By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 08, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Nerve Pain
Herbal tinctures for nerve pain are concentrated liquid extracts derived from plants, used to alleviate symptoms of neuropathic pain.
These herbal remedies help by reducing inflammation, calming the nervous system, and promoting healing in damaged nerves. Examples of effective herbal tinctures for nerve pain include capsaicin, turmeric, and St. John's Wort.
By using these tinctures, individuals suffering from conditions like diabetic neuropathy, fibromyalgia, and sciatica can experience significant relief from chronic pain, improved sleep quality, and enhanced daily functioning.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for nerve pain, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 2. Capsicum annuum
- 3. Arnica montana
- 4. Hypericum perforatum
- 5. Valeriana officinalis
- 6. Bacopa monnieri
- 7. Angelica archangelica
- 8. Passiflora incarnata
- 9. Mentha x piperita
- 10. Salvia officinalis
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for nerve pain?
- What ailments similar to nerve pain are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice tinctures helps with nerve pain because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Glycyrrhizin, a compound found in licorice root, has been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. This can help alleviate symptoms of nerve damage, such as numbness, tingling, and shooting pain.
Additionally, licorice's flavonoids and saponins may also help to calm irritated nerves, promoting a sense of relaxation and ease in individuals suffering from neuropathic pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with nerve pain.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin helps alleviate nerve pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoting the release of anti-inflammatory cytokines, thereby reducing inflammation and pain associated with nerve damage.
- Licopyranocoumarin: This phenolic compound has shown analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce nerve pain by blocking the production of pain-causing chemicals and reducing inflammation in the nervous system.
- Isoflavane: This isoflavane glycoside has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to alleviate nerve pain by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the nervous system, promoting tissue repair and regeneration.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for nerve pain.
- Roots: The primary part used in tinctures for nerve pain due to its high glycyrrhizin content, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Used in tinctures for nerve pain as they contain flavonoids and terpenoids that help in reducing inflammation and pain.
- Barks: Employed in tinctures for nerve pain as it contains flavonoids and phenolic compounds that exhibit analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for nerve pain.
- Harvest 10 to 20 kg of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots in the fall season when the plant is mature.
- Chop the roots into smaller pieces and soak them in 70% ethanol at a ratio of 1:5 for 2 weeks.
- Steep the mixture for 2 weeks at room temperature, shaking the container every day for 10 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container, discarding the solids.
- Bottle the tincture in dark glass containers and store it in a cool, dry place for up to 5 years.
2. Capsicum annuum
Bell pepper tinctures helps with nerve pain because it contains a unique blend of compounds, including capsaicin and antioxidants, that work synergistically to reduce inflammation and alleviate neuralgia.
The capsaicin in bell peppers binds to pain receptors, desensitizing them and interrupting the pain signals sent to the brain.
Meanwhile, the antioxidants combat oxidative stress and tissue damage, further reducing nerve inflammation and promoting a more rapid recovery from episodes of nerve pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Capsicum annuum tinctures that help with nerve pain.
- Capsaicin: Capsaicin is a potent analgesic that binds to pain receptors in the skin, interrupting the transmission of pain signals to the brain and providing relief from nerve pain.
- Volatile oil components: These terpenic compounds have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate nerve pain.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the nervous system, thereby alleviating nerve pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of bell pepper used to make tinctures for nerve pain.
- Fruits: Fruits (commonly known as peppers) are used to make tinctures for nerve pain due to their high capsaicin content, which has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Leaves are used to make tinctures for nerve pain due to their ability to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
- Seeds: Seeds are used to make tinctures for nerve pain due to their high capsaicin content and potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bell pepper for nerve pain.
- Harvest 250g of ripe capsicum annuum fruits at the peak of their flavor and color usually in late summer.
- Chop the capsicum annuum fruits into small pieces to increase their surface area for better solvent penetration.
- Combine 250g of chopped capsicum annuum fruits with 750ml of 80% ethanol in a clean glass container.
- Steep the mixture at room temperature for 2-3 weeks shaking the container daily to facilitate solvent extraction.
- Filter the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to remove the plant material.
3. Arnica montana
Mountain arnica tinctures helps with nerve pain because of its ability to penetrate deep into tissues, targeting areas affected by inflammation and damage.
