Inflammation.

Chronic inflammation can lead to chronic disease. Inflammation is generally a normal defensive response from the body, serving as a protective mechanism and a warning of a problem within the body that may be hidden or to protect from a bite, wound, burn, cut, or allergic reaction. Inflammation is the body’s response to tissue injury, resulting in redness, swelling, warmth, pain, and at times loss of function (VanMeter & Hubert, 2023). Acute inflammation occurs when the body immobilizes the injured area through pain and swelling and calls in the white blood cells to deal with the injury. Inflammation continues when the cause of injury is not eliminated, for example long term smokers are consistently exposing the respiratory system to toxins and allergens, creating chronic inflammation. Studies have shown that even exposure to long term stress can cause chronic inflammation, because the body continues to send out inflammatory cells and substances. If left unaddressed, chronic inflammation can damage healthy cells, tissues and organs, and may cause internal scarring, ulcers, tissue death and damage to the DNA. This can lead to the development of chronic disease, disabling or even life-threatening illnesses, such as cancer or Type-2 diabetes (Six, 2022).

Fortunately, your body wants to protect you and there are many natural ways in which we can support the body's natural healing process to reduce inflammation and create balance. In more severe situations, pharmaceuticals can be used to decrease the production of inflammatory mediators (Petersen, 2022). However, long term use of NSAIDS or other medications can cause negative side effects such as stomach bleeding and ulcers. There are many herbs that can be used to reduce inflammation such as Ginger Zingiber officinale, Turmeric Curcuma longa (L.), Willow bark S. alba (which is known as nature’s aspirin), and many more. A lifestyle change that incorporates a healthy diet is also beneficial in reducing inflammation. The Mediterranean diet is an anti-inflammatory diet that incorporates whole organic foods, limits red meats, limits processed foods, and is packed with omega-3s, vitamin C, polyphenols, and fiber-rich foods which counter inflammation. It is also crucial to avoid smoking, alcohol, sugar, and other heavily processed foods. As always, proper sleep, clean water, sunlight, and regular exercise also contribute to a balanced and healthy lifestyle that promotes overall wellness and gives the body a healthy foundation to combat inflammation and other potential dis-eases.