Inflammation is a necessary response when the body is injured or infected and it helps in the healing process. It is when there is a low level of inflammation that goes on all the time that there are problems.. It can also be caused by chemical reactions in fat cells in overweight people.In the last 20 years or so many researchers have concluded that inflammation is the root cause of most of our common chronic illnesses. The solution is to do things that will cool the fires of chronic inflammation and thereby prevent these diseases. Most doctors will prescribe NSAIDS or other drugs. However, there are many simple remedies that will do the same thing without the negative side effects. There are a number of herbs that are very good for fighting inflammation. I have chosen 5 that I will write about today.
Burdock - Burdock is known as a blood purifier and is used for detoxification. This process helps relieve chronic inflammation. It is often paired with dandelion root. Burdock root has been documented to relieve diseases like boils, sores, psoriasis, acne and leprosy. It is thought to be helpful in diseases like syphilis and gonorrhea.
Ginger -. Ginger is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It has been used in folk medicine for centuries for inflammation. In recent times many researchers have found scientific support for these beliefs. Ginger works by inhibiting prostaglandin biosynthesis thereby curbing inflammation. In a study done at the University of Miami, it was concluded that ginger extract could someday be a substitute for NSAIDS. The study showed that ginger works at the cellular level. Personally I like a cup of ginger tea on cold fall and winter mornings. It warms me up and takes the edge off my arthritis.
Green Tea - Green tea contains flavonoids and polyphenols as well as antioxidants. All of these things help to fight inflammation. Green tea is thought to play a role in treating chronic diseases that are caused by inflammation. In a study done at the University of Maryland Medical Center it was concluded that green tea may help reduce inflammation connected with Crohn's disease. Green tea is readily available and easy to prepare. In most studies people drink about 3 cups a day.
Turmeric - Some scientists think that inflammation may be the root cause in Alzheimer's disease. In India the spice turmeric is widely used in cooking. Turmeric has a constituent called curcumin that is thought to be anti-inflammatory. Researchers think that this may be the reason that India has a very low rate of Alzheimer's disease. It is easy to incorporate turmeric in your cooking. You can also use curry powder which contains turmeric.
Garlic - Garlic has compounds that are thought to inhibit key enzymes that cause inflammation. Garlic may help to prevent asthma attacks and reduce the pain of arthritis. Some researchers think garlic may reduce joint swelling and inflammation. Garlic is useful for colds and flu. It fights the infection and that reduces the inflammation.
There are many more herbs, spices and foods that can be useful for inflammatory conditions. You may find Dr. Weil's anti-inflammatory food pyramid useful. Here's the link: http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/ART02995/Dr-Weil-Anti-Inflammatory-Food-Pyramid.html
Sources:
http://www.planetherbs.com/michaels-blog/dandelion-burdoc-and-cancer.html
https://www.beneficialbotanicals.com/tincture-information/burdock-root.htm
http://www.arthritistoday.org/what-you-can-do/eating-well/arthritis-diet/ginger-benefits.php
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16117603
http://www.livestrong.com/article/372839-is-green-tea-an-anti-inflammatory/
http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/green-tea
http://www.myfitnesspal.com/blot/diethack/view/top-five-health-benefits-of-garlic-119
http://www.soul-guidance.com/health/garlic.htm
Be sure to check out my website at www.valerielull.com
Valerie Lull
Author
Ten Healthy Teas
www.valerielull923@gmail.com
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