Top Five Inflammation-Fighting Supplements You've Never Heard Of
You’ve heard of turmeric and Vitamin D for inflammation control, but what about Boswellia and Coenzyme 10? In this article, we’ll cover five inflammation-fighting supplements that are often overlooked, despite their powerful antioxidant capabilities. An antioxidant is a molecule which fights free radicals–unstable particles that damage cells, contributing to chronic illness, inflammation, and aging.
In addition to their antioxidant properties, most of the supplements on this list have other properties that support multiple organ systems for heavy-duty inflammation control.
#5 Anti-Inflammatory Supplement: CoQ10
CoQ10 (Coenzyme 10) is one of the most underappreciated antioxidants on the market. Not only does it help the body convert food into energy, it’s also a naturally-occuring free radical fighter.
Due to its role in the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the body’s most basic fuel source, CoQ10 can be found in almost every cell in the body, but appears in highest concentration in the heart, liver, kidney, and pancreas.
Although it plays an essential role in many physical processes, including inflammation control, CoQ10 production drops as we age, lowering the body’s natural defense against inflammation and oxidative stress.
Studies indicate that CoQ10 may be used in combination with traditional medications to help support age- and inflammation-related illnesses including diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and various heart conditions, including heart failure.
We recommend Standard Process B Vitality with CoQ10. In addition to 80 mg of high-quality CoQ10, B Vitality contains a potent mixture of antioxidants and natural inflammation-fighting compounds including bromelain, American ginseng, and 8 different B vitamins.
#4 Anti-Inflammatory Supplement: Tongkat Ali
While this potent testosterone booster is commonly used to help with libido and male hormone support, Tongkat ali is also packed with powerful antioxidants that can help combat inflammation.
Derived from the longjack plant, also known as Eurycoma longifolia, Tongkat ali is rich in several antioxidant compounds, including flavonoids and alkaloids. Several studies have indicated that Tongkat ali, with its rich antioxidant profile, has a significant anti-inflammatory effect.
In addition to combating oxidative stress created by exercise and exertion, Tongkat ali can help the body grow and restore muscle, due largely to its role in the production of DHEA, a hormone that spurs the body to produce testosterone.
We recommend Standard Process Tongkat Ali, which contains the 100mg of clinically-trialed Tongkat ali, manufactured to pharmaceutical GMP standards.
#3 Anti-Inflammatory Supplement: Saligesic
Derived from willow stem bark, Standard Process Saligesic is a multifaceted muscle and joint supplement with robust anti-inflammatory properties. Historically, willow bark has been used as an herbal remedy as far back as 400BC, when the philosopher Hippocrates recorded its use as a pain reliever in childbirth.
Saligesic is named for the active compound in willow bark, called salicin. Salicin has been shown to be effective at relieving inflammation and discomfort for individuals suffering from joint pain, back pain, headaches, and osteoarthritis.
In addition to salicin, Saligesic contains flavonoids and catechol–the same compound group responsible for the antioxidant properties found in green tea. Clinical trials indicate that willow bark extract supports musculoskeletal health, especially in the knees, hips, and lower back. Trial participants also reported increased mobility and flexibility following supplementation.
#2 Anti-Inflammatory Supplement: Boswellia
Boswellia extract is derived from the resin of the boswellia serrata tree, found throughout India, North Africa, and the Middle East. This extract, also known as Indian frankincense, is rich in boswellic acid, a triterpenic acid with significant anti-inflammatory properties.
With its strong anti-inflammatory effects, Boswellia is particularly effective at supporting the inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis. The Arthritis Foundation recommends boswellic acid as part of a comprehensive support plan for rheumatoid arthritis.
Boswellic acid may also be beneficial for those suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease.
For inflammation support, we recommend Standard Process Boswellia Complex. Boswellia Complex contains 180mg of boswellic acids and turmeric, another potent anti-inflammatory rich in antioxidant curcumin.
#1 Anti-Inflammatory Supplement: Vitanox®
Standard Process Vitanox® is a superstar anti-inflammatory supplement containing extracts derived from rosemary, green tea, turmeric, and grape seed. An antioxidant powerhouse, Vitanox® features over seven types of antioxidants including catechins, curcuminoids, and procyanidins.
While it’s common to supplement green tea and turmeric, rosemary and grape seed are harder to come by, despite established antioxidant profiles. Combining all four offers a potent anti-inflammatory combination.
Vitanox® also offers support for circulatory health, connective tissue, liver function, and cellular health.