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| and bromelain, derived from pineapple. When Indian researchers gave ginger to people with muscle or arthritic pain, more than three-quarters felt considerable relief. Even after two years of constantly using herbs, no one had experienced any side effects. 26 Since 1957, bromelain has been used in hospitals, and over 400 scientific papers have discussed its ability to reduce inflammation. A traditional Ayurvedic blend of turmeric, ashwaganda and boswella (a relative of frankincense), with zinc gave arthritics substantial pain relief within three months during one study. Boswella enhances the supply of blood and fluids to joints, helps restore their function, improves blood vessel integrity and circulation, and shrinks inflamed tissue. It can be taken internally, but is also available in a cream. |
| Turmeric and cayenne reduce substance P (short for "pain") that carries pain signals from nerve endings to the brain. Three-quarters of the people in clinical studies report substantial pain relief from using a cream of capsaicin, cayenne's active ingredient. Pain and nerve sensations are checked only in the area where the cream is applied. Capsaicin creams are now sold in pharmacies and natural food stores to help relieve nerve pain from diseases such as diabetes and shingles. |
| To heal a damaged nervous system, turn to ginseng, St. John's wort, the essential fatty acids of omega-3 fish oils and GLA (from the oils of evening primrose, black currant seed and borage seed) and echinacea. They strengthen protective nerve cell membranes and connective tissue and lubricate painful joints. Ginseng improves nerve reflexes and the nerve growth factor to help rebuild nerve cells. Siberian ginseng, valerian and passionflower can also repair a damaged nervous system. Thanks to anthocyanidins and the |
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