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# Anti-inflammatory

an·ti-in·flam·ma·to·ry - AN-tee-in-FLAM-ah-tor-ee

## Definition

Anti-inflammatory refers to any substance or treatment that reduces inflammation - the body's natural [immune response](/glossary/immune-response) to injury, infection, or irritation. While acute [inflammation](/glossary/inflammation) is a vital healing process (think of the redness and swelling around a cut), chronic or excessive inflammation can damage healthy tissues and contribute to a wide range of diseases. Anti-inflammatory agents work by interrupting the chemical pathways that produce inflammatory signals.

Anti-inflammatory treatments come in many forms. Pharmaceutical options include [nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs](/glossary/nsaid) (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin, corticosteroids like prednisone, and newer biologic medications that target specific inflammatory molecules. Natural anti-inflammatory approaches include dietary strategies rich in omega-3 fatty acids, turmeric (curcumin), ginger, green tea, and other [phytonutrients](/glossary/phytonutrients) that modulate inflammatory pathways.

The growing understanding of inflammation's role in chronic disease has made anti-inflammatory strategies a cornerstone of modern preventive medicine. Research increasingly shows that systemic low-grade inflammation - sometimes called 'silent inflammation' - is a common thread linking cardiovascular disease, [type 2 diabetes](/conditions/type-2-diabetes), cancer, Alzheimer's disease, and autoimmune conditions. This [has](/glossary/hyaluronic-acid) elevated the importance of anti-inflammatory diets, lifestyle modifications, and targeted therapies in managing long-term health.

## Also Known As

Anti-inflammatory agent 

## Key Facts

-   • NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin) are the most commonly used anti-inflammatory medications worldwide. 
-   • The Mediterranean diet is considered one of the most effective anti-inflammatory dietary patterns. 
-   • Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish and flaxseeds, are among the most studied natural anti-inflammatories. 
-   • Chronic use of NSAID anti-inflammatories can cause gastrointestinal, kidney, and cardiovascular side effects. 
-   • Exercise itself has anti-inflammatory effects, reducing levels of inflammatory biomarkers like C-reactive protein. 

## How It Relates To Your Health

Anti-inflammatory strategies are central to managing conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's and ulcerative colitis), [asthma](/conditions/asthma), psoriasis, and many other inflammatory disorders. If your doctor [has](/glossary/hyaluronic-acid) recommended anti-inflammatory medications or dietary changes, it's because controlling [inflammation](/glossary/inflammation) can slow disease progression, reduce symptoms, and prevent complications.

Beyond treating specific diseases, anti-inflammatory lifestyle practices - including regular exercise, stress management, adequate sleep, and a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy [fats](/glossary/lipids) - are increasingly recognized as fundamental to long-term health and disease prevention.

## Related Terms

[Inflammation](/glossary/inflammation)[Chronic Inflammation](/glossary/chronic-inflammation)[NSAID](/glossary/nsaid)[Omega-3 Fatty Acids](/glossary/omega-3-fatty-acids)[Cytokines](/glossary/cytokines)

## Related Articles

[![The Mediterranean Diet: A Complete Beginner's Guide](https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1498837167922-ddd27525d352?w=1200&h=630&fit=crop&fm=webp)](/nutrition/mediterranean-diet-beginners-guide)

[](/nutrition/mediterranean-diet-beginners-guide)[Nutrition & Diet](/nutrition)

### The Mediterranean Diet: A Complete Beginner's Guide

2026-01-20

## Sources

1.  [Anti-inflammatory Agents](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539781/) - StatPearls / PubMed
2.  [Foods that fight inflammation](https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/foods-that-fight-inflammation) - Harvard Health Publishing
3.  [Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)](https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/nonsteroidal-anti-inflammatory-drugs-nsaids) - U.S. Food and Drug Administration

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