Inflammation is a natural process that occurs in your body as a way to protect you from infection and foreign substances. The Cleveland Clinic notes that some diseases cause excessive inflammation in your body that may cause damage over time. Autoimmune conditions -- conditions in which your immune system attacks your tissues -- may be particularly problematic. Before using herbs to reduce your inflammation, talk with your doctor to see if herbs are right for you.
About Inflammation
In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," nutrition expert and certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch states that any of your tissues or organs can become inflamed, and that inflammation may be caused by numerous factors, including bacterial infection, allergies, arthritis, peptic ulcers and many other health conditions. External inflammation, or inflammation that occurs on the outer surface of your body, is usually a response to injury, but may also be caused by allergies, infection or other factors.
Anti-Inflammatory Herbs
William A. Mitchell Jr., a naturopathic doctor, expert herbalist and author of "Plant Medicine in Practice," states that some herbs possess anti-inflammatory properties and have the ability to reduce both internal and external swelling and inflammation. Examples of herbal remedies with anti-inflammatory action include calendula, feverfew, gentian, ginger, ginseng, licorice, nettle, slippery elm, turmeric and white willow bark. Other herbs that may help quell inflammation include black cohosh, meadowsweet and wintergreen.
A Powerful Anti-Inflammatory
Turmeric is one of the most powerful anti-inflammatory herbs. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician, master herbalist and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," reports that turmeric possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticoagulant action. Turmeric is used to treat many health problems, including bleeding disorders, menstrual problems and various musculoskeletal problems. MedlinePlus adds that turmeric is also used to treat heartburn, stomach pain, diarrhea, jaundice and various liver problems. The plant's underground stem is used in commercial preparations.
Considerations
Even though inflammation is a natural process in your body, it may be a signal that you have an underlying medical problem that requires the attention and intervention of a qualified health care professional. If you experience the symptoms of inflammation -- pain, swelling and redness in the affected area -- visit your doctor for an evaluation and to be treated. Herbal medicines are often used to reduce swelling, but they should be used judiciously.
References
- Cleveland Clinic: Inflammation
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Plant Medicine in Practice;" William A. Mitchell Jr., N.D.; 2003
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- MedlinePlus: Turmeric
