10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Lower Back Pain

Herbal tinctures for lower back pain are a natural remedy that combines the potency of plants with the convenience of liquid extract.

These concentrated extracts help alleviate tension and discomfort in the lower back by promoting relaxation, reducing inflammation, and improving circulation. Examples include Willow bark tincture, which contains salicin similar to aspirin, and Turmeric tincture, rich in curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory agent.

By incorporating these herbal remedies into their daily routine, individuals can experience significant relief from lower back pain, allowing them to live more comfortably and enjoy activities without restriction or discomfort.

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

1. Corydalis yanhusuo

Yanhusuo tinctures helps with lower back pain because of its potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The herb's active compounds, such as corydaline and allocryptopine, effectively reduce muscle spasms and inflammation in the back muscles, thereby alleviating discomfort and pain. Additionally, Yanhusuo's ability to relax the nervous system helps calm irritated nerves, which can contribute to chronic lower back pain.

By targeting both the physical and nervous sources of pain, Yanhusuo tinctures provide effective relief for those suffering from lower back strain.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Corydalis yanhusuo tinctures that help with lower back pain.

• Corydaline: This alkaloid has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with lower back pain.
• Corynoline: This alkaloid has a similar analgesic effect to corydaline, and may also help to reduce muscle spasms and promote relaxation, which can contribute to lower back pain relief.
• Dehydrocorybulbine: This alkaloid has been shown to have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce pain, inflammation, and oxidative stress associated with lower back pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of yanhusuo used to make tinctures for lower back pain.

• Roots: They are rich in alkaloids, specifically dehydrocorybulbine, which is responsible for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Rhyzomes: They contain a higher concentration of dehydrocorybulbine and other bioactive compounds, making them a preferred choice for pain relief.
• Leaves: They also contain alkaloids, although in lower concentrations than roots and rhyzomes, but are still valued for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yanhusuo for lower back pain.

1. Harvest the corydalis yanhusuo roots in late fall when the plant is dormant after the first frost.
2. Dry the roots in a single layer at 30 degrees celsius for 2 days to preserve the medicinal properties.
3. Chop the dried roots into small pieces and mix with 80 proof vodka at a 1:5 ratio.
4. Store the mixture in a clean glass jar with a tight lid and steep for 2 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

2. Curcuma longa

Turmeric tinctures helps with lower back pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which target the affected area and reduce swelling and discomfort.

The bioactive compound curcumin in turmeric interacts with the body's natural processes to alleviate stiffness and numbness, allowing for increased mobility and reduced pain levels. Additionally, turmeric tinctures' antioxidant properties help to combat oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting overall healing and recovery.

As a result, herbal turmeric tinctures have become a popular natural remedy for managing lower back pain.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa tinctures that help with lower back pain.

• Curcumin: Curcumin, a phenolic compound, helps with lower back pain by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which are contributing factors to chronic pain and discomfort.
• Demethoxycurcumin: Demethoxycurcumin, another phenolic compound, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate lower back pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and free radicals.
• Beta-caryophyllene: Beta-caryophyllene, a sesquiterpene, acts as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent by binding to cannabinoid receptors and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, leading to reduced lower back pain and discomfort.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make tinctures for lower back pain.

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part of Curcuma longa for tinctures due to their high concentration of curcuminoids, which have potent anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: Roots are also used for tinctures as they contain a significant amount of curcuminoids and other compounds that help reduce pain and inflammation in the lower back.
• Leaves: Leaves are another part of Curcuma longa used for tinctures, particularly for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in reducing lower back pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for lower back pain.

1. Harvest 50-100 grams of curcuma longa rhizomes and clean them thoroughly with a brush to remove dirt.
2. Chop the cleaned rhizomes into small pieces using a sharp knife or a mortar and pestle.
3. Combine the chopped rhizomes with 500 milliliters of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar for 2-3 weeks.
4. Strain the liquid from the jar using cheesecloth or a coffee filter to separate the tincture from the solids.
5. Store the tincture in a cool dark place for 2-3 months to allow the flavors to mature and blend together.

3. Withania somnifera

Ashwagandha tinctures helps with lower back pain because its unique combination of compounds, including withanolides and alkaloids, has been shown to reduce inflammation and relax muscles in the back.

The adaptogenic properties of ashwagandha also help to regulate stress hormones, which can contribute to muscle tension and pain.

