Gabe Mirkin, the man who first proposed the R.I.C.E. protocol in the 1970’s, recently wrote an article questioning the benefits of ice and complete rest. “The response to both infection and tissue damage is the same. Inflammatory cells rush to injured tissue to start the healing process. The inflammatory cells called macrophages release a hormone called Insulin-like growth Factor (IGF-1) into the damaged tissues, which helps muscles and other injured parts to heal. However, applying ice to reduce swelling actually delays healing by preventing the body from releasing IGF-1.”
So, in the case of an acute injury, inflammation is a GOOD THING - it's the body's natural defense and healing system.
Ice gives relief and helps reduce swelling that causes pain, but it also slows your body’s natural ability to heal. Taking anti-inflammatory medications like NSAIDs can do the same! NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) are problematic because they prolong the healing of an injury and they can wreak havoc on your gut, causing both severe and chronic digestive problems. People often think of these over-the-counter medications as being safe but in reality they are responsible for thousands of deaths each year.
Plants to help wound and tissue damage (Inflammation):
ARNICA - dilates capillaries, which increases blood flow to and from the injury. This increased blood flow brings healing hormones to the area and moves stagnant blood (like bruises). The result is decreased swelling and faster healing time. It’s best to use arnica on closed wound injuries.
ALOE VERA - the gel has the action of steroids, penetrates the skin quickly and deeply, increases circulation of blood to an area (where blood goes, healing goes).
CHAMOMILE and HELICHRYSUM - essential oil can be easily applied topically to any injured area, to reduce pain, swelling, bruising, skin irritation and help in the healing process.
COMFREY - healer of wounds, ulcers, knitter of flesh, sinew and bone.
ST. JOHNS WORT - helps with injuries and pain, especially nerve pain. Also for bruises, sprains and neuropathy. Reduces scarring and relieves pain and itching related to wound healing.Foods to reduce inflammatory conditions:
PINEAPPLE - contains bromelain which is very anti-inflammatory.
ALL GREEN FOODS - Kale, broccoli, cabbage, spinach, chard, lettuce, etc all help to keep the body pH alkaline. An acidic condition in the body increases inflammation.
MINERALS - Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Sodium and thee 72 trace minerals help to alkalinize the body and keep it from an acidic and inflammatory condition.
What causes inflammation?
SUGAR, RED MEAT, STRESS, INJURY
ARNICA SALVE
20 grams beeswax
25 grams coconut oil
20 grams shea butter
2/3 cup arnica infused oil
2/3 cup St. John’s wort infused oil
2/3 cup helichrysum hydrosol
20-40 drops of lavender essential oil
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