* [[Licorice]] : A substance in licorice has the capacity to stop the activation of two of the main enzymes that initiate inflammation - cyclooxygenase and lipooxygenase. Licorice also brings up the human body’s automatic anti-inflammatory response. That is the reason why several drugs to prevent the effects of arthritis are added with licorice, particularly black licorice.
* [[Ginseng]] is popular in Chinese medicine, and modern researches have discovered that this is due to the anti-inflammatory properties of ginseng. In a study made at the University of Hong Kong by a research team led by Allan Lau, ginseng contains ginsenosides, substances that can suppress the activities of the immune system. By this activity, inflammatory responses are inhibited. Although this finding brings hope for those suffering from various types of inflammatory diseases, using ginseng must always be consulted with the physician.
* [[Oregano]] : Foods rich in oregano can be found in Mexican and Mediterranean cuisines. While it is known to provide balsamic and aromatic flavor, oregano is also popular for providing the required nutrients in the body. Just two teaspoon of oregano can already provide almost 30 percent of the required daily allowance for vitamin K. However, in the study of Kyoji Yoshino’s team at the Numazu College of Technology, they found out that oregano also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect through its phytonutrients, the rosmarinic acid and thymol. While its anti-inflammatory effects is weaker compared to hydrocortisone, the activities of the antioxidant properties of oregano can actually prevent disease caused by inflammation, which basically makes oregano an effective anti-inflammatory herb.
*[[Cayenne]] Pepper : Whatever form chili peppers are, may it be cayenne pepper or bell pepper, they have been known to fight inflammation in the body. Just two teaspoons of powdered cayenne pepper can already deliver at least 30 percent of the daily requirement for vitamin A. In fewer calories, it also provides vitamins E, C, K and B6. Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, which, according to researches, inhibits substance P. Neuropeptide, substance P, is linked with the process of inflammation. In animal studies, injection of capsaicin has been shown to delay arthritis. Adding cayenne pepper in the foods will not only give that hot and spicy zing in the food, it also helps fight inflammation.
== What to Avoid in the Inflammation Diet ==