Natural Remedies for Inflammation.

When you are injured or infected, your body responds almost immediately by dilating arteries and increasing blood flow to the affected area, making it easier for white blood cells, vitamins, nutrients, and hormones to flow into the spaces between cells. The white blood cells neutralize germs and swallow up dead and damaged cells in the infected or injured area to begin the healing process.

This natural immune response is known as inflammation. Although it’s necessary to your overall health, inflammation has its problems, especially in chronic conditions. Inflammation is usually characterized by swelling and redness that can potentially lead to pain and mobility issues. While most forms of inflammation should go away with time and patience, chronic inflammation has been linked to a variety of diseases and disorders.

The good news is that you can help to manage and reduce inflammation through a variety of means. Let’s take a closer look at some natural remedies for inflammation.
Bovine Colostrum
Colostrum is a milk-like fluid that comes from a mammal’s breasts in the first few days after giving birth, before the appearance of true milk. It has been found to be rich in all three micronutrients (protein, fat, carbohydrates) along with various vitamins, minerals, and antibodies.

Bovine colostrum powders and supplements have a wide range of potential uses. The wealth of different nutrients and components in colostrum may help you combat inflammation and its associated pain. Some of the key components that may support anti-inflammatory action include:

Lactoferrin – As a multifunctional protein, lactoferrin has been shown to help prevent certain autoimmune responses that cause increased intestinal permeability and other conditions that promote inflammation. Lactoferrin may also assist in neutralizing germs that trigger inflammatory responses.
Growth factors – Growth factors in colostrum may help to support a variety of healthy functions in the body, like the natural repair of muscles and connective tissues. Growth factors have also been shown to support the healing of the gut lining and may help to counteract the intestinal damage caused by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Proline-rich polypeptides (PRPs) – Proline-rich polypeptides may help to temper an overactive immune response (inflammation) and stimulate an underactive immune response (infection).
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) – MSM is a sulfur-based micronutrient that may support pain relief and the healing of wounds in relation to inflammation.

Vitamin C
You may know vitamin C as a common go-to recommendation for the cold and flu, and it is integral to wound healing for its role in the synthesis of collagen (the main structural protein in skin, muscles, and other connective tissues).

Studies suggest that vitamin C may also help to reduce inflammation. Among other properties, vitamin C is a potent antioxidant. Antioxidants work to neutralize free radicals, which are a product of oxidation within the body. Free radicals can cause damage to cells, tissue, and even your DNA, all of which can trigger your body’s inflammatory response. Taking enough vitamin C can help to counteract the effects of these free radicals. Studies show that vitamin C may also have a direct effect on C-reactive protein, which is a blood test marker for inflammation in the body.

Vitamin C is readily available in a wide range of fruits and vegetables. Most people think of oranges, grapefruit, and other citrus fruits, but bell peppers, broccoli, kiwi and strawberries actually have more vitamin C per serving. Focus more on leafy greens and berries or consider a supplement if you need vitamin C. However, be aware that your body has its vitamin C limits, and too much may lead to stomach irritation and discomfort. To avoid these side effects, choose a liposomal-coated vitamin C supplement which makes more vitamin C bioavailable without irritation.
Curcumin
Curcumin is classified as a curcuminoid and is the main active compound in turmeric, a common spice often used in curry and other foods to impart its characteristic yellow color. Studies suggest that curcumin may possess potent anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce inflammation at the molecular level at various stages of the inflammatory pathway.

For instance, studies have found that curcumin may help to inhibit NF-kappaB, a molecule that travels into a cell’s nucleus and switches on genes leading to inflammation. Curcumin may also help to prevent immune cells from reaching areas of inflammation and reduce the activity of COX2, LOX, and other inflammatory enzymes, thereby preventing the exacerbation of existing inflammation.

Curcumin has also been found to possess powerful antioxidant properties, which promotes the body’s defenses against harmful free radicals.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids refer to three acids that your body can’t produce:

Eicoapentaenoic acid (EPA)
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)
Alpha-linolnic acid (ALA)

Because your body can’t produce these acids naturally, you have to get them from your diet. DHA and EPA are primarily found in salmon, tuna, anchovies, and other fatty fish. ALA is a component in plants and can be found in nuts, flaxseed, and vegetable oils.

Numerous studies have found that omega-3 fatty acids may effectively prevent inflammation, though the exact mechanism of action still requires further research. The best means of obtaining omega-3 fatty acids is to incorporate fatty fish or fish oil supplements into your diet. Specific daily amounts differ based on your personal needs, though most experts recommend not taking more than 3,000 to 5,000 milligrams per day.
Carotenoids
Carotenoids are plant pigment compounds responsible for producing red, yellow, and orange tones in various fruits and vegetables. In plants, carotenoids help with the absorption of light for photosynthesis.

Studies have found that carotenoids may possess anti-inflammatory properties and contribute to a healthier immune system. Beta-cryptoxanthin, a carotenoid typically found in corn, bell peppers, and other yellow foods, has been studied for its antioxidant functions, which may help in the fight against inflammation.
Bromelain
Bromelain is an enzyme that is derived from components of the pineapple plant. Studies have found that this protein-digesting enzyme may act as a potent anti-inflammatory, though the exact mechanisms of action require further research. Initial studies suggest that bromelain eliminates the receptors on immune cells that react to inflammatory signals. By interrupting these signals, bromelain may help to reduce existing inflammation and promote resistance to inflammation.

At best, inflammation can cause pain and discomfort. At worst, it can contribute to long-term, potentially debilitating disorders. By utilizing home remedies and following a healthy lifestyle, you can potentially increase your defenses to prevent or actively combat chronic inflammation.

Sources:

https://www.livescience.com/52344-inflammation.html
http://www.sovereignlaboratories.com/blog/colostrum-help-reduce-inflammation-pain/
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/inflammation-fighting-vitamins#1
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-10-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-turmeric
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-10-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-turmeric
https://examine.com/supplements/curcumin/
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/do-fish-oil-supplements-reduce-inflammation
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/how-much-omega-3
https://www.livescience.com/52487-carotenoids.html
https://www.healthline.com/health/bromelain
https://examine.com/supplements/bromelain/

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