habl5 Herbs and Spices That Lower Inflammation
Inflammation can cause issues such as headaches and pain. It is also at the root of many chronic diseases, including diabetes, cancer and heart disease to name a few. But there are ways you can fight inflammation.
In this post we’ll go over what you can eat to help reduce inflammation and lower your risk of developing these diseases. The good news is, you may already have items in your pantry that can help such as certain herbs and spices that research shows have important anti-inflammatory properties.
Here are some of my favorite herbs and spices that lower inflammation.
- Basil
Basil is delicious in pasta dishes and pesto, but you don’t usually think of it as a medicinal plant. In fact, basil has a specific compound called (E)-beta-caryophyllene (BCP), which has been shown to reduce inflammation and has been useful in treating rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel conditions. Ocimum sanctum L., or holy basil, is the powerhouse species most commonly used for its strong anti-inflammatory effects.
Tip: You can find essential oils with components of holy basil to help support lower inflammation. Click here to find the essential oils I recommend
- Ginger
This popular spice has been touted for its numerous medicinal benefits for centuries and is considered to be a potent anti-inflammatory. If you suffer from an upset stomach, you may have heard suggestions to eat ginger or drink ginger ale. This recommendation ties back to studies that show consuming ginger can reduce inflammation in your intestines. It may also help relieve the symptoms of gastrointestinal issues such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
Tip: You can find ginger root in your local grocery store.
- Garlic
You probably have a bulb or two on hand or a bottle of garlic powder in your pantry. Not only does this commonly found culinary spice add flavor to your dishes, but it also has plenty of health benefits.
Studies show eating garlic on a regular basis may help decrease the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases caused by chronic inflammation. It may even work to lower your body’s levels of homocysteine, a protein byproduct that leads to inflammation. This delicious vegetable is also great for swollen joints or sore muscles.
Tip: You can treat aches by rubbing them with garlic oil.
- Cinnamon
Cinnamon is more than just a spice to add to pastries and muffins. It’s anti-inflammatory properties also help your body treat headaches and pain, repair tissue damage, and fight infections. Research shows adding cinnamon to your daily diet can significantly reduce systemic inflammation and lower your risk of disease.
Tip: You can sprinkle cinnamon in your coffee or tea to add flavor and help with swelling. I add cinnamon to my morning smoothie.
- Turmeric
Turmeric has amazing health benefits, one of which is its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers have named it one of the topmost potent anti-inflammatory spices. This is due primarily to the antioxidant found in turmeric called curcumin.
This brightly colored spice has been proven to help support your body’s natural ability to fight chronic diseases such as diabetes and cancer. Plus it helps to boost your mood and immunity.
Tip: You can add turmeric to smoothies for breakfast, soups for lunch and vegetables for dinner. Just be sure to add black pepper also. It really helps the absorption of turmeric.
These 5 herbs and spices that help to support lower inflammation can be found fresh, dried, or powdered in most grocery stores. They’re also available in essential oils, that now a days, you can find everywhere, but I only recommend doTERRA Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade brand.
Some of these oils can be consumed, (only pure CPTG oils), applied topically or used for aromatherapy treatment. As a health coach I can help you decide on what’s best for you.
Contact me here: Contact Mary
What’s your favorite herb or spice?
References:
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/266425.php
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-662/turmeric
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-proven-benefits-of-cinnamon
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