Used in Asian medicine and cuisine for centuries, ginger has anti-inflammatory properties. They include the ability to suppress inflammatory molecules called leukotrienes and to synthesize prostaglandins , which are hormone-like substances that cause pain and inflammation, according to research published in the journal Arthritis.

In one study , 70 patients with rheumatoid arthritis took either 1, milligrams mg of ginger powder or a placebo for 12 weeks. Results of this research suggested that ginger may improve RA symptoms by affecting the expression of certain genes.

Try stir-frying a chicken or veggie dish with chopped fresh ginger, eating fresh pickled ginger, or adding grated ginger to soups or smoothies. Galina Roofener , a licensed acupuncturist and Chinese herbalist, agrees that ginger can be a beneficial part of your plan to alleviate joint pain caused by arthritis and recommends working with a trained herbalist.

Find one near you with the directory of the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine NCCAOM. A fragrant herb that has high antioxidant capabilities, thyme has a rich history as a food flavoring.

In fact, thyme was found to be the most commonly used herbal medicine among people with RA, according to a study. A sprig of fresh thyme can be a flavorful addition to meat, poultry, bean, tomato, or egg dishes, as well as soups and stews.

A review published in of 51 studies found curcumin the active ingredient that gives turmeric its yellow color to have anti-inflammatory effects on RA. Want to try turmeric? Add it to soups, stews, and curry dishes. Helpful hint: Combining turmeric with black pepper helps your body absorb the yellow spice even better, according to research.

For optimal absorption, it is best taken with food. Remember to consult with your doctor before starting on turmeric. Roofener cautions that because turmeric has blood-thinning properties, it should be avoided in large doses if you take a blood-thinning medicine.

Consumed in Asia for millennia, green tea contains polyphenols, which are antioxidant-rich substances that can help reduce inflammation, protect joints, and trigger changes in immune responses that would ease the severity of arthritis. Research on arthritis-induced rats compared the effects of green tea and black tea on arthritis and found that green tea extract had superior anti-inflammatory effects.

So treat yourself to a daily tea break with a cup of hot green tea, iced green tea, or even a cup of matcha, using a powder made from ground green tea leaves. Related: Can Drinking Tea Help Ease Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms?

A delicious spice, cinnamon has powerful antioxidant properties that help inhibit cell damage from free radicals. Another study also found that supplementation with cinnamon lessened C-reactive protein levels and other biomarkers for inflammation and oxidative stress, which occur in people with RA.

The authors of this research concluded that cinnamon supplementation may enhance the reduction of inflammation and oxidative stress levels in humans.

Related: Cinnamon May Be a Safe Way to Reduce RA Symptoms. Dried cinnamon can be added to oatmeal , smoothies, soups, stews, or even oranges for a delicious and healthy dessert. Cinnamon sticks can be added to teas or ciders for an extra flavor infusion.

Sliced, minced, or chopped, fresh garlic can liven up any dish and may help ease rheumatoid arthritis pain. Like leeks and onions, garlic contains diallyl disulfide, an anti-inflammatory compound that decreases the effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Research has found that the administration of garlic has anti-arthritic activity — preventing cartilage destruction and reducing inflammation — in arthritis-induced rats.

In one study , 70 women were randomly assigned to take either mg of garlic powder tablets twice a day or a placebo for eight weeks. At the end of the study period, those who took the garlic reported significantly lower pain intensity and fatigue scores. They also had lower levels of C-reactive protein and tumor necrosis factor TNF , which are proteins involved in inflammation.

Related: Pain Management in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Garlic can be added to many foods, including pasta dishes, roasted chicken or vegetables, stir-fries, and sandwich spreads. But did you know that black pepper, including piperine, its active compound, has bona fide health benefits?

Research has found that black pepper has antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and gastro-protective effects. One study suggested that the administration of piperic acid has anti-inflammatory effects, inhibiting swelling and the production of cytokines in animals. Other research has found that piperine administration relieved inflammation, pain, and other symptoms of arthritis in animals.

Related: Rheumatoid Arthritis and Your Diet: What to Consider. Cayenne and other chili peppers contain capsaicinoids, which are natural compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, according to the Arthritis Foundation.

