Spices and Inflammation

Did you know that inflammation plays a major role in just about every chronic disease? Arthritis, fibromyalgia, back pain, and cancer are just to name a few. Inflammation can ruin any chance of recovery from even the most basic illnesses or injuries. You can sit back and hope for inflammation to go away on its own or you can fight back with some of the best natural anti-inflammatory spices and supplements known to science. Here are just a few to get you started

Turmeric
Turmeric is a brilliant yellow spice common in Indian cuisine that you can find in any grocery store. Turmeric has been used as a medicine for centuries to treat wounds, infections, colds, and liver disease. Studies have shown that curcumin, a compound in turmeric, may reduce inflammation in the body. Simply sprinkling some of this seasoning onto your food or buying yourself a daily supplement should help with any inflammation you have ocurring. Turmeric is available in powdered form as a culinary spice, and in tablets and capsules as medicinal extracts. It should be labeled as standardized turmeric extract or the compound, curcumin.
Recommended dosage: Adults can take 400 to 600 mg of turmeric extract three times per day or as directed on the product label. The dried spice is not effective for treating specific conditions but is good for general health.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a popular spice often used to flavor baked treats. But cinnamon is more than just a delicious additive in our cakes. Studies have shown that the spice has anti-inflammatory properties, which can ease swelling. Keep a good supply of cinnamon on hand and sprinkle it in your coffee or tea, and on top of your breakfast cereal.
Recommended dosage: Some recommend 1/2 to 1 teaspoon (2-4 grams) of powder a day. Some studies have used between 1 gram and 6 grams of cinnamon.
Ginger
Ginger root is commonly ground into powder and added to sweet and savory dishes. It’s also commonly used to treat indigestion and nausea, including morning sickness. Two components of ginger, gingerol and zingerone, may reduce the inflammation linked to colitis, kidney damage, diabetes and breast cancer. There’s evidence suggesting ginger supplements can decrease inflammation and muscle soreness after exercise!
Recommended dosage: 1 gram daily, but up to 2 grams is considered safe
Not recommended for: People who take aspirin or other blood thinners, unless authorized by a doctor.
Garlic
The anti-inflammatory properties of garlic have been proven to ease arthritis symptoms. A little bit can go a long way. Use fresh garlic in almost any savory dish for added flavor and health benefits.If the taste is too much for you, roast a head of garlic for a sweeter, milder flavor.
Recommended dosage: 2 to 5 g of fresh raw garlic; 0.4 to 1.2 g of dried garlic powder; 2 to 5 mg garlic oil; 300 to 1,000 mg of garlic extract (as solid material).