The natural anti-inflammatory properties in mountain arnica work to reduce swelling and ease pressure on nerve endings, providing relief from shooting pains, numbness, and tingling sensations.
Additionally, the tincture's analgesic properties help to block pain signals, offering long-lasting comfort and relaxation for those suffering from chronic nerve pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arnica montana tinctures that help with nerve pain.
- Inulin: Inulin helps with nerve pain by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response, which can contribute to nerve pain relief.
- Liquiritigenin: Liquiritigenin helps with nerve pain by acting as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory compound, which can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with nerve damage.
- Helenalin: Helenalin helps with nerve pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and cytokines, which can contribute to nerve damage and pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of mountain arnica used to make tinctures for nerve pain.
- Flowers: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Roots: The roots contain a higher concentration of sesquiterpene lactones than the flowers, making them a popular choice for tinctures that require more potent pain relief.
- Leaves: Although less commonly used than flowers and roots, the leaves are still used in some tinctures due to their ability to provide relief from nerve pain and inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mountain arnica for nerve pain.
- Harvest fresh arnica montana flowers and leaves in late summer and early fall for optimal potency.
- Dry the plant material in a well-ventilated area using a dehydrator at 95°f for 12 hours.
- Grind the dried arnica montana flowers and leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
- Combine 1 part of the arnica montana powder with 2 parts of a neutral solvent such as vodka in a glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day.
4. Hypericum perforatum
St John's Wort tinctures helps with nerve pain because it contains hyperforin, a compound that has been shown to inhibit the reuptake of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine.
This increase in neurotransmitter availability can help to reduce the firing of abnormal nerve signals, leading to relief from nerve pain symptoms.
Additionally, St John's Wort tinctures have anti-inflammatory properties, which can further contribute to its analgesic effects by reducing inflammation that may be contributing to nerve pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum tinctures that help with nerve pain.
- Hyperforin: Acts as a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent, helping to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress that contribute to nerve pain.
- Naphthodianthrones: Inhibit the reuptake of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which helps to alleviate nerve pain by promoting a sense of well-being and reducing anxiety.
- Flavonoids: Exhibit strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in nerves, thereby alleviating nerve pain.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make tinctures for nerve pain.
- Leaves: They are rich in hypericin and hyperforin, two compounds responsible for the plant's analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Stems: The stems contain hypericin and hyperforin, which help to reduce nerve pain and inflammation.
- Flowers: They are a good source of hypericin and hyperforin, making them effective in treating nerve pain and promoting relaxation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for nerve pain.
- Harvest 30-40 grams of fresh hypericum perforatum leaves and flowers at the peak of flowering stage in summer.
- Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 500 milliliters of 35-40 percent ethanol or vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks shaking the jar daily to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a separate container discarding the solids.
5. Valeriana officinalis
Valerian tinctures helps with nerve pain because it contains a unique compound called valerenic acid, which has been shown to interact with neurotransmitters in the brain to reduce inflammation and modulate pain signals.
This can provide relief from conditions such as sciatica, shingles, and peripheral neuropathy.
By reducing inflammation and soothing irritated nerves, valerian tinctures can help alleviate burning sensations, numbness, and tingling that are common symptoms of nerve damage.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis tinctures that help with nerve pain.
- Valerenic acid: As a GABA receptor agonist, valerenic acid helps to calm the nervous system, reducing nerve pain and anxiety.
- Valtrate: Acting as a GABA receptor agonist, valtrate helps to inhibit the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate, thereby reducing nerve pain and promoting relaxation.
- Valerenol: With its sedative and anxiolytic properties, valerenol helps to reduce stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate nerve pain, promoting a sense of calmness and relaxation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make tinctures for nerve pain.
- Roots: Rich in valerenic acid and valerenol, which contribute to their analgesic and sedative properties.
- Barks: Contain a high concentration of valerenic acid, a key compound responsible for its pain-relieving effects.
- Leaves: Also contain valerenic acid and other bioactive compounds that help alleviate nerve pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for nerve pain.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh valeriana officinalis roots and 1 part of dried valeriana officinalis roots from a trusted source.
- Chop 1 part of fresh valeriana officinalis roots into small pieces and combine with 1 part of dried valeriana officinalis roots.
- Steep 1 part of chopped valeriana officinalis roots in 2 parts of 80 proof vodka for 2 weeks in a clean glass jar.
