For centuries, Ayurveda has offered natural, time-tested ways to heal the body.
Joint pain is one of the most common discomforts people face — often caused by age, overuse, or imbalance in the body’s doshas.
This guide reveals a traditional Ayurvedic lep (herbal paste) that helps relieve joint pain naturally.
It’s easy to make at home and deeply rooted in the wisdom of ancient healers.
Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and not medical advice. Always consult a qualified Ayurvedic doctor or healthcare professional before starting any treatment, especially if you have chronic conditions or are on medication.
What You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients. Each one serves a purpose in restoring balance and soothing pain.
1 tsp castor oil
1 tsp honey
1 tsp cinnamon powder
1 tube chuna (lime paste)
Castor oil nourishes the tissues. Honey acts as a carrier, pulling the properties of other herbs deep into the joints.
Cinnamon improves circulation and warmth. Chuna brings gentle alkalinity, balancing excess vata that often causes stiffness.
Don't wait or self medicate. Start chat with Doctor NOW
Combine all ingredients into a smooth, even paste.
The texture should be spreadable — not too watery or thick. Ayurveda values balance even in preparation, so mix slowly and with intention.
You can use a small ceramic bowl or a wooden spoon. Avoid metal utensils as they can interfere with herbal potency.
Sometimes the paste comes out thicker than expected. Add a few drops of warm water. If it’s too runny, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon.
You’ll know it’s right when it feels creamy and coats your fingers evenly.
How to Apply
Spread a thin layer of the lep over the sore joint.
Cover with a soft cotton fabric or gauze. Leave it on for 8–10 hours — overnight works best.
In the morning, rinse gently with warm water.
This slow-acting process allows the herbs to penetrate deep through the skin, reaching the dhatus (tissues) beneath.
The joint often feels lighter and less stiff afterward, though the relief may vary from person to person.
Use it regularly for 3–5 nights to feel the difference. Don’t rush the process. Healing takes rhythm, not speed.
Why It Helps
This Ayurvedic lep works by stimulating blood flow, reducing inflammation, and loosening stiffness.
The warmth of cinnamon, the lubrication of castor oil, and the soothing effect of honey together ease the pain in joints.
Regular use brings lasting relief.
Ayurveda teaches that pain is often a result of imbalanced vata dosha — dry, cold, and mobile in nature.
This paste counteracts these qualities by bringing warmth, moisture, and stillness.
It helps your body remember how to feel comfortable again.
Some people notice an immediate sense of relief, others only after several nights.
The key is consistency — not perfection.
Extra Ayurvedic Tips for Joint Health
Start your day with a glass of warm water infused with turmeric or dry ginger.
Avoid cold and raw foods that aggravate vata.
Massage joints daily with sesame oil.
Stay warm and avoid cold wind exposure.
Practice gentle yoga — focus on movements that increase flexibility without strain.
Joint health in Ayurveda isn’t only physical.
It’s connected to flow — emotional, energetic, and digestive.
When vata calms, your joints begin to move freely again, just like your mind.
A Word from Ask Ayurveda
At Ask Ayurveda, our mission is to reconnect modern life with ancient healing traditions.
This lep is part of our heritage — a small but powerful ritual of care.
Every ingredient reflects the balance between body, mind, and nature.
Try it with intention, and let the results speak through your comfort and ease.
We believe healing begins with awareness.
Listen to your body.
Let the wisdom of the old ways meet the rhythm of your life today.
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic doctor — 24/7, 100% Anonymous
600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.
Questions from users
Is there a specific time of day that's best for applying the Ayurvedic lep for maximum effect?
Abigail
39 days ago
Dr. Ravi Chandra Rushi
4 days ago
star_border 5
The best time for applying the Ayurvedic lep can vary a bit, but generally, doing it in the evening is quite effective. Your body's natural processes are winding down, so it absorbs and heals better then. But if your Vata is high, maybe morning might be better when agni is stronger. Always listen to what your body’s telling you!
What should I do if the paste doesn’t feel creamy like it’s supposed to?
Ruby
57 days ago
Dr. Maitri Bhavesh Kumar Acharya
10 days ago
star_border 5
If your paste isn't creamy, try adding a tiny bit more warm water and mix it gently. If it's too thick, just be careful not to add too much water at once. Sometimes letting it sit for a short while helps even out the texture. Remember, in Ayurveda, patience is key! 😊 If all else fails, a smidge of coconut oil might help.
Can you explain how to properly store the paste once it's made to keep its potency?
Elizabeth
66 days ago
Dr. Prasad Pentakota
15 days ago
star_border 5
To keep the paste's potency, store it in a glass or ceramic container, not metal. Cool, dark place is ideal, like a cupboard. Make sure the container's sealed tightly to avoid moisture or air exposure. Usually, handmade pastes are best fresh, so try to use it within a week for best results. :)
What are some alternative herbs I could use in the paste if I don't have cinnamon?
Scarlett
81 days ago
Dr. Snehal Vidhate
19 days ago
star_border 5
If you don't have cinnamon, you could try ginger or clove instead. They both provide warmth and help circulation, much like cinnamon does. Turmeric is another good option, known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Just remember, different herbs can have various effects based on your dosha, so it's always good to check how they fit with your body's balance.
What are the specific benefits of each ingredient mentioned for pain relief?
Logan
89 days ago
Dr. Surya Bhagwati
22 days ago
star_border 5
Ah, you're asking a great question! So, castor oil is known for nourishing the tissues and reducing inflammation, it works great for soothing pain. Honey has anti-inflammatory properties and can help to heal. Cinnamon is warming and improves circulation. And well, chuna or lime paste helps with joint issues. Hope that helps! Try and keep a balanced mix when using them together.
What alternative herbs can I use in the lep if I don't have cinnamon on hand?
Jack
96 days ago
Dr. Narendrakumar V Mishra
30 days ago
star_border 5
If you're out of cinnamon, try using ginger or cardamom. They both bring warmth and help with circulation, similar to cinnamon! Plus, these might help balance vata too, so they can be great substitutes for your lep. Just remember, everyone's different so see how your body reacts. Good luck!
How long should I apply the Ayurvedic lep for it to be effective in relieving joint pain?
Christian
103 days ago
Dr. Anjali Sehrawat
37 days ago
star_border 5
Typically, you can apply the Ayurvedic lep for about 20-30 minutes. This lets the herbs really get into the skin and do their magic. Some people leave it on longer if it's comfortable. Keep an eye on skin reactions, though! Different folks might experience it a bit differently, so listen to your body too.
Articles about Joint Pain Gone: The Ancient Paste That Works