--- title: "Arthritis Balm Recipe" id: "3462" type: "remedy" slug: "arthritis-relief-balm-recipe" published_at: "2026-04-30T05:17:17+00:00" modified_at: "2026-05-17T03:34:00+00:00" url: "https://flowersandherbs.com/remedies/arthritis-relief-balm-recipe/" markdown_url: "https://flowersandherbs.com/remedies/arthritis-relief-balm-recipe.md" excerpt: "A warming arthritis balm recipe made with herbal infused oil, beeswax, vitamin E, and essential oils for stiff, aching joints." taxonomy_remedy_type: - "Herbal Recipes" - "Wellness Remedies" taxonomy_remedy_ingredient: - "Arnica (Dried Flowers)" - "Cats Claw (Dried Bark)" - "Clove (Essential Oil)" - "Devil’s Claw (Dried Root)" - "Eucalyptus (Essential Oil)" - "Kunzea (Essential Oil)" - "Peppermint (Essential Oil)" taxonomy_remedy_condition: - "Pain Relief" --- # Arthritis Balm Recipe This **arthritis balm** is a warming herbal salve-style recipe designed for stiff, aching joints and areas that feel tight, cold, or overworked. If you want to learn how to make an arthritis balm at home, this simple DIY recipe combines herbal infused oils, beeswax, and essential oils traditionally associated with warmth, circulation, and joint comfort. The recipe uses a deeply infused herbal oil made with cat’s claw, devil’s claw, and arnica, blended with beeswax for texture and essential oils chosen for their warming and soothing aroma. This smaller 4 oz batch is a practical size for homemade use, providing enough balm for regular application without making a large quantity that may sit unused for extended periods. ## Benefits - Warms stiff joints and helps them feel more comfortable - Supports massage around sore knees, hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, and ankles - Combines traditional joint-supporting herbs with warming essential oils - Creates a rich balm texture that stays on the skin long enough for massage - Made in a small 4 oz batch that is manageable for home use ## Ingredients - 6½ tablespoons herbal infused oil (approximately 3.25 fl oz / 96 ml) made with olive oil, coconut oil, or macadamia oil infused with cat’s claw, devil’s claw, and arnica - ¾ oz (21 g) beeswax pellets or grated beeswax - ¼ teaspoon vitamin E oil - 6 drops [Kunzea Essential Oil](/essential-oils/kunzea-essential-oil/) - 5 drops [Eucalyptus Essential Oil](/essential-oils/eucalyptus-essential-oil/) - 4 drops [Peppermint Essential Oil](/essential-oils/peppermint-essential-oil/) - 3 drops [Clove Essential Oil](/essential-oils/clove-essential-oil/) **Cat’s claw:** [Cat’s claw](/plants/cats-claw/) is traditionally used in joint and mobility remedies and makes a strong foundation herb for an arthritis balm. **Devil’s claw:** [Devil’s claw](/plants/devils-claw/) is a classic herb for stiffness and joint discomfort, especially for knees, hands, and other commonly affected joints. **Arnica:** [Arnica](/plants/arnica/) is one of the most widely used topical herbs for bruising, inflammation, and muscle soreness. It is commonly included in balms intended to support circulation and ease feelings of tenderness and discomfort. *Optional addition: Some people include a very small amount of wintergreen essential oil for a stronger traditional muscle-rub style aroma and sensation. Because wintergreen is naturally high in methyl salicylate, it should be used cautiously and in low dilution.* ### How to Make the Herbal Infusion For a balanced infused oil, use approximately 2–3 tablespoons of dried herbs per 1 cup of carrier oil. You can divide this evenly between the herbs, using equal parts cat’s claw, devil’s claw, and arnica, or adjust slightly depending on availability. Some herbalists lightly dampen tough roots and bark with high-proof alcohol before beginning the oil infusion process. In the USA, products such as Everclear grain alcohol are commonly used for this purpose. If you would like to use this optional preparation step: - Lightly dampen the herbs with high-proof alcohol - Stir well - Cover loosely - Allow the herbs to sit for 12–24 hours before adding the carrier oil