Inflammation

Description

Inflammation is defined as redness, swelling, pain, and/or a feeling of heat in any area of the body. Inflammation is a natural protective reaction to injury, disease, or irritation of the tissues. It is often difficult to identify the sources of inflammation.

There are two forms of inflammation:

1. Acute inflammation is when the body responds to sudden damage, such as a cut on the skin. To heal the cut, the body sends inflammatory cells to the injury site, these cells then start the healing process.

2. Chronic inflammation is a slow, long-term condition that can last for several months to years, the symptoms may range from mild to severe. The extent and effects of this inflammation will vary based on the cause of the injury/condition and the ability of the body to repair itself. Chronic inflammation is often seen in autoimmune conditions or where there is exposure to toxins pollutants and infections.

Symptoms

Common chronic inflammation symptoms:
1. fatigue.
2. body pains.
3. depression or anxiety.
4. diarrhea or constipation.
5. weight gain or weight loss.
6. frequent infections.

Common acute inflammation symptoms:
1. Local pain or tenderness. The pain may be felt continuously or only when the affected area is touched.
2. Red or flushed skin at the site of the injury.
3. Swelling.
4. Heat due to increased blood flow to the affected area.

Treatments

1. Stop smoking
2. Limit or avoid the intake of alcohol
3. Maintain a healthy weight and get plenty of exercise
4. Stress management
5. Applying heat or cold to the affected area
6. Dietary and supplementation interventions

Nutrients and Supplements:
Inflammation formula tincture – is a general anti-inflammatory, for all inflammatory conditions.
Inflammation formula capsules – are a general anti-inflammatory, for all inflammatory conditions.
Zinc – assists in controlling inflammation and aids in healing
Selenium – is an antioxidant and potentiates the action of Vitamin E, it also aids in reducing inflammation
Vitamin E – reduces inflammation and is an antioxidant
Buffered Vitamin C – reduces inflammation and aids in healing
Vitamin B Complex – is required for tissue repair
Beta Glucan – an inflammation-reducing immune function booster
Omega 3’s – aids in reducing inflammation
Quercetin, Bromelain & Resveratrol – traditionally used for lowering inflammation, and reducing pain, swelling, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels. It has an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect
Turmeric – is traditionally used as an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant
Olive leaf extract – an antibacterial that also eases inflammation

Causes

Internal inflammation may be caused by autoimmune conditions, inflammatory bowel disorders, ulcerative colitis, arthritis, asthma, osteoarthritis, and bacterial infections. External inflammation is most commonly seen after an injury, an infection, or aggravated by allergies

Underlying Emotions

With inflammation, there is a tendency to dwell on issues rather than proactively address them, also a tendency not to let go, and to hold onto past traumas and conflicts. There is a feeling that letting go of anger may result in nothing being done to change the circumstances, almost as if the situation that caused the upset would be dismissed. Self-sabotaging cycles may therefore be a factor.

Great anger may be felt because of the belief that others are not taking responsibility for the role they have played in your life. There may be feelings of victimhood due to circumstances.

Diet

1. Avoid sugar, red meat, highly refined or processed foods, fried foods, snack foods, pastries, and fizzy drinks.
2. Eating fresh pineapple (not canned) or papaya for 2 to 6 days may assist with inflammation, pineapple and papaya both contain the enzymes bromelain and papain which reduces swelling and inflammation.
3. A diet composed of 75% raw foods is indicated.
4. Foods rich in flavonoids such as blueberries, strawberries, and spinach will aid in inflammation reduction. The quercetin found in onions is also effective in reducing inflammation.
5. Limit intake of saturated fats and salt.

Remedies