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What can inflammation do to body and herbs that…

8 October 2024
by admin

The body uses inflammation as a natural defence mechanism to heal and defend itself as needed. On the other hand, persistent inflammation can lead to a number of medical issues. It might include everything from persistent fatigue to more significant issues like heart disease. Following is everything that you need to know about the impact of inflammation on the body and introduce some powerful herbs that can help reduce it naturally.

What is inflammation?

Inflammation is the body’s reaction to potentially hazardous stimuli such as infections, injuries, or toxins.It is part of the immune system’s process to combat these toxic chemicals and restore damaged tissue. There are two kinds of inflammation:
Acute inflammation: A short-term reaction that helps heal injuries or infections quickly. For instance, if you cut yourself, the area might swell, turn red, and feel warm—these are classic signs of acute inflammation.
Chronic inflammation: This occurs when the body’s inflammatory response continues long after the injury or infection has been resolved. It can last for months or even years, leading to, well potential damage to tissues and organs.

How chronic inflammation affects the body

Acute inflammation aids in the body’s healing process, while chronic inflammation can be detrimental. It eventually plays a role in the emergence of various illnesses, including:
Heart disease: Chronic inflammation can contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, significantly increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Diabetes: Inflammation can interfere with insulin’s effectiveness in managing blood sugar, which may lead to the development of type 2 diabetes.
Arthritis: Ongoing inflammation in the joints is often responsible for the severe swelling and stiffness characteristic of arthritis.
Digestive disorders: Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are frequently linked to chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.
Cancer: long-term DNA damage caused by persistent inflammation may contribute to the development of several cancers.

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Common causes of inflammation

Inflammation can be triggered by several factors, including:

Unhealthy diet: Foods heavy in artificial additives, processed fats, and sugar can raise inflammation levels.
Lack of exercise: A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to higher levels of inflammation, while regular physical activity helps regulate the body’s immune response and reduces inflammation.
Stress: Prolonged stress elevates cortisol levels, which can lead to increased inflammation throughout the body.
Environmental toxins: Exposure to harmful substances like chemicals, cigarette smoke, or pollution can trigger inflammatory responses.

Herbs that can reduce inflammation

There are several natural herbs that have powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Adding these herbs into our diet can help us deal with inflammation and guide us towards better overall health. Here are a few key herbs:
Turmeric: Celebrated for its active ingredient curcumin, turmeric is a strong anti-inflammatory agent. It works by reducing inflammation at the molecular level and is commonly recommended for those suffering from arthritis or joint pain.
Ginger: A well-known herb, ginger boasts compounds called gingerols, which offers potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. It’s widely used to combat inflammation and support overall health.
Cinnamon: More than just a flavorful spice, cinnamon has been found to reduce inflammation in the body. It’s especially useful for balancing blood sugar levels and can help lower the risk of heart disease.
Green tea: Rich in antioxidants like catechins, green tea is renowned for its anti-inflammatory benefits. Regular consumption has been connected to reducing inflammation and lowering the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
Black pepper: The compound piperine, found in black pepper, has strong anti-inflammatory effects. When paired with turmeric, it greatly increases the absorption of curcumin, amplifying its health benefits.

Science & Environment

Liver Damaging Herbals: 5 herbal supplements that can damage…

20 September 2024
by admin

Green tea, turmeric, ashwagandha are all healthy additions to your diet and one often doesn’t think twice before consuming them for boosting immunity and strengthening health. However, relying blindly on age-old wisdom, without consultation from your health experts could damage your liver.
The study, published in JAMA Network Open, found that drug-induced liver injury, tied with products like green tea extract, turmeric or curcumin, ashwagandha, black cohosh, red yeast rice, and Garcinia cambogia, has been seeing a rise in the US, highlighting the need to dangers of indiscriminate use of the herbal supplements, partly due to weak laws around regulation of dietary supplement industry.Nearly 5% of American adults might be taking one or more of these products, per the new report.
Here are 5 herbs that could be harming your liver silently, as per the above study:

1. Turmeric

Turmeric is a popular herb which derived from the roots of the plant Curcuma longa and is widely used in culinary preparations. Turmeric is part of many traditional Ayurvedic formulations due to its main beneficial component curcumin which can offer a range of benefits from controlling inflammation, improving antioxidant activities, heart health and reducing risk of cancer. However, consuming turmeric in large quantities is linked to liver damage and increase the risk of kidney stone formation. Cases of acute hepatic injury, liver failure, and liver damage have been reported with consuming excessive turmeric. While using turmeric while cooking in small amounts is perfectly healthy, taking supplements or shots should be strictly on recommendation by a medical expert.

2. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha, an Ayurvedic herb, is derived from Withania somnifera root extract, an evergreen shrub that is endemic to India and Southeast Asia. It is also called ‘Indian ginseng’ and is known to boost brain health and lower anti-inflammatory activities. It is used to treat stress, fatigue, pain, skin diseases, diabetes, arthritis and epilepsy. An energy tonic, it also helps reduce fatigue and counteract the effects of aging. Cases of liver injury in people who took commercial herbal products that are labelled as containing ashwagandha, have been observed, according to Livertox. The liver injury could also be due to impurities in the ashwagandha, higher concentrations of extracts, or taking more than the recommended dose.

3. Green tea extract

Green tea’s many benefits have been highlighted in many studies as the herbal tea is known for protection against cancer, heart disease, obesity and type 2 diabetes. However, liver damage linked to green tea extract has been reported in many cases, cautioning the green tea lovers to exercise caution while consuming it in large quantities. Green tea extract is found in a number of herbal and dietary supplements. Green tea extract or having large amounts of green tea have in some cases lead to acute liver failure or need for urgent liver transplantation or death.
US National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) warns that green tea extract has been linked with liver damage so severe as to require transplant or lead to death.

