10 Best Herbal Teas For Rheumatoid Arthritis
Herbal teas for rheumatoid arthritis are a natural remedy that helps alleviate symptoms of the condition by reducing inflammation and soothing joint pain.
These teas contain anti-inflammatory properties that help combat the autoimmune disease. Examples of herbal teas that help with rheumatoid arthritis include turmeric, ginger, and willow bark tea, which have been shown to reduce pain and inflammation.
Drinking these teas can improve lives by increasing mobility and reducing medication reliance, allowing individuals to live more comfortably and enjoy daily activities.
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The following article describes in detail the most important teas for rheumatoid arthritis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
1. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, teas helps with rheumatoid arthritis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The active compound curcumin in turmeric tea inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, which contribute to joint inflammation and pain. Additionally, curcumin has been shown to modulate the immune system, reducing the severity of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects help to alleviate joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, improving overall quality of life for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa teas that help with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Curcumin: Curcumin is a potent anti-inflammatory compound that helps reduce inflammation and pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
- Demethoxycurcumin: DMC has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, thereby alleviating symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
- Bisdemethoxycurcumin: BDMC has been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects, which help reduce joint inflammation and pain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most used part of Curcuma longa due to their high concentration of curcumin, a compound that has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Roots: Roots are commonly used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis because they contain a significant amount of curcumin and other bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.
- Leaves: Leaves are also used in teas for rheumatoid arthritis due to their high content of volatile oils and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Harvest 1-2 large fresh turmeric roots and wash them gently with clean water to remove dirt.
- Peel the turmeric roots using a vegetable peeler to expose the inner yellow flesh.
- Slice the peeled turmeric roots into thin rounds and chop them into small pieces weighing 1-2 grams each.
- Boil 250ml of water and add the chopped turmeric pieces to the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine mesh sieve into a cup and discard the solids after 2 minutes.
2. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, teas helps with rheumatoid arthritis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compound, gingerol, found in ginger root, has been shown to reduce pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Studies have demonstrated that consuming ginger tea or supplements can decrease joint pain and swelling, improve joint mobility, and enhance overall quality of life for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. This natural remedy offers a promising alternative to traditional treatments.
Regular consumption may provide relief from symptoms and alleviate discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Gingerols: Gingerols, a type of phenolic compound, have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Shogaols: Shogaols, another type of phenolic compound, have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help reduce joint inflammation and oxidative stress in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
- Zingiberone: Zingiberone, a terpene, has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help regulate the immune system's response to rheumatoid arthritis and reduce joint inflammation.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Buds: Ginger buds, which are young, unopened flower buds, are used to make teas that help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Harvest 2-3 inches of zingiber officinale rhizome and clean it thoroughly under cold running water.
- Dry the cleaned rhizome in a single layer at room temperature for 7-10 days or use a food dehydrator.
- Grind the dried rhizome into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of the ground zingiber officinale powder with 1 cup of boiling water and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a cup and discard the solids before serving the warm tea immediately.
3. Salix alba
Salix alba, also known as white willow, teas helps with rheumatoid arthritis because it contains salicin, a compound similar to aspirin.
Salicin has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain in the joints. The tea has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis, such as joint stiffness, inflammation, and pain.
By reducing inflammation and alleviating pain, Salix alba tea can improve quality of life for individuals suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, providing natural relief from symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salix alba teas that help with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Salicin: It helps with rheumatoid arthritis by acting as a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory agent, similar to aspirin, which can reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the joints.
- Salicilin: It helps with rheumatoid arthritis by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, and reducing the severity of inflammation in the joints.
- Flavonoids: It helps with rheumatoid arthritis by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, reducing oxidative stress, and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which can help alleviate inflammation and pain in the joints.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of white willow used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Barks: The bark is used due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help relieve joint pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce joint inflammation and oxidative stress related to rheumatoid arthritis.
- Buds: The buds are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help reduce joint inflammation and promote healing in rheumatoid arthritis.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic white willow for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Gather 2-3 teaspoons of dried salix alba bark and 1 cup of boiling water.
- Steep the salix alba bark in boiling water for 5-7 minutes to allow infusion.
- Strain the infusion through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup.
- Add 1-2 teaspoons of honey to sweeten the tea if desired.
- Serve the tea hot or allow it to cool before drinking.
4. Urtica dioica
Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, teas helps with rheumatoid arthritis because it has potent anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and pain in the joints.
The tea's rich antioxidants and flavonoids help to block the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals, which contribute to the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Additionally, the tea's ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the joints can help to slow down the progression of the disease, providing relief and improving the quality of life for those affected.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica teas that help with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds have potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate the joint pain and swelling associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Phenolic acids: These antioxidants can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are key factors in the development and progression of rheumatoid arthritis, thus providing relief from symptoms.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties, which can help reduce the severity of joint inflammation and pain, making it easier to manage rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part of Urtica dioica to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Roots: Roots are used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis because they contain compounds that have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve joint health.
