Inflammation is body’s reaction due to its defence mechanism. This reaction is essential to heal infections, wounds and tissue damage; but it can cause problems if it gets out of control. Symptoms of inflammation are redness, swollen joints that feel hot to the touch, joint pain, joint stiffness and loss of joint function. Inflammation may also cause general flu-like symptoms and these symptoms can be severe when inflammation is out of control. Therefore, it is essential to prevent this, and doing this the natural way is always recommended. Here are the best herbs for inflammation:
CAYENNE
Chilli peppers contain natural compounds called capsaicinoids and this is what gives the spicy fruits their anti-inflammatory properties. It has been shown to ease pain associated with arthritis and headaches. Chilli peppers are considered as the top remedy for easing and type of inflammation in the body, so always add a dash of it to your meals.
CLOVES
A lot of research studies tell us that cloves have anti-inflammatory properties. Even before the research created evidence, cloves are long used as an expectorant and to treat upset stomach, nausea, and inflammation of the mouth and throat. Add cloves to your regular diet like in lemonades, soups, stews and also in baked goods.
GINGER
Ginger is long known for its anti-inflammatory properties and is consumed widely for the same. It is a zesty spice that can be consumed in a number of ways like in the form of ginger tea, its powder can be topped up on soups for throat inflammation, powder can be mixed with honey and consumed for severe cold and cough, etc. It can also be used to treat inflammation related to upset stomach, headaches and infections.
CARDAMOM
According to Ayurveda, cardamom is good for muscle and joint pain. A lot of recent studies too prove that the age old practice is beneficial and that cardamom possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties.
RED CHILLI POWDER
Red chillis contain capsaicin just like red peppers. Capsaicin has both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Capsaicin helps alleviate pain in part by depleting your body’s supply of substance P, a chemical component of nerve cells that is involved in transmitting pain signals to your brain. The burning sensation helps pain relief.
FENNEL SEEDS
This little seed is packed with powerful anti-inflammatory properties that, when added to a healthy diet and lifestyle plan, can keep inflammation down. Fennel contains a volatile oil compound known as anethole, which is highly effective at blocking inflammation.
ADDITIONAL TIPS:
- – The herbs are best taken in the form of tea if inflammation is severe, for mild inflammation you may include the herbs in your meals.
- – Have these herbs in moderate quantities as excess can lead to other problems like constipation, heartburn etc.
- – If you are pregnant, consult your family doctor before taking any herbs internally, or for quantity suggestions.