Natural Remedies for Inflammation that Work

Inflammation is a very serious problem when not dealt with. Natural remedies for inflammation are far more superior to common remedies. Inflammation is natural; it is part of the body's defense to injury or infection. Inflammation comes in the form of redness, swelling, pain and heat. Natural treatments for inflammation help with the body's natural defenses. Most drug based treatments work against the body's natural defenses.

The best alternative therapy for inflammation is as simple as changing your diet. Include more Omega 3 fatty acids and less omega 6 fatty acids. Omega 6 helps the body produce inflammation naturally. Omega 3 stops inflammation naturally. Increasing omega 3 fatty acids and reducing omega 6 can be as simple as changing your cooking oil. Use olive oil, and cold pressed canola oil. Cold water fish such as salmon and mackerel also contain large amounts of omega 3 fatty acids. During times of inflammation reducing omega 6 alone can help naturally fight inflammation.

Another natural remedy for inflammation is Ginger. It has been known for centuries to have strong anti-inflammatory properties. According to the National Institutes of Health in the past 25 years research has proved this. Ginger has pharmacological similarities with NSAID's non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs. This natural remedy for inflammation is capable of more than NSAID's and does not have the side effects. Ginger as a natural treatment for inflammation comes either fresh or as an extract. Even ginger snaps if made with Ginger and not made from artificial flavor can be beneficial. Using ginger as a spice in cooking is a great way to use this natural remedy for inflammation.

Arnica is another natural treatment for inflammation. Arnica is generally used externally and applied to the affected area in the form of a cream, salve, ointment or tincture. According to University of Maryland medical center Arnica has been used medicinally since the 1500's. It is only taken internally in a much diluted form.

St. John's Wort is also a natural remedy for inflammation. It is very popular as a natural remedy for mild depression. This natural remedy can be applied externally as cream to reduce inflammation caused by insect bites, cuts and wounds. St. John's Wort has antibacterial properties which are believed to help in the reduction of inflammation of skin irritation.

Garlic as a natural remedy for inflammation is very effective. Garlic is great against joint inflammation. Garlic can be used as you would expect simply as an ingredient to your food. Garlic can also be used externally. According to Soul-Guidance.com in 1916 the British government used garlic bulbs to help heal wounded soldiers. It was applied to the soldier's wounds and not one case of sepsis occurred in those treated this way.

Cayenne has been used to naturally treat inflammation as well. Cayenne has circulatory improving properties and it is believed these properties are helpful in the natural reduction of inflammation. Cayenne is used generally for throat inflammation and is available as a spray.

All of these natural remedies for treating inflammation have been effective for hundreds and even thousands of years. The most important thing is to increase omega 3 and reduce omega 6 in the diet. As always, when working with medicine herbal or not consult a physician when in doubt. When having an inflammation episode, stopping the intake of omega 6 is often recommended. Good Luck!

Sources:

National Institutes of Health

University of Maryland Medical Center

Soul-Guidance.com

Healthline.com