After adding the carrier oil, allow the herbs to infuse fully before straining to create a rich herbal base for your balm. Because devil’s claw root and cat’s claw bark are dense herbal materials, they can benefit from a longer solar infusion process. Place the sealed jar on a warm sunny windowsill and allow the herbs to infuse for up to 4 weeks, shaking gently every day or two. Once strained, you will have a deeply infused herbal oil ready to use in your arthritis balm recipe. For a detailed explanation you can read our article about **[How to Make and Oil Infusion](https://flowersandherbs.com/herbal-preparations/how-to-make-herbal-oil-infusion/)** before making this recipe > **Note:** Not all herbal infusions benefit from solar infusion methods. Always follow the specific infusion recommendations provided for each herb or recipe. ## Recommended Supplies Gather everything before melting the balm, as the mixture sets quickly once it begins to cool. - Double boiler or heat-safe jar set in a saucepan - Small digital scale or measuring spoons - Stirring spoon or glass stir rod - Cheesecloth, muslin cloth, or a fine mesh strainer for straining the herbal infusion - 4 oz glass jar or balm tin - Clean towel or paper towel - Label for the finished jar **Alternative Arthritis Balm Variations** **Gentler Arthritis Balm (with Violet Leaf & Calendula)** For hands, wrists, or more sensitive skin, this version focuses on soothing and calming herbs rather than strong warming action. - 6½ tablespoons herbal infused oil made with violet leaf, calendula, and a small amount of cat’s claw - ¾ oz (21 g) beeswax pellets - ¼ teaspoon vitamin E oil - 6 drops kunzea essential oil - 5 drops lavender essential oil - 4 drops frankincense essential oil Violet leaf and calendula create a softer, more skin-friendly balm that helps calm irritation and mild inflammation without strong heat, making this ideal for frequent daily use. — **Extra Warming Joint Balm (with Ginger & Cayenne)** For knees, hips, shoulders, or joints that feel cold, stiff, or slow to move, this version increases warmth and circulation. - 6½ tablespoons herbal infused oil made with arnica, ginger root, and a small amount of cayenne - ¾ oz (21 g) beeswax pellets - ¼ teaspoon vitamin E oil - 5 drops ginger essential oil - 5 drops black pepper essential oil - 4 drops eucalyptus essential oil - 2 drops clove essential oil This variation provides a deeper warming effect that may help loosen stiff joints and improve mobility, especially in colder conditions. — **Cooling Joint Balm (with Arnica & Plantain)** For joints that feel hot, swollen, or overworked, this version emphasizes cooling and calming support. - 6½ tablespoons herbal infused oil made with arnica, plantain leaf, and a small amount of violet leaf - ¾ oz (21 g) beeswax beeswax pellets - ¼ teaspoon vitamin E oil - 8 drops peppermint essential oil - 5 drops lavender essential oil - 3 drops eucalyptus essential oil Plantain and violet leaf help calm irritated tissue while arnica supports circulation, creating a balanced cooling balm for flare-ups or post-activity use. ### Equipment - Double boiler or heat-safe jar in a saucepan - 4 oz glass jar or balm tin (approx. 120 ml) - Measuring spoons - Stirring utensil - Label ### Method 1. Add the herbal infused oil and beeswax to a double boiler or heat-safe jar set in a saucepan of gently simmering water. 2. Warm slowly until the beeswax has completely melted, stirring occasionally. 3. