Anti-Inflammatory Green Juice Recipe with Meadowsweet is a potent inflammation-quenching therapeutic drink consisting of a comforting seven blend of preferred greens and herbs to help combat inflammation.
Meadowsweet, in this recipe, is an herb with a long and distinguished history of medicinal use. Such as helping to reduce pain and swelling associated with injuries and illnesses. It also helps to improve gut health thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties and, of course, mentioned in some of the most famous literary works of the middle ages and various herbal compendiums, including those written by Nicholas Culpeper and John Gerard.
Meadowsweet is also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals and is an excellent choice for improving overall health and well-being.
Inflammation
The human body is a complex system that is indeed a remarkable creation. It can respond to changes in its environment and adapt to new situations.
Still, it is also explicitly designed to produce inflammation, a Latin term meaning “to set on fire.”
Although inflammation might seem like a negative or undesirable state of being, it is simply a person’s body’s natural way of setting things on fire and initiating the healing process.
Inflammation helps the body dispose of damaged or dead cells, boost immunity, defend against outside invaders such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi, eliminate toxins from the body, map out where repair processes are needed, and initiate the healing process by turning on inflammation relieving molecules.
In the face of inflammation, our bodies produce antibodies and other chemicals that help protect us against infection and help wounds heal.
These chemical messengers signal the immune system, telling it exactly what type of inflammation needs to be produced to combat the threat.
Whether it is a rash from poison ivy or an injury from playing sports, inflammation plays an essential role in repairing damage and preventing more serious illnesses from developing.
The process
Furthermore, the redness and heat manifest due to increased blood flow to the inflamed area; An increased blood flow causes the redness and heat of an inflamed area. This increased blood flow is a natural response by the body to an injury or infection. The extra blood brings more oxygen and nutrients to the area, which helps the body heal the injury or fight the disease—swelling due to fluid accumulation; pain due to the release of chemicals that stimulate nerve endings; and loss of function due to different factors. This process might be uncomfortable but is essential for healing.
So rather than being something to fear, inflammation is a natural process that shows how resilient and powerful our bodies indeed are.
After all, if it weren’t for inflammation, we wouldn’t be able to heal from accidents or infections and would constantly be at risk of other health issues.
So next time you experience inflammation in your body, remember that this natural ‘hot’ process is your body working hard to keep you healthy and strong!
Inflammation never develops on its own, and it only emerges for two reasons.
1. Injury
Acute inflammation occurs when you have an injury or an infection. As a result, your body responds to these conditions with an inflammatory response. This response aims to protect your body and help you heal.
E.g., the swelling that occurs with a broken bone or an injury to a muscle. To recover it, it sends neutrophils to reach the site of injury first, sometimes within an hour after an injury or infection. After the neutrophils, usually 24 to 28 hours after inflammation, another group of white blood cells, the monocytes, eventually mature into cell-eating macrophages. Macrophages typically become more prevalent at the injury site only after days or weeks.
Five cardinal signs characterize the signs and symptoms of acute inflammation:
- rubor (redness)
- tumor (swelling)
- calor (increased heat)
- dolar (pain)
- functio laesa (loss of function)
2. Invaders
In the medical community, chronic inflammation is linked to various conditions, from arteriosclerosis to diabetes. For instance, Inflammatory disease is a general term that applies to autoimmune diseases and chronic inflammation conditions in which a person’s immune system attacks the body’s own tissues.
Familiar inflammatory diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, inflammatory bowel disease, and multiple sclerosis.
E.g., in rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory cells and substances attack joint tissues leading to an inflammation that comes and goes and can cause severe damage to joints with pain and deformities.
However, the presumption is incorrect
Chronic inflammation is not one’s body attacking itself.
Chronic inflammation is an invasion of a pathogen – This is any pathogen.
The New York Times #1 Best Selling Author, Anthony William
The blame game
When we look at labels as answers, we come up with autoimmune—a label of blame that gets put on you and your body. Talk about feeling faulty and broken as you walk the line of shame, leaving the doctor’s office following a autoimmune diagnosis.
However, this title perpetuates a misunderstanding of circumstances.
Auto- comes from the Greek for “self,” so the word implies that your immune system goes after you-your own self.
The term Autoimmune is a fixation. The proper representation would be viral-immune because the immune system goes after invaders.
Why the theory?
In short, Anthony goes on to convey in his remarkable book Thyroid Healing, ” by the 1950s, the medical world became frustrated with not having an explanation for why conditions such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves disease, lupus, RA, Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, ulcerative colitis, and MS were leaving people ailing or even crippled”.
