7 Common Herbs and Spices That Could Reduce Inflammation

Herbs and spices have been used medicinally since ancient times and many are still used in herbal remedies today to treat conditions like arthritis. In fact, some of the ones that can help reduce inflammation are already in your spice rack or pantry.

While there are many NSAID medications that you can take to reduce inflammation from sports injuries or osteoarthritis, according to Medical News Today, they have side effects and are not always effective. Instead of reaching for your medicine chest, reach for the natural healing that is found in herbs and spices. Here are seven of the most common ones that can help reduce inflammation:

Turmeric

This bright yellow spice contains curcumin and is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties. That’s why it has been used for natural healing for centuries. A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies that was published in the Journal of Medicinal Food showed that curcumin can help reduce inflammation and pain in people who suffer from arthritis.

Besides reducing inflammation, turmeric has also been used to boost immunity, treat allergies, help lower blood pressure and blood sugars. It may also help prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Keep some in your spice rack or you can buy turmeric supplements.

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Ginger

This flavorful spice has been used in Asian medicine and cooking since ancient times. Ginger contains properties that can suppress inflammatory molecules called leukotrienes and the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause pain and inflammation according to Everyday Health.

A study published in the journal Osteoarthritis and Cartilage found that people who used 500 grams of ginger daily experienced a reduction in pain and disability. Ginger has also been found to help fight infections, ease menstrual cramps and a host of other health benefits. Use fresh, powdered, or drink it in tea.

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Cinnamon

Besides being delicious, cinnamon can aid in reducing inflammation. A 2018 study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that women with rheumatoid arthritis who consumed 500 milligrams of cinnamon daily for a period of eight weeks had a significantly decreased blood level of C-reactive protein – a marker for inflammation and less pain and swelling in their joints

Cinnamon also  has powerful antioxidant properties, helps to reduce blood sugar, and protect cognitive function in seniors according to Everyday Health. Sprinkle some today in your coffee or on your oatmeal to reap all the benefits.

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Thyme

This fragrant herb that has been used to flavor food and for its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial medicinal properties that can aid people with rheumatoid arthritis according to research that was published in Pharmacognosy Communications. Thyme can be used fresh, dry or as an essential oil.

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Garlic

Garlic will liven up any dish and  could also ease the pain and swelling of arthritis and may even prevent cartilage damage because it contains diallyl disulfide that limits the effects of cytokines that produce inflammation. According to the Arthritis Foundation, you should season your food with garlic, leeks, or onions to reap all the health and nutritional benefits of this amazing vegetable including helping to prevent colds, aiding heart health, and reducing the risk of some cancers.

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Green Tea

This hot beverage has been consumed in Asia for centuries because of its medicinal qualities according to Everyday Health. It is especially helpful for reducing inflammation and protecting joints because it contains polyphenols.

A study in the International Journal of Rheumatic Disease compared the effects of black tea and green tea on people with arthritis and found that green tea was far superior. So treat yourself to a cup of green tea or matcha made from green tea powder and enjoy all the benefits of this healthy drink.

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Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper is an aromatic spice made from the Capsicum pepper and dried and ground to produce this hot spice that also had medicinal properties according to Very Well Fit. Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin that is both pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory.

If that isn’t enough,  capsaicin has also been used to treat colds and boost your immune system. If you can’t take the heat, black pepper also has anti-inflammatory properties.

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