Our body experiences inflammation from time to time. It is the body’s usual response when there are signs of infection or injury and can cause swelling, redness, discomfort, and pain. It might make you lose function of certain muscle tissues when it is not addressed immediately. Joint pain and swelling are common in those who are suffering from arthritis. The good news is that you can treat inflammation using several herbs such as those below.

Ginger

This zesty spice is featured in many cuisines to add that extra flavor but it can also be used to treat inflammation. You can get the fresh ginger root or in powder form in many supermarkets. Most of the time, this spice is used to treat headaches, stomach upset, and even infections. Its anti-inflammatory properties can also help reduce the swelling that you might be feeling in your muscles and joints when you incorporate it into your meals.

Cayenne

Another herb that can help alleviate inflammation is cayenne. This spice as well as other chili peppers has been used to treat various ailments for centuries and they are still being used today. The capsaicin present in these peppers is actually the ones that treat inflammation. You can add a dash of this herb in your dishes to help keep inflammation at bay and even improve your digestion.

Clove

You should also consider using clove when it comes to treating and preventing inflammation. Clove contains erugenol that blocks the enzymes that trigger inflammation. You can include it in your dishes to get its anti-inflammatory properties.

Black pepper

For some people, eating cayenne may be strong for their taste buds so another alternative to this is black pepper. It’s mild peppery taste can give your meal that right amount of spice without becoming too overbearing. What’s even better is that it contains antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties that can protect you against swelling, redness, and pain as well as reduce your risk from various ailments. Studies show that the presence of piperine helps with dealing inflammation in the body.

Garlic

Garlic is another type of herb that is often used to treat inflammation. What it does is that it suppresses the formation of prostaglandins as well as nitric oxides to inhibit inflammation. You can chew on a garlic clove if you like or, if the smell is too strong for you, mix it with your dishes to prevent inflammation from occurring.

Turmeric

If you’ve had dined in an Indian restaurant, you’ve probably tasted turmeric already. This yellow spice is actually available in many supermarkets so you won’t have a hard time including it in your dishes. Turmeric is one ingredient that has been used in many natural remedies for ages because it has the ability to treat infections, liver diseases, colds, and upset stomach. The presence of curcumin in turmeric is the one responsible for inhibiting inflammation in the body.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is commonly used in baking but did you know that you can use it to fight off inflammation? Aside from incorporating it in your baking, you can also sprinkle some cinnamon in your coffee, tea, or even cereal if you like to get a dose of its anti-inflammatory benefits. 

These are just a few examples of herbs that are known to combat inflammation. What’s great about these herbs and spices is that they are easy to incorporate into your diet on a daily basis so that you will be able to keep inflammation at bay. You can even combine them with other ingredients to get the best results.