10 Best Herbal Creams For Osteoarthritis

Herbal creams for osteoarthritis are topical creams infused with herbs and other natural ingredients that provide relief from joint pain and inflammation.

They help by reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and easing stiffness. Examples of herbal creams that help with osteoarthritis include creams containing capsaicin, arnica, and ginger.

These creams have improved the lives of individuals with osteoarthritis by reducing pain and discomfort, allowing them to engage in daily activities with greater ease and mobility.

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

1. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with osteoarthritis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The active compound curcumin in these creams is known to reduce joint pain and inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes. This leads to improved joint mobility and reduced stiffness. Additionally, curcumin's antioxidant properties help protect the joints from oxidative damage, promoting overall joint health and potentially slowing down the progression of osteoarthritis.

Regular application of these creams may provide long-term relief and improved quality of life for individuals suffering from osteoarthritis.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa creams that help with osteoarthritis.

• Curcumin: Curcumin is a polyphenolic compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce joint inflammation and pain associated with osteoarthritis.
• Demethoxycurcumin: DMC is a curcuminoid with strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which help prevent cartilage degradation and reduce joint pain and stiffness in osteoarthritis.
• Tumerone: Tumerone is a sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties, which help reduce joint inflammation and alleviate pain associated with osteoarthritis.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make creams for osteoarthritis.

• Rhyzomes: The primary source of curcumin, a bioactive compound that has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which helps to reduce joint pain and inflammation.
• Roots: Also contain curcumin, but in smaller amounts compared to rhyzomes, still providing anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
• Barks: May be used in combination with other parts, containing a lower concentration of curcumin, but still contributing to the overall anti-inflammatory effect of the creams.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for osteoarthritis.

1. Harvest 20-30 roots of curcuma longa and wash them thoroughly with distilled water for 10 minutes.
2. Grate the roots using a fine grater and mix with 20 grams of beeswax and 20 grams of shea butter.
3. Melt the beeswax and shea butter mixture in a double boiler over low heat for 20 minutes.
4. Add 10 grams of coconut oil and 10 grams of vitamin e oil to the melted mixture and stir well.
5. Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar and refrigerate for 30 minutes before use.

2. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with osteoarthritis because of its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

The active compound, gingerol, reduces joint inflammation and swelling, providing relief from osteoarthritis symptoms. The cream's topical application allows the active ingredients to directly target the affected area, promoting relaxation of the muscles and joints. This localized treatment can help alleviate pain, stiffness, and discomfort associated with osteoarthritis, improving joint mobility and overall quality of life.

Regular use may also aid in reducing pain and inflammation over time.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with osteoarthritis.

• Gingerols: Gingerols, particularly 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol, have potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help reduce pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
• Shogaols: Shogaols, a type of gingerol derivative, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and mediators, thereby reducing joint inflammation and pain in osteoarthritis.
• Curcuminoids: Curcuminoids have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the joints, thereby alleviating symptoms of osteoarthritis.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for osteoarthritis.

• Rhyzomes: They contain compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms.
• Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are a rich source of bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and pain associated with osteoarthritis.
• Barks: The bark of the ginger plant is used for its anti-inflammatory properties and is often used to make creams and ointments for osteoarthritis relief.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20 fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes from your garden or a reputable supplier.
2. Chop 5 of the harvested rhizomes into small pieces and grind them into a fine powder.
3. Combine 2 tablespoons of the ground zingiber officinale powder with 1 tablespoon of beeswax in a double boiler.
4. Melt the beeswax and zingiber officinale mixture over low heat for 20 minutes stirring occasionally.
5. Remove the double boiler from the heat and let the mixture cool and thicken for 30 minutes.

3. Boswellia serrata

Boswellia serrata, also known as frankincense, creams helps with osteoarthritis because they contain boswellic acids, which have potent anti-inflammatory properties.

These acids help reduce swelling and pain in the joints, allowing for improved mobility and reduced stiffness. By inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, boswellic acids help alleviate the symptoms of osteoarthritis, providing relief from pain and discomfort.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to treat various forms of arthritis, offering a promising alternative to conventional treatments.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata creams that help with osteoarthritis.

• Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid: This triterpenoid compound has potent anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties, which help reduce pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
• Β-boswellic acids: These pentacyclic triterpenoids possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate pain, inflammation, and oxidative stress in osteoarthritis patients.
• Boswellic acid derivatives: These compounds have been shown to modulate the body's immune response, reduce inflammation, and inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby helping to manage osteoarthritis symptoms.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make creams for osteoarthritis.

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are used due to their high concentration of boswellic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: Roots are used due to their ability to provide sustained release of boswellic acids, which can help in reducing inflammation and pain associated with osteoarthritis.
• Barks: Barks are used due to their rich content of boswellic acids, which can help in reducing inflammation and promoting joint health.

Recipe

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

1. Weigh 250 grams of shea butter and 100 grams of coconut oil in separate containers.
2. Melt shea butter in a double boiler at 160-180 degrees fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes.
3. Combine 25 grams of boswellia serrata extract with 20 grams of beeswax in a saucepan.
4. Heat the mixture at 180-190 degrees fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes and stir occasionally.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and solidify before transferring it to a container.

4. Salix alba

Salix alba, also known as white willow, creams helps with osteoarthritis because it contains salicin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties.

This natural ingredient mimics the effects of aspirin, reducing pain and swelling in the joints. The cream is applied directly to the affected area, allowing the salicin to be absorbed and provide relief from the discomfort associated with osteoarthritis.

Regular use of Salix alba cream may also help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the joints.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salix alba creams that help with osteoarthritis.

• Salicin: A phenolic glycoside that acts as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
• Flavonoids: A type of phenolic compound that has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce joint inflammation and oxidative stress in osteoarthritis.
• Triterpenoids: A type of terpenoid that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and chondroprotective effects, helping to protect joint cartilage and reduce inflammation in osteoarthritis.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of white willow used to make creams for osteoarthritis.

• Leaves: They contain salicin and other compounds that contribute to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making them useful in creams for osteoarthritis.
• Stems: They are a source of salicin and other flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 30g of dried salix alba bark and 20g of dried beeswax at dawn when plants are most potent.
2. Combine 30g of coconut oil and 20g of olive oil in a saucepan and heat over low heat for 30 minutes.
3. Add 30g of shea butter and 15g of candelilla wax to the saucepan and stir until melted.
4. Grate 10g of fresh ginger root and add it to the saucepan along with the salix alba bark.
5. Pour the mixture into a glass jar and let it cool and solidify for 2 hours.

5. Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St. John's Wort, creams helps with osteoarthritis because of its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

The active compounds in St. John's Wort, such as hyperforin and hypericin, have been shown to reduce pain and inflammation in joints affected by osteoarthritis. These compounds also have antioxidant properties, which help to protect the joints from further damage and promote healing.

As a result, St. John's Wort creams can provide relief from the symptoms of osteoarthritis, including pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with osteoarthritis.

• Naphthodianthrones: They exhibit potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
• Flavonoids: They possess analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which contribute to the relief of osteoarthritis symptoms, such as pain and stiffness.
• Phenolic acids: They have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help protect joints from oxidative damage and reduce inflammation, ultimately alleviating osteoarthritis symptoms.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for osteoarthritis.

• Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and tannins, which provide anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
• Flowers: Contain hyperforin and hypericin, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to reduce pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
• Seeds: Used due to their content of hypericin and pseudohypericin, which have shown potential in reducing inflammation and pain.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 500g of the flowers of hypericum perforatum when they are in full bloom and dry them for 7 days.
2. Extract the active compounds from 300g of the dried flowers using 1.5 liters of carrier oil over 2 weeks.
3. Combine 100g of the extracted oil with 100g of beeswax and 50g of shea butter in a double boiler.
4. Heat the mixture for 30 minutes at 60-70 degrees celsius while stirring occasionally to achieve a smooth consistency.
5. Pour the mixture into containers and let it cool completely at room temperature for 2-3 hours.

6. Harpagophytum procumbens

Harpagophytum procumbens, also known as devil's claw, creams helps with osteoarthritis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The cream allows the active compounds of the plant, such as harpogoside and procumbide, to penetrate deep into the skin, reducing pain and inflammation in the affected joints. Regular application can lead to improved mobility and reduced stiffness, providing relief from the debilitating symptoms of osteoarthritis.

