Anti-inflammatories work by inhibiting the enzymes responsible
for setting off an inflammatory response. These enzymes are COX-2 and 5-LOX.
This destructive duo is responsible for the production of the pro-inflammatory
prostaglandins. An anti-inflammatory decreases pain by reducing the levels of
pain-producing prostaglandins, hormone-like chemicals that are manufactured in
the body.
Anti-inflammatories are used for symptom relief in a range of
health conditions:
- Inflammation of the joints and tendons, such as sports
injuries; rheumatoid arthritis; lupus; bursitis; gout
- Inflammation of the bowel, such as irritable bowel syndrome
and Crohn's
- Inflammation of the sinuses and migraine-type headaches
- Inflammation of the GU tract, such as interstitial cystitis
and prostatitis
Pro Flex is an effective form of pain relief, blending
synergistic anti-inflammatory natural ingredients including:
Boswellia resin
Studies have shown that boswellic acids have an
anti-inflammatory action, much like the conventional non-steroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used for inflammatory conditions.
A double blind study using boswellia found a beneficial effect
on pain and stiffness, as well as improved joint function. As opposed to NSAIDs,
long-term use of boswellia is generally considered safe and does not lead to
irritation or ulceration of the stomach.
Oregano leaf
Rosmarinic acid, which is a compound found in oregano, has
powerful antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-viral
properties. It is used as a painkiller and anti-inflammatory. Studies have shown
that the compounds in oregano leaf have anti-inflammatory action very similar to
NSAIDs, but without the side effects.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Clinical studies investigating the use of omega-3 fatty acid
supplements for inflammatory joint conditions conclude that omega-3 fatty acids
reduce tenderness in joints, decrease morning stiffness, and allow for a
reduction in the amount of medication needed for people with rheumatoid
arthritis. Studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may benefit people with
other inflammatory disorders, such as osteoarthritis. In fact, several studies
have found that omega-3 fatty acids decrease inflammation and reduce the
activity of enzymes that destroy cartilage.
Hops flower
Hops contain humulone and lupulone, which have anti-inflammatory
and antibacterial activity. Studies have shown the ability of the compounds in
hops to act as COX-2 inhibitors in the same manner as some prescription
anti-inflammatory drugs which make hops a potential therapy for pain and
inflammation.
Chinese skullcap root
Chinese skullcap has been the subject of a number of studies and
it possesses anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antihistamine properties.
Chinese skullcap has confirmed anti-inflammatory actions similar in effect to
certain prescription drugs. Unlike these drugs that are associated with toxicity
and adverse effects, Chinese skullcap does not have any adverse effects at
therapeutic levels.
Ginger root
Many laboratories have provided scientific support for the
long-held belief that ginger contains constituents with anti-inflammatory
properties. The original discovery of ginger's inhibitory effects on
prostaglandin biosynthesis has been repeatedly confirmed. This discovery
identified ginger as an herbal medicinal product that shares pharmacological
properties with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and it may have a better
therapeutic profile and have fewer side effects than NSAIDs.
Tumeric root
Curcumin, the active constituent of turmeric, holds strong
anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that it may benefit joint
function, while reducing inflammation and pain. Curcumin has been shown to
reduce inflammation by lowering histamine levels, while increasing the
production of natural cortisone by the adrenal glands.
This antioxidant has been used in rheumatoid arthritis trials
and was shown to display benefits for reducing inflammation and symptoms such as
pain and stiffness. And in a study published in the International Journal of
Clinical Pharmacology, curcumin was proven effective at easing post-surgical
inflammation.
Feverfew
Feverfew has a long history in the treatment of fever, arthritis
and migraine. Extracts of feverfew have shown greater activity in inhibiting
inflammation and fever than aspirin in scientific studies. Feverfew extracts
inhibit the synthesis of many pro-inflammatory compounds at their initial stage
of synthesis. Feverfew also decreases the secretion of inflammatory particles
from platelets and white blood cells. According to three double-blind trials
with migraine patients, feverfew reduces the severity, duration, and frequency
of migraine headaches.
N-Acetyl L-cysteine
Cysteine is an amino acid that can be found in many proteins
throughout the body. N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) is the more efficiently absorbed
form of the amino acid, L-cysteine. To understand N-acetyl-L-cysteine, let’s
first discuss glutathione. The body’s defense systems are overwhelmed by modern
life: the metabolism of alcohol, prescription drugs and over-the-counter
medications; the breakdown of environmental chemicals and pollutants; viral and
bacterial infections; x-rays and chemotherapy; and routine exposure to
noise.
Over time, this bombardment accumulates into premature aging,
illness, and hearing loss. The cornerstone of defense is the antioxidant
glutathione, built from the amino-acid cysteine. Without adequate dietary
cysteine the body rips apart muscle tissue for supplies; that’s how important
glutathione is, and why many illnesses result in muscle wasting. NAC helps the
body synthesize glutathione.
Glutathione supplements don’t work because digestion breaks down
glutathione long before it reaches the bloodstream. Studies, however, show that
NAC, an antioxidant and glutathione precursor, stimulates glutathione production
and, among other things, boosts the immune system and has anti-inflammatory
properties that have been studied as possible treatment for osteoarthritis and
rheumatoid arthritis.
Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Very potent and versatile, Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) is a special
antioxidant. It is one of the most powerful anti-aging, antioxidant, and
anti-inflammatory compounds available and is known as the “universal”
antioxidant because it is both fat and water soluble. ALA has also been found to
increase glutathione synthesis in the body.
ALA acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent, and it protects
the mitochondria (the energy producing portion of the cell) and reduces cellular
inflammation. If we recognize that an aging cell is characterized by decreased
energy production, it is easy to see the importance of any substance that can
increase energy levels in the cell, allowing the cells to repair themselves in
the same way that young cells do. ALA also works synergistically with other
antioxidants to raise levels of glutathione in the cell.
Several studies suggest that treatment with ALA may help reduce
pain, burning, itching, tingling, and numbness in people who have nerve damage
(called peripheral neuropathy) caused by diabetes.
