A thylakoid extract that is preferably stabilized and activable for treating inflammation is described. Different types of cell or tissue targets and inflammatory stimuli have been used to evaluate the performance of the extract, which, in all cases successfully modulate inflammation through a balance of pro/anti-inflammatory cytokines. Compositions comprising the extract and other anti-inflammatory agents, such as glucocorticoids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are further disclosed and claimed.