Inflammation is a highly important and necessary reaction to cellular changes. The inflammatory response is a protective mechanism that is activated as a result of environmental or internal challenges to homeostasis, and which result in activation of a cascade of pro-inflammatory chemicals with the job of protecting long term cellular integrity at the expense of short term cellular health. Chronic inflammation is detrimental to humans and animals because the integrity of cellular health is put in jeopardy by constant exposure to the pro-inflammatory chemicals. Plants are rich in anti-inflammatory chemicals and eating plant foods can reduce chronic inflammation, and thus improve health. Hawthorn (Crataegus oxyacantha) leaves are rich in anti-inflammatory compounds mainly of the polyphenol sub-class. Evidence shows that administration of leaf extracts of hawthorn to animals is able to significantly reduce inflammation, perhaps via antioxidant mechanisms.
Eat Well, Stay Healthy, protect Yourself
RdB
