The subject of this invention is the anti-inflammatory activity of a formulation of Barbarea verna (upland cress, early winter cress, or winter cress) seed preparation (BSP) containing phenethylisothiocyanate as its main active ingredient. BSP is a promising anti-inflammatory agent, which can be used for treatment of many inflammation-related conditions, including but not limited to rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, acute and chronic pains, lupus, irritable bowl disease, cancer and metabolic syndrome.