Inflammation is an important response the body uses when faced with stress, infection, and injury. But when inflammation becomes excessive, it can lead to the development of chronic diseases like asthma, autoimmune disorders, and even cancer.
There are plenty of medications that can decrease some of the short-term effects of inflammation. But, there’s an even better way to reduce overall inflammation: eating a balanced diet that incorporates anti-inflammatory herbs, foods and supplements.
Use these 5 powerful anti-inflammatory herbs to combat inflammation naturally!
Berberine
Berberine is a plant compound that has been used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years.
It has been shown to suppress inflammatory cytokines and reduce oxidative stress. Berberine also helps balance the gut microbiome by killing harmful bacteria and boosting good bacteria, promoting better absorption and reducing toxins.
Recent studies have shown that Berberine also has many other health benefits, including improving insulin resistance, lowering cholesterol, promoting liver function, and even treating some cancers.
Quercetin
Quercetin is a flavonoid compound found in fruits and vegetables such as onions, grapes, and leafy greens. Its antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects make it an excellent tool in fighting free radicals and in treating a wide variety of chronic diseases.
Quercetin suppresses cyclooxygenase and lipooxygenase, enzymes involved in the body’s inflammatory response. It also reduces inflammation by lowering prostaglandins and leukotrines.
Ginger
Ginger root contains anti-inflammatory compounds called gingerols that are especially helpful in treating bone and joint pain.
It can also improve gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, excess gas, and diarrhea.
One 2012 study found that ginger extract was as effective as a steroid (and even more effective than ibuprofen) at reducing inflammatory cytokines in people with arthritis.
Ginger also reduces the levels of prostaglandin, a hormone that can cause pain, fever, and headaches.
Resveratrol
Resveratrol is a polyphenol compound found in grapes, berries, and nuts. These plants produce the powerful substance in response to stressors like bacterial/fungal infection, injury, and UV radiation exposure.
Resveratrol acts as a natural, anti-inflammatory herb by reducing free radicals and inflammatory enzymes. These actions help the body to regulate and suppress inflammatory pathways.
In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, some studies suggest Resveratrol may provide protection from some cancers by blocking carcinogens and preventing abnormal cells from replicating.
Curcumin
Curcumin comes from the tumeric plant and is a powerful compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. It has been used to treat a variety of issues, including rheumatoid arthritis, pancreatitis, ulcerative colitis, and cancer.
Curcumin suppresses several of the pro-inflammatory markers that can cause chronic inflammation and disease. Some studies have even shown it can be more effective than pharmaceutical pain medication.
Check out the infographic below for more information!
Have you started using any of these anti-inflammatory herbs? Let us know your favorite!
