10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Osteoarthritis

Herbal tinctures for osteoarthritis are concentrated liquid extracts derived from plants, used to alleviate symptoms associated with joint pain and inflammation.

These tinctures help by reducing inflammation, improving joint mobility, and relieving pain. Examples of herbal tinctures that show promise in managing osteoarthritis include turmeric, ginger, and ashwagandha.

By incorporating these tinctures into their daily routine, individuals can experience improved joint flexibility, reduced stiffness, and enhanced overall quality of life.

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

1. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with osteoarthritis because they contain a compound called glycyrrhizin, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties.

This natural compound reduces joint inflammation and pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes. Additionally, licorice root has been shown to stimulate the production of collagen, which can help repair damaged joints.

By reducing inflammation and promoting joint health, herbal licorice tinctures provide relief from the symptoms of osteoarthritis, making it a natural and effective complementary therapy for managing this common condition.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Licopyrones: This triterpenoid saponin has potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate the pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in osteoarthritis-affected joints.
• Licocellulosic acids: These polysaccharides have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and chondroprotective properties, which can help protect cartilage and reduce joint inflammation in osteoarthritis.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: Rich in glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory properties to help alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms.
• Leaves: Contain flavonoids and saponins that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects to support osteoarthritis treatment.
• Stems: Have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help in reducing joint inflammation and pain associated with osteoarthritis.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 40 ounces of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and wash them thoroughly with distilled water.
2. Chop the roots into small pieces and combine with 80 ounces of vodka in a glass container.
3. Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place, shaking the container daily.
4. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container.
5. Store the herbal tincture in the refrigerator to slow down the degradation process and preserve its potency.

2. Curcuma longa

Turmeric tinctures helps with osteoarthritis because it contains a powerful compound called curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties.

When taken regularly, turmeric tincture can reduce joint inflammation and pain associated with osteoarthritis, making daily activities easier to perform. Curcumin also prevents the progression of cartilage damage by inhibiting enzymes that break down collagen, thereby slowing down joint degeneration.

This natural supplement provides long-lasting relief from stiffness, discomfort, and chronic pain, allowing individuals with osteoarthritis to maintain an active lifestyle.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Curcumin: Curcumin is a polyphenolic compound that helps with osteoarthritis by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, thereby alleviating joint pain and improving joint function.
• Demethoxycurcumin: DMC is a curcuminoid that has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce joint inflammation and pain associated with osteoarthritis.
• Beta-diketone: BDK is a sesquiterpene that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and chondroprotective effects, helping to protect cartilage and reduce joint inflammation in osteoarthritis.

Parts Used

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

• Rhyzomes: Curcuma longa rhyzomes contain curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound that helps reduce joint pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
• Roots: Turmeric root contains bioactive compounds like curcuminoids and other polyphenols that help alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
• Seeds: While not as widely used as rhyzomes or roots, turmeric seeds also contain curcuminoids, which can contribute to the anti-inflammatory properties of tinctures used to treat osteoarthritis.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100 grams of fresh curcuma longa rhizomes in the morning after the dew has dried.
2. Wash the rhizomes in cold water to remove dirt and debris then pat dry with paper towels.
3. Chop the rhizomes into small pieces and place them in a clean glass jar with a lid.
4. Fill a glass jar with 90 percent vodka and add the chopped curcuma longa to the jar for a 1:5 ratio.
5. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks then strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle.

3. Urtica dioica

Stinging nettle tinctures helps with osteoarthritis because it contains anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce joint pain and inflammation.

The tannins and saponins present in stinging nettle have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory molecules, which contribute to joint damage and pain. Additionally, stinging nettle's ability to increase nitric oxide production helps improve blood flow to affected joints, reducing stiffness and discomfort.

This natural remedy has been traditionally used for centuries to alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis, providing relief from chronic pain without harsh pharmaceuticals.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica tinctures that help with osteoarthritis.

