5 Plants With Anti-Inflammatory Properties You Should Know

Inflammation is a natural body function in response to injury and infection, though chronic inflammation can cause a host of health problems. Adding plants that have natural properties to alleviate inflammation to your nutritional or health regimen can help regulate these levels effectively. Here are five inflammatory plants and their functions.

5 Plants With Anti-Inflammatory Properties You Should Know

1. Turmeric

The most popular anti-inflammatory plant in the world is turmeric. Curcumin is another name for its active agent curcumin. Curcumin is a bioactive agent which counteracts inflammation on a molecular level.

• How it works: Curcumin interferes with NF-kB, a substance that can migrate into your cells' nuclei and activate genes involved in the inflammatory process.

• Pro Tip: Turmeric must be taken with black pepper. 

2. Ginger

Closely related to turmeric is ginger, which has been used for centuries to alleviate joint and digestive problems.

• How it works: Ginger contains gingerol; suppresses the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (proteins in the immune system).

• Health Benefit: Excessively effective in easing muscle pains caused by rigorous exercise and for relieving osteoarthritis symptoms.

3. Green Tea

Green tea is rich in polyphenols, a particular one being EGCG (Epigallocatechin-3-gallate)

• How it works: EGCG suppresses the production of cytokines and the damage that would have occurred to your fatty acids.

• Health Benefit: Promotes a lowered risk of cardiovascular and inflammatory disorders such as eczema and acne.

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4. Rose

In addition to being an aromatic herb, Rosemary is also very rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds such as Rosmarinic acid and Carnsic acid.

• How it works: It can prevent the activation of the inflammatory cells in the blood while also protecting against oxidative stress.

• Usage: Use rosemary in your food or rosemary essential oil (after dilution) to treat sore muscles.

5. Aloe Vera 

While most people know Aloe Vera for sunburns, its anti-inflammatory properties work internally and externally.

• How it works: It contains C-glucosyl chromone, a potent anti-inflammatory compound, and Bradykinase, an enzyme that reduces excessive inflammation when applied topically.

• Health Benefit: When used as a gel, it reduces skin redness and swelling; when consumed as a juice (food grade), it can help soothe inflammatory bowel issues.

Image credits: Freepik

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