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for 2–3 minutes so the essential oils are not added to very hot oil. 4. Stir in the vitamin E oil, kunzea, eucalyptus, peppermint, and clove essential oils. 5. Pour the balm into a clean 4 oz jar or tin. 6. Leave uncovered until fully set, then cap and label the jar. **Tip:** Apply the balm after a warm shower, bath, or warm compress so the skin and joints are already warmed before massage. ## How to Use Massage a small amount into stiff or aching joints 2–3 times daily, or whenever the area needs warmth and comfort. Use slow circular movements around the joint rather than rubbing aggressively over tender areas. This balm works especially well after a warm shower, bath, or warm compress. For hands, apply before bed and cover with cotton gloves if desired. ## Storage Store in a cool, dry place away from heat, steam, and direct sunlight. Use within 6–12 months. If the balm changes smell, color, or texture, make a fresh batch. ## Variations & Substitutions For a softer balm, reduce the beeswax slightly or replace 1 tablespoon of the infused oil with shea butter. For a firmer balm that travels well in warm weather, add an extra ½ teaspoon beeswax. ## Safety Considerations - For external use only. - Patch test before regular use, especially because this blend contains warming oils. - Do not use on broken, irritated, or freshly shaved skin. - Avoid eyes, mucous membranes, and sensitive areas. - Wash hands after applying, especially before touching the face or eyes. - Clove, peppermint, and eucalyptus essential oils can feel strong on sensitive skin; reduce the essential oils for a gentler balm. - Do not use on young children. - Consult a qualified professional before use during pregnancy, while nursing, or if using blood-thinning medication or managing a medical condition. ## Additional Notes If the balm feels too strong, remake it with fewer drops of clove and peppermint. If you want more heat, use the extra warming variation rather than adding large amounts of clove oil, as clove can irritate skin when overused. For best results, pair the balm with gentle movement, warmth, and regular massage around the affected area. ## Quick Facts - **Best For:** Arthritis discomfort; stiff joints; sore knees; aching hands; muscle tightness; cold joints - **Skill Level:** Beginner - **Prep Time:** 15 minutes - **Total Time:** 30 minutes, plus infusion time if making the infused oil from scratch - **Yield:** 4 oz - **Batch Size:** 4 oz - **Shelf Life:** 6–12 months - **Dilution:** Approximately 2–3% - **Application Method:** Topical For home remedy and educational use. Do not apply to broken skin, irritated skin, or near the eyes. Frequently Asked Questions How do you make arthritis balm at home? Make an arthritis balm by melting herbal infused oil with beeswax, then stirring in vitamin E and essential oils before pouring the mixture into a 4 oz jar to set. What essential oils are good in arthritis balm? Kunzea, eucalyptus, peppermint, clove, ginger, black pepper, lavender, and frankincense are commonly used in joint and muscle balm blends, depending on whether you want a warming, cooling, or gentler effect. How often can I use homemade arthritis balm? You can apply a small amount 2–3 times daily as needed, as long as your skin tolerates the blend well and there is no irritation. Can I use this balm on my hands? Yes, this balm can be massaged into stiff or aching hands. Use a small amount and wash your hands afterward so the essential oils do not get near your eyes. Why is clove essential oil used in arthritis balm? Clove essential oil is strongly warming and traditionally used in blends for aches and stiffness. It should be used sparingly because it can irritate sensitive skin. How long does homemade arthritis balm last? Homemade arthritis balm usually lasts 6–12 months when stored in a clean jar away from heat, sunlight, and moisture. **Explore more herbal remedies, salves, balms, and infused preparations using these ingredients** 1. [Remedies and preparations with Arnica (Dried Flowers)](/remedy-ingredient/dried-arnica-flowers/) 2. [Remedies and preparations with Cats Claw (Dried Bark)](/remedy-ingredient/dried-cats-claw-bark/) 3. [Remedies and preparations with Clove Essential Oil](/remedy-ingredient/clove-essential-oil/) 4. [Remedies and preparations with Devils Claw (Dried root)](/remedy-ingredient/dried-devils-claw-root/) 5. [Remedies and preparations with Kunzea Essential Oil](/remedy-ingredient/kunzea-essential-oil/) 6. [Remedies and preparations with Peppermint Essential Oil](/remedy-ingredient/peppermint-essential-oil/)