Herbs to Beat Inflammation
It seems like anytime you read about some sort of health issues, inflammation is mentioned in passing if not the actual focus. Aside from creating bodily discomfort through redness, heat, swelling, and pain, science continues to link inflammation to a slew of other mental and physical health issues.
Considering its rap sheet, it’s not surprising that battling inflammation has been a hot topic for quite some time now. Although there a slew of tactics you can use—some of the easiest and most potent to work into your daily routine are herbs.
1. Ginger
For many people, ginger is considered somewhat of a super root. This comes from its wide variety of health benefits. Ginger is a root with strong antioxidant properties that’s been shown to help support the body’s reaction to inflammation in a healthy way
2. Rosemary
Rosemary has been shown to be especially effective in reducing inflammation in the stomach and bowel, so much so that a recent study found that it could potentially prevent tumors in the colon. As a common cooking herb, it can be easy to introduce more Rosemary into your diet and routine!
3. Turmeric
Turmeric is a root with powerful antioxidant properties that’s been used for centuries in India as both a culinary and medicinal ingredient. Most importantly, it contains curcumin, which has been shown to help promote a healthy response to inflammation.
4. Cinnamon
Research on cinnamon’s anti-inflammatory effects is still ongoing, but cinnamon has a high concentration of antioxidants and has been shown to help increase the production of anti-inflammatory proteins the body. Although the research is preliminary, the finding's have so far found positive anti-inflammatory effects from the use of cinnamon.
5. Fenugreek
One of the more under-the-radar inflammation reducers is fenugreek, a super herb commonly used in parts of Asia. “The leaves and seeds have been extensively researched, showing promise with reducing inflammation related to rheumatoid arthritis and heart disease.
6. Chilli Peppers
Chili peppers contain an ingredient called capsaicin, which has been researched for its effects on pain relief and inflammation. Studies are still ongoing, but the initial results look promising.