• Astringent tannins: Astringent tannins in Urtica dioica tinctures help with osteoarthritis by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response, thereby alleviating joint pain and swelling.
• Nordihydroguaiaretic acid: NDGA, a phenolic compound found in Urtica dioica, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce joint inflammation and oxidative stress associated with osteoarthritis.
• Stigmasterol: Stigmasterol, a triterpenoid saponin present in Urtica dioica, has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which help to reduce joint pain and inflammation, and improve overall joint health in individuals with osteoarthritis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make tinctures for osteoarthritis.

• Leaves: Used for their high content of anti-inflammatory compounds, which help alleviate joint pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
• Roots: Utilized for their rich store of bioactive compounds, including glycosides and flavonoids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
• Stems: Employed for their ability to provide a sustained release of anti-inflammatory compounds, helping to reduce joint inflammation and alleviate associated pain.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems in large quantities typically around one liter of plant material.
2. Chop the gathered urtica dioica into small pieces weighing approximately 250 grams for the next step.
3. Combine the chopped urtica dioica with a neutral solvent like 75 percent vodka and 25 percent glycerin.
4. Steep the urtica dioica mixture for 2 to 3 weeks in a glass container with a lid.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a separate container and store the tincture.

4. Harpagophytum procumbens

Devil's claw tinctures helps with osteoarthritis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce joint pain and swelling.

The tincture's natural compounds, such as harpagoside, bind to receptors in the body, reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms like stiffness and discomfort. Additionally, devil's claw has been shown to inhibit the production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that can exacerbate joint pain.

This natural remedy can provide relief from osteoarthritis symptoms without harsh chemicals or pharmaceuticals.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Harpagide: Harpagide is a phenylethanoid glycoside that has potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce joint inflammation and pain associated with osteoarthritis.
• Achilleine: Achilleine is an iridoid glycoside that has been shown to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, reducing pain and inflammation in osteoarthritis.
• Alkaloid harpagoside: Harpagoside is an iridoid glycoside that has been found to have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help protect joints from damage and reduce osteoarthritis symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They contain harpagoside, a key compound responsible for the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects in treating osteoarthritis.
• Stems: They also contain harpagoside, although to a lesser extent than roots and rhizomes, and are sometimes used in combination with other parts for their potential anti-inflammatory benefits.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of dried harpagophytum procumbens roots in the morning after a gentle rain.
2. Combine the dried roots with 2 parts of vodka or high-proof spirits in a clean glass.
3. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for at least 6 weeks, shaking the container.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
5. Transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles and store them in the refrigerator to slow down.

5. Boswellia serrata

Frankincense tinctures helps with osteoarthritis because it contains boswellic acids, which have potent anti-inflammatory properties that reduce joint swelling and pain.

The tincture's antioxidant properties also help to protect cartilage from further damage, promoting healthy joint function. Additionally, frankincense has been shown to inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines, leading to a decrease in inflammation and alleviating symptoms associated with osteoarthritis.

By reducing inflammation and promoting healthy joints, frankincense tinctures provide natural relief for those suffering from osteoarthritis.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Accumaside a: Accumaside A is a boswellic acid that helps to reduce inflammation and pain associated with osteoarthritis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Boswellic acids: Boswellic acids, particularly boswellic acid A and boswellic acid B, have potent anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes that contribute to osteoarthritis.
• 3-o-acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid: AKBA is a boswellic acid that has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots are the primary source of boswellic acids, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms.
• Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes, also known as underground stems, contain a higher concentration of boswellic acids than the roots, making them a popular choice for tinctures.
• Barks: The barks of Boswellia serrata trees contain boswellic acids and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce inflammation and pain associated with osteoarthritis.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest mature boswellia serrata resinous trunks and branches during the full moon for optimal resin quality.
2. Chop the harvested boswellia serrata trunks and branches into small pieces to increase surface area.
3. Combine 10 parts of the chopped boswellia serrata pieces with 190 proof ethanol in a 1:10 ratio.
4. Store the mixture in a glass container and let it steep for 4 to 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth and discard the solids then transfer the tincture to a glass bottle.

