Today, we will dig deeper into some of the best anti-inflammatory herbs and spices, what they do, and how you can incorporate them into your diet.
Turmeric is excellent for fighting everything from allergies to arthritis and has been used for centuries in Indian and Chinese medicine. This is mainly because of the curcumin, but turmeric also has over two dozen other anti-inflammatory compounds. It’s yellow in color and readily found in many health food stores. You can add this to your meals, drink turmeric tea, or take it encapsulated.
Ginger is another one that has been used for centuries for general aches and pains, to soothe sore muscles, and fight fatigue. You can use it fresh or in powder form, and it’s great for those days you’re feeling under the weather. Ginger is easy to throw into any traditional Asian dish. Keep some on hand for those days you wake up with a sore throat.
Capsaicin is the compound that is responsible for the therapeutic properties of Cayenne Pepper, as well as its spicy taste. This is more widely used in creams and ointments and works with the nerve cells that communicate pain to the brain.
Cinnamon has many benefits, with the most popular being the anti-inflammatory properties that can lessen the likelihood of cellular damage. Cinnamon also thwarts abnormal cell growth, which helps to protect us against illness.
Cloves are the sister to cinnamon but are much more potent. Cloves protect against the inflammation that can cause discomfort, so finding ways to add cloves to your diet is beneficial. Fresh cloves can be grated and added to food and drink. Some tout it as a great anti-fungal, as well.
Changing what is happening in your gut often changes what is happening in your body. Incorporating these herbs and spices into your daily diet is an easy way to put yourself on the road to better health and less inflammation.
You are as important to your health as it is to you!
These are easy to add to your favorite recipes, giving them even more flavor and health benefits. Try searching for recipes online using these ingredients if you need some new ideas. Chai tea is a great option to get many of these in one place and a simple addition to your daily routine.
Your Plant Based Kitchen Coach,
Teri
Check out my Whole Food Plant Based course PURE!