Tag Archives: anti-inflammatory

October 13, 2025

COOK WITH NATURE’S IBUPROFEN.

Extra-virgin olive oil contains oleocanthal, a compound that reduces inflammation in a way similar to ibuprofen, by blocking inflammatory enzymes. 

A 2005 study showed that these anti-inflammatory effects could help ease inflammation-related pain. It found that consuming around 50g (about 4 tablespoons) of extra-virgin olive oil daily would provide a small, regular dose of oleocanthal. 

Extra-virgin olive oil is expensive and if cost is a concern, you can alternate with other anti-inflammatory options such as rapeseed, flaxseed or avocado oils.

April 8, 2024

HOME REMEDIES.

Traditional treatments that really work – olive oil massage for arthritis pain.

A 2012 study compared olive oil massage to the use of Piroxicam gel (an anti-inflammatory painkiller) in 58 people with osteoarthritis of the knee – and found threefold greater reduction in pain in the olive oil group after four weeks.

Olive oil contains anti-inflammatory ingredients that can penetrate the skin. This, plus the action of massage, can help improve circulation and affect the pressure nerves involved with pain.

January 10, 2023

NO PAIN NO GAIN? THINK AGAIN.

If you’re planning to hit the gym this New Year, try adding raw ginger to your post workout smoothie.

It contains gingerol and shogaols, with anti-inflammatory properties. A 2010 study on pain found that 2g of raw ginger reduced exercise-induced muscle pain by up to 25% for 24 hours compared with a placebo.

December 1, 2017

THE PAIN-RELIEVING DIET.

Cherries
Cherries gain their lovely deep red colour from anthocyanin – a type of flavonoid which is a powerful antioxidant. Anthocyanin has anti-inflammatory properties similar to those found in aspirin.

Turmeric
Containing curcumin, known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, studies have linked turmeric to reduced inflammation in a number of condition, including psoriasis. Curcumin has also been shown to help fight against the inflammation in the body that contributes to the growth of cancer tumours.

Salmon
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is high in protein and antioxidants. The fatty acids can help to lubricate tight joints in the body and control the overproduction of pain-stimulating prostaglandins in the lining of the womb. So it’s a great fish to eat to alleviate uncomfortable periods.

Green tea
A great source of polyphenols, which help to reduce inflammation-causing free radicals in the body.

August 26, 2016

THE SECRET SUPERFRUIT.

Pineapple

Pineapples are loaded with nutrients and powerful enzymes that will benefit your health no end. The real star of the show is the enzyme bromelain, which this tropical fruit is full of.

It has powerful anti-inflammatory benefits that can have an effect on reducing arthritis and healing time from sports injuries, wounds and stings.

Bromelain can also lessen hay fever symptoms, increase the absorption of antibiotics, reduce blood clotting and some studies have shown it can even help in controlling the growth of tumours.

It also gives the metabolism a short-term boost by speeding up digestion.

Pineapple is fibre-rich, so great for digestion, and high in vitamin C, essential for a healthy immune system.

It’s a good source of thiamine, copper – essential for healthy blood cells – and potassium, which helps control blood pressure.

Don’t overdo it though, it’s quite a high-sugar fruit.