As a result, regular use of ashwagandha tinctures may alleviate symptoms of lower back pain, such as stiffness and soreness, allowing for improved mobility and reduced discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera tinctures that help with lower back pain.

• Withanolides: These steroidal lactones have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which may help reduce pain and inflammation in the lower back.
• Withaferin a: As a key alkaloid, Withaferin A has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help alleviate lower back pain by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Catechins: These phenolic compounds may exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, helping to reduce pain and inflammation in the lower back by neutralizing free radicals and promoting healing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make tinctures for lower back pain.

• Roots: The roots of Withania somnifera are the most commonly used part for treating lower back pain due to their high concentration of withanolides, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Leaves: Withania somnifera leaves are also used in tinctures for lower back pain relief as they contain withanolides that help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
• Seeds: The seeds of Withania somnifera are sometimes used in tinctures for lower back pain treatment due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote relaxation, which can help alleviate chronic pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ashwagandha for lower back pain.

1. Harvest withania somnifera roots and clean them thoroughly in cold running water for 5 minutes.
2. Dry the roots in a warm air circulation oven at 50 degrees celsius for 3 hours.
3. Weigh 500 grams of dried roots and add 1000 milliliters of 80 proof vodka as a solvent.
4. Store the mixture in a glass container and steep it in a cool dark place for 2 weeks.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the final tincture.

4. Boswellia serrata

Frankincense tinctures helps with lower back pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

The Boswellia serrata extract in frankincense tincture has been shown to reduce inflammation and stiffness in the muscles and joints, providing relief from chronic pain and discomfort.

Additionally, frankincense's ability to relax the nervous system can help to ease tension and strain that often accompanies lower back pain, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata tinctures that help with lower back pain.

• Akkadian resin acids: These terpenic compounds reduce inflammation and pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, specifically 5-lipoxygenase, which is involved in the synthesis of leukotrienes that contribute to pain and inflammation.
• Β-boswellic acid: This boswellic acid has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, thereby reducing inflammation and pain in the lower back.
• 3-acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid: AKBA has potent anti-inflammatory properties, inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, which helps in reducing pain and inflammation associated with lower back pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make tinctures for lower back pain.

• Roots: The roots of Boswellia serrata contain a higher amount of boswellic acids and terpenoids compared to other parts, which helps in reducing pain and inflammation associated with lower back pain.
• Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes have a higher concentration of boswellic acids and terpenoids, making them effective in reducing inflammation and pain in the lower back region.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for lower back pain.

1. Harvest 1:5 to 1:10 ratio of boswellia serrata roots to solvent typically vodka at 80 proof.
2. Dry the roots in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Chop the dried roots into small pieces and combine with 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar daily.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discard the solids.

5. Zingiber officinale

Ginger tinctures helps with lower back pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties that target the affected areas, reducing swelling and stiffness.

The bioactive compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have a natural affinity for penetrating deep into the muscles and joints, providing rapid relief from acute and chronic discomfort.

Additionally, ginger's warming properties help increase blood flow to the affected area, promoting relaxation and reducing muscle spasms, ultimately alleviating pain and stiffness associated with lower back issues.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with lower back pain.

• Gingerols: These sesquiterpenoid compounds are responsible for the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of ginger, which can help alleviate lower back pain by reducing inflammation and pain in the affected area.
• Shogaols: Similar to gingerols, shogaols are also sesquiterpenoid compounds that have potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help ease lower back pain by reducing swelling and pain in the muscles and joints.
• Zingiberene: This sesquiterpene is a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory compound that can help alleviate lower back pain by reducing pain and inflammation in the affected area, as well as improving circulation and reducing muscle spasms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for lower back pain.

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are commonly used due to their high concentration of compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help alleviate lower back pain.
• Roots: Roots are utilized for their rich content of bioactive compounds, including gingerols and shogaols, which contribute to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, making them a popular choice for lower back pain relief.
• Buds: Buds are often used in tinctures because they contain a higher concentration of bioactive compounds than mature rhizomes, including gingerol and shogaol, which help reduce inflammation and pain associated with lower back issues.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for lower back pain.

