10 Best Herbal Creams For Rheumatoid Arthritis

Herbal creams for rheumatoid arthritis are topical treatments infused with natural herbs and plant extracts that help alleviate the symptoms of this inflammatory condition.

These creams, rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness in joints. Examples include creams containing turmeric, ginger, and boswellia, which have been shown to improve mobility and reduce reliance on medication.

By providing relief from chronic pain and inflammation, these creams significantly improve the quality of life for those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.

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

1. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with rheumatoid arthritis because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, specifically curcumin.

Curcumin inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, which contribute to joint inflammation and damage. By reducing inflammation, curcuma longa creams alleviate symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and swelling in joints affected by rheumatoid arthritis.

Additionally, curcuma longa has been shown to modulate the immune system, which may help slow disease progression and improve overall quality of life for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Curcumin: Curcumin is a phenolic compound that helps with rheumatoid arthritis by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress through its ability to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
• Demethoxycurcumin: DMC is a curcuminoid that helps with rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, while also reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Bisdemethoxycurcumin: BDMC is another curcuminoid that helps with rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, while also reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.

Plant's Parts

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

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes: Underground stems that store nutrients and are rich in curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties.
• Roots: Roots: Contain a high concentration of curcumin and other beneficial compounds that help reduce inflammation and pain.
• Seeds: Seeds: Rich in curcuminoids, which have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, making them useful in treating rheumatoid arthritis.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100g of fresh curcuma longa rhizomes and clean them thoroughly under cold running water for 5 minutes.
2. Dry the curcuma longa rhizomes in a low-temperature oven at 50c for 24 hours to reduce moisture content.
3. Grind 50g of dried curcuma longa rhizomes into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 5 minutes.
4. Combine 10g of the curcuma longa powder with 100g of unsalted butter and 10g of beeswax in a double boiler.
5. Stir the mixture constantly and heat it to 60c for 10 minutes until the curcuma longa cream thickens and cools.

2. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with rheumatoid arthritis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The active compounds present in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which contribute to joint inflammation and pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis. By reducing inflammation, ginger creams can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis, providing relief from pain and stiffness.

This makes ginger creams a promising natural alternative for managing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Gingerols: Gingerols are a class of phenolic compounds that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, helping to reduce pain and swelling associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
• Shogaols: Shogaols, a type of gingerol, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, thereby reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
• Zingiberene: Zingiberene is a sesquiterpene that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to protect joints from oxidative damage and reducing inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

Plant's Parts

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

• Roots: Roots: another part of the plant used, contain a smaller amount of active compounds but are often used in combination with the rhyzome for added benefits.
• Leaves: Leaves: are sometimes used to make creams for rheumatoid arthritis, although they contain less active compounds than the rhyzome, their extracts may provide additional health benefits.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1-2 kg of fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Clean and peel the harvested rhizomes then chop them into small pieces weighing approximately 200 grams.
3. Combine the chopped rhizome pieces with 500 milliliters of a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil in a saucepan.
4. Heat the mixture in a double boiler at 40-50 degrees celsius for about 30 minutes stirring occasionally then strain it.
5. Add 200 milliliters of distilled water to the strained mixture and emulsify it with a natural emulsifier like beeswax and lecithin.

3. Salix alba

Salix alba, also known as white willow, creams helps with rheumatoid arthritis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The creams contain salicin, a compound similar to aspirin, which helps to reduce pain and inflammation in the joints. Studies have shown that salicin can inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which contribute to the pain and swelling associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

By applying the cream topically, salicin can directly target the affected areas, providing relief from pain and inflammation without the need for systemic medications.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Salicin: Salicin, a phenolic glycoside, helps alleviate rheumatoid arthritis symptoms by acting as a mild analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent, similar to aspirin.
• Tannins: Tannins, a type of polyphenol, help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with rheumatoid arthritis, potentially easing joint pain and swelling.
• Salicortin: Salicortin, a phenolic compound, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce the severity of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, such as joint pain and inflammation.

Plant's Parts

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

• Barks: Salix alba barks are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help soothe and reduce inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
• Leaves: Salix alba leaves are used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce pain and inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis.
• Stems: Salix alba stems are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help reduce inflammation and prevent infection in rheumatoid arthritis.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 50g of salix alba bark at dawn on a dry day, making sure to identify the plant correctly.
2. Dry the harvested bark in a single layer at 50°c for 2 hours to remove excess moisture.
3. Combine the dried bark with 100g of coconut oil and 50g of beeswax in a double boiler.
4. Heat the mixture at 60°c for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the wax is fully incorporated.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and bottle it, allowing it to cool and thicken completely.