Studies have shown that devil's claw cream can be an effective natural remedy for managing osteoarthritis symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Harpagophytum procumbens creams that help with osteoarthritis.

• Harpagoside: Harpagoside, a sesquiterpene glycoside, has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which help reduce joint pain and swelling associated with osteoarthritis.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Harpagophytum procumbens exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help protect joints from oxidative stress and inflammation, a key contributor to osteoarthritis progression.
• Harpagoside's parent compound, procumbine: Procumbine, the aglycone of harpagoside, has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, which contribute to joint inflammation and degradation, thus providing relief from osteoarthritis symptoms.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of devil's claw used to make creams for osteoarthritis.

• Roots: They are the primary part used to make creams for osteoarthritis because they contain a high concentration of harpagoside, the primary active compound responsible for the plant's anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Stems: They are used in creams for osteoarthritis as a secondary part, possibly due to their lower harpagoside content, but potentially as a more cost-effective alternative to roots or rhizomes.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 500 grams of dried harpagophytum procumbens root in late summer or early fall for maximum potency.
2. Dry the harvested root in a low-temperature oven at 50 degrees celsius for 24 hours.
3. Grind 200 grams of dried harpagophytum procumbens root into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
4. Combine the powdered root with 100 grams of beeswax and 50 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler.
5. Stir the mixture continuously for 10 minutes and then pour it into a glass jar for storage.

7. Oenothera biennis

Oenothera biennis, also known as evening primrose, creams helps with osteoarthritis because of its rich content of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and other essential fatty acids.

These nutrients have potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and pain in the joints affected by osteoarthritis. Additionally, evening primrose oil has been shown to improve joint mobility and flexibility, making it easier to perform daily activities and exercise.

Its natural anti-inflammatory properties make it a popular alternative treatment for osteoarthritis sufferers.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Oenothera biennis creams that help with osteoarthritis.

• Gamma-linolenic acid: GLA has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce joint pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
• Phytosterols: Phytosterols, particularly beta-sitosterol, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and chondroprotective effects, which help maintain cartilage health and reduce joint damage in osteoarthritis.
• Punicic acid: Punicic acid has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in osteoarthritis, leading to pain relief and improved joint function.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of evening primrose used to make creams for osteoarthritis.

• Roots: Rich in saponins, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms.
• Seeds: Contain a compound called saponin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, making it useful for osteoarthritis creams.
• Leaves: Packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which help reduce inflammation and ease osteoarthritis pain.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic evening primrose for osteoarthritis.

1. Harvest 1-2 cups of fresh oenothera biennis flowers and leaves on a sunny day.
2. Steep 1 cup of the harvested plant material in 2 cups of carrier oil like coconut oil for 2-3 weeks.
3. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean container to remove plant material.
4. Mix 1/4 cup of the infused oil with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of shea butter in a double boiler.
5. Whisk the mixture until it thickens and reaches a smooth, creamy consistency in about 10 minutes.

8. Capsicum annuum

Capsicum annuum, also known as bell pepper, creams helps with osteoarthritis because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce pain and swelling in joints.

The capsaicin in Capsicum annuum creams blocks the production of a chemical called substance P, which transmits pain signals to the brain. By reducing the transmission of these pain signals, Capsicum annuum creams provide relief from the chronic pain associated with osteoarthritis, improving mobility and quality of life for those affected.

Regular application can lead to noticeable improvements.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Capsicum annuum creams that help with osteoarthritis.

• Capsaicin: Capsaicin, a phenolic compound, helps with osteoarthritis by inhibiting the production of substance P, a neurotransmitter that transmits pain signals to the brain, thereby reducing pain and inflammation.
• Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, helps with osteoarthritis by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which are key contributors to the progression of osteoarthritis.
• Beta-carotene: Beta-Carotene, a carotenoid, helps with osteoarthritis by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which can damage joint tissues and exacerbate osteoarthritis symptoms.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of bell pepper used to make creams for osteoarthritis.

