In our quest to be free from low
back, buttocks, and leg pain caused by piriformis syndrome and sciatica, most
of us do everything we can to reach that goal.
Moderate exercise and proper stretching (using the Piri-Stretcher®
by Miracle Stretch®, of course) can make our conditions miraculously
manageable. However, inflammation can
threaten to undo all of our hard work.
The answer? Simply check your
kitchen pantry.
Here are 7 common herbs and
spices to fight inflammation:
Turmeric: Besides spicing up chicken and rice, the many
benefits of this root are still being discovered. Lucky for us, its anti-inflammatory
properties are well known. It works by
lowering inflammation-causing enzymes within our bodies. It has been found, by numerous studies, to be
as effective as Motrin and hydrocortisone.
Ginger: Not just a pretty sushi accompaniment cast away,
this member of the turmeric family is touted for both its anti-inflammatory and
analgesic effects. It inhibits the
release of acids in the body, which cause inflammation, while reducing pain. And ginger is great as a tea or shredded
fresh into your favorite stir-fry. A real multi-tasker!
Fennel: The seeds, fronds, and bulb of this tasty vegetable
can be used. It has been shown in
studies that a chemical in fennel shuts down the intercellular communication in
our bodies that trigger inflammation.
Plus it makes your breath smell sooo good!
Cayenne: Another multi-tasker…capsaicin, the chemical that
puts the HOT in hot peppers, does more than make your mouth burn; it lowers the
chemicals causing inflammation in your body. At the same time, it causes your
body to produce endorphins to dull your pain.
Rosemary: This herb aids against inflammation by reducing
the body’s response to aggravating factors. Recent studies suggest that people
who eat rosemary benefit from its anti-inflammatory properties, even when eaten
in normal amounts. Try some as a snack tossed with marcona almonds and olive
oil, then lightly roasted…
Garlic: Not content with just one anti-inflammatory chemical
--garlic contains two! Both work by preventing inflammation from occurring in
the first place. Oh, and the smell? Celebrate it; what’s Nonna’s Sunday sauce
without garlic?? All the while, know that the lovely scent of garlic is derived
directly from one of its anti-inflammatory components.
Green tea: Surprisingly, the same chemicals in this
mild-tasting herb that help reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer also
act as anti-inflammatory agents within the body. Hard to believe something so subtle can be so
mighty!
