Inflammation is the body’s protective response to injury or damage. It aids in natural healing and repair processes. A problem arises when the body is chronically inflamed. Pollution, food sensitivities, and excess weight can lead to chronic inflammation.
You should not accept inflammation as a part of life. There are many different plants that can help you reduce or prevent inflammation in the body.
Turmeric
The anti-inflammatory agent in turmeric is the yellow pigment called curcumin. Ayurvedic and Chinese medicines have long used turmeric to reduce inflammation, as well as to treat digestive disorders, wounds, and infections.
Studies have shown that it acts as an antioxidant and fights cancer. This spice is delicious and can be used in soups or other dishes. It can also be added to fresh vegetable juices. Curcumin supplements are also available.
Green Tea
The preventive effects of green tea against cardiovascular diseases and cancer are well established. More recent studies have shown that green tea can be an effective anti-inflammatory, especially in the treatment of arthritis. It can also reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
It is recommended to consume 3 to 4 cups of tea daily. For those who do not want caffeine, decaffeinated green teas are available.
White Willow Bark
White willow bark has been used as a treatment for pain and inflammation since ancient Egyptian times. Many studies have shown that white willow bark has effects comparable to aspirin with fewer side effects.
The usual dose of white willow is 240mg/day. There are also herbal blends that contain white willow bark that can be used for acute events, such as a headache.
Chili Pepper
Capsaicin is the compound that makes chili peppers hot. This substance has an anti-inflammatory effect on the body.
Any type of chili pepper contains capsaicin. You can use fresh peppers or powder in a wide variety of foods, including desserts. Supplements containing capsaicin are often mixed with other herbs to create natural anti-inflammatory blends.
Black Pepper
The distinctive taste of black pepper comes from the chemical piperine. Even in small doses, piperine has been shown to reduce inflammation. It may inhibit the spread of cancer and has been shown to suppress the perception of pain and arthritis symptoms.
Rosemary
In one study, participants were given small amounts of various common herbs and spices for a period of 7 days. Rosemary exhibited one of the strongest protective effects against inflammation and oxidation.
Cloves
Clove oil can be applied directly to the gums to help reduce tooth pain. It has been shown to reduce inflammation in the mouth and throat. Cloves can also be used to treat diarrhea, nausea, hernia, bad breath, and as an expectorant.
Dried or fresh flower buds are delicious in many dishes, as well as in desserts and hot beverages.
Ginger
Research has shown that ginger has a better therapeutic effect than non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for treating pain and inflammation. Ginger also inhibits the activity of several genes involved in an inflammatory response.
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, ginger may help prevent or treat vomiting and nausea. It can be used in various dishes, as well as in teas, juices, and desserts.
Cinnamon
In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, cinnamon has been shown to have antioxidant, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, anticancer, and lipid-lowering properties. It has been found to act against neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.
Cinnamon goes well in everything from breakfast cereals, soups, and stews to desserts and beverages.
