While inflammation is an effective way for your body to fight infections, inflammation can get out of hand and lead to a myriad of problems. In fact, chronic inflammation has been linked to many diseases, including cancer and diabetes.
The good news is that there are a variety of herbs and spices that can help your body reduce inflammation. Here are 9 of them.
Ginger
This peppery yet sweet spice contains more than 100 active compounds, from ginger and shogaol to zingerone and zingiberene. These compounds help to reduce inflammation in the body.
Garlic
Though not so great for your breath, garlic has sulfur compounds such as allicin that appear to have anti-inflammatory properties. To get the most out of garlic’s anti-inflammatory properties, aged garlic extract seems to be your best bet.
Turmeric
A staple of Indian cuisine, turmeric boasts over 300 active compounds, including the antioxidant curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
Cardamom
An 8-week study of 80 people with prediabetes found that taking 3 grams of cardamom daily significantly reduced inflammatory markers. Add it to your meals to give a complex sweet and spicy flavor.
Black pepper
Popular worldwide, this classic spice has an active compound called pipeline that may play a role in reducing inflammation in the body.
Ginseng
When it comes to ginseng, there are two common types: Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius). Asian ginseng is reportedly more invigorating, while American ginseng is thought to be more relaxing. Both, however, have been found to reduce signs of inflammation in the body.
Green tea
We all know green tea can give a little boost of energy, but did you know it also has been found to help people lose body fat and contains anti-inflammation properties? Well, now you know!
Rosemary
This classic Mediterranean spice has a high number of polyphenols, which may help reduce inflammation.
Cinnamon
Although you shouldn’t consume too much cinnamon, it does boast quite a few health benefits, from raising the body’s antioxidant levels to lowering inflammation.
