Aspirin is well documented as being anti-inflammatory and leads to lowered cancer risk. But who needs it? You can get salyciln from a handful of almonds, or gain the same effect from chicken soup. Boiling chicken produces proline, an amino acid that also reduces inflammation. Other benefits include easing colds, helping prevent blood clots and improving memory says a new study. Now psychologists feel that the warmth and homeliness values associated with the dish aid therapeutic effect.