4. Capsicum annuum

Capsicum annuum, also known as bell pepper, creams helps with rheumatoid arthritis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The capsaicin present in these creams works by blocking the production of a chemical called substance P, which transmits pain signals to the brain. As a result, the creams reduce inflammation and alleviate joint pain, stiffness, and swelling associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

This natural remedy has been shown to improve quality of life for patients by reducing reliance on pain medications and promoting overall well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Capsaicin: Capsaicin helps reduce rheumatoid arthritis symptoms by inhibiting the production of a chemical called substance P, which transmits pain signals to the brain, thereby providing pain relief.
• Quercetin: Quercetin, a type of flavonoid, helps alleviate rheumatoid arthritis symptoms by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as COX-2 and 5-LOX.
• Β-carotene: β-Carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis by scavenging free radicals and promoting the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: They are used because of their high concentration of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce joint pain and inflammation.
• Fruits: They are used due to the presence of capsaicin, a natural pain reliever that helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
• Seeds: They are used because they contain a high amount of antioxidants and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce joint pain and inflammation.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1-2 cups of fresh capsicum annuum fruit in the morning after dew has dried off naturally.
2. Dry the capsicum annuum fruit at a temperature of 104°f to 115°f for 4-6 hours.
3. Grind 1/2 cup of dried capsicum annuum fruit into a fine powder using a spice grinder.
4. Mix 1/2 cup of the capsicum annuum powder with 1/4 cup of coconut oil in a double boiler.
5. Steep the mixture for 30 minutes to 1 hour before straining and cooling it to room temperature.

5. Hypericum perforatum

Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, creams helps with rheumatoid arthritis because it contains hyperforin, a bioactive compound that has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

These properties help reduce joint inflammation and pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, the cream's ability to increase blood flow and reduce oxidative stress may also contribute to its therapeutic effects.

As a result, Hypericum perforatum creams may provide relief from rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, improving quality of life for those affected.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Naphthoquinones: These compounds have potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce inflammation and alleviate joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
• Hyperforin: This alkaloid has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which may help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis.
• Flavonoids: These compounds, particularly kaempferol and quercetin, have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help mitigate oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
• Flowers: Contain naphthoquinones, specifically hyperforin and hypericin, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
• Stems: Also contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making them useful in creams for rheumatoid arthritis.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 30-40 hypericum flowers in mid-summer when they are in full bloom for optimal potency.
2. Dry the flowers at 40°c for 2-3 hours or until they reach a crumbly texture.
3. Grind 20 grams of dried flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Mix 10 grams of beeswax and 20 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler at 60°c.
5. Combine 5 grams of powdered hypericum with the melted beeswax and coconut oil mixture stirring constantly.

6. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, creams helps with rheumatoid arthritis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The active compounds in Echinacea purpurea, such as alkylamides and polyphenols, have been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate joint pain. By reducing inflammation, Echinacea purpurea creams may help slow down the progression of rheumatoid arthritis.

Additionally, its antioxidant properties may help protect against oxidative stress and cell damage, further contributing to its potential benefits in managing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea creams that help with rheumatoid arthritis.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce joint pain and swelling associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
• Caffeic acid phenethyl ester: As a phenolic compound, CAPE exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can help alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis such as joint pain and inflammation.
• Cichoric acid: This phenolic compound has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation in the joints of individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make creams for rheumatoid arthritis.

• Roots: The roots of Echinacea purpurea are used due to their high concentration of alkaloids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
• Leaves: The leaves of Echinacea purpurea are used for their rich content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
• Flowers: The flowers of Echinacea purpurea are used for their high content of caffeic acid and other phenolic compounds, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, such as pain and swelling.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for rheumatoid arthritis.

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh echinacea purpurea flowers in the late morning or early afternoon when the dew has evaporated.
2. Cleanse 1/4 cup of the harvested flowers with 1 tablespoon of witch hazel in a small bowl to remove impurities.
3. Steep 1/4 cup of the cleaned flowers in 2 cups of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes to create a floral infusion.
4. Strain the floral infusion through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean bowl and discard the solids.
5. Mix 1/2 cup of beeswax and 1/2 cup of coconut oil in a small saucepan and heat until the beeswax melts.

7. Harpagophytum procumbens

Harpagophytum procumbens, also known as devil's claw, creams helps with rheumatoid arthritis because it contains harpogoside, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that reduces joint pain and swelling.

The cream's active ingredients penetrate deep into the skin, targeting the affected areas and providing quick relief from discomfort.

Additionally, devil's claw has been shown to improve joint mobility and reduce morning stiffness, allowing individuals with rheumatoid arthritis to manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Harpagoside: This iridoid glycoside acts as a potent anti-inflammatory agent, reducing joint inflammation and pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
• Procumbideside: Similar to harpagoside, procumbideside has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to alleviate the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, including joint pain and swelling.
• Triterpenes: Triterpenes, such as ursolic acid and oleanolic acid, found in Harpagophytum procumbens, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in joints affected by rheumatoid arthritis.

Plant's Parts

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

• Roots: The roots of Harpagophytum procumbens are primarily used due to their high content of harpagoside, a key compound responsible for its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes, which are underground stems that store nutrients, are used for their concentrated amounts of harpagoside and other bioactive compounds.
• Stems: The stems are utilized for their secondary metabolites, which contribute to the overall anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of the plant-based creams for rheumatoid arthritis.

Recipe

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

1. Weigh 20 grams of dried harpagophytum procumbens root and place it in a clean glass jar.
2. Mix 100 milliliters of carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba oil with 20 grams of beeswax.
3. Heat the mixture in a double boiler at 60-70 degrees celsius for 10-15 minutes or until the beeswax melts.
4. Add the dried harpagophytum procumbens root to the mixture and let it steep for 2 hours or overnight.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container and discard the solids.

