Inflammation can be triggered by any number of things that call for an immune response. Catching a cold, sustaining an injury, or even an allergenic food can cause the body to fight back with inflammation. When inflammation comes and goes as needed, the immune system is simply doing its job. Chronic inflammation, however, is an indicator the immune system is in overdrive. There are herbal remedies than can help alleviate the pain and discomfort that come with this disorder.
Turmeric
For as many as 4,000 years, this spicy herb has been used for the treatment of various ailments. Turmeric has been used by both Chinese and Ayurvedic practitioners to treat anti-inflammatory conditions. Curcumin, which is found in turmeric, is a powerful antioxidant that may prevent or reduce the damage caused by free radicals in the body. This antioxidant can also reduce levels of COX-2 and LOX, two inflammatory enzymes found in the body.
Ginger
Gingerols are the anti-inflammatory compounds found in ginger, which are given credit for the pain reduction experienced by osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis sufferers who consume ginger regularly. In the February 2005 issue of the "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine," a study was published which shows that ginger suppresses cytokines and chemokines, which are pro-inflammatory compounds.
Boswellia
Highly regarded in Indian medicine, Boswellia is one of the most commonly used herbs for arthritis and other inflammatory conditions, such as ulcerative colitis and multiple sclerosis. Its safety and efficacy have been proved through numerous scientific studies. It is also being used in treatments for Alzheimer's disease and brain tumors. With both of these conditions, the herb should only be used under the professional supervision of a licensed health care professional.
Celery Seed
As a detoxification remedy, celery seed can stimulate the kidneys for elimination of waste products, including the urates that gather in the joints. These buildups can result in inflammation and stiffness in both the muscles and joints. In European herbal medicine, celery is used regularly for the treatment of arthritic and rheumatic conditions. It can also be taken for its diuretic action to flush out arthritis-related fluid accumulations.
Green Tea
ECGC, or epigallocatechin gallate, is the main polyphenol found in green tea. Studies indicate that this and other polyphenols in green tea have anti-inflammatory properties, as well as the ability to prevent the growth of skin tumors. Consuming green tea may also alleviate some of the inflammation associated with bowel disorders such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Arthritis sufferers may find relief for inflammation as well as slowing the breakdown of cartilage.
Baical Skullcap
This herb is prescribed for the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases in China and Japan. Asthma, pelvic inflammation and arthritis are just a few of the conditions that Baical Skullcap is used for in the West. The methanolic extract of three flavonoids in the herb has been shown to have similar effects to prednisolone, an anti-inflammatory medication.
Member Comments