10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Muscle Pain

Herbal tinctures for muscle pain are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, which offer a natural alternative to traditional pain relievers.

They work by targeting the underlying causes of muscle discomfort, such as inflammation and stress, and provide effective relief without harsh side effects. Examples include turmeric, ginger, and arnica tinctures, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and ease muscle tension.

By using herbal tinctures, individuals can experience improved mobility, reduced stiffness, and enhanced overall well-being, allowing them to enjoy daily activities with greater comfort and confidence.

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

1. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with muscle pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and ease discomfort.

The root extract of licorice plant contains compounds like glycyrrhizin and flavonoids that have a synergistic effect in alleviating muscle cramps, spasms, and strain.

Additionally, the tincture's warming action relaxes tense muscles, increases blood flow, and reduces pain receptors' sensitivity, providing quick relief from soreness and stiffness associated with overexertion or injuries.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with muscle pain.

• Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin, helps with muscle pain by inhibiting the enzyme 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, which converts cortisol into cortisone. This leads to increased cortisol levels, reducing inflammation and pain associated with muscle injuries.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly isoflavones and flavonols, help with muscle pain by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in muscle tissue, and promoting relaxation and reducing muscle spasms.
• Licagenin: Licagenin helps with muscle pain by reducing inflammation and promoting the healing process of damaged muscle tissue, likely through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for muscle pain.

• Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make tinctures for muscle pain due to their high content of glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make tinctures for muscle pain due to their bioactive compounds that have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make tinctures for muscle pain due to their flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for muscle pain.

1. Harvest 100g of fresh or dried root of glycyrrhiza glabra in the morning after dew has evaporated.
2. Dry the harvested root in a single layer at 35°c for 24 hours to reduce moisture content.
3. Coarsely chop 50g of dried root and macerate it in 500ml of vodka for 2 weeks.
4. Strain the liquid from the maceration and discard the solids then add 200ml of glycerin and mix well.
5. Store the final tincture in a dark glass bottle at room temperature for 2 weeks to mature.

2. Vaccinium macrocarpon

Highbush cranberry tinctures helps with muscle pain because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds, particularly flavonoids and anthocyanins.

These powerful antioxidants work to reduce inflammation and relax muscles, providing relief from soreness and stiffness. The tincture's anti-inflammatory properties also help to reduce joint swelling and ease pain associated with conditions such as arthritis.

As a result, highbush cranberry tinctures have been traditionally used to alleviate muscle and joint pain, promoting overall wellness and comfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium macrocarpon tinctures that help with muscle pain.

• Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants help reduce inflammation in muscles, which contributes to pain and discomfort, thereby alleviating muscle pain.
• Ellagic acid: As a phenolic compound, ellagic acid exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce muscle inflammation and pain.
• Quercetin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce muscle inflammation, swelling, and pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of highbush cranberry used to make tinctures for muscle pain.

• Fruits: The fruits of Vaccinium macrocarpon are commonly used in tinctures due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate muscle pain.
• Leaves: The leaves are used in tinctures for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and relieve muscle pain.
• Barks: The bark of Vaccinium macrocarpon is sometimes used in tinctures for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help reduce muscle pain and inflammation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic highbush cranberry for muscle pain.

1. Harvest 20-30 pounds of vaccinium macrocarpon berries in late summer when they are ripe and fully colored.
2. Clean the berries by rinsing them with cold water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Combine the cleaned berries with 80-100 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio by weight to make the tincture.
4. Steep the mixture in a glass container for 2-4 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to separate the liquid from solids.

3. Capsicum annuum

Bell pepper tinctures helps with muscle pain because they contain a unique combination of antioxidants, flavonoids, and capsaicinoids that work together to reduce inflammation and relax tense muscles.

The natural anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe sore joints and muscles, reducing pain and discomfort.

Additionally, the capsaicin in bell peppers has been shown to stimulate the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, providing relief from muscle aches and stiffness.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Capsaicin: Capsaicin helps with muscle pain by inhibiting the production of a chemical called substance P, which transmits pain signals to the brain, thereby reducing inflammation and pain perception.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, specifically Quercetin, help with muscle pain by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which in turn alleviates muscle soreness and pain.
• Terpenes: Terpenes, such as Caryophyllene, help with muscle pain by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which contribute to their pain-relieving effects and muscle relaxation.

