Inflammation is a natural process the body uses to fight off foreign invaders such as bacteria and viruses. However, it also accompanies some diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and other joint conditions, such as osteoarthritis and gout.

A mainstay of traditional Indian medicine for centuries, ashwagandha powder is an herbal remedy derived from the powdered root of the ashwagandha shrub, known scientifically as Withania somnifera.

Cardamom seed, which is also known as Elettaria cardamomum, is an herbal supplement that when added to tea can help aid in digestion or alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort. The safety and effectiveness of this herbal medication have not been evaluated or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Acupuncture is a healing art based in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Acupuncturists apply slim needles to specific points of the body to restore a balanced flow of vital energy, or "qi."

Heating limestone produces a chemical substance used in agriculture called pulverized lime, or calcium oxide.

Herbs have been used for centuries to treat medical conditions and spiritual crises. While not all herbs are considered safe, some have the capability to soothe frayed nerves and leave a sense of euphoria behind. Herbs are not recommended for pregnant or nursing women, and may be contraindicated with medications.

When a woman is pregnant, the activities she can engage in change because of safety. However, pregnant woman shouldn't skip exercise just because they're worried about the health of their growing little one. Cardio, weight training and yoga are all safe gym exercises that a woman can perform while pregnant.

Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a contagious bacterial infection of the respiratory tract. Although inoculation has reduced the incidence of the disease in children, the effectiveness of the vaccine fades over time. This is why whooping cough occurs in teens and adults.

HCG is a hormone that occurs naturally in the human body and has a very specific role. Some for-profit companies promote HCG supplementation, claiming such benefits as weight loss or fertility enhancement.

Water retention, otherwise known as edema or dropsy, has a wide range of possible causes in men, from the most benign to life-threatening conditions. Fluid retention most often affects the legs, ankles and feet, and also the face and hands, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center.

The pain, dryness, redness and itching that accompany skin inflammation require immediate treatment to relieve discomfort. Inflammation from sunburns and allergic responses to plants, called contact dermatitis, can be cured at home in a few days or weeks.

Almond oil is acquired from the almond seed, which contains protein, vitamin E and B vitamins, as well as essential minerals, healthy fats and protein. The nutritional content of almond oil has made it a dietary source of these ingredients, but the benefits of almond oil go beyond the inside of the body.