1. Harvest 2-3 pounds of fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes in the morning when the plant is at its peak potency.
2. Wash the harvested rhizomes in cold running water to remove any dirt and debris thoroughly.
3. Chop the cleaned rhizomes into small pieces using a sharp knife to increase their surface area.
4. Combine the chopped rhizomes with 80% ethanol in a 1:5 ratio by weight in a large glass jar.
5. Steep the mixture for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place, shaking the jar every day or two.

6. Salix alba

White willow tinctures helps with lower back pain because they contain salicin, a natural compound that is similar to aspirin.

When taken as a tincture, salicin is absorbed into the bloodstream and targets areas of inflammation and stiffness in the body, including the muscles and joints of the lower back. This provides relief from chronic pain and discomfort, allowing individuals to enjoy improved mobility and flexibility.

Additionally, white willow's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling and pressure on the spinal cord and surrounding tissues, further alleviating lower back pain.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salix alba tinctures that help with lower back pain.

• Salicin: Salicin, a phenolic compound, has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that may help alleviate lower back pain by reducing inflammation and pain in the affected area.
• Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid, another phenolic compound found in Salix alba, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the lower back, leading to pain relief.
• Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate lower back pain by reducing inflammation, oxidative stress, and muscle spasms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of white willow used to make tinctures for lower back pain.

• Leaves: They have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce pain and discomfort in the lower back.
• Buds: They contain salicin and other compounds that help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain, making them useful for treating lower back pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic white willow for lower back pain.

1. Gather 250 grams of fresh salix alba bark and 750 milliliters of 80% ethanol.
2. Chop the salix alba bark into small pieces to increase its surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the chopped salix alba bark with 750 milliliters of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow for extraction.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle to separate the tincture from the solids.

7. Valeriana officinalis

Valerian tinctures helps with lower back pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively reduce muscle spasms and relax tense muscles.

The tincture's sedative qualities also help calm the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety that can exacerbate lower back discomfort. Additionally, valerian root has been shown to improve sleep quality, a crucial factor in managing chronic pain.

By combining these benefits, herbal valerian tinctures provide a natural solution for alleviating lower back pain and promoting overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis tinctures that help with lower back pain.

• Valerenic acid: Helps with lower back pain by acting as a GABA receptor agonist, which can lead to a calming effect on the nervous system and reduce muscle spasms.
• Isovaleric acid: Contributes to pain relief by inhibiting the production of inflammatory mediators and reducing muscle spasms, which can help alleviate lower back pain.
• Valeranal: Acts as a neuroprotective agent, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can help alleviate lower back pain and improve overall muscle function.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make tinctures for lower back pain.

• Roots: They contain the highest concentration of valerenic acid and valepotriates, which are responsible for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Stems: Although less commonly used than roots or rhizomes, stems still contain some valerenic acid and other compounds that can contribute to the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of the tincture.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for lower back pain.

1. Harvest valeriana officinalis roots and stems in the spring or fall when the plant is in a dormant state.
2. Clean the harvested plant material by gently scrubbing it with a soft brush under cold running water.
3. Chop the cleaned valeriana officinalis plant material into small pieces using a sharp knife or pruning shears.
4. Combine the chopped plant material with 80-100 proof vodka in a ratio of 1 part plant material to 2 parts vodka.
5. Steep the plant material mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking the container every 2 days.

8. Harpagophytum procumbens

Devil's claw tinctures helps with lower back pain because it contains a unique combination of compounds that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

The herb's harpagoside content has been shown to block the production of prostaglandins, which are hormones that cause pain and inflammation in the body. Additionally, devil's claw tincture may also help relax tense muscles and improve joint mobility, reducing pressure on the lower back and providing relief from chronic pain.

Regular use of this tincture can lead to a significant reduction in lower back pain symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Harpagophytum procumbens tinctures that help with lower back pain.

• Harpagoside: It is a glycoside that has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which help alleviate lower back pain by reducing inflammation and discomfort in the affected area.
• Procumbideside: This iridoid glycoside has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which contribute to its pain-relieving effects by reducing inflammation and protecting the muscles and tissues from oxidative damage.
• Triterpenoids: Specifically, ursolic acid and oleanolic acid, are triterpenoids found in Harpagophytum procumbens. These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help reduce inflammation and alleviate lower back pain by protecting the muscles and tissues from damage.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of devil's claw used to make tinctures for lower back pain.

