Top 8 Anti-Inflammatory Herbs That Fight Pain and Inflammation

We have established time and again in previous posts that inflammation is the root cause of illness. This isn’t just our opinion; it’s a well-known scientific fact. However, you don’t need to turn to Tylenol, Advil or other NSAIDs for bringing down inflammation. We believe the cure lies in nature. We have identified eight anti-inflammatory herbs that relieve pain and other inflammation-induced diseases. Turn to these well before even considering anything manufactured in a lab.

• 8 Anti-Inflammatory Herbs To Naturally Reduce Inflammation
• Anti-Inflammatory Herbs As Natural Remedies

8 Anti-Inflammatory Herbs To Naturally Reduce Inflammation:

1. Cinnamon

Cinnamon has long been known as a natural remedy for activating insulin receptors and lowering blood sugar. Unbeknownst to most people, this is also one of the top herbs for inflammation. Studies confirm that cinnamon may be effective in treating age-related inflammatory conditions.

LEARN MORE: 14 Hacks To Eliminate Inflammation Naturally

The spice contains a bevy of antioxidants that inhibit the protein NF-kappaB, which is believed to activate pro-inflammatory genes. The NF-kappaB protein, by the way, has also been linked to premature cell death and cardiovascular disease.

2. Cloves

Cloves’ secret weapon is a compound called eugenol. Studies confirm eugenol has anti-inflammatory effects and may also protect against lung injury. The compound works much the same way that NSAIDs do, by inhibiting the inflammation-causing COX-2 enzyme.

In addition, cloves have powerful anti-fungal properties. Some of the other flavonoids include rhamnetin and kaempferol, which scavenge for and remove free radicals.

We must warn, however, that too much of a good thing in this instance can be a bad thing. Too much clove, especially clove oil, can cause damage to the gums, tooth pulp and mucous membranes. There’s no need to exceed dosage recommendations.

3. Cayenne Pepper

The capsaicin in cayenne pepper has been widely studied and renowned for its diverse use in holistic medicine. This is one of the anti inflammatory herbs we have discussed at length. We recommend revisiting our post on cayenne pepper and its various benefits. Studies show capsaicin is potent with pain-relieving analgesic effect and anti-inflammatory properties.

Many topical pain relief creams contain capsaicin as a natural ingredient. This is because it inhibits a chemical known as substance P, which transmits pain signals to the brain. While studies are ongoing, there is also early promising research that capsaicin may slow the growth of prostate cancer cells.

4. Rosemary

This is one of the long-time, favored anti-inflammatory herbs used in tea. It contains a compound appropriately named rosmarinic acid. Studies show it causes a substantial reduction in inflammation. That’s not all; rosemary is also known to increase the enzyme superoxide dismutase, which removes the superoxide free radical that induces inflammation. Finally, rosemary’s anti-inflammatory agents inhibit the formation of the prostaglandins protein, a known inflammation trigger.

If you broil your foods in oil, then we recommend adding rosemary. The antioxidants preserve the oil’s nutrients and protect it from oxidization.

5. Chamomile

This is a popular herbal tea for soothing and relaxing the mind. It also happens to be one of the best herbs for inflammation thanks to the almost-impossible-to-pronounce compound chamazulene cyclic sesquiterpenes. Among its many benefits, the antioxidant was proven in studies to have anti-inflammatory effects.

In addition, the rich antioxidants in chamomile are also antispasmodic, meaning it protects the muscles against involuntary spasms. This puts it on the list of anti inflammatory herbs that suffice as a post-workout drink.

There are actually two kinds of chamomile: German and Roman chamomile. While the antioxidant profile differs slightly between the two, both contain anti-inflammatory compounds.

6. Turmeric

Turmeric is another one of the anti-inflammatory herbs we have talked about at length. Turmeric for joint pain is especially well documented and a topic we have dived into quite a bit. Like cloves, turmeric suppresses inflammation by inhibiting the infamous COX-2 enzyme.

Turmeric on its own, though, does have subpar bioavailability. For this reason, it’s recommended that you combine it with other ingredients that can help “shuttle” the spice into inflamed areas. One effective companion ingredient is bromelain. Another is basic ground black pepper, which is quite a potent herb in its own right.

7. Boswellia

Boswellia is one of the lesser known herbs for inflammation, though that doesn’t mean it’s any less potent or promising. Its magic lies in its effect to inhibit the production of the pro-inflammatory 5-LOX enzyme. This underrated herb also plays a role in regulating antibody and immunoglobulin production. Studies suggest it may play a pivotal role in immune system health.

8. Neem

This is another one of those obscure anti inflammatory herbs. It happens to be a popular remedy, though, in its native India. The entire plant, from the leaves to the root, is rich in flavonoids. In India, locals eat the shoots and flowers as if they were a vegetable. It’s a spice that provides a flavorful but slightly bitter aftertaste. Studies show the neem plant is not only anti-inflammatory but also pro-apoptotic, meaning that it promotes the death of malignant cancer cells.

Read More: The Science Of Stress & How To Manage It

As an ayurvedic remedy, neem is also used in various applications, including the treatment of fever, urinary disorders, diabetes and intestinal worms.

Anti-Inflammatory Herbs As Natural Remedies:

Inflammation is no joke and can throw your body out of its natural rhythm. Fortunately, nature is abound with remedies, which is why we created zuRelief. Formulated using all natural herbs, zuRelief is guaranteed to help support your joint health and ability to move.