Treating chronic inflammation is essential for good health and for looking younger, according to "Natural Health" magazine. Persistent, low-grade inflammation, which is often caused by such factors as long-term health disorders, an unhealthy diet and the effects of environmental toxins, is often the cause of premature aging. Long-term health disorders characterized by inflammation include Alzheimer's disease, arthritis, psoriasis, heart disease and cancer. Some people take herbs in hopes of attaining relief from inflammatory conditions. Be sure to consult a qualified health care provider prior to using herbs to treat inflammatory disorders.
Ginger
Ginger is the root of the plant Zingiber officinale and has long been used as a medicinal remedy in Asian herbal traditions. The significant active components of the ginger root are thought to be the oils and phenol compounds called gingerols and shogaols. These constituents found in ginger are effective in fighting against long-term inflammation in such conditions as arthritis, cancer and heart disease. People generally take 75 to 2,000 mg per day of ginger supplements in divided doses with food. The ginger supplement should contain a standardized volatile oil content of 4 percent, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Turmeric
Turmeric, an Asian spice known for adding yellow color to Indian curry, has reportedly been used for about 4,000 years to treat a variety of inflammatory illnesses, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Due to its active component curcumin, turmeric may reduce inflammation and fight cancer, among other uses. Because of its role as an anti-inflammatory remedy, turmeric may help alleviate the symptoms of arthritis. People generally take a standardized powder supplement at the dosage of 400 to 600 mg, three times per day to treat inflammatory. Be sure to consult a health care provider prior to consuming turmeric as an inflammation treatment.
Comfrey
Comfrey, or Symphytum officinale, is a topical herb generally used to treat injuries and reduce the corresponding inflammation. The active constituent, allantoin, exists in the herb's roots and leaves. Comfrey is considered toxic and should never be consumed orally. Severe liver poisoning and even death could result. The herb and leaf components are generally used in creams, ointments and other topical preparations. Because of its toxic nature, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends heeding the following warnings: Never apply comfrey to broken skin; use only small portions of comfrey topical treatments for no longer than 10 days; and do not use any comfrey product for more than four to six weeks annually.
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