According to Medical News Today, inflammation primarily causes pain because the swelling pushes against the sensitive nerve endings. This sends pain signals to the brain. Other biochemical processes also affect how nerves behave and can enhance pain. Pharmaceutical pain pills are often prescribed, yet they come with risks and side effects including harmful effects on the kidneys, heart, and stomach especially when taken over a prolonged period.

Reducing or eliminating inflammation in the body can be done safely and naturally with many popular herbal choices. Turmeric and ginger are good choices for general use. Turmeric is most effective in its extracted form rather than eating the fresh or powdered plant. The potent extract is called curcumin, which should be coupled with piperine, the medicinal extract of black pepper, for better absorption. Together, curcumin and piperine are quite effective in reducing inflammation of joints, arthritis, and other common ailments.

Ginger is another powerful anti-inflammatory. Research has shown that ginger is as effective as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in treating pain and inflammation.

Both turmeric and ginger can be easily grown in a Florida garden. They are plants that prefer semi-shade. Simply place a section of either a root that has a bud or eye starting to emerge into a shallow hole and water thoroughly. Nature will take its course to produce a sizable bucket of fresh ginger or turmeric roots in just a few months.

Turmeric’s extracted curcumin combined with piperine is more potent than the fresh or dried plant, but frequently consuming the homegrown roots will certainly be of benefit. Tumeric and ginger can also be consumed by incorporating them recipes.

Susan Young, PhD, is a Master Herbalist, Naturopathic Doctor, Iridologist, and Holistic Health Practitioner. She is located at VeroVita Holistic Health, 1925 20^th Street in Vero Beach. For more information, call 304-203-4493 or visit VeroVitaHolisticHealth.com.