Nature's Anti-Inflammatories

The class of drugs known as Non-Steroidal Antinflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) includes ibuprofen, ketoprofen, and naproxen, among others. More generally, these drugs are prostaglandin inhibitors which includes aspirin. The newer COX-2 inhibitors were intended to be a "smart" aspirin which would selectively target the inflammatory enzyme COX-2 (cyclooxygenase -2) a prostaglandin, leaving the other prostaglandins unaffected. The problem, however, with such drugs as Vioxx and Celebrex is that they do block COX-2, but they seem to raise the risk of heart attack. NSAIDs on the other hand, are linked to ulcers as well as impairment of liver and kidney function. Multi-billion dollar settlements by Merck point to the poor oversight by the FDA and the failure of drug company funded clinical trials to provide objective safety and efficacy data. In the wake of this pharmaceutical disaster, consumers are left wondering what a safe and effective alternative to NSAIDS and COX-2 Inhibitors might be.

1. Turmeric one of the best anti-inflammatory herbs. This spice is a component of curry and is related chemically to ginger. Used with success to fight osteo-arthritis, this yellow herb may also prevent Alzheimer's disease and can destroy some types of cancer cells. Should be used with caution for those who are prone to kidney stones as a recent report indicates it may be contraindicated for such individuals.
2. Ginger is an effective anti-emetic (anti-nauseant) in its own right; potent anti-inflammatory and can be used with turmeric; also a potent anti-cancer compound.
3. Green tea studies indicate that EGCG, the most potent antioxidant in green tea can block COX-2 as well as the formation of nitrosamines, carcinogens formed in the gut when nitrites and nitrates are present; also destroys pathogenic (disease-causing) bacteria in the gut while leaving helpful flora (lactobacillus acidophilous, bifidus) alone.
4. Omega 3 fatty acids especially EPA, one of the two important EFAs (essential fatty acids) found in fish oil; Look for molecularly distilled (purified) brands at health food stores; can be obtained from the diet but toxins may be present (mercury and PCBs)
5. Olive oil contains hydroxytyrosol, a useful anti-inflammatory compound;
6. Bromelain - a proteolytic (protein-digesting) enzyme found in pineapple, esp the core is an excellent means of reducing inflammation associated with joint pain and arthritis; to promote digestion of protein, take with a meal; to use as an anti-inflammatory, take on an empty stomach. Some research even shown anti-cancer activity against colon cancer cells!
7. Resveratrol is a potent COX-2 inhibitor which not only blocks the inflammatory response, but has also shown to promote heart health and extend longevity via its triggering enzymes which are activated by caloric restriction but without the need to drastically eat less.