6. Sambucus nigra

Elder tinctures helps with osteoarthritis because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The bioactive compounds in elderberry, such as flavonoids and anthocyanins, work synergistically to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the joints. This natural combination helps alleviate pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis, allowing for improved joint mobility and flexibility.

Additionally, elder tinctures may help modulate the immune system's response to joint damage, promoting healing and regeneration of cartilage and connective tissue.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra tinctures that help with osteoarthritis.

• Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, helps with osteoarthritis by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the joints.
• Salicin: Salicin, a phenolic glycoside, helps with osteoarthritis by acting as a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent, reducing pain and inflammation in the joints.
• Kaempferol: Kaempferol, a flavonoid phenolic compound, helps with osteoarthritis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and mediators, thereby reducing inflammation and pain in the joints.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make tinctures for osteoarthritis.

• Flowers: They are rich in flavonoids and anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms.
• Leaves: They contain a compound called sambunigrin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, providing relief from osteoarthritis pain.
• Fruits (or berries): The berries are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce joint inflammation and pain associated with osteoarthritis.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest sambucus nigra flowers, leaves and stems in summer months when in full bloom and dry thoroughly.
2. Chop the dried sambucus nigra material into small pieces using sharp blades and a clean surface.
3. Combine 1 part of chopped sambucus nigra material with 2 parts of 95% ethanol in a glass container.
4. Allow the mixture to steep for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place shaking the container daily.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container discard the solids.

7. Camellia sinensis

Tea tinctures helps with osteoarthritis because they contain concentrated amounts of bioactive compounds that target the underlying inflammation and oxidative stress associated with this condition.

The polyphenols, flavonoids, and other bioactives in herbal tea tinctures, such as turmeric, ginger, and boswellia, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce joint pain and stiffness, while also promoting cartilage health and protecting against further degeneration.

By addressing the root causes of osteoarthritis, herbal tea tinctures offer a natural approach to managing this chronic condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis tinctures that help with osteoarthritis.

• Catechins: These polyphenolic compounds, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce joint inflammation and oxidative stress associated with osteoarthritis.
• Quercetin: As a flavonoid and a potent antioxidant, quercetin inhibits inflammatory pathways and reduces the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, alleviating joint pain and inflammation in osteoarthritis.
• Gallocatechin: This flavan-3-ol also possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which contribute to the reduction of joint inflammation, oxidative stress, and pain associated with osteoarthritis.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of tea used to make tinctures for osteoarthritis.

• Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms.
• Stems: Contain bioactive compounds that may help reduce inflammation and promote joint health, making them a popular choice for tincture formulations.
• Roots: Rich in saponins and other bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 2 pounds of fresh camellia sinensis leaves from mature plants at peak potency in early morning.
2. Clean the harvested leaves by gently swishing them in a large bowl of cold water to remove impurities.
3. Dry the cleaned leaves in a dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 6 hours to preserve enzymes.
4. Combine 1:3 ratio of dried leaves to 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar to create the tincture.
5. Store the tincture in a cool dark place for 4 weeks with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.

8. Ruscus aculeatus

Dog holly tinctures helps with osteoarthritis because they contain potent anti-inflammatory compounds that target the joints, reducing pain and swelling.

The tannins in dog holly have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, while its alkaloids help relax muscle tissue and improve circulation.

As a result, herbal dog holly tinctures can provide rapid relief from osteoarthritis symptoms, allowing dogs to move more comfortably and maintain their quality of life.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ruscus aculeatus tinctures that help with osteoarthritis.

• Saponins: These compounds may help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with osteoarthritis by modulating the immune system and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as caffeic acid and ferulic acid, may possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could help protect joints from oxidative damage and reduce the severity of osteoarthritis symptoms.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly rutin, may help alleviate pain and inflammation in osteoarthritis by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes and promoting the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dog holly used to make tinctures for osteoarthritis.

