Inflammation is the means by which the body defends itself against external harm. It is the bodys primary defense mechanism against infections, wounds, and other forms of harm. But in as much as inflammation sounds like a good thing, it could become a source of harm to the body in some cases. For example, many conditions can cause inflammation to remain elevated, in chronic cases which could lead to tissue damage.
Pharmaceutical companies have been able to come up with different types and varieties of anti-inflammatory drugs to assist the body fight against inflammation. But apart from the cost of these drugs, they might not always be as effective ad they should and they come along with so many side effects and sometimes people allergic to certain primary ingredients used can not make use of such drugs.
This is where natural remedies come in. The natural compounds found in herbs have been discovered to have anti-inflammatory abilities. Although enough research has not been carried out to fully attest to the potential of these herbs to treat and cure inflammations, many individuals who have made used of such herbs to treat inflammation have vouched for the effectiveness of these herbs.
Some herbs that can be used as anti-inflammatory substances include :
#1. Ginger
Traditional medical practitioners have used ginger for many years to treat ailments such as stomach upsets, mild to severe headaches, and infections of various forms. Most importantly, ginger possesses anti-inflammatory properties. This has been proven by scientists that showed that many of gingers constituents can limit the production of cytokines and the activity of cyclooxygenase enzymes, which promote inflammation.
Ginger may have anti-inflammatory properties. There is evidence showing that Research has found that the anti-inflammatory properties of ginger could be useful in treating several conditions, including arthritis and pain. Ginger is a well-known spice used in many dishes around the world. It can be used and purchased either in its powdered form or as a fresh or dried root in many markets. It can also come in the form of tablets, capsules, and teas.
#2. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a popular spice often used to flavor baked treats. But cinnamon is more than just a delicious additive in our cakes. It has been proven that cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties, which can ease swelling.
Keep a good supply of cinnamon on hand and sprinkle it in your coffee or tea, and on top of your breakfast cereal on a regular basis, and lead a healthy diet and life.
#3. Turmeric
The anti-inflammatory agent in turmeric is its yellow pigment called curcumin. Ayurvedic which is Indian traditional medicine, as well as Chinese medicines, have long used turmeric and curcumin to reduce inflammation as well as treat digestive disorders, wounds, and infections.
Scientific studies have shown that curcumin also acts as an antioxidant and may combat cancer. Fresh or powdered turmeric is excellent in curries, soups, or other dishes. Fresh turmeric can be added to fresh vegetable juices. Supplements of curcumin are also available in pharmaceutical stores.
#4. Green Tea
There were no arguments against the preventative and powerful effects of green tea against cardiovascular or heart-related disease and cancer because these have all been well established. More recent studies have been able to show another wonderful effect that green tea can have on the overall well being of the body. Green tea can be an effective anti-inflammatory, particularly in the treatment of arthritis. It also reduces inflammation of the digestive tract, potentially helping conditions like Crohns disease or ulcerative colitis.
Green tea has anti-inflammatory properties that could underlie some of these specific health benefits. For example, there is evidence to suggest that a component of green tea could disrupt processes that cause inflammation in arthritis. Other studies have found that green tea can have a positive effect on inflammation in people with metabolic disorders.
Green tea typically comes as a hot or cold drink. It is also possible to buy capsules, tablets, and creams that contain green tea.
#5. White Willow Bark
White willow tree bark has been used as a treatment for pain and inflammation since ancient Egyptian and Roman times. Many studies have shown that white willow bark has a comparable effect to aspirin, but with fewer side effects than aspirin.
The usual dose of white willow bark is 240 mg per day for ongoing conditions. There are also herbal blends that contain white willow bark which can be used for an acute event, such as a headache.
#6. Maritime Pine Bark
The bark of the maritime pine tree (Pinus maritima) is usually processed into pycnogenol. This extract has been used for more than 2,000 years to help heal wounds, scurvy, and ulcers as well as reducing vascular inflammation. It is one of the strongest antioxidants known today.
Studies have shown that pycnogenol is 50 to 100 times more potent than vitamin E in neutralizing free radicals in the body. It has also been found to reduce blood pressure and the risk of blood clots. A typical dosage of pycnogenol is 100-200 mg daily.
#7. Chili Peppers
The countless varieties of hot peppers we have today began as one small shrub which is Capsicum annum. This native to the tropical regions of the Americas possesses a chemical compound called capsaicinoids which is what makes a pepper hot. And its capsaicin that’s been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect on the human body. It is also well known for its ability to aid digestion.
Any type of chili pepper, such as cayenne or jalapeno, that contains capsaicin will definitely function well as an anti-inflammatory herb. Chilli peppers could be used either fresh or in a powdered form in a wide variety of dishes, including desserts. Supplements containing capsaicin are often mixed with other herbs to create natural anti-inflammatory blends.
#8. Black pepper
Some might feel that chili pepper is too hot and might not be able to withstand or bear the hotness in the mouth. Black pepper is also another anti-inflammatory herb which is quite milder compared to chili pepper. Known as the King of Spices, black pepper has been valued for its flavor and antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory benefits. Studies have shown that the chemical compounds of black pepper, particularly piperine, may be effective in the early acute inflammatory process.
#9. Clove
Cloves have been used as an expectorant, and to treat upset stomach, nausea, and inflammation of the mouth and throat. Research is still mixed, but evidence has proven that they may have anti-inflammatory properties.
Powdered clove works well in baked goods and some savory dishes, like hearty soups and stews. Whole cloves could also be used to infuse both flavor and nutrition into hot drinks like tea or cider.
#10. Resveratrol
This is an antioxidant found in many plants. The highest amounts have been found in Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum) and the skins of red wine grapes. Resveratrol has been shown to be a strong anti-inflammatory. It also protects against DNA damage and mutations. You can find resveratrol as a common supplement in natural food stores. A typical dosage is from 50 to 500 mg per day.