4. Black cohosh

Black cohosh, a popular herbal remedy used for menopausal symptoms, has been linked to liver injuries such as jaundice, hepatitis, and autoimmune hepatitis. The adverse effects can appear between 2 to 12 weeks of consumption, while in some it has been reported 48 weeks after use. The U.S. Pharmacopeia advises individuals with liver disorders to avoid black cohosh, and recommends that anyone experiencing signs of liver trouble discontinue its use and seek medical advice. Published literature suggests that large doses of black cohosh might be associated with gastrointestinal irritation, headache, dizziness, and vomiting.

5. Red yeast rice

Red yeast rice is the product of rice fermented with a type of yeast called Monascus purpureus. It has monacolin K, the same active ingredient found in the prescription drug lovastatin, which is known to cause liver damage. However, the concentration of monacolin K in red yeast rice is unregulated, varying significantly from 0.09 to 10.94 mg per daily dose, which makes its effects unpredictable. This supplement has been linked to severe adverse reactions, like acute liver injury, and recovery can take months after discontinuation. Due to these risks, individuals with liver disease or those at risk for liver problems should avoid red yeast rice.

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Science & Environment

8 Common Indian spices that help improve sleep –…

31 August 2024
by admin

Tired of tossing and turning the whole night and want to fix that erratic sleep cycle without banking on medicines? Then the remedy to your troublesome sleep pattern can be found right in your kitchen, and believe it or not, these kitchen ingredients are worth including in the daily diet. Read on to find out…
Can spices help in inducing sleep?
Spices can help induce sleep by promoting relaxation and calming the nervous system.Certain spices, such as turmeric, cinnamon, and cardamom, contain compounds that have soothing and anti-inflammatory effects, which can alleviate stress and discomfort that might interfere with sleep. Including these spices in the bedtime routine can help in regulating sleep-wake cycles; some spices have mild sedative properties. Here are some common Indian spices that are worth trying to fix sleep.

Turmeric
Turmeric is a staple in Indian cooking and is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The active compound, curcumin, has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, which can contribute to better sleep. Additionally, turmeric helps regulate melatonin levels, the hormone responsible for sleep-wake cycles.
How to use: Add a teaspoon of turmeric to warm milk or make a soothing turmeric tea by boiling turmeric powder with a pinch of black pepper. Drink this before bed to help calm your mind and body.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha, also known as Withania Somnifera, is a powerful adaptogen used in Ayurvedic medicine to combat stress and promote relaxation. It helps regulate cortisol levels and supports the body’s ability to cope with stress, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
How to use: Take ashwagandha in supplement form or mix a teaspoon of ashwagandha powder into warm milk or herbal tea before bedtime.

Cardamom
Cardamom is a fragrant spice that not only adds a delightful aroma to dishes but also has calming effects that can aid in sleep. It helps soothe the digestive system and can alleviate discomfort that might interfere with sleep. Cardamom also has mild sedative properties that contribute to relaxation.
How to use: Crush a few cardamom pods and add them to your evening tea or warm milk. You can also use cardamom in combination with other calming spices for a soothing bedtime beverage.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is known for its warming and soothing properties, making it a great spice for promoting relaxation. It helps regulate blood sugar levels, which can prevent nighttime disturbances caused by spikes and drops in blood sugar. The comforting aroma of cinnamon also contributes to a calming bedtime environment.
How to use: Add a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon to your evening tea or warm milk. Cinnamon pairs well with other spices like turmeric or ginger for an enhanced relaxing effect.
Nutmeg
Nutmeg is a warm, sweet spice with natural sedative properties that can help induce sleep. It has been traditionally used to treat insomnia and promote relaxation. Nutmeg helps calm the nervous system and can be a useful addition to your bedtime routine.
How to use: Sprinkle a pinch of ground nutmeg into warm milk or a herbal tea before bed. Nutmeg also blends well with other spices like cinnamon or turmeric for a soothing nightcap.

Fennel Seeds
Fennel seeds are known for their digestive benefits and calming effects. They help soothe digestive discomfort, which can be a common cause of sleep disturbances. Fennel seeds also have mild sedative properties that promote relaxation and support better sleep.
How to use: Brew a cup of fennel seed tea by boiling a teaspoon of fennel seeds in water for 5-10 minutes. Strain and drink this tea before bed to help relax your digestive system and support restful sleep.
Saffron
Saffron is a luxurious spice with mood-enhancing properties that can improve sleep quality. It helps regulate serotonin levels in the brain, which can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression that may interfere with sleep. Saffron’s calming effects make it a valuable addition to your nighttime routine.
How to use: Infuse a few strands of saffron in warm milk or herbal tea. Drink this blend before bed to enjoy saffron’s relaxing benefits and promote a restful night’s sleep.

Ginger
Ginger is well-known for its digestive benefits and ability to soothe the stomach. It helps alleviate nausea and digestive discomfort, which can contribute to better sleep. Ginger also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce stress and support relaxation.
How to use: Prepare ginger tea by boiling fresh ginger slices in water. Add honey or lemon for additional flavor. Drink this tea in the evening to help calm your digestive system and relax your mind.
Conclusion
Adding these Indian spices into your evening routine can be a natural and enjoyable way to improve your sleep quality. Whether you prefer a soothing tea or a comforting warm drink, these spices offer various benefits that can help you relax and unwind before bed.

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What can inflammation do to body and herbs that…

What is inflammation?

How chronic inflammation affects the body

Common causes of inflammation

Herbs that can reduce inflammation

Liver Damaging Herbals: 5 herbal supplements that can damage…

1. Turmeric

2. Ashwagandha

3. Green tea extract

4. Black cohosh

5. Red yeast rice

8 Common Indian spices that help improve sleep –…