• Leaves: The leaves of Ruscus aculeatus are used to make tinctures for osteoarthritis because of their anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: The roots of Ruscus aculeatus are used to make tinctures for osteoarthritis due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Barks: The barks of Ruscus aculeatus are used to make tinctures for osteoarthritis because of their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 100g of dried ruscus aculeatus root and herb material and store it in a clean container.
2. Combine the dried material with 500ml of high-proof ethanol 70% in a glass jar and stir well.
3. Seal the jar and let it steep in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking daily.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another container, discarding the solids.
5. Transfer the tincture to a dark glass bottle and store it in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.

9. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with osteoarthritis because its unique compounds, such as adiantum, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that target the root causes of joint pain.

The tincture's potent extracts work to reduce inflammation in the joints, thereby alleviating stiffness, swelling, and discomfort associated with osteoarthritis.

Additionally, maidenhair tree tinctures may also help regenerate cartilage and improve joint mobility, promoting a more active and comfortable lifestyle for those affected by this debilitating condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with osteoarthritis.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which can contribute to the development and progression of osteoarthritis.
• Bilobalide: This ginkgolide has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate pain and swelling associated with osteoarthritis, as well as protect against joint damage.
• Ginkgolic acids: These compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce joint inflammation and oxidative stress in osteoarthritis patients, thereby promoting joint health and mobility.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for osteoarthritis.

• Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part for tinctures due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Seeds: Seeds are used for their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
• Barks: Barks are sometimes used in tinctures for their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, although this part is less commonly used compared to leaves and seeds.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 50-100 fresh ginkgo biloba leaves and clean them thoroughly with a soft brush to remove dirt.
2. Chop 30 grams of the cleaned ginkgo biloba leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife or herb cutter.
3. Combine the chopped ginkgo biloba leaves with 80% vodka in a 1:5 ratio to a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2-4 weeks in a dark place with occasional shaking to help infusion.
5. Strain and filter the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle after 4 weeks.

10. Hypericum perforatum

St John's Wort tinctures helps with osteoarthritis because it has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce joint pain and inflammation.

The herb's active compounds, such as hyperforin and hypericin, work together to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, thereby reducing cartilage degradation and joint damage.

Additionally, St John's Wort tinctures may also improve sleep quality, which is often disrupted in individuals with osteoarthritis, further contributing to its therapeutic benefits for managing this condition.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Hyperforin: This prenylated phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
• Quercetin: This flavonoid has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce joint inflammation and oxidative stress, alleviating symptoms of osteoarthritis.
• Naphthodianthrones: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and modulate the immune response, potentially alleviating symptoms of osteoarthritis.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms.
• Stems: Contain a variety of bioactive compounds, including hyperforin and hypericin, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Flowers: High in flavonoids, phenolic acids, and other bioactive compounds that contribute to their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest approximately one pound of fresh or dried hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves.
2. Clean and chop the harvested hypericum perforatum into small pieces to increase surface area.
3. Combine the chopped hypericum perforatum with 80 proof vodka or glycerin in a 1 to 5 ratio by weight.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow extraction to occur.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and store in a cool dark place.

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

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

Turmeric contains curcumin, which reduces inflammation and pain, while Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties ease joint stiffness. Willow Bark contains salicin, a natural analgesic similar to aspirin, which helps alleviate pain and inflammation.

This combination can be taken 2-3 times a day, mixed with water, to provide relief from osteoarthritis symptoms and promote overall joint health.

What ailments similar to osteoarthritis are treated with herbal tinctures?

Ailments similar to osteoarthritis/tinctures.html">osteoarthritis/tinctures.html">osteoarthritis that are treated with herbal tinctures are rheumatoid arthritis, gout, fibromyalgia, and tendinitis.

These conditions share symptoms of joint pain, inflammation, and stiffness, which can be alleviated by the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties found in herbal tinctures like ginger, turmeric, willow bark, and devil's claw.