Therefore, while close observation of some patients’ blood work revealed the presence of antibodies, and after exhausting perplexities began the theory of “It must be the body becoming confused and attacking itself.”
So instead of investigating this further, The autoimmune theory became the ” law of the land.”
A viral issue
A viral issue causes chronic inflammation, therefore contributing to the onset of the before-mentioned diseases.
Mr. William exemplifies this crucial factor in his fantastic book Cleanse To Heal, that pathogens such as a virus that feeds on both toxic heavy metals and troublemaker foods such as eggs, gluten, and dairy products, and as a result, produce chemical compounds called neurotoxins and dermatoxins that raise inflammation levels throughout the body.
This destructive inflammation can take over your life and well-being and leave you debilitated.
The actual underlying causes behind the inflammation include the many varieties and strains of
- Epstein-Barr
- shingles
- HHV-6
- undiscovered strains such as HHV-10 and HHV-12
- Antibiotic-resistant bacteria such as Streptococcus and H. pylori.
Types of Inflammation
- Brain inflammation – Brain inflammation is also Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), which has a number of other labels, including myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME).
- Sinus inflammation
- Eye inflammation
- Fibromyalgia
- Gut inflammation
- Liver inflammation
- Inflammation can also occur if you catch a flu
Did you know
Until the late 18th century, acute inflammation was considered a disease?
John Hunter (1728–1793), a London surgeon and anatomist, stood to be the first to concede that acute inflammation was the body’s protective response to injury that was generally beneficial to the host.
Moving Forward
Whether you have inflammation caused by an injury or inflammation caused by a pathogen, healing is essential. However, when you have a pathogen causing inflammation, the most beneficial way to help your condition is by restricting the foods that feed pathogens (which contribute to inflammation) and are inherently destructive to the body. For this reason, bring in healing foods, such as this anti-inflammatory green juice recipe and the supportive foods listed below.
Foods to Avoid
- artificial and natural flavors
- canola oil
- citric acid
- corn
- dairy (including milk, cheese, butter, kefir, and yogurt)
- eggs
- gluten
- MSG
- pork
- wheat
Supportive Foods that will help move you forward in your healing journey.
Include lots of anti-inflammatory fruits, leafy greens, and veggies into your diet. Such as these inflammation-busting foods below.
For instance, these foods can help heal the body by killing off the pathogens responsible for chronic inflammation.
- apples
- cherries
- figs
- garlic
- herbs, including rosemary, thyme, sage, and oregano, destroy pathogens and are anti-inflammatory.
- kiwis
- leafy greens, such as arugula, lettuce, and kale
- lemon
- mangos
- melons
- nectarines
- papaya
- peaches
- pears
- plums
- wild blueberries
Seven incredible ingredients + their benefits in the Anti-Inflammatory Green Juice Recipe with Meadowsweet
01. Meadowsweet (Filipendula Ulmaria)
What is meadowsweet?
Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria), or meadow wort, is a herbaceous perennial plant in the rose family Rosaceae. This flowering herb is native to Europe and parts of Asia and abundant in England and Ireland, and found in North America. The plant grows to 1–2.5 m tall, with spirally arranged leaves 10–25 cm long and 2–4 cm broad. The flowers are creamy-white, produced in dense flat corymbs 5–15 cm in diameter in late summer.
Meadowsweet Benefits
Additionally, meadowsweet is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and bioflavonoids and works as a natural digestive aid and pain reliever. It has been shown to decrease acid build-up in the stomach by soothing the mucous membranes and digestive tract, making it an excellent remedy for digestive issues such as nausea, ulcers, heartburn, gastritis, indigestion, IBS, and diarrhea.
Meadowsweet also contains sedative properties that help relax the nervous system and reduce muscle tension throughout the body.
Nutrients and compounds
Natural source of tannins
Some of the meadowsweet plant’s health benefits are due to its high tannin content. Tannins are compounds with astringent properties that can help stop bleeding and swelling. They can also help to soothe the digestive system and relieve diarrhea.
Rich in flavonoids
Meadowsweet is rich in flavonoids, plant-based compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Flavonoids can help protect cells from damage and may prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
Potent anti-inflammatory
Meadowsweet is a potent anti-inflammatory that can help reduce swelling associated with arthritis, rheumatism, fibromyalgia, bursitis, sinusitis, allergies, migraines, and chronic illnesses.
