Natural Herbs for Joints

According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, joint pain can result from conditions such as arthritis or from injuries. Certain herbs can help reduce pain in the joints and help their overall health, including arnica, solomon's seal and meadowsweet. Always consult your doctor before taking herbal cures for treating pain in the joints.

Arnica

Arnica, known botanically as Arnica montana, is a member of the Asteraceae family. Its flowers are harvested and dried to make oils and salves to treat injured joints as well as arthritic joints, says herbalist Richo Cech in his book "Making Plant Medicine." Cech cautions against using high doses of arnica internally, as it can cause toxicity in the body. It is not intended for long-term use.
Fill a glass jar with arnica flowers, cover them in olive oil and let steep for at least four weeks. Strain out the plant material and use this oil externally on any area where there is joint pain.

Solomon's Seal

Known botanically as Polygonatum, solomon's seal is a member of the lilly family. According to herbalist Mathew Wood, solomon's seal is used as a nutritive herb for the joints and tendons in folk medicine traditions of North America, Europe and Asia. It is thought to repair injuries in the connective tissue of cartilage, joints and bones.
Make a tincture of solomon's seal root by soaking it in high-proof alcohol for a month. Take internally in low dosages or apply externally on affected areas.

Meadowsweet

Meadowseet is a member of the rose family and is known botanically as Filipendula ulmaria. According to herbalist David Hoffmann, meadowsweet is used in folk medicine to relieve pain in the joints and muscles caused by rheumatism. It has anti-inflammatory properties.
Boil a cup of water, add 2 tsp. of dry meadowsweet, and let the herb steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain and drink three times daily or as needed to relieve pain in the joints.