8. Withania somnifera

Withania somnifera, also known as ashwagandha, creams helps with rheumatoid arthritis because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

The herbal extract reduces joint inflammation and pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis. It also helps to reduce oxidative stress, which contributes to the disease's progression. Additionally, ashwagandha's adaptogenic properties may help alleviate stress and anxiety, common comorbidities of rheumatoid arthritis, thereby improving overall quality of life.

This natural remedy offers a promising alternative to conventional treatments for managing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera creams that help with rheumatoid arthritis.

• Withanolides: These steroidal lactones have potent anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
• Withaferin a: This withanolide has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-alpha and IL-1beta, which play a key role in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis.
• Ashwagandhans a and b: These withanolides have been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect against cell damage and reduce inflammation in joints affected by rheumatoid arthritis.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make creams for rheumatoid arthritis.

• Roots: Rich in withanolides, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce joint inflammation and pain.
• Leaves: Contain withanolides and other bioactive compounds that help in reducing inflammation and promoting healing in joints affected by rheumatoid arthritis.
• Seeds: Rich in antioxidants and withanolides, which help in reducing inflammation and promoting overall health and well-being in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.

Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ashwagandha for rheumatoid arthritis.

1. Extract 30-50 grams of dried withania somnifera root from a reputable supplier.
2. Grind the extracted root into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 5 minutes.
3. Combine the powder with 100 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler and heat for 2 hours.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids immediately.
5. Whip the mixture with 10 grams of beeswax and 10 grams of shea butter using a hand mixer for 5 minutes.

9. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, creams helps with rheumatoid arthritis because they contain flavonoids and terpenoids that have potent anti-inflammatory properties.

These compounds work to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the joints, thereby alleviating symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis such as pain and stiffness. The creams also improve blood flow to the affected areas, promoting healing and reducing the severity of joint inflammation.

This leads to improved mobility and reduced discomfort for individuals suffering from this condition.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba creams that help with rheumatoid arthritis.

• Bilobalide: This terpene helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which can contribute to the development and progression of rheumatoid arthritis.
• Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, such as joint pain and swelling.
• Ginkgotoxin: This sesquiterpene lactone has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the immune system's response to inflammation and reduce joint damage associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make creams for rheumatoid arthritis.

• Leaves: The leaves of Ginkgo biloba are used to make creams for rheumatoid arthritis because they contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Seeds: The seeds of Ginkgo biloba are used to make creams for rheumatoid arthritis because they contain bilobalide and ginkgolides, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
• Barks: The barks of Ginkgo biloba are used to make creams for rheumatoid arthritis because they contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Recipe

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

1. Sterilize glass jars and utensils in a pot of boiling water for 15 minutes to prevent contamination.
2. Combine 30 grams of dried ginkgo biloba leaves with 500 milliliters of jojoba oil in a double boiler.
3. Heat the mixture over low heat for 2 hours to allow the ginkgo to infuse into the oil.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into another container discarding the solids.
5. Whip 50 grams of beeswax and 200 grams of shea butter into the infused oil mixture until it thickens.

10. Boswellia serrata

Boswellia serrata, also known as frankincense, creams helps with rheumatoid arthritis because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and pain in the joints.

The active compound, boswellic acid, blocks the production of inflammatory chemicals, such as leukotrienes, that cause joint damage. This leads to relief from morning stiffness, reduced joint pain, and improved mobility.

Additionally, Boswellia serrata creams may also help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, promoting overall joint health and reducing the progression of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Alpha-boswellic acids: These terpenoid compounds have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which help reduce inflammation and joint pain in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
• Boswellic acids: Similar to alpha-boswellic acids, boswellic acids also exhibit anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties, thereby alleviating symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis such as swelling and stiffness.
• Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid: This specific boswellic acid has potent anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects, which help reduce joint inflammation and pain in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Plant's Parts

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

• Roots: The roots of Boswellia serrata contain boswellic acids, which have anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties, making them suitable for creams used to treat rheumatoid arthritis.
• Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of Boswellia serrata are also a source of boswellic acids, which help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, making them a preferred part for creams.

Recipe

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

1. Extract 2 teaspoons of boswellia serrata resin from capsules or raw material and set aside for later use.
2. Combine 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and 1 tablespoon of beeswax in a double boiler to melt slowly.
3. Stir in 10 drops of vitamin e oil and 10 drops of essential oil into the melted mixture carefully.
4. Add the boswellia serrata resin to the mixture and stir until well combined and smooth texture forms slowly.
5. Pour the mixture into a container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set and thicken completely.

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

The best combination of herbal creams that help with rheumatoid arthritis is often a blend of arnica, capsaicin, and frankincense.

Arnica cream, derived from the arnica flower, is known to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Capsaicin cream, made from the chili pepper, stimulates blood flow and blocks pain signals. Meanwhile, frankincense cream, extracted from the boswellia tree, reduces inflammation and promotes healing.

A combination of these creams may provide relief from rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, such as pain and stiffness, and may even help to slow disease progression.