The 13 Best Herbs for Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is considered one of the leading factors for disease-related deaths in the world.  This article looks at the scientific research behind the best herbs for inflammation and supporting …

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Written by: Siobhan Mendicino
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Medical Review by: Daniel Powers, MS
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IN THIS ARTICLE

Chronic inflammation is considered one of the leading factors for disease-related deaths in the world. 

This article looks at the scientific research behind the best herbs for inflammation and supporting a balanced inflammatory response.

herbs for reducing inflammation

Inflammation Overview:

Inflammation is a key part of your body’s natural healing process. It’s a biological response controlled by the immune system that works to protect and heal the body.

There are two different types of inflammation: acute inflammation and chronic inflammation.

Acute Inflammation

Acute inflammation, also known as short-term inflammation, happens quickly and supports the transportation of immune cells to a recently injured area. Redness to an injured area indicates that there is an influx of blood and immune cells are being rushed to the area to support the healing process.

Chronic Inflammation

Chronic inflammation occurs over time and is a result of the body’s inability to heal or overcome an injury. Consistent inflammation can cause tissue to harden, die off, and scar. This can lead to a number of health complications that will often trigger degrading or fatal diseases.

Causes of Inflammation:

The inflammatory response happens when the body is exposed to trauma, toxins, infection, and/or physical overuse.

Typical symptoms of inflammation include:

  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Pain
  • Warmness
  • Stiffness

Health complications can often lead to inflammation and are characterized by the suffix “-itis” in the medical community (i.e. “arthritis”).

Common causes of inflammation include: 

  • Bacteria, fungi, or viruses
  • Blunt or penetrating trauma (scrapes, wounds, bruises, etc…)
  • Radiation or chemical exposure
  • Persistent and consistent use of a body part
  • Autoimmune diseases (recognizing a normal part of the body as a foreign invader)

Negative Effects of Inflammation:

While acute or short-term inflammation supports the body’s healing process, continuous inflammation or chronic inflammation is the body’s signal that something is wrong.

If inflammation persists, it could lead to disease comp