Anti-inflammatory – Cinnamon
Cinnamon is delicious and works well as a sugar substitute. Many of the phytonutrients present in raw cinnamon are potent anti-inflammatory compounds. Cinnamon is loaded with antioxidants and flavanols that are both known for having a positive impact on inflammation in the human body. One of the main components of cinnamon, cinnamaldehyde, is known to inhibit certain […]
Anti-inflammatory – Cayenne Pepper
Capsaicin, the spicy compound that makes chili peppers hot, is actually a potent anti-inflammatory compound. Many topical pain relief creams actually use capsaicin because it helps increase blood flow to the injured areas such as muscle or joint pain. Just make sure not to put it on an open wound (ouch). Cayenne pepper also contains a wide […]
Anti-inflammatory – Spirulina
Spirulina is a blue-green algae and potent antioxidant with a range of powerful anti-inflammatory and cleansing abilities. In one study on diabetic subjects, participants given 8 grams of spirulina daily showed decreases in malondialdehyde (MDA) — MDA is a compound produced by your body that reflects the ability of your immune system to respond to inflammation. Higher […]
Anti-inflammatory – Ginger
Beyond inflammation, it can improve metabolism and help fight oxidative damage. Research suggests that the compounds gingerol and zingerone found in ginger are primarily responsible for the root’s ability to fight inflammation. They have been linked to reductions in many forms and levels of inflammation, from colitis to kidney damage to diabetes and cancer. The best way […]
Anti-inflammatory – Turmeric
Curcumin is that “miracle compound” found in the golden-coloured root turmeric. Boasting 1000s of positive studies, this compound is constantly surprising researchers by the extent of its anti-inflammatory abilities–most notably its effect on arthritis and osteoarthritis. Curcumin is about 10 times more potent and effective when it’s consumed with black pepper (thanks to a compound called […]
Anti-inflammatories Week
Anti-inflammatory is the property of a substance or treatment that reduces inflammation or swelling. Anti-inflammatory drugs make up about half of analgesics, remedying pain by reducing inflammation as opposed to opioids, which affect the central nervous system to block pain signalling to the brain.
Analgesics – Heat and ice
Among the most common home pain remedies is applying heat and ice directly to sites of pain. While this treatment may seem obvious, not everyone’s clear on exactly when to use ice versus heat. Applying an ice pack to reduce swelling and inflammation shortly after you experience a strained muscle, tendon, or ligament may bring relief. Interestingly, once the […]
Analgesics – Acupuncture
This ancient Chinese medical practice seeks to relieve pain by balancing the body’s natural energy pathways. The flow of energy is known as qi (pronounced CHEE). For this practice, acupuncturists place tiny, thin needles into your skin. The location of the insertion is related to the source of the pain. Based on the qi, a […]
Analgesics – Cloves
As a medicine, cloves can be found in capsule or powder form. Clove oil is also available. Like other herbal supplements, you can use cloves to treat a wide range of conditions. Cloves may help ease nausea and treat colds. They may also help relieve the pain associated with headaches, arthritic inflammation, and toothaches. Cloves can also be used as […]
Analgesics – Turmeric
Turmeric is the spice that gives curry its yellow color and unique flavor. It contains the compound curcumin, an antioxidant that helps protect the body from free radical molecules that can damage cells and tissue. Turmeric can also be used for the treatment of many conditions, including: indigestion ulcers stomach upset psoriasis cancer Some people with osteoarthritis […]