The Famed Spice Turmeric and Other Anti-Inflammatory Spices

Inflammation

Inflammation is one of the body’s natural responses – it is a survival mechanism which protects, repairs and heals us from injury or infection. Acute inflammation is typically a protective and localized response to infection or injury.

Chronic inflammation occurs when inflammation persists for a prolonged period of time.. Chronic inflammation can be the result of an allergy, infection, autoimmune reaction, or allergy. Nearly every illness has its root in inflammation.  These are a few common or well known names of illnesses and disease caused by inflammation:

Arthritis:  Joint Pain

Carditis:  Cardiovascular Disease

Gingivitis: Gum Disease

Colitis:  Intestinal Disease

Bronchitis: Asthma

Cognivitis:  Alzheimer’s Disease

Anti-inflammatory or Inflammation Balance Foods and Spices

Dr. William Sears, MD explains the term Inflammation Balances as a better identifier of the inflammation fighting response.  There are certain foods that aid in this response.  These foods may help to reduce chronic inflammation and pain. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, certain nuts, and even chocolate have all been acknowledged for their inflammation balancing properties.

Research into exactly how well these foods reduce inflammation in the body is mixed, but hopeful. Spices are one option to add to your diet to incorporate inflammatory balancing

Turmeric

Turmeric is a brilliant yellow spice that has been used as a medicine for centuries to treat wounds, infections, colds, and liver disease.  Curcumin, a compound in turmeric, may reduce inflammation in the body.

Ginger

Ginger is a root spice that can be found in powdered form or as a fresh root in most grocery stores. Ginger has been used as a traditional medicine to treat stomach upset, headaches, and infections.  Ginger root is another spice that contains inflammation balancing properties.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a well known and liked spice. It is often found in baked goods. Cinnamon has been shown to have inflammatory balancing properties including easing swelling.

Garlic

The inflammatory balancing properties of garlic have been proven to ease arthritis symptoms. Garlic is used in many dishes from a variety of cuisines.

Black pepper

Black pepper is a multi-tasking spice.  It beneficial properties include: antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Studies have shown that the chemical compounds of black pepper, particularly piperine, may be effective in the early acute inflammatory process.

Clove

Cloves have many uses.  It’s properties offer relief as an expectorant, and to treat upset stomach, nausea, and inflammation of the mouth and throat.

Cloves are well known to infuse both flavor and nutrition into hot drinks like tea or cider as well as many baked goods.

Cayenne and other Hot Chili Peppers

Capsaicinoids are natural compounds found in these peppers and account for their inflammation balancing properties. In addition to helping to fight inflammation, these peppers have long been used to aid digestions.