Natural Remedies to help Reduce Inflammation

Our friends at Vega have created this list of natural herbs that can help reduce inflammation after an arduous exercise routine, or even after an injury.

There are many herbs
that contain
anti-inflammatory qualities.

Hippocrates, the founding father of modern medicine, famously stated “Let food by thy medicine, and medicine be thy food”. This is not truer than when it comes to reducing inflammation. While inflammation is a natural response to exercise and injury, reducing it can help us recover quickly (leading to better results and strength gains), as well as increasing our overall health.

While many people turn straight to Advil®, and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), to reduce inflammation; turning to natural and often delicious spices and herbs can be very effective. Whether we are adding these spices and herbs to our meals (i.e. turmeric in traditional Indian cuisine), or taking them in supplemental doses, it is important that we realize how these specific ingredients can help our overall well-being. 

CAYENNE
All peppers, including cayenne, contain capsaicin – a potent inhibitor of substance-P (a neuropeptide associated with the inflammatory process). Don’t be afraid to order it extra spicy – the hotter the pepper, the more capsaicin it contains.

GINGER

Ginger contains gingerols, powerful antioxidants that help reduce inflammation.

GARLIC

The sulfur compound allicin in garlic promotes cellular rejuvenation and healing.Garlic also has high amounts of diallyl sulfide (DAS) and thiacremonone anti-inflammatory compounds. A single clove of garlic offers a stew of compounds that are known to lower inflammation and increase circulation, such as phosphorus, selenium, zinc, polyphenols, arginine and vitamins B6 and C.

ROSEMARY

A savoury herb, rosemary contains substances that are useful for stimulating the immune system, increasing circulation, and improving digestion (all elements needed for reducing inflammation).

TURMERIC

One of India’s most treasured spices, turmeric contains curcumin – an anti-inflammatory powerhouse that also reduces muscle and joint pain.

Recipe Feature: Watermelon Ginger Zing

This beverage is a great choice if you are experiencing joint or muscle inflammation. Not only is it a natural anti-inflammatory, ginger can also support effective circulatory function. This is a wonderful addition to your everyday hydration and can also be consumed either before or after exercise.

Ingredients

1 cup fresh Watermelon, diced or cubed
1½ cups chilled Berry-flavoured Tea (Herbal or Green), such as pomegranate,acai, or raspberry
1 tsp fresh ginger (minced or solid)
1 tsp coconut sugar
1 pinch unrefined, sea salt or dulse

Directions

Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
As you pour the liquid into your drinking bottle, strain the pulp with a fine mesh strainer.