- Strain the liquid from the jar using cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a separate container discard the solids.
- Store the resulting herbal tincture in a cool dark place and allow it to mature for 4 weeks before use.
6. Bacopa monnieri
Brahmi tinctures helps with nerve pain because it contains compounds that have a potent ability to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are common underlying factors of nerve pain.
The herb's active ingredients also show promise in modulating neurotransmitters, such as GABA and serotonin, to alleviate neuropathic symptoms like numbness, tingling, and burning sensations. Additionally, brahmi's antioxidant properties help protect against damage caused by free radicals, further contributing to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
This natural remedy offers a potential solution for individuals seeking relief from chronic nerve pain without resorting to pharmaceutical interventions.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Bacopa monnieri tinctures that help with nerve pain.
- Bacosides: Bacosides are a group of saponin glycosides that have been shown to have neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce nerve pain by protecting nerve cells from damage and reducing inflammation in the nervous system.
- Bacosterol: Bacosterol is a triterpenoid saponin that has been found to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to alleviate nerve pain by reducing pain perception and inflammation in the nervous system.
- Monnieroside: Monnieroside is a bacoside that has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce nerve pain by protecting nerve cells from oxidative stress and reducing inflammation in the nervous system.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of brahmi used to make tinctures for nerve pain.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part for making tinctures due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, including bacosides, which are responsible for the plant's medicinal properties.
- Roots: The roots are another key part used for tinctures, as they contain a rich mixture of alkaloids and glycosides that contribute to the plant's cognitive and analgesic effects.
- Stems: The stems are also used to make tinctures, although to a lesser extent, as they contain some of the same bioactive compounds as the leaves and roots, albeit in smaller quantities.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic brahmi for nerve pain.
- Harvest fresh or dried bacopa monnieri leaves and stems to ensure optimal potency and flavor.
- Chop 1 part of the harvested plant material to 2 parts of 80-proof vodka or glycerin in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks with occasional shaking.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container to remove solids.
- Label and store the bacopa monnieri tincture in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
7. Angelica archangelica
Angelica tinctures helps with nerve pain because it contains a unique combination of bioactive compounds that interact with the body's nervous system.
The essential oils and flavonoids in angelica root have potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation and discomfort in affected nerves.
Additionally, angelica's antispasmodic effects can help relax muscle contractions and ease tension, providing relief from chronic nerve pain conditions such as fibromyalgia and sciatica.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Angelica archangelica tinctures that help with nerve pain.
- Berberine: Berberine is an alkaloid that helps with nerve pain by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, which reduce swelling and damage to nerve cells.
- Ligustilide: Ligustilide is a sesquiterpene lactone that helps with nerve pain by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory substances and promoting the release of neurotransmitters that block pain signals.
- Falcarinol: Falcarinol is a phenolic compound that helps with nerve pain by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which protect nerve cells from oxidative damage and reduce inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of angelica used to make tinctures for nerve pain.
- Roots: They are the most commonly used part for making tinctures due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, including sesquiterpenes and furanocoumarins, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
- Barks: The bark of Angelica archangelica contains sesquiterpenes and other compounds that contribute to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, making it a popular choice for tinctures.
- Leaves: The leaves are used to make tinctures due to their rich content of sesquiterpenes, which are believed to have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic angelica for nerve pain.
- Harvest fresh angelica archangelica roots and rhizomes in the early morning when the dew is still present.
- Clean and dry the harvested plant material thoroughly to prevent contamination and spoilage.
- Chop the dried angelica archangelica roots and rhizomes into small pieces using a sharp knife or herb cutter.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 80 proof vodka at a ratio of 1 part plant material to 2 parts vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks before straining and storing the tincture in a cool dark glass bottle.
8. Passiflora incarnata
Maypop tinctures helps with nerve pain because it contains a unique combination of compounds that have potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
The flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenes present in maypop work synergistically to reduce inflammation and relieve pressure on damaged nerves, providing fast and effective relief from chronic neuropathic pain.
Additionally, maypop's ability to modulate the nervous system's response to pain signals helps to break the cycle of discomfort, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata tinctures that help with nerve pain.
- Isophorone: It has sedative and anxiolytic properties, helping to reduce anxiety and stress that can exacerbate nerve pain.
