34.6% of U.S. adults suffer from chronic inflammation. Anything from poor diet to high stress to environmental factors can cause chronic inflammation, which can be challenging to treat for many.
Luckily, holistic healing and natural botanicals can provide a safe and sustainable way to manage inflammation. Herbs and spices like rosemary and turmeric, which are known to treat inflammation, are easy to incorporate into everyday life.
Key Takeaways
-
Turmeric is a bright yellow spice that is used in traditional Lulur treatments.
-
Ginger is a refreshing ingredient often used in teas to calm indigestion and inflammation.
-
Cinnamon is a warm spice that has powerful anti-inflammatory effects.
-
Clove is an ancient spice that can brighten the skin and ease inflammation.
-
Garlic is a potent herb that has natural anti-inflammatory compounds.
-
Black pepper can help enhance the body's ability to absorb turmeric.
-
Rosemary is rich in polyphenols that can provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
Keep reading, and we'll share seven of the best anti-inflammatory herbs and spices for health and wellness.
See Related: How To Plan A Spa Day At Home
#1. Turmeric
Turmeric is a staple in Indian cuisine and Lulur treatments. This bright yellow spice is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and is commonly used in Jamu recipes and rituals.
Jamu is a set of ancient Indonesian wellness customs that revolves around using natural ingredients and powerful botanicals to heal the mind, body, and spirit.
Jamu is also a type of traditional tonic in Indonesia that is often brewed to prevent illness and treat ailments. These centuries-old recipes usually contain turmeric, ginger, and palm sugar. The healing properties of turmeric (especially when paired with ginger) are very well-known and well-researched.
The secret to turmeric's success lies in curcumin, a compound that has been shown to reduce inflammation. Turmeric contains hundreds of active compounds, including curcumin.
Consuming turmeric with black pepper can greatly enhance your body's ability to absorb curcumin.
#2. Ginger
Ginger and turmeric is an age-old combination. Ginger is known to soothe indigestion and heal sickness. Specifically, it's often used for menstrual cramps, flu, weight management, and irritable bowel. It can also be used to help with arthritis, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
Ginger is also a key ingredient in Wedang Jahe, a traditional Indonesian ginger tea. Its anti-inflammatory properties are often used to calm an upset stomach, diarrhea, and nausea.
When applied to the skin, ginger can even purify pores and reduce excess oiliness. That's why we used it in our Sweet Black Tea and Ginger Oil-Free Moisturizer.
This refreshing and calming moisturizer balances and refines the skin while providing long-lasting hydration. Its lightweight formula is designed to plump and smooth the skin while calming redness and reducing inflammation.
It contains ginger, which acts as a natural astringent to help reduce excess oiliness. It also contains kombucha for improved tone and hyaluronic acid for increased hydration.
#3. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is more than a comforting spice used to flavor baked treats and steamy beverages. It's also known to have anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and redness.
All it takes is a small sprinkle on your morning coffee or tea (or you can brew your own mug of cinnamon tea for maximum health benefits - here's a recipe you'd might like!)
You can also use cinnamon in your skincare routine, as this simple spice can help treat acne, delay visible aging, and lighten scars.
Studies have shown that taking cinnamon can significantly reduce inflammation while increasing antioxidant levels.
However, it's important to note that cinnamon is only suitable in small doses. Large doses can be potentially dangerous and may even cause liver damage.
#4. Clove
Clove is an aromatic flower native to the Molucca island of Indonesia. It's traditionally used in Jamu beauty treatments and Boreh spa treatments, which date back to as early as 400 B.C.
As one of the few spices that can reduce inflammation, clove is often used to treat digestive ailments. It can even be applied to the skin in order to brighten and even the skin tone.
Clove can be added to baked goods like biscotti, cookies, or bread, or savory dishes like soups, stews, or sides. It's also easy to add to beverages like clove tea, coffee, or mulled wine.
#5. Garlic
Garlic is easily recognizable by its strong taste and potent smell. Allium sativum has been used for centuries in traditional medicines around the world. It's often used for arthritis, constipation, and infections.
The many health benefits of garlic come from the sulfuric compounds it contains. Garlic is high in allicin, an anti-inflammatory compound that can help relieve pain, ease digestion, and treat illness.
#6. Black Pepper
Cayenne pepper and black pepper are known to have anti-inflammatory properties. Black pepper, in particular, is known as the "King of Spices" and is revered for its antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
When paired with turmeric, it can even enhance the body's ability to absorb curcumin.
#7. Rosemary
Rosemary, a fragrant herb native to the Mediterranea, contains a high amount of polyphenols. These polyphenols, like rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid, are believed to help reduce inflammation. These compounds are able to suppress cytokines in the body, which are cells that regulate inflammation.
Because rosemary extract is also rich in antioxidants (like many of these other anti-inflammatory herbal medicines), it can also help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
These anti-inflammatory effects make it an excellent ingredient for reducing pain, stiffness, or irritation.
Bonus: The Ultimate Guide To Using Vitamin C Serum For Your Face
Frequently Asked Questions: Herbs for Inflammation
What is the most powerful anti-inflammatory herb?
Each of these herbs and spices contains natural compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties. The best herbal remedy will depend on your health and wellness goals.
For example, ashwagandha may be best for managing stress, while garlic may be best for rheumatoid arthritis.
How do you flush inflammation out of your body?
The best way to reduce chronic inflammation is by following a holistically healthy lifestyle.
This can be done by eating an anti-inflammatory diet, limiting or avoiding alcohol, and practicing stress management techniques.
What is the golden herb for arthritis?
Turmeric has a bright yellow color and is often used to treat arthritis and other inflammatory health conditions.
What's the worst food for inflammation?
Eating certain anti-inflammatory herbs and spices can help with indigestion, illness, and swelling. There are also certain foods that should be avoided.
Refined grains like white bread, white rice, and breakfast cereals, snack foods like chips, cookies, or crackers, or processed beverages like sodas, energy drinks, or sugary coffee can lead to inflammation.
Keep Reading: Everything There Is To Know About Balinese Culture And Traditions
--
Juara Skincare incorporates ancient rituals with Western skincare science, creating the ultimate beauty experience. We aim to transport you from the mundane to the extraordinary with our exotic ingredients, intoxicating scents, and powerful, skin-improving formulas. All of our products are nutrient-rich and botanically based. We are proud to be certified cruelty-free. Get the latest skin care tips and info on Juara products by following us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