Many ointments and creams containing capsaicin the main ingredient in cayenne are available to relieve arthritis pain. One study found that capsaicin cream was just as effective as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs NSAIDs at reducing pain for people with osteoarthritis.

You can add cayenne pepper to sauces, marinades, and rubs. Or simply sprinkle dried cayenne onto your favorite dish. But beware: This spice can be hot and may irritate the digestive tract.

Cayenne may interact with different medicines, so be sure to talk to your doctor before trying this supplement. Willow bark has significant anti-inflammatory properties and reduces various markers of inflammation, according to research. In one study , researchers gave willow bark extract to people with rheumatic pain due to osteoarthritis and back pain and saw a significant reduction in pain after three weeks.

Roofener stresses that you should consult with your doctor before taking willow bark, as it may increase the action of aspirin or an NSAID. Derived from the bark of the Boswellia tree, found in India and North Africa, Indian frankincense has strong anti-inflammatory properties as well as analgesic effects.

It also may help prevent cartilage loss. Technically, this substance is a seafood extract not an herb that is touted for inflammation-fighting properties. Nutritional supplements containing extracts from the New Zealand green-lipped mussel Perna canaliculus are rich in omega-3 fatty acids , which have anti-inflammatory effects.

So it stands to reason that these supplements could be helpful for RA; however, little research has been done in people, and so far results from studies in animals and humans have been mixed, according to the Arthritis Foundation.

The oil comes from the seeds of the evening primrose plant, which is native to certain parts of North and South America. Research has suggested that evening primrose oil could reduce symptoms of RA, but the results were inconsistent.

If you are interested in trying evening primrose supplements, the Arthritis Foundation suggests a dosage of 2. Related: Home Remedies and Alternative Treatments for Rheumatoid Arthritis. Used for hundreds of years in traditional Chinese medicine, thunder god vine reduces inflammation from autoimmune diseases, including RA, when taken as an oral extract.

One review found that treatment with thunder god vine aka Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F was superior to conventional drugs, including sulfasalazine Azulfidine and methotrexate Trexall , in treating RA symptoms. However, thunder god vine should never be used as a substitute for standard RA treatments.

Research has found that taking ashwagandha powder followed by treatment with Sidh Makardhwaj another type of Indian medicine with herbal and mineral ingredients eases pain and joint swelling in people with rheumatoid arthritis.

The dosage will depend on the type you take. Alschuler says ashwagandha is generally safe for people with RA. However, patients should consult with their doctors if they are taking diabetes or thyroid medicines, as the supplement could cause an additive effect.

Additionally, pregnant women should talk to their providers before taking ashwagandha. To keep it that way, she advises using herbs or supplements at least two hours before or after taking your medication. If you want to use them in high doses as medicine, make sure to check with your doctor first, she adds, or work with a Board Certified Traditional Chinese Herbalist.

After all, some herbal supplements can cause unpleasant side effects or interact with medication you may be taking. Additional reporting by Julie Marks , Madeline Vann, MPH , and Stacey Colino.

Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed studies, board-certified medical experts, patients with lived experience, and information from top institutions.

Health Conditions A-Z. Best Oils for Skin Complementary Approaches Emotional Wellness Fitness and Exercise Healthy Skin Online Therapy Reiki Healing Resilience Sleep Sexual Health Self Care Yoga Poses See All.

Atkins Diet DASH Diet Golo Diet Green Tea Healthy Recipes Intermittent Fasting Intuitive Eating Jackfruit Ketogenic Diet Low-Carb Diet Mediterranean Diet MIND Diet Paleo Diet Plant-Based Diet See All. Consumer's Guides: Understand Your Treatments Albuterol Inhalation Ventolin Amoxicillin Amoxil Azithromycin Zithromax CoQ10 Coenzyme Q Ibuprofen Advil Levothyroxine Synthroid Lexapro Escitalopram Lipitor Atorvastatin Lisinopril Zestril Norvasc Amlodipine Prilosec Omeprazole Vitamin D3 Xanax Alprazolam Zoloft Sertraline Drug Reviews See All.

Health Tools. Body Type Quiz Find a Doctor - EverydayHealth Care Hydration Calculator Menopause Age Calculator Symptom Checker Weight Loss Calculator. See All.