Pain relief
The plant contains many compounds with potential medicinal effects, including salicylic acid (of Willow bark fame), which is effective for pain relief and has been touted for many centuries as an excellent remedy for moderate pain. Salicylic acid is also an active ingredient in aspirin that reduces pain and inflammation in your body.
Recent studies
Meadowsweet extract has been shown to inhibit the growth of ulcer-causing H. pylori bacteria in test-tube studies. This herb has been studied in recent years for its potential role in cancer prevention. While more research is needed, meadowsweet shows promise as a possible natural remedy for various ailments.
- Newer and past studies have found that it can fight certain types of bacteria, including E Coli.
- Though research is limited, meadowsweet extract seems to reduce tumor development in rats exposed to cancer-causing agents significantly.
Forms of Meadowsweet
Meadowsweet can be taken in capsules, tinctures, or infusions. It can also be used topically as a compress.
If you’re interested in trying meadowsweet for its health benefits and are pregnant or breastfeeding or have bleeding disorders, talk to your physician or practitioner before use.
02. Kale (Brassica oleracea, variety acephala)
Is a nutrient-dense, detoxifying food with a powerful source of nutrients. It is exceptionally high in beta-carotene, an antioxidant that the body can turn into vitamin A. As well as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin K (K1), fiber, and carotenoids.
Qualities
Kale contains impressive anti-inflammatory properties, various phytonutrients (approximately 45 different flavonoids), and antioxidants Quercetin and Kaempferol that can help counteract oxidative damage by free radicals in the body. Kale helps benefit everything from glowing skin and healthy eyes to a healthy digestive system and strong bones.
03. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
Most of the ginger’s anti-inflammatory and medicinal qualities come from its main bioactive compound, gingerol and is used primarily in tea.
Ginger is not only an excellent immune booster and an inflammation fighter. Gingerol, the bioactive substance in fresh ginger, can also help lower the risk of infections.
Qualities
Ginger has demonstrated to repress the growth of different bacteria, fungi, and viruses, such as the bacteria linked to inflammatory diseases in the gums like gingivitis and periodontitis, and the bacteria that cause the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), a common cause of respiratory infections. These results could be primarily related to the suppression of bacterial biofilm formation, ergosterol biosynthesis, and viral attachment and internalization. Some studies have also shown ginger to effectively reduce osteoarthritis symptoms, which is a prevalent health problem.
Ginger also contains a substance called 6-gingerol, a substance found in large numbers in raw ginger, which may have protective effects against cancer. Some studies confirm that bioactive molecules in ginger may slow the growth of some cancers like colorectal, gastric, ovarian, liver, skin, breast, and prostate cancer. However, further research needs to be implemented.
04. Celery (Apium graveolens)
Celery contains high levels of vitamin K and reasonable amounts of vitamin A, vitamins B-2, B-6, and vitamin C.
Like other plant foods, celery contains phytonutrients — such as phenolic acid and flavonoids that have potent antioxidant properties with the potential to attenuate tissue damage.
Qualities
Celery’s rich in phytonutrient antioxidants that contain anti-inflammatory properties. Celery’s phytonutrients include phenolic acids, flavones like luteolin, flavonols like quercetin and kaempferol, dihydrostilbenoids, phytosterols, and furanocoumarins. It has a plant compound called apigenin, which plays a role in traditional Chinese medicine as an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and antioxidant agent.
A study published in Molecular Nutrition & Food Research suggests that celery juice and celery extracts may help reduce activity by tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-A) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-KB), proteins that are connected to inflammatory problems. Another study published in Planta Medica suggests that the luteolin in celery may inhibit the production of COX-2, an enzyme that triggers inflammation.
05. Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
Parsley is an excellent vitamin C source and a significant vitamin A source, notably through its concentration of the pro-vitamin A carotenoid, beta-carotene. The flavonoids in parsley—especially luteolin—have been shown to function as antioxidants that connect with extremely reactive oxygen-containing molecules (called oxygen radicals) and help prevent oxygen-based damage to cells.
Qualities
Parsley is an excellent vitamin C source and a significant vitamin A source, notably through its concentration of the pro-vitamin A carotenoid, beta-carotene. The flavonoids in parsley—especially luteolin—have been shown to function as antioxidants that connect with extremely reactive oxygen-containing molecules (called oxygen radicals) and help prevent oxygen-based damage to cells.
