Erbil (Kurdistan 24) – Inflammation is a natural immune response that helps the body protect itself. However, chronic inflammation may affect long-term health, increasing your risk of developing multiple health problems, such as joint pain, heart disease, and diabetes.
While many people turn to anti-inflammatory medications, recent studies suggest that some common spices may help reduce inflammation naturally.
Here are 10 types of these spices, according to a report by the Health Scientific website:
Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound associated with lowering levels of inflammation. Curcumin also has antioxidant properties that help protect cells from damage.
In a 2023 study, taking turmeric (curcumin) supplements significantly reduced levels of inflammatory markers, including C-reactive protein (CRP).
Turmeric gives the best results when taken with black pepper, which facilitates the body’s absorption of curcumin.
Ginger
Ginger has a long history of being used to improve digestion and reduce inflammation. It contains natural compounds, including shogaol and gingerol, that help inhibit inflammatory pathways and lower levels of inflammatory proteins.
These same compounds have also been shown to inhibit pain receptors, with studies showing that ginger may help relieve muscle pain, joint stiffness, and digestive disorders.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is rich in antioxidants, including cinnamaldehyde, which help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation.
They may also help maintain healthy blood sugar levels, which may contribute to managing inflammation in the long term.
Garlic
Garlic contains sulfur compounds, which help reduce inflammation and support immune health.
Research suggests that garlic may also help slow the activity of viruses by interfering with how viruses enter cells and spread.
Cayenne pepper
Cayenne pepper (a type of hot pepper) derives its heat from capsaicin, a compound associated with reducing inflammation.
When used topically, it may also help relieve pain, according to studies.
Black pepper
Black pepper contains piperine, a compound that may help reduce inflammation and improve the absorption of other nutrients.
Research suggests that piperine may also help lower total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.
Cloves
Cloves are rich in antioxidants, especially eugenol, which may help support the body’s inflammatory response.
Some studies have also pointed to the potential anti-cancer, anti-bacterial, and pain-relieving effects of eugenol.
Rosemary
Rosemary contains an antioxidant compound called rosmarinic acid, which may help protect against inflammation and oxidative stress, and has also been linked to brain and heart health benefits.
Rosemary may also help reduce inflammation in the intestines and protect against stomach ulcers.
Saffron
Saffron contains antioxidants such as crocin and safranal, which may help reduce inflammation.
Some research also indicates that saffron may improve mood by increasing the secretion of mood-enhancing chemicals in the brain.
Cardamom
Cardamom contains plant compounds and oils with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Studies have shown that eating 3 grams of cardamom daily is associated with improving cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Its consumption has also been associated with reduced indicators of inflammation and oxidative stress in people with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes.
date:2026-02-14 06:31:00