DailyOM Courses. About DailyOM Most Popular Courses New Releases Trending Courses See All. Rheumatoid Arthritis. By Chris Iliades, MD. Medically Reviewed. Beth Biggee, MD of American College of Lifestyle Medicine.

You can also take green tea extract supplements, which provide a concentrated source of EGCG. Known for its strong flavour and numerous health benefits, garlic is a potent anti-inflammatory herb, a widely used culinary ingredient, and has been a part of traditional medicine for centuries.

The active compound in garlic, allicin, has been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and blocks the activity of enzymes like lipoxygenase and COX-2 [4]. Beyond its anti-inflammatory properties, other benefits of garlic include supporting cardiovascular health, improving immune function, and exhibiting antimicrobial properties.

Incorporate garlic into your daily routine by adding fresh, minced cloves to various dishes. If you prefer to consume garlic in supplement form, you can take it in tablets, capsules, or extracts. Also known as Indian ginseng or winter cherry, ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years.

Known for its ability to help the body adapt to stress and support overall well-being, ashwagandha has also been found to possess anti-inflammatory properties.

The active compounds in ashwagandha, known as withanolides, have been shown to modulate the immune system's inflammatory response by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reducing the activity of nuclear factor-kappa B NF-kB [5]. It can also improve the body's resilience to stress, which can help reduce inflammation indirectly, as chronic stress has been linked to increased inflammation.

Ashwagandha can be taken as powder, capsules, tablets, or extracts. The root extract usually contains the highest concentrations.

Cinnamon is derived from the bark of trees belonging to the Cinnamomum genus and is available in two main varieties: Ceylon and Cassia. The active compounds in cinnamon, such as cinnamaldehyde and various polyphenols, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and block the activity of enzymes like COX Additionally, cinnamon has antioxidant properties that help neutralise free radicals, further reducing inflammation in the body [6].

You can sprinkle ground cinnamon on oatmeal, yoghurt, or fruit or add it to smoothies, teas, and coffee for a warming flavour.

Cooking and baking with cinnamon is another excellent way to enjoy its anti-inflammatory benefits. Alternatively, it is available in capsules, tablets, and extracts.

When choosing a cinnamon supplement, opt for one made from Ceylon cinnamon, as it contains lower levels of coumarin, a natural compound that can be harmful in large amounts.

Rosemary is a fragrant herb with several bioactive compounds, including rosmarinic acid, carnosic acid, and carnosol, which possess strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in conditions including atopic dermatitis, osteoarthritis, asthma, gum disease, and others [7].

These compounds work by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and blocking the activity of COX-2 and lipoxygenase enzymes. You can use rosemary as a seasoning for meats, vegetables, and sauces. Alternatively, you can take rosemary supplements, which are available in capsule, tablet, and extract forms, or prepare rosemary-infused tea for a soothing and aromatic beverage.

Holy basil, or tulsi, is an adaptogenic herb traditionally used to fight viral, bacterial, and fungal infections, combat stress, and promote overall health.

It contains various bioactive compounds, including eugenol, rosmarinic acid, and ursolic acid, demonstrating anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in human studies [8].

You can consume holy basil as tea, made from fresh or dried leaves, or take it as a supplement in capsule or tablet form. The primary active compound in liquorice, glycyrrhizin, has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and modulating the immune response [9].

Liquorice supplements are available in various forms, such as capsules, tablets, and extracts, or you can consume dried liquorice root as a tea. Be cautious when using liquorice, as excessive consumption may lead to side effects, including high blood pressure and low potassium levels.

Boswellia, also known as Indian frankincense, is a resin derived from the bark of the Boswellia serrata tree. It has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to treat inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease.

The active compounds in Boswellia, called boswellic acids, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, including 5-lipoxygenase and leukotrienes [10].

Boswellia supplements are available in various forms, such as capsules, tablets, and extracts. Cat's claw is a woody vine native to the Amazon rainforest and has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. The active compounds in cat's claw, including oxindole alkaloids, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-alpha [11].