Parsley’s volatile oils—particularly myristicin—have been shown to inhibit tumor development in animal studies, and particularly, tumor development in the lungs. Myristicin has also been shown to activate the enzyme glutathione-S-transferase, which helps attach the molecule glutathione to oxidized molecules that would otherwise damage the body. The great activity of parsley’s volatile oils qualifies it as a “chemoprotective” superfood, particularly food that can help neutralize particular carcinogens.
06. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Basil and its potent anti-inflammatory properties prove to be a remedy to various diseases and disorders. The powerful essential oils, eugenol, citronellol, and linalool, help lower inflammation through their enzyme inhibiting properties.
Qualities
Basil’s anti-inflammatory properties may lower heart disease risk, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel conditions, such as Crohn’s disease. Basil consumption could also soothe a fever, headache, sore throat, cold, cough, and flu.
Consumption of this herb could result in the slow release of sugar in the blood, which is crucial for individuals with diabetes. Basil also has a very low glycemic load. The essential oil present in basil also reduces triglyceride and cholesterol levels, a risk factor among people with diabetes.
07. Gala Apples (Malus domestica)
Gala apples are juicy and sweet, with flavors often chosen for eating. Apples are naturally low fat, high in carbohydrate fruit, with fructose as the predominant sugar. They are also rich sources of vitamins, mainly C and E, minerals potassium and magnesium, triterpenoids, such as ursolic acid, fiber soluble and insoluble, polyphenols, quercetin, catechin, chlorogenic acid, and anthocyanin.
Qualities
Apples are also abundant in quercetin and pectin, both of which supply apples with their health benefits. Quercetin is a flavonoid, a naturally occurring plant chemical with fantastic antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Pectin is a helpful type of soluble fiber that may help avert constipation. It has a natural impact on lowering LDL, the “bad” cholesterol. Beneficial bacteria also ferment pectin in the colon, producing short-chain fatty acids that may help prevent chronic diseases. As well as certain cancers and painful bowel disorders.
Fresh, whole organic apples contribute the most nutrients. Discarding the skin eliminates much of the fiber and most of the flavonoids. Drying or dehydrating the apples removes vitamin C, which is predominantly in the flesh.
Anti-Inflammatory Green Juice Recipe with Meadowsweet
Directions:
Additionally, you can drink the Anti-inflammatory Green Juice recipe two times per day or more, and Meadowsweet can be taken up to four times per day, every day. Keep in mind Meadowsweet contains sedative properties that help relax the nervous system and reduce muscle tension throughout the body. If Meadowsweet makes you tired, skip it in the morning and use it before bedtime. Ask your doctor what’s best for you.
E.g.: Anti-Inflammatory Green Juice Recipe without Meadowsweet in the morning. Then before bed Anti-Inflammatory Green Juice Recipe with Meadowsweet.
Anti-Inflammatory Green Juice Recipe with Meadowsweet
Ingredients
- 3 organic gala apple's
- 2 handful's of Organic Kale
- 2 fresh organic basil leaves
- 1 cup of fresh organic parsley or cilantro
- 5 stalks of organic celery with leaves
- 1 to 2 inches of fresh organic ginger
- 20-30 drops (1ml) liquid meadowsweet (alcohol free)
Instructions
- Prepare the organic celery, apple, ginger, parsley, basil, and Kale by washing and cutting them to your specific juicer's appropriate size.
- Be sure you're following your juicer's directions. Certain juicers require that you peel the skin off fruits and vegetables before use.
- Fit Juicer attachments, place a cup under the spout to catch the juice and then turn on.
- Feed each ingredient into your juicer with the Kale placed between the apple and continue until all the fruits and vegetables have juiced.
- Serve immediately over crushed ice.
* I have a Breville juicer shown below, so I use the whole fruit, such as apples without peeling.
Notes
My favorite Ant-Inflammatory Superfood recipe is delicious and amazing over crushed ice. Beneficial to consume twice a day.
Juicing can improve your life, and it is by far the fastest way to get nutrition into your cells. The process is non-complex for the return one may receive for improved health.
A juicer extracts the juice out of fruits and vegetables by separating it from the fiber; you are then left with a fantastic healthy flow of nutrients to fuel and repair trillions of cells in your body, and the Juice process takes less than ten minutes to prepare.
For a complete change is health, one needs to scratch everything consumed and start over. By over, I mean avoid "the American diet" per se. GMO'S (genetically modified organisms), processed foods, high sugary diets, and sodas.
Begin with real foods, organic, if possible, because you can't expect health when you are still inviting chemicals into your body. We have shaped ourselves in poor nutrition. Now we have to introduce real, living foods that our bodies so desperately need to function.
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