Diet and lifestyle come first, but herbs can help along the way. Here are some general anti-inflammatories that will jump-start the process and are safe to take, as needed. Talk to your physician if you have any questions or concerns about taking herbal remedies. You might see some improvement in a week, but be patient: it often takes several weeks or months for the effects to build and become noticeable.
GINGER
Benefits: Ginger helps to decrease inflammation, boost detoxification, reduce blood sugar, improve insulin sensitivity, increase circulation, promote beneficial bacteria and helps to warm up a sluggish digestive system.
Preparation: Fresh works best. Thinly slice or grate the root to simmer or infuse it for tea. Use generously in all sorts of food preparations, and also consider ginger-infused honey, and ginger juice.
Cautions and Considerations: Generally very safe but can be too hot and spicy for some, especially in its dried form or excessive doses. Look for weaker forms (candy, honey, mild tea) during pregnancy. Use caution when combined with medications, especially blood thinners.
TURMERIC
Benefits: Turmeric has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, cholesterol-lowering, and digestion-enhancing properties.
Preparation: In capsules or aim for 1/4-1/2 teaspoon ground daily in food or smoothies. Combine with black pepper to boost gut absorption of Turmeric. Heat also improves its bioavailability. The brighter the color and stronger the stain, the more potent it is.
Cautions and Considerations: Turmeric (and black pepper) may aggravate reflux and acute ulcers and interact with blood thinners. Therapeutic doses are not recommended during pregnancy.
CINNAMON
Benefits: In addition to its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties, Cinnamon may also help to relieve neuropathy, promote weight loss, and lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels. The sweet flavor can also stand in for sugar in some recipes.
Preparation: Add 1/2 teaspoon to food, tea, or smoothies per day. Also, see our Sweet Cinnamon Tea Recipe
Cautions and Considerations: Cinnamon has a strong record of safety and years of traditional use; however, therapeutic doses are not appropriate in type 1 diabetes.
CHAMOMILE
Benefits: Chamomile tea may be the most popular herb for infants and children. It has a gentle calming effect on the nerves that helps with agitation, anxiety, and insomnia. Along with its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, It and can help improve digestion and bloating.
Preparation: As a tea, brew for only a minute or so to avoid bitterness. Sweet liquid extracts and homeopathic preparations work well too.
Cautions and Considerations: Chamomile is generally safe, but it may aggravate allergies for some ragweed-sensitive people.
PEPPERMINT
Benefits: Peppermint has counterirritant, pain-relieving properties. Peppermint quickly relaxes tight muscle spasms, including headaches and gut pain.
Preparation: As a tea, steep 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried leaves in boiling water and sip. If used as an essential oil, dilute in a carrier oil to avoid burning your skin.
Cautions and Considerations: Peppermint, especially as a tea for is generally safe in moderation. As with all herbal remedies, It's also important to understand that just because something is natural, there maybe be mild side effects in certain individuals that are more sensitive.
THYME
Benefits: Thyme is a common culinary/garden herb with a range of benefits. It has antimicrobial and antiseptic properties aiding in respiratory infections and helps to reduce inflammation.
Preparation: Use in dry herb form in foods. Thyme can also be steeped as tea or broth.
Cautions and Considerations: Thyme is generally safe in low to modest doses. Therapeutic doses are contraindicated during pregnancy.
CLOVE
Benefits: Like similar spices, Cloves have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties.
Preparation: Cloves spices are warming and deliciously prepared as tea.
Cautions and Considerations: Use caution when combined with medications, especially blood thinners.
AMLA BERRY
Benefits: Amla fruit contains numerous plant compounds that deliver many benefits, including lowering inflammation. It’s also a great source of vitamins and minerals.
Preparation: Amla Berry is also known as the Indian Gooseberry and the fruit is used in cooking. Alma fruit can also be enjoyed dried and steeped in tea.
Cautions and Considerations: Use caution when combined with medications, especially blood thinners.
Note: Due to FDA regulations, we are unable to provide specific dosage information. The information noted above are recommendations only and not intended to treat or prescribe. Please consult with a healthcare professional for more information.
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