- Stems: Stems are another part of Urtica dioica used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis, as they contain bioactive compounds that help to reduce pain and inflammation.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Harvest the fresh leaves and stems of urtica dioica in the early morning to ensure optimal potency.
- Clean the harvested plant material by rinsing it thoroughly with cold water for 5 minutes.
- Chop the cleaned urtica dioica into small pieces using scissors or a sharp knife to increase surface area.
- Steep 1-2 teaspoons of the chopped plant material in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup to remove solids.
5. Harpagophytum procumbens
Harpagophytum procumbens, also known as devil's claw, teas helps with rheumatoid arthritis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The plant's active compounds, such as harpagoside and iridoids, have been shown to reduce pain and inflammation in the joints. By inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals, devil's claw tea may help alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, including joint pain and swelling. Additionally, its antioxidant properties may help protect against oxidative stress, further contributing to its potential therapeutic benefits.
Regular consumption may lead to improved joint health and reduced discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Harpagophytum procumbens teas that help with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Harpagoside: This iridoid glycoside has anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce joint pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Harpestriside: This iridoid glycoside also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, similar to harpagoside, by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and reducing oxidative stress.
- Procumbideside: This iridoid glycoside has been shown to possess analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to alleviate pain and inflammation in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of devil's claw used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Roots: Harpagophytum procumbens roots are the most commonly used part to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis due to their high concentration of harpagoside, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties.
- Barks: The barks of Harpagophytum procumbens are also used, as they contain flavonoids and other compounds that have been shown to reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Rhyzomes: Harpagophytum procumbens rhyzomes are used due to their rich content of glycosides, which have been found to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, helping to alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic devil's claw for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Harvest 100 grams of dried roots and rhizomes of harpagophytum procumbens in late summer or early fall.
- Dry the roots in a warm place for 2-4 hours to reduce moisture content.
- Combine 2-3 grams of the dried roots with 250 milliliters of boiling water in a saucepan.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes and then strain it using a fine-mesh sieve.
- Discard the solids and drink the tea immediately, repeating the process 2-3 times daily.
6. Boswellia serrata
Boswellia serrata, also known as frankincense, teas helps with rheumatoid arthritis because it contains boswellic acids, which have potent anti-inflammatory properties.
These acids work by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby reducing joint inflammation and pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis. By reducing inflammation, Boswellia serrata teas may also help alleviate symptoms such as swelling, stiffness, and limited mobility, improving overall quality of life for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.
This makes it a popular natural remedy for managing the condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata teas that help with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Terpenes: These terpenes exhibit anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which can help reduce joint pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid: AKBA is known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and mediators, thereby reducing joint inflammation and pain in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
- Curcugen: Curcugen has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in joints, thus alleviating symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Roots: The roots of Boswellia serrata are commonly used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis due to their high concentration of boswellic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of Boswellia serrata are used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis as they contain a high amount of boswellic acids, which help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.
- Barks: The barks of Boswellia serrata are used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis due to their rich content of boswellic acids and other bioactive compounds that help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic frankincense for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Measure 2 teaspoons of dried boswellia serrata resin powder and place it in a small heat-resistant cup.
- Add 1 cup of boiling water to the cup and let it steep for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a separate cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids.
- Add honey or other sweeteners to taste if desired to enhance the flavor and aroma.
- Let the tea cool down to room temperature before serving and drinking the boswellia serrata tea.
7. Withania somnifera
Withania somnifera, also known as ashwagandha, teas helps with rheumatoid arthritis because it contains adaptogenic compounds that help the body cope with stress and inflammation.
The tea's anti-inflammatory properties can reduce joint pain and swelling, while its antioxidant properties can protect against tissue damage and promote healing. Additionally, ashwagandha teas may help regulate the immune system's response to inflammation, leading to improved symptoms and quality of life for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.
This makes it a potentially beneficial complementary therapy.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera teas that help with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Withanolides: Withanolides are a group of steroidal lactones present in Withania somnifera, which help in reducing inflammation and pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
- Withaferin a: Withaferin A is a major withanolide in Withania somnifera, which has been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes that contribute to joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis.
- Alkaloids: Alkaloids present in Withania somnifera, such as withanine and isowithanine, have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which can help in reducing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis by modulating the immune response and reducing inflammation.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Roots: Withania somnifera roots are commonly used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis due to their high content of bioactive compounds like withanolides, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Withania somnifera leaves are used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis as they contain withanolides and other compounds that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Barks: Withania somnifera bark is used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis because it contains glycosides and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ashwagandha for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Harvest 1-2 ounces of dried withania somnifera roots or 3-6 grams of dried root powder from mature plants.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of dried withania somnifera root powder in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove solids from the liquid.