Parts Used

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

• Fruits: Capsicum annuum fruits, specifically the ripe red peppers, are used due to their high capsaicin content, which provides pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: Capsicum annuum leaves are used because they contain a significant amount of capsaicinoids, which help to reduce muscle pain and inflammation.
• Seeds: Capsicum annuum seeds are used due to their high concentration of capsaicinoids, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, making them effective for muscle pain relief.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh capsicum annuum fruits at peak ripeness typically 100 to 120 days after planting.
2. Chop the harvested capsicum annuum fruits into small pieces weighing about 500 grams.
3. Combine the chopped capsicum annuum pieces with 80 percent ethanol or vodka in a 1:5 ratio.
4. Steep the mixture in a clean glass jar for two weeks in a dark cool place at room temperature.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.

4. Salix alba

White willow tinctures helps with muscle pain because they contain salicin, a natural compound similar to aspirin that has potent anti-inflammatory properties.

When taken orally, salicin is absorbed into the bloodstream and travels to the site of inflammation, where it inhibits the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause pain and swelling.

By reducing these chemicals, white willow tinctures effectively alleviate muscle and joint pain, providing natural relief from strains, sprains, and other musculoskeletal issues.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Salicin: It helps with muscle pain by acting as a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory, mimicking the effects of aspirin and reducing pain and swelling in the affected area.
• Salicylic acid: It helps with muscle pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, reducing inflammation and pain, and also by acting as a vasodilator to improve blood flow and reduce muscle spasms.
• Flavonoids: They help with muscle pain by acting as potent antioxidants, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, and also by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby reducing pain and muscle spasms.

Parts Used

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

• Barks: The bark of Salix alba is rich in salicin, a compound similar to aspirin, which helps reduce pain and inflammation.
• Leaves: Salix alba leaves are high in salicin and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, making them effective for muscle pain relief.
• Stems: The stems of Salix alba contain salicin and other bioactive compounds that contribute to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, making them a popular choice for muscle pain tinctures.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of salix alba bark and 1 part of roots in early spring or late summer.
2. Dry the combined bark and roots in a dark place for 2-3 weeks.
3. Grind 100 grams of dried salix alba into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Mix the ground powder with 50% vodka and 50% water in a clean glass jar.
5. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking the jar daily.

5. Arnica montana

Mountain arnica tinctures helps with muscle pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which work to reduce swelling and discomfort in the affected area.

The tincture's active compounds, including sesquiterpenes and flavonoids, are able to penetrate deep into tissues to target the root cause of pain, providing quick relief from soreness and stiffness.

By reducing inflammation and promoting blood flow, arnica tinctures help to alleviate muscle fatigue and tension, making it an effective natural remedy for post-workout recovery or relieving chronic muscle strain.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arnica montana tinctures that help with muscle pain.

• Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, thereby reducing muscle soreness and discomfort.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Arnica montana tinctures help combat muscle pain by exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the muscles.
• Helenalin: Helenalin is a sesquiterpene lactone that has been shown to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate muscle pain by inhibiting pain signaling pathways and reducing inflammation in the affected area.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of mountain arnica used to make tinctures for muscle pain.

• Flowers: They are rich in sesquiterpene lactones, particularly helenalin and dihydrohelenalin, which have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
• Leaves: They contain flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenoids, which contribute to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Roots: They contain sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which are responsible for their pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mountain arnica for muscle pain.

1. Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh arnica montana flowers at the peak of blooming for optimal potency and flavor.
2. Dry the flowers in a warm place with good air circulation for 1-2 weeks to maintain their medicinal properties.
3. Chop the dried flowers into small pieces and combine with 80 proof vodka in a 1:3 flower-to-liquor ratio.
4. Allow the mixture to macerate for 2-4 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking to extract the active compounds.
5. Strain and filter the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove the plant material and achieve the desired consistency.

6. Hamamelis virginiana

American witch hazel tinctures helps with muscle pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which quickly reduce swelling and ease discomfort.

The plant's natural astringent compounds, such as gallic acid and tannins, constrict blood vessels and reduce inflammation in the affected area, providing fast relief from soreness and stiffness.

