09/29/2014
Inflammation is a popular buzzword in the wellness industry. While inflammation tends to be seen as a negative biological response, a certain amount of healthy inflammation can actually protect our bodies against infectious agents and trauma. It is unchecked and sustained inflammation that can cause trouble. With risky and expensive drugs available for those in need of inflammation management, a natural and more affordable method may lie in the ancient herbal field of Ayurveda.
In a recent seminar, Dr. Michael Greer, a holistic practitioner from Seattle, cited some conditions that may start with unchecked inflammation including fibromyalgia, diabetes, allergies, asthma, Alzheimer’s, arthritis, autoimmune disorders and more. In cases of chronic pain, the body is not able to regulate the inflammatory response. The result is chronic imbalance and chronic pain.
In Ayurveda, herbal treatments are used for controlling excess inflammation. Boswellia, turmeric, ashwagandha and ginger are a few key herbs often combined with an integrative approach to reduce the inflammatory response. Virender Sodhi, ND, MD has used these herbs along with exercise, yoga, meditation and nutritional upgrades with great success.
Boswellia has been recommended for all types of arthritis, acute back pain, inflammatory bowel disease and ulceritive colitis.
Turmeric is a gorgeous, golden root and a powerful antioxidant. It has been said to control inflammation, act as an anti-carcinogenic, anti-microbial and liver protective. This root contributes to curry’s wonderful health properties and its fantastic rich color.
According to Virender Sodhi, various laboratory studies have demonstrated that its active principle inhibits the action of inflammatory agents, including phospholipase, lipoxygenase, cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), leukotrienes, thromboxane, prostaglandins, nitric oxide, collagenase, elastase and others (Srimal, 1997).
Ashwagandha is a rejuvenative herb with wonderful adaptogenic properties. According to Dr. Robert Svoboda in his book Ayurveda for Women, ashwagandha rebuilds the body, mind and relieves such conditions in rheumatism, emaciation and weakness.