• Roots: The roots are the primary source of Harpagophytum's anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help alleviate lower back pain.
• Stems: The stems contain secondary metabolites that contribute to the plant's pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects, making them a useful addition to tinctures.
• Leaves: The leaves contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce lower back pain.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic devil's claw for lower back pain.

1. Harvest fresh or dried harpagophytum procumbens roots in the early morning to minimize moisture content.
2. Dry the harvested roots in a warm place with good air circulation for 7 to 10 days.
3. Chop the dried harpagophytum procumbens roots into small pieces using a sharp knife or mortar.
4. Steep the chopped roots in a neutral solvent like vodka at a ratio of 1:2 for 2 to 4 weeks.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to remove plant material.

9. Capsicum annuum

Bell pepper tinctures helps with lower back pain because they contain a unique combination of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and pain-relieving agents.

The capsaicin present in bell peppers binds to receptors in the body, reducing inflammation and relieving tension in muscles and joints.

Additionally, the beta-carotene and lycopene in bell peppers have potent antioxidant properties that help reduce oxidative stress and promote tissue repair, further alleviating lower back pain.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Capsicum annuum tinctures that help with lower back pain.

• Capsaicin: Capsaicin helps with lower back pain by inhibiting the production of a chemical called substance P, which transmits pain signals to the brain, thereby reducing pain perception.
• Quercetin: Quercetin helps with lower back pain by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with lower back conditions.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid helps with lower back pain by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with lower back pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of bell pepper used to make tinctures for lower back pain.

• Fruits: The fruits, specifically the ripe red pepper, contain capsaicin, which has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve lower back pain.
• Leaves: The leaves of Capsicum annuum contain capsaicin and other bioactive compounds that contribute to their pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Seeds: The seeds of Capsicum annuum contain a higher concentration of capsaicin compared to the fruits, making them a potential ingredient in tinctures for lower back pain relief.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bell pepper for lower back pain.

1. Harvest 50g of fresh capsicum annuum fruits when they are fully ripe and at their peak potency.
2. Clean and dry the harvested fruits thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Chop the dried capsicum annuum fruits into small pieces and combine with 250ml of 95% ethanol.
4. Steep the mixture in a clean glass container for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Strain and filter the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.

10. Carthamus tinctorius

Safflower tinctures helps with lower back pain because it has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and relax muscles.

The herb's ability to inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause pain and inflammation, also contributes to its pain-relieving effects.

Additionally, safflower tincture contains flavonoids, which have been shown to exhibit analgesic and antispasmodic properties, further reducing discomfort and stiffness in the lower back region.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Carthamus tinctorius tinctures that help with lower back pain.

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in safflower tinctures may help alleviate lower back pain by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow to the affected area, which can aid in the healing process.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in safflower tinctures may possess analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce pain and discomfort associated with lower back pain.
• Carotenoids: Beta-carotene, a carotenoid found in safflower tinctures, may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the lower back, potentially alleviating pain and discomfort.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of safflower used to make tinctures for lower back pain.

• Seeds: They are used due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate lower back pain.
• Flowers: They are used because they contain flavonoids and sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.
• Leaves: They are used for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation in the lower back area.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic safflower for lower back pain.

1. Harvest 1-2 cups of dried flowers of carthamus tinctorius when they are fully open and dry.
2. Combine the harvested flowers with 2 cups of 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
3. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking it daily for 30 seconds.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar.
5. Transfer the tincture to small dark glass dropper bottles and store them in the refrigerator.

What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for lower back pain?

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with lower back pain is a blend of Willow Bark (Salix alba), Turmeric (Curcuma longa), and Ginger (Zingiber officinale).

Willow Bark contains salicin, a natural pain reliever, while Turmeric's curcumin reduces inflammation and promotes healing. Ginger adds anti-inflammatory properties and aids digestion. This combination can be taken orally in small doses, typically 10-20 drops, 2-3 times a day, to alleviate lower back pain and promote overall well-being.

Always consult a healthcare professional before using herbal remedies.

What ailments similar to lower back pain are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to lower back pain that are treated with herbal tinctures are sciatica, arthritis, fibromyalgia, and menstrual cramps.

Herbs such as Willow bark, Devil's claw, and Ginger have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and inflammation, while others like St. John's Wort and Valerian root promote relaxation and reduce muscle spasms.

These herbal tinctures can be used in conjunction with conventional treatments to provide natural relief from these conditions.