- Rotundifuran: This compound has been shown to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate nerve pain by reducing inflammation and modulating pain perception.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect nerves from damage and reduce pain and inflammation associated with nerve disorders.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make tinctures for nerve pain.
- Leaves: They contain the highest concentration of bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and alkaloids, responsible for the herb's pain-relieving and sedative properties.
- Roots: They are rich in flavonoids and glycosides, which contribute to the tincture's analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Fruits: They are a source of passifloric acid, a compound that has been shown to have a pain-relieving effect and is often used in combination with other parts to create a more effective tincture.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for nerve pain.
- Harvest fresh or dried passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves in large quantities to ensure adequate material.
- Clean the harvested material thoroughly with distilled water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Combine one part of the cleaned passiflora material with two parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for four to six weeks to allow for extraction of the active compounds.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a separate container and discard the solids.
9. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint tinctures helps with nerve pain because it contains menthol, a natural analgesic that directly targets nerve endings to reduce inflammation and numbness.
The cooling properties of peppermint also help to ease pressure on the nerves, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. Additionally, peppermint's antispasmodic effects can help to calm muscle spasms, which can contribute to nerve pain.
Overall, herbal peppermint tinctures provide a natural and effective way to manage and alleviate nerve pain, promoting overall comfort and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita tinctures that help with nerve pain.
- Linalool: Linalool, a terpene, acts as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent, which may help alleviate nerve pain by reducing inflammation and modulating pain signaling.
- Menthol: Menthol, a monoterpenoid, has a cooling effect on nerve endings, which may help numb the pain, providing temporary relief from nerve pain and inflammation.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a phenolic compound, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with nerve pain, promoting healing and reducing discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make tinctures for nerve pain.
- Leaves: High in menthol and menthone, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Stems: Contain a similar concentration of essential oils as the leaves, including menthol and menthone, providing relief from nerve pain.
- Roots: Rich in sesquiterpenes, including menthol and menthone, which have a calming effect on the nervous system and help alleviate pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for nerve pain.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and flowers in the early morning.
- Clean and dry the harvested leaves and flowers in a clean environment for 2 hours.
- Combine the dried leaves and flowers with 2 cups of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
- Strain and filter the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
10. Salvia officinalis
Sage tinctures helps with nerve pain because of its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The tincture's active compounds, including rosmarinic acid and camphor, work to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the nervous system, providing relief from chronic pain. Additionally, sage has a natural analgesic effect, helping to numb the painful sensation.
As a result, herbal sage tinctures can effectively alleviate nerve pain associated with conditions such as neuropathy, fibromyalgia, and multiple sclerosis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis tinctures that help with nerve pain.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the nervous system, thereby alleviating nerve pain.
- Carnosic acid: A phenolic diterpene that has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm nerve pain.
- Ursolic acid: A triterpenoid compound that has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, which can help reduce nerve pain and promote healing in the nervous system.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make tinctures for nerve pain.
- Leaves: High in salvianolic acid and tannins, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help alleviate nerve pain.
- Stems: Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which may contribute to their potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects in nerve pain relief.
- Buds: Containing essential oils and flavonoids, which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate nerve pain.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for nerve pain.
- Harvest 250g of fresh salvia officinalis leaves and flowers in the morning for optimal potency.
- Dry the harvested salvia officinalis in a warm dark place for 7-10 days at 35-40°c.
- Combine 250g of dried salvia officinalis with 750ml of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place shaking the jar daily for 10 minutes.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle for storage.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for nerve pain?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with nerve pain is a blend of Turmeric, Ashwagandha, and St. John's Wort.
Turmeric contains curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory that reduces swelling and pain. Ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb, helps to calm the nervous system and alleviate anxiety associated with nerve pain. St. John's Wort, a natural anti-depressant, also soothes nerve endings and promotes relaxation.
This synergy of herbs works together to provide effective relief from nerve pain, promoting overall well-being and comfort.
What ailments similar to nerve pain are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to nerve pain that are treated with herbal tinctures are fibromyalgia, arthritis, and inflammation-related conditions.
Herbal remedies like capsaicin, ginger, and turmeric have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help alleviate symptoms such as joint stiffness, muscle soreness, and numbness.
Other herbs like passionflower, kava, and valerian root are used to treat anxiety and insomnia, which can be comorbid with nerve pain conditions.