Additionally, witch hazel's analgesic properties help to numb pain, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating muscle tension and pain caused by injuries, overuse, or strains.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hamamelis virginiana tinctures that help with muscle pain.

• Hamamelitannin: A polyphenolic compound that helps with muscle pain by exerting anti-inflammatory effects, reducing swelling and discomfort in the affected areas.
• Vasoprotectant flavonoids: A group of flavonoids that help protect blood vessels and improve blood flow, reducing muscle spasms and pain by promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation.
• Oligomeric proanthocyanidin: A type of flavonoid that has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce muscle pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and promoting the healing of damaged tissues.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of american witch hazel used to make tinctures for muscle pain.

• Barks: Hamamelis virginiana's barks are commonly used due to their high concentration of tannins, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are widely used for their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in soothing muscle pain and reducing inflammation.
• Roots: The roots of Hamamelis virginiana are used for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in alleviating muscle pain and reducing swelling.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic american witch hazel for muscle pain.

1. Harvest 1 pound of fresh hamamelis virginiana leaves and twigs in early morning to ensure optimal potency.
2. Clean the plant material by gently brushing off dirt and debris with a soft-bristled brush.
3. Combine the cleaned plant material with 80 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio by weight in a glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
5. Strain the tincture through a coffee filter into a separate glass container discarding the solids.

7. Zingiber officinale

Ginger tinctures helps with muscle pain because its active compounds, such as gingerols and shogaols, have potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

When ingested, these compounds are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to areas of inflammation, where they help to reduce swelling and ease discomfort.

Additionally, ginger's natural warming properties can increase blood flow to affected areas, further promoting relaxation and alleviation of muscle tension.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: These sesquiterpene compounds, particularly [6]-gingerol, have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help alleviate muscle pain by reducing inflammation and blocking pain signals to the brain.
• Shogaols: These pungent compounds, formed from the oxidation of gingerols, exhibit potent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving activities, contributing to the relief of muscle pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators.
• Curcuminoids: Although not exclusive to ginger, curcuminoids, particularly curcumin, present in some ginger tinctures, possess potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help mitigate muscle pain by scavenging free radicals and suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.

Parts Used

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

• Rhyzomes: The rhyzome is the primary part used to make tinctures for muscle pain due to its high concentration of active compounds such as gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Roots: The roots of the plant also contain active compounds, but to a lesser extent than the rhyzome, making them a secondary option for tincture production.
• Barks: The bark of the Zingiber officinale plant may be used in some cases, but it's less commonly used compared to the rhyzome and roots for muscle pain relief due to its varying levels of bioactive compounds.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest the fresh rhizomes of zingiber officinale when they are mature and the leaves are dying off.
2. Wash the harvested rhizomes thoroughly with water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Chop the cleaned rhizomes into small pieces and combine them with 80% ethanol in a ratio of 1:5.
4. Steep the rhizome-ethanol mixture in a glass jar for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then store the tincture in a dark glass bottle.

8. Aesculus hippocastanum

Horse chestnut tinctures helps with muscle pain because it contains aescin, a powerful bioflavonoid that has anti-inflammatory properties.

When absorbed into the bloodstream, aescin helps to reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort in muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It also improves blood circulation, which brings essential oxygen and nutrients to the affected areas, promoting faster recovery from muscle strain and injury.

As a result, horse chestnut tinctures provide effective relief for individuals experiencing chronic or acute muscle pain, allowing them to regain mobility and functionality.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aesculus hippocastanum tinctures that help with muscle pain.

• Aesculetin: Aesculetin is a lignan that helps with muscle pain by acting as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing swelling and pain in the muscles.
• Aesculin: Aesculin is a lignan that helps with muscle pain by acting as a vasodilator, increasing blood flow to the affected area and reducing muscle spasms.
• Hippocastanin: Hippocastanin is a glycoside that helps with muscle pain by acting as a spasmolytic agent, relaxing the muscles and reducing muscle cramps.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of horse chestnut used to make tinctures for muscle pain.

• Barks: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Leaves: They are used for their ability to reduce inflammation and provide relief from muscle pain.
• Seeds: They are used for their potential to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief due to their aescin content.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic horse chestnut for muscle pain.

