7 Common Herbs to Fight Inflammation & Reduce Pain

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! 

Remember that you should always consult a doctor before using herbs as a medical treatment.  The fantastic thing about these herbs and spices is that, like rosemary, they lend their benefits even when eaten in ordinary amounts!  No need for expensive supplements when you incorporate healthy, natural herbs into your diet. Spice up your cooking or enjoy a relaxing herbal tea containing some of these miracle foods, your body will thank you for it.