When using cat's claw, it's essential to choose a product standardised to contain a specific percentage of oxindole alkaloids for consistent potency. Cayenne pepper, a popular spice derived from the dried pods of chilli peppers, is known for its characteristic heat and pungent flavour. Beyond its culinary uses, cayenne pepper has been utilised in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits.

The active compound responsible for cayenne pepper's anti-inflammatory effects is capsaicin, which has been found to inhibit the production of substance P, a neuropeptide involved in pain and inflammatory processes. Capsaicin has also been shown to block the activity of the enzyme COX-2, reducing inflammation in the body [12].

Add cayenne pepper to dishes to provide a spicy kick and boost of flavour. Start with a small amount and gradually increase it according to your taste preferences and tolerance for heat. If you prefer a cayenne pepper supplement, look for one that is standardised to contain a specific percentage of capsaicin, usually between 0.

Willow bark has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for pain and inflammation. It contains salicin, a compound metabolised in the body into salicylic acid, the active ingredient in aspirin. Salicin has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and blocking the activity of COX-2 enzymes [13].

Willow bark supplements are available in capsule, tablet, or extract form. It's essential to follow the recommended dosage on the product label, as excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal upset or bleeding. Fenugreek is native to the Mediterranean region and Asia and has a long history in traditional medicine for its diverse health benefits.

The aromatic herb is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, such as improving digestive health and blood sugar control. The active compounds in fenugreek, including various alkaloids, saponins, and flavonoids, have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and suppressing the activation of nuclear factor-kappa B NF-kB.

You can use turmeric and black pepper in your food, in tea or with honey and lukewarm water. Clove: You can use clove oil externally for pain relief and clove tea to combat internal inflammation.

Jul 20, PM IST. Share Via. In pics: Reduce inflammation naturally with these 6 foods Clove to fenugreek; here are some anti-inflammatory herbs that are an essential addition to your daily diet Pinterest. Discover the thrill of cricket like never before, exclusively on HT. Explore now!

SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON. Share this article. Inflammation Ayurveda. Whatsapp Twitter Facebook Linkedin. Join Hindustan Times Create free account and unlock exciting features like Newsletters, Alerts and Recommendations Get personalised news and exciting deals Bookmark the stories you want to read later.

Already have an account? Sign In. About Us Contact us Terms of use Privacy policy Weather Today HT Newsletters Subscription Disclaimer Print Ad Rates Code of Ethics Site Map RSS Feeds.

OPEN APP. How Well Do You Sleep? Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Turmeric and Other Anti-Inflammatory Spices. Medically reviewed by George Krucik, MD, MBA — By Mary Ellen Ellis — Updated on May 30, Turmeric Ginger Cinnamon Garlic Cayenne Black pepper Clove Anti-inflammatory spices like black pepper and turmeric may help reduce chronic inflammation and pain, though the evidence is mixed.

Black pepper. How we reviewed this article: Sources. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

May 30, Written By Mary Ellen Ellis. Jan 26, Medically Reviewed By George Krucik, MD, MBA. Share this article. Read this next.

By Kris Gunnars, BSc. The Best Alternative Medicine Apps of the Year For advice and information on alternative and complementary treatments, these apps can be a great resource. READ MORE. What Is Phosphatidylcholine and How Is It Used?

Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph. Do Rhodiola Rosea and Ashwagandha Work Well Together? Medically reviewed by Kerry Boyle D. Keep Head, Hands, and Feet Covered to Manage Arthritis In cold weather conditions, some blood flow is diverted from our extremities to the critical organs of our core, such as Skip to main content.

About Our History The Problem How We Help Why TPC? Testimonials Providers Locations Conditions Treatments Patient Resources Patient Portal Blog Patient Forms Pain News Magazine Patient FAQ Medical Records Request Referring Providers Fax Forms Insurance Information Referral Testimonials Contact Careers.

Request an Appointment Now. Fax a Referral Forms. Related Posts. Guide to Good Posture February 21, Many people develop poor posture due to holding a position for long periods, such as sitting at a desk all day.

Read more more about Guide to Good Posture. Headaches and Dehydration June 26, Headaches frequently accompany colds, flu, chronic pain, and even food poisoning. Read more more about Headaches and Dehydration. Read more more about 5 Ways to Manage Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis in Cold Weather.