What can inflammation do to body and herbs that can reduce it – Times of India
The body uses inflammation as a natural defence mechanism to heal and defend itself as needed. On the other hand, persistent inflammation can lead to a number of medical issues. It might include everything from persistent fatigue to more significant issues like heart disease. Following is everything that you need to know about the impact of inflammation on the body and introduce some powerful herbs that can help reduce it naturally.
What is inflammation?
Inflammation is the body’s reaction to potentially hazardous stimuli such as infections, injuries, or toxins.It is part of the immune system’s process to combat these toxic chemicals and restore damaged tissue. There are two kinds of inflammation:
Acute inflammation: A short-term reaction that helps heal injuries or infections quickly. For instance, if you cut yourself, the area might swell, turn red, and feel warm—these are classic signs of acute inflammation.
Chronic inflammation: This occurs when the body’s inflammatory response continues long after the injury or infection has been resolved. It can last for months or even years, leading to, well potential damage to tissues and organs.
How chronic inflammation affects the body
Acute inflammation aids in the body’s healing process, while chronic inflammation can be detrimental. It eventually plays a role in the emergence of various illnesses, including:
Heart disease: Chronic inflammation can contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, significantly increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Diabetes: Inflammation can interfere with insulin’s effectiveness in managing blood sugar, which may lead to the development of type 2 diabetes.
Arthritis: Ongoing inflammation in the joints is often responsible for the severe swelling and stiffness characteristic of arthritis.
Digestive disorders: Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are frequently linked to chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.
Cancer: long-term DNA damage caused by persistent inflammation may contribute to the development of several cancers.
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Common causes of inflammation
Inflammation can be triggered by several factors, including:
- Unhealthy diet: Foods heavy in artificial additives, processed fats, and sugar can raise inflammation levels.
- Lack of exercise: A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to higher levels of inflammation, while regular physical activity helps regulate the body’s immune response and reduces inflammation.
- Stress: Prolonged stress elevates cortisol levels, which can lead to increased inflammation throughout the body.
- Environmental toxins: Exposure to harmful substances like chemicals, cigarette smoke, or pollution can trigger inflammatory responses.
Herbs that can reduce inflammation
There are several natural herbs that have powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Adding these herbs into our diet can help us deal with inflammation and guide us towards better overall health. Here are a few key herbs:
Turmeric: Celebrated for its active ingredient curcumin, turmeric is a strong anti-inflammatory agent. It works by reducing inflammation at the molecular level and is commonly recommended for those suffering from arthritis or joint pain.
Ginger: A well-known herb, ginger boasts compounds called gingerols, which offers potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. It’s widely used to combat inflammation and support overall health.
Cinnamon: More than just a flavorful spice, cinnamon has been found to reduce inflammation in the body. It’s especially useful for balancing blood sugar levels and can help lower the risk of heart disease.
Green tea: Rich in antioxidants like catechins, green tea is renowned for its anti-inflammatory benefits. Regular consumption has been connected to reducing inflammation and lowering the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
Black pepper: The compound piperine, found in black pepper, has strong anti-inflammatory effects. When paired with turmeric, it greatly increases the absorption of curcumin, amplifying its health benefits.