• Fruits: Used for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to relieve pain and reduce inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
• Leaves: Utilized for their medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help to alleviate joint pain and inflammation.
• Seeds: Employed for their capsaicin content, which is known for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in managing osteoarthritis symptoms.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 15-20 ripe capsicum annuum fruits, washing them thoroughly with clean water to remove dirt and debris.
2. Dry the harvested capsicum annuum fruits in a single layer at room temperature for 7-10 days.
3. Grind the dried capsicum annuum fruits into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
4. Combine 5g of the ground capsicum annuum powder with 100g of a carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil, in a double boiler.
5. Stir the mixture continuously for 30 minutes to 1 hour, then strain and store the resulting herbal cream in an airtight container.

9. Arnica montana

Arnica montana, also known as mountain arnica, creams helps with osteoarthritis because of its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

The cream's active compounds, such as helenalin and arnicine, reduce swelling and ease joint stiffness. When applied topically, it helps to decrease pain and inflammation, promoting relaxation and reducing discomfort in affected joints. Regular use of arnica montana creams can improve joint mobility and overall comfort, making it a popular natural remedy for managing osteoarthritis symptoms.

It provides fast and effective relief.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arnica montana creams that help with osteoarthritis.

• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, such as arnicin and arnicol, in Arnica montana creams have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help reduce pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including isorhapontigenin and eupafolin, found in Arnica montana creams, exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, which contribute to the reduction of joint inflammation and improvement of osteoarthritis symptoms.
• Sesquiterpene lactones: Sesquiterpene lactones, such as dihydroarnol and dihydroarnic acid, in Arnica montana creams display anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing in osteoarthritis.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of mountain arnica used to make creams for osteoarthritis.

• Flowers: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: Leaves are also used due to their content of sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids, which help reduce inflammation and pain.
• Roots: Roots are sometimes used in creams for osteoarthritis due to their content of sesquiterpene lactones and phenolic compounds, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 10-20 fresh arnica montana flowers and leaves from a pesticide-free area early morning.
2. Dry the arnica montana flowers and leaves in a warm place for 7-10 days to maintain potency.
3. Grind 20g of dried arnica montana flowers and leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
4. Combine 20g of arnica montana powder with 50g of beeswax and 50g of coconut oil in a double boiler.
5. Stir the mixture until the beeswax and coconut oil melt and mix well then pour into a tin container.

10. Valeriana officinalis

Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, creams helps with osteoarthritis because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing joint pain and swelling.

The cream's active compounds, such as valerenic acid and isovaleric acid, work by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thus alleviating the discomfort associated with osteoarthritis.

Additionally, valerian's analgesic properties help to numb the affected area, providing relief from chronic pain and discomfort, allowing individuals to engage in daily activities with greater ease and mobility.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis creams that help with osteoarthritis.

• Valerenic acid: This terpene derivative helps with osteoarthritis by reducing inflammation and pain in the joints, thanks to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Isovaleric acid: This valerenic acid derivative has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help to reduce joint pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
• Valeranone: This terpene has been found to have a sedative effect, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety that can exacerbate osteoarthritis symptoms, and also has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce joint pain and inflammation.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make creams for osteoarthritis.

• Roots: Valerian root is used due to its high content of valerenic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms.
• Leaves: Valerian leaves are used because they contain valerenol, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce joint pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
• Seeds: Valerian seeds are used for their content of valeranone, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help relieve pain and reduce inflammation in osteoarthritis.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for osteoarthritis.

1. Gather valeriana officinalis roots and leaves in equal proportions to make a total of 100 grams of dried plant material.
2. Steep the dried valeriana officinalis in 500 milliliters of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil for 2 weeks.
3. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter to separate the infused oil from the solids.
4. Add 20 grams of beeswax and 10 grams of emulsifying wax to the infused oil and heat the mixture in a double boiler.
5. Add 50 milliliters of distilled water and mix the cream thoroughly to achieve a smooth and even consistency.

What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for osteoarthritis?

The best combination of herbal creams that help with osteoarthritis is a blend of arnica, capsaicin, and CBD creams.

Arnica cream reduces inflammation and pain, while capsaicin cream provides a warming sensation to increase blood flow and ease stiffness. CBD cream, rich in anti-inflammatory properties, helps to soothe and calm the affected area. This combination works synergistically to provide relief from osteoarthritis symptoms, promoting joint comfort and mobility.

Regular application can lead to improved joint health and reduced pain.