Anti-inflammatory supplements and medications are most often used to relieve pain from headaches, muscle and joint aches, arthritis, disease, and medication or treatment side effects. They can be applied directly to the affected area or taken orally.

Some whole foods and many herbs have natural anti-inflammatory properties derived from minerals, fatty acids, phytonutrients, and other compounds. Among foods, fish — particularly salmon and sardines — is high in omega-3 fatty acids that are normally associated with cardiac health, but also have huge anti-inflammatory benefits. They can help reduce stiffness common in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder that attacks the lining of the joints and can erode bones.

Brown seaweed and kelp also offer natural anti-inflammatory benefits, mainly from a complex carbohydrate called fucoidan (not to be confused with simple carbohydrates found mainly in processed foods). Fucoidan has been found to be particularly effective for patients undergoing advanced cancer treatments.In addition, the magnesium in seaweed used to wrap sushi relaxes the small arterial and skeletal muscles in the head, providing a tasty and effective remedy for a headache.

Other whole foods with anti-inflammatory properties include blueberries (antioxidants and phenolics, also called carbonic acid), grapes, which contain the antioxidant resveratrol, and spirulina, a type of blue-green algae. Along with fish oil, they are often used in anti-inflammatory supplements. You should only purchase anti-inflammatory supplements from a reputable manufacturer.

Here are a few common cooking spices with notably strong anti-inflammatory properties:

  • Turmeric (also called curcumin) has been shown to be extremely beneficial to relieve pain from arthritis and osteoarthritis.
  • Ginger, well known for soothing stomach ailments, is also effective on more serious diseases like colitis and can boost kidney function as well.
  • Cinnamon contains antioxidants and flavanols, and its major component, cinnamaldehyde, inhibits proteins that cause inflammation.

Using Sea Veg® whole food seaweed supplements is a great way to fortify your immune system. Our products are well-known for anti-inflammatory properties that provide many life-changing benefits. Sea Veg® products are made from the finest, organic ingredients that do wonders for the body and soul.