Natural Anti-Inflammatory Products

Inflammation is basically your body's reaction to some type of irritant. It can flare up briefly, like soreness after a long run, or it can take its toll over a long period of time. Chronic inflammation can be harmful to your health. Anti-inflammatory treatments such as steroids can be used in medical treatment, but before a problem develops, incorporating natural remedies can help avoid future issues. However, don't hesitate to see a health care provider if you have acute pain, or if you suffer adverse effects from any natural treatments.

Food

Changing your diet may be the easiest and most natural way to include anti-inflammatory products in your life. Foods known for their anti-inflammatory properties include most fruits and vegetables, oily fish, nuts and olive oil. Many spices, such as ginger and cinnamon, are also beneficial. More than that, these foods and spices have countless other benefits that lead to a better sense of health and well being. Refined sugars and carbohydrates tend to be very high in irritants, so consider cutting back on them to improve general health.

Supplements

Prescription and over-the-counter drugs calm inflammation, but natural herbs and supplements help maintain good health and can eliminate the need for pain medication. Supplements such as Omega-3 (which is found in fish) and cat's claw pills can increase your resistance to inflammation. Green tea is a very powerful antioxidant; try drinking it instead of one cup of coffee a day. If you don't care for its taste, it's also available in pill form. Don't forget to take multivitamins if your diet is unbalanced - and most people's diets these days have something missing.

Topical Solutions

"Natural" is a buzzword for many beauty products, but it's often an empty term. Some creams, gels and lotions are actually helpful, however. Read the ingredients to see if a product is as pure as it claims. Look for known anti-inflammatory elements, such as aloe vera, soy, licorice extract and evening primrose oil. These often tame minor skin itches, irritations and sunburns. If you develop a rash from a topical solution, stop using it and consult a doctor. Allergic reactions can occur even with chemical-free products.

Ice

Ice is a good treatment for inflammation. Instead of reaching for painkillers after strenuous physical activity, open your freezer. Ice packs and even bags of frozen vegetables can reduce mild to moderate pain and swelling. The RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) method effectively treats many overexertion injuries. Make sure to place a towel between the ice and your skin to avoid burns and irritation, and do not ignore sharp pain. Ice can relieve soreness and bruising, but a doctor should examine actual injuries.