Cuts, bumps, sprains — these are all normal reactions to any injury, and they are all referred to as inflammation.

However, some inflammations occur inside the body, showing no visible signs at all until they become serious such as in fibromyalgia. The only symptom that could signify that there’s an inflammation within, is that there is some discomfort around that inflamed part.

Our bodies experience inflammation as the immune system rushes to fight any antibodies that might have invaded the body. Normally, it should die down in a short while as the injury heals. This is the good kind of inflammation.

Pharmaceutical anti-inflammatories are commonly prescribed to aid in relieving persistent pain. However, some of them come with undesirable side effects if used for a long time, such as stomach ulcers.

Natural herbal pain relief and anti-inflammatory solutions, on the other hand, are completely safe for long term use, for they are gut-friendly. And they will be designed according to your situation, whether it is only acute care that you need, or ongoing support.  Some herbs that are used are:

• Turmeric – a traditional Ayurvedic herb that has a long history of use for injuries, and has been shown to help diminish swelling and pain in arthritis. Great in combination with other herbs for a natural fibromyalgia treatment and a well-known herb used in natural cancer treatments.

• Boswelia – a herb that has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-rheumatic properties. It can be used for any type of pain, particularly arthritic and traumatic pain that are associated with inflammation.

• Mix of Devil’s claw and Jamaica Dogwood – helps reduce pain and spasms. Improves blood flow to enhance the healing process.

While herbs are there to help, it is also important to note that some factors may be contributing to or worsening the inflammation. Changing most or all of these is a crucial step in a holistic approach to reducing inflammation. Some of these factors are:

• Nutritional deficiencies – investigate vitamin D, vitamin C, iron, selenium
• Smoking – adding stress on all systems
• Unhealthy weight – added strain on joints
• Diet that consists of refined or processed carbs including pasta, white bread, white rice, and cereals
• Consumption of trans fats, for example fried/fast foods, packaged baked goods, vegetable fats found in some margarines
• Insufficient sleep or unrefreshed sleep
• Regular consumption of alcohol, coffee, excess sugar and/or salt
• Any ongoing digestive issues that affect the balance of good bacteria, including stomach pain, bloating, diarrhea
• Ongoing psychological stress

If you, or anyone you know, has been experiencing any kind of pain on any part of the body, it is best to consult with a registered Naturopath for advise. Call Cura Integrative Medicine today through +61-8-9284 4644, or make an appointment to start treatment.