1. Harvest 50-100 aesculus hippocastanum leaves and flowers in the early morning to ensure optimal potency.
2. Clean the plant material by gently brushing off dirt and debris with a soft brush.
3. Combine the cleaned plant material with 80% ethanol in a 1:5 ratio to create a strong tincture.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-4 weeks, shaking the container daily.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.

9. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with muscle pain because they contain potent anti-inflammatory compounds, including triterpenoids and flavonoids.

These bioactive molecules work to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemical messengers that stimulate pain perception. Additionally, Kansas coneflower's antioxidant properties help to neutralize free radicals, which can contribute to muscle damage and soreness.

By targeting both inflammation and oxidative stress, Kansas coneflower tinctures provide a natural and effective solution for managing muscle pain.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with muscle pain.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help to reduce muscle pain by inhibiting the production of inflammatory mediators, thereby reducing inflammation and alleviating pain.
• Alkaloids: Alkylamides in Echinacea angustifolia have been found to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping to alleviate muscle pain and discomfort.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Echinacea angustifolia have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce muscle pain by neutralizing free radicals and reducing inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for muscle pain.

• Roots: Echinacea angustifolia roots are used to make tinctures for muscle pain because they contain high levels of alkaloids and glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: Echinacea angustifolia leaves are used to make tinctures for muscle pain because they contain essential oils and flavonoids, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Stems: Echinacea angustifolia stems are used to make tinctures for muscle pain because they contain a mixture of glycosides, alkaloids, and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for muscle pain.

1. Harvest echinacea angustifolia roots in late fall or early spring when the plant is dormant for optimal potency.
2. Dry the harvested roots in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
3. Chop 1 pound of dried echinacea angustifolia roots into small pieces for increased surface area.
4. Steep the chopped roots in 80% ethanol at a 1:5 ratio for 2 weeks, shaking the container daily.
5. Strain the liquid and discard the solids, then bottle the tincture and store it in a cool dark place.

10. Rhus aromatica

Fragrant sumac tinctures helps with muscle pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties.

The tannins present in fragrant sumac have been shown to reduce swelling and alleviate pain caused by overused or injured muscles. Additionally, the menthol-like compounds found in fragrant sumac work as a natural analgesic, providing relief from discomfort and stiffness.

As a result, fragrant sumac tinctures can be an effective natural remedy for alleviating muscle pain and promoting relaxation after physical activity.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rhus aromatica tinctures that help with muscle pain.

• Glycosides: Glycosides in Rhus aromatica tinctures help with muscle pain by acting as anti-inflammatory agents, reducing swelling and pain in the affected areas.
• Tannins: Tannins in Rhus aromatica tinctures help with muscle pain by exerting analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which aid in relieving muscle spasms and reducing discomfort.
• Alkaloids: Alkaloids, specifically Berberine, in Rhus aromatica tinctures help with muscle pain by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help reduce muscle inflammation and alleviate pain.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of fragrant sumac used to make tinctures for muscle pain.

• Roots: They contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce pain and inflammation in muscles.
• Leaves: They have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate muscle pain and discomfort.
• Stems: They contain bioactive compounds that help reduce pain and inflammation in muscles, making them a useful part for tincture preparation.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fragrant sumac for muscle pain.

1. Harvest 20-30 fresh aerial parts of the plant in the early morning after the dew has dried.
2. Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces using sharp scissors or pruning shears.
3. Combine 1 part of the chopped plant material with 2 parts of 80% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Seal the jar and steep it in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking daily.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with muscle pain is a blend of arnica, turmeric, and ginger.

Arnica tincture is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while turmeric tincture contains curcumin, which reduces inflammation and relieves pain. Ginger tincture adds a soothing and warming effect, helping to relax tense muscles.

This combination can be taken individually or blended together in a ratio of 2 parts arnica to 1 part turmeric and 1 part ginger, and taken as directed to alleviate muscle pain and discomfort.

What ailments similar to muscle pain are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to muscle pain that are treated with herbal tinctures are joint stiffness and inflammation, headaches, menstrual cramps, and fibromyalgia symptoms.

Herbal tinctures containing turmeric, ginger, and willow bark have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate joint pain and stiffness. Tinctures made from passionflower, valerian root, and skullcap can soothe headaches and promote relaxation.

Additionally, herbal blends like cramp bark and blue cohosh can ease menstrual cramps and fibromyalgia symptoms.