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to relief from lower back pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of bell pepper used to make creams for lower back pain.
- Fruits: They contain capsaicin, a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory compound that helps relieve pain and reduce inflammation in the lower back area.
- Leaves: The leaves of Capsicum annuum also contain capsaicin, which can be extracted and used to create creams for pain relief.
- Seeds: The seeds contain capsaicin as well, making them a potential source for creating creams to alleviate lower back pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bell pepper for lower back pain.
- Harvest 10-15 mature capsicum annuum fruits, wash them clean with lukewarm water, and chop them finely.
- Combine 1/2 cup of chopped capsicum annuum, 2 tablespoons of coconut oil, and 2 tablespoons of beeswax in a saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the beeswax has melted completely, in about 10-15 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat, let it cool slightly, then blend the mixture using an immersion blender until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a glass jar, store it in the refrigerator, and allow it to chill for at least 2 hours.
5. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with lower back pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, work to reduce swelling and relax tense muscles. This can help alleviate pressure on the lower back, providing relief from pain and discomfort. Additionally, ginger creams may also help reduce muscle spasms and improve blood flow to the affected area, further contributing to its pain-relieving effects.
This can lead to improved mobility and reduced discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with lower back pain.
- Gingerols: These sesquiterpene compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce pain and inflammation associated with lower back pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
- Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols are bioactive compounds that have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which contribute to their ability to alleviate lower back pain by blocking pain transmission and reducing inflammation.
- Curcuminoids: Although not exclusively found in ginger, curcuminoids are sometimes present in Zingiber officinale creams. These polyphenolic compounds possess potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help mitigate lower back pain by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for lower back pain.
- Rhyzomes: These are the underground stems of the plant, rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like gingerols and shogaols, which help to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Roots: Similar to rhyzomes, roots of ginger contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help to soothe lower back pain and reduce inflammation.
- Barks: The barks of the ginger plant are also used to make creams for lower back pain, as they contain compounds that help to reduce pain and inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for lower back pain.
- Weigh 100g of dried zingiber officinale root and grind it into fine powder using a spice grinder for 5 minutes.
- Mix 50g of beeswax pellets and 20g of sweet almond oil in a double boiler over low heat for 10 minutes.
- Add 20g of coconut oil and 5g of vitamin e oil to the double boiler and stir until combined for 5 minutes.
- Stir in 10g of the ground zingiber officinale root powder and 5g of shea butter into the mixture for 2 minutes.
- Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool before pouring it into small containers for 30 minutes.
6. Salix alba
Salix alba, also known as white willow, creams helps with lower back pain because it contains salicin, a natural anti-inflammatory compound similar to aspirin.
This allows it to provide effective pain relief and reduce inflammation in the affected area, thereby alleviating lower back pain. The anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of Salix alba creams also help to relax tense muscles and improve mobility, making it a popular natural remedy for individuals suffering from lower back pain.
Regular application can lead to sustained relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salix alba creams that help with lower back pain.
- Salicin: Salicin is a phenolic compound with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate lower back pain by reducing inflammation and blocking pain receptors.
- Tannins: Tannins are a type of polyphenol that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help reduce muscle spasms and inflammation associated with lower back pain.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin, are antioxidants that possess anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate lower back pain by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation of muscles.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of white willow used to make creams for lower back pain.
- Barks: Salix alba barks are used due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help in reducing pain and inflammation associated with lower back pain.
- Leaves: Salix alba leaves are used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which aid in soothing and relaxing the muscles to alleviate lower back pain.
- Buds: Salix alba buds are used for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help in reducing pain and inflammation associated with lower back pain, as well as their ability to stimulate blood circulation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic white willow for lower back pain.
- Harvest salix alba bark in late spring or early summer when the sap is rising.
- Dry the harvested bark in a warm dark place for 2 weeks to reduce moisture.
- Create a decoction by combining 50 grams of dried salix alba bark with 500ml of water.
- Simmer the decoction for 10 minutes then strain it using a cheesecloth or a coffee filter.
- Mix 10ml of the cooled decoction with 20ml of a neutral oil base and 5 grams of beeswax.
7. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with lower back pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active compound curcumin in turmeric has been shown to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints and muscles, making it an effective natural remedy for lower back pain.
The cream can penetrate deep into the skin to target the root cause of the pain, providing quick relief and reducing stiffness, allowing for improved mobility and reduced discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa creams that help with lower back pain.
- Curcumin: Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with lower back pain.
- Demethoxycurcumin: DMC, a demethoxylated analog of curcumin, has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which may contribute to its potential pain-relieving properties in lower back pain.
- Ar-turmerone: Ar-turmerone, a sesquiterpene, has been found to possess analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities, which may help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in lower back pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make creams for lower back pain.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part of Curcuma longa in creams for lower back pain due to their high concentration of curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound.
- Roots: Roots are also widely used in creams for lower back pain, as they contain a significant amount of curcumin and other bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Barks: Barks are sometimes used in creams for lower back pain, as they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for lower back pain.
- Gather 2 tablespoons of dried turmeric rhizomes and 1 tablespoon of beeswax.
- Combine 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and 1 tablespoon of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Add the dried turmeric rhizomes to the double boiler and let steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain the mixture and add 1 teaspoon of vitamin e oil and 1 teaspoon of essential oil.
- Whip the mixture until it thickens and then pour it into a glass jar.
8. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, creams helps with lower back pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds, such as hyperforin and hypericin, have been shown to reduce inflammation and pain in the muscles and joints. The cream's ability to penetrate deep into the skin allows for direct absorption into the affected area, providing targeted relief from lower back pain.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to alleviate various types of pain, making it a popular choice for those seeking a natural solution.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with lower back pain.
- Naphthodianthrones: They help alleviate lower back pain by modulating neurotransmitter activity and influencing pain perception in the brain, providing a potential analgesic effect.
- Flavonoids: These compounds contribute to reducing inflammation and modulating pain response, which may help alleviate lower back pain caused by inflammation or oxidative stress.
- Phenolic acids: They help alleviate lower back pain by reducing inflammation and modulating pain response through their antioxidant properties and potential inhibition of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for lower back pain.
- Leaves: The leaves of Hypericum perforatum are commonly used to make creams for lower back pain because they contain flavonoids and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Flowers: The flowers of Hypericum perforatum are used in creams for lower back pain due to their content of hyperforin, which has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Stems: The stems of Hypericum perforatum are also used in creams for lower back pain because they contain flavonoids and other compounds that can reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for lower back pain.
- Harvest 30-60 grams of fresh hypericum perforatum flowers at peak bloom, ideally in the morning when dew is still present.
- Dry the fresh flowers in a warm place with good air circulation for 1-2 weeks to reduce moisture content to 10%.
- Grind the dried flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or coffee grinder and sift through a 100-mesh sieve.
- Mix 200 grams of beeswax, 200 grams of coconut oil, 50 grams of shea butter, and 10 grams of the powdered hypericum perforatum in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture to 160-180 degrees fahrenheit, stirring occasionally, and allow it to cool and solidify before scooping into jars.
9. Eucalyptus globulus
Eucalyptus globulus, also known as Tasmanian blue gum, creams helps with lower back pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The cooling effect of eucalyptus oil can help reduce muscle spasms and relax tense muscles, providing relief from pain and discomfort. Additionally, eucalyptus oil has natural decongestant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected area, making it an effective remedy for lower back pain.
Its topical application can provide fast and long-lasting relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus creams that help with lower back pain.
- Cineole: This terpene acts as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent, helping to reduce pain and inflammation associated with lower back pain.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected area, alleviating lower back pain.
- Beta-caryophyllene: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping to reduce pain and inflammation in the lower back region.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make creams for lower back pain.
- Leaves: They are rich in essential oils, particularly eucalyptol, which has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help alleviate lower back pain.
- Barks: The bark of Eucalyptus globulus contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which contribute to its pain-relieving effects in creams.
- Essential oil from leaves: Although leaves are listed separately, the essential oil from leaves is a concentrated form of the active compounds and is often used in creams for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for lower back pain.
- Combine 20g of dried eucalyptus globulus leaves with 100ml of carrier oil such as coconut oil in a small saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 4-6 hours or until the oil has turned a light green color.
- Strain the oil through a cheesecloth into a glass container to remove the eucalyptus globulus leaves.
- Add 10g of beeswax and 5g of shea butter to the oil and heat the mixture until the wax has melted.
- Pour the mixture into a tin or jar and allow it to cool and solidify before use.
10. Tanacetum parthenium
Tanacetum parthenium, also known as feverfew, creams helps with lower back pain because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
The active compounds in Tanacetum parthenium, such as parthenolide, have been shown to reduce inflammation and ease pain in the lower back region. The cream also has a cooling effect on the skin, providing temporary relief from discomfort and stiffness.
Additionally, Tanacetum parthenium creams may help relax tense muscles and improve blood circulation, further alleviating lower back pain and promoting overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tanacetum parthenium creams that help with lower back pain.
- Parthenolide: This sesquiterpene lactone helps with lower back pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, reducing inflammation and pain in the affected area.
- Tanetin: This flavonoid derivative has anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate lower back pain by reducing swelling and inflammation in the muscles and joints.
- Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to relieve lower back pain by blocking the transmission of pain signals to the brain and reducing inflammation in the affected area.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of feverfew used to make creams for lower back pain.
- Leaves: Rich in compounds like tannins and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Flowers: Contain parthenolide, a sesquiterpene lactone that exhibits anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.
- Stems: May contain similar compounds to the leaves and flowers, contributing to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic feverfew for lower back pain.
- Harvest fresh tanacetum parthenium leaves and flowers in the early morning or late afternoon to minimize essential oil loss.
- Dry the harvested plant material at 40 degrees celsius for 12 hours to preserve its active properties completely.
- Steep 10 grams of dried tanacetum parthenium in 100 milliliters of cold-pressed olive oil for 2 weeks to extract essential oil.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the herbal extract solution.
- Mix the herbal extract with 20 grams of beeswax and 30 grams of coconut oil to create a smooth and stable cream consistency.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for lower back pain?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with lower back pain is a blend of Arnica, CBD, and Ginger.
Arnica reduces inflammation and promotes healing, while CBD provides relief from chronic pain and discomfort. Ginger cream enhances blood circulation and eases muscle tension.
Apply a layer of Arnica cream first, followed by CBD and finally Ginger cream. Leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour before showering.
This combination can help alleviate lower back pain and promote relaxation.
What ailments similar to lower back pain are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to lower back pain that are treated with herbal creams are muscle and joint soreness, arthritis, and sprains.
Herbal creams containing ingredients like arnica, St. John's Wort, and capsaicin have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness in these areas.
These creams can be applied topically to provide localized relief without the need for oral medication or injections.