Can Herbal Medicine Improve Inflammation in Your Body?

There is good news... herbal medicine can assist with improving chronic or acute inflammation within our bodies. Continue reading below to discover the science behind inflammation and how Eastern Medicine can have an effect on how our bodies respond.

In order to answer this question, let’s talk about what inflammation is.  Inflammation is a natural response of the body's immune system to injury, infection, or irritation. It is a protective mechanism that helps the body defend itself against harmful stimuli and promote healing. When tissues are damaged or infected, the immune system responds by releasing chemicals called cytokines, which signal the body to increase blood flow to the affected area. This increased blood flow brings white blood cells to the site of injury or infection, where they work to remove damaged cells, pathogens, and other debris.

While acute inflammation is a normal and necessary process for healing, chronic inflammation can be harmful and contribute to the development of various diseases. Chronic inflammation occurs when the immune system becomes overactive and continues to produce inflammatory chemicals even when there is no ongoing threat or injury. Chronic inflammation has been linked to conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, arthritis, Alzheimer's disease, and cancer.

Symptoms of inflammation can include redness, swelling, pain, heat, and loss of function in the affected area. However, inflammation can also occur internally and may not always cause noticeable symptoms. Chronic inflammation, in particular, can manifest as low-grade symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, digestive issues, and recurring infections.

The good news is that chronic inflammation can be addressed with herbal medicine through various approaches that target inflammation directly or address underlying factors contributing to inflammation. Here are just a fraction of herbs commonly used to reduce inflammation:  Turmeric, ginger, boswellia, green tea, licorice root, chamomile, rosemary, and devil’s claw. 

It's important to note that while herbal remedies can be effective in reducing inflammation and improving your immune system, they may not be suitable for everyone and may interact with certain medications.  It's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or qualified herbalist before using herbal remedies, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications. Additionally, incorporating a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management techniques, and other lifestyle modifications can also help reduce inflammation and promote overall health and well-being.  

In summary, inflammation is a normal and necessary response of the body's immune system to injury, infection, or irritation. While acute inflammation is beneficial and helps promote healing, chronic inflammation can be harmful and contribute to the development of various diseases. Garden Root Remedy has many products to help manage inflammation. 

Products that not only are anti-inflammatory, but also have antioxidant properties include Fire Cider, Multivitamin (capsule and tincture form), Holy Mushroom, Aah Choo (tincture & tea), Ironman (tincture & capsules), Good Morning Sunshine, and Immune Boosting capsules. 

We are pleased to be able to provide these products to assist on your wellness journey.

Be Well & Take Care!

Maria Nasta, MSN, FNP-C

Owner + Founder, Clinical Herbalist

"Rooted in Nature, Blooming with Wellness."

Originally published: June 19, 2024

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FDA warning: This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

 Always check with your doctor before using a new product or supplement if you have any questions or concerns about how a product may affect your current health, medications, pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

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