- Allow the tea to cool to a comfortable drinking temperature before serving immediately.
- Store any leftover tea in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours and consume within that time frame.
8. Filipendula ulmaria
Filipendula ulmaria, also known as meadowsweet, teas helps with rheumatoid arthritis because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The tea contains salicylic acid, a compound similar to aspirin, which helps to reduce pain and inflammation in the joints. The antioxidants present in meadowsweet tea also work to protect the body from oxidative stress, which can contribute to the development of rheumatoid arthritis.
Furthermore, Filipendula ulmaria has been traditionally used to ease joint pain and inflammation, making it a potential natural remedy for those suffering from the condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Filipendula ulmaria teas that help with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Salicylic acid: This compound, a phenolic acid, acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Tannins: As polyphenolic compounds, tannins have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate joint pain and swelling in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Glycosides: The glycosides present in Filipendula ulmaria, such as filipendulin, have been reported to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may contribute to their potential benefits in managing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of meadowsweet used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Leaves: Filipendula ulmaria leaves are used to make teas due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce joint pain and swelling associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Flowers: Filipendula ulmaria flowers are used to make teas because they contain salicin, a compound similar to aspirin, which helps to reduce pain and inflammation in the joints.
- Roots: Filipendula ulmaria roots are used to make teas for their anti-inflammatory and antirheumatic properties, which help to alleviate joint pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic meadowsweet for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Harvest 1/2 cup of fresh filipendula ulmaria leaves and flowers or 1 tablespoon of dried material on a sunny day.
- Rinse the material with clean water to remove any dirt or debris from the environment.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of dried material or 2 teaspoons of fresh material in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any solids and obtain a clear tea.
- Store the tea in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours and serve chilled or at room temperature.
9. Ulmus rubra
Ulmus rubra, also known as slippery elm, teas helps with rheumatoid arthritis because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The mucilages present in Ulmus rubra soothe and calm irritated tissues, reducing inflammation and pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis. The tea's ability to modulate the immune system and reduce oxidative stress also contributes to its potential benefits in managing the condition.
Additionally, the tea's anti-inflammatory compounds may help to slow down joint damage and improve overall quality of life for those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra teas that help with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce joint inflammation and alleviate pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help reduce pain and inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
- Tannins: These polyphenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help protect joints from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Leaves: Ulmus rubra leaves are used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Barks: Ulmus rubra barks are used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis due to their potential to reduce inflammation and ease joint pain.
- Stems: Ulmus rubra stems are used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis due to their possible anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Harvest 2-4 ounces of ulmus rubra bark in the fall or early spring for optimal quality and flavor.
- Dry the harvested bark in a low-temperature dehydrator at 150°f for 6-8 hours to remove moisture.
- Grind the dried bark into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or spice mill for easy brewing.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of the ground bark with 8 ounces of boiling water in a tea infuser or strainer.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors and nutrients to fully infuse into the water.
10. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, teas helps with rheumatoid arthritis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The flavonoids present in chamomile, such as apigenin and luteolin, have been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are key contributors to rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
Additionally, chamomile's soothing effects on the nervous system may help alleviate pain and stress associated with the condition, providing a natural and complementary approach to managing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla teas that help with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing swelling and pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines.
- Chamazulene: This sesquiterpene lactone has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce joint inflammation and oxidative stress, thereby alleviating symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
- Luteolin: This flavonoid exhibits anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, suppressing the activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes that contribute to joint damage and pain in rheumatoid arthritis.
Plant's Parts
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make teas for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Flowers: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of apigenin and luteolin, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
- Leaves: Leaves of the plant contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help reduce joint pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Seeds: Matricaria chamomilla seeds are another used part, containing flavonoids and essential oils that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help in reducing inflammation and pain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Harvest the dried flowers of matricaria chamomilla from a reputable source in quantities of about 1 tablespoon.
- Steep the dried flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids completely.
- Add honey or sugar to sweeten the tea to taste if desired.
- Serve the tea immediately and discard any remaining solids.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for rheumatoid arthritis?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with rheumatoid arthritis is a blend of turmeric, ginger, and willow bark.
Turmeric contains curcumin, which reduces inflammation and alleviates pain, while ginger's anti-inflammatory properties complement its effects. Willow bark, rich in salicylic acid, helps to reduce pain and swelling. Drinking a warm tea made from these herbs can provide relief from the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation.
It is essential to consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your treatment plan.