Anti-Inflammatory Herbs The case for seasoning food with culinary herbs is more compelling now that many of the herbs used in the culinary arts have potent anti-inflammatory potential. Here is the list of the top 4 culinary herbs that should be used in every kitchen if you are focused on eating an anti-inflammatory diet. Top 4 Anti-Inflammatory Herbs 1. Oregano Oregano has one of the highest antioxidant activities out of all herbs due to its high rosmarinic acid content. This compound is a strong-acting antioxidant. Antioxidants are a class of compounds that help the body reduce cellular damage due to free radicals, which are common in pro-inflammatory diets. These free radicals increase the risk of cancer, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and dementia. One researcher, Shiow Wang, is quoted as saying that "Oregano has 42 times more antioxidant activity than apples, 30 times more than potatoes,