Here are the benefits of some popular spices...
Indians are known to like their food hot and spicy. So to imagine your food without spices is rather unimaginable, isn't it?! They say wherever you find an Indian, chances are you will find a range of aromatic spices. But along with the taste that spices and herbs provide, they also have several medicinal benefits as well. Spices have been used for centuries for their medicinal qualities and researchers continue to study their healing properties. Here are some of their benefits:
Chili powder: It relieves painful joints. Research shows that capsaicin, found in chili peppers, has an anti-inflammatory effect, which may help ease arthritic swelling and pain.
Cinnamon: Protects against type 2 diabetes and heart disease. A study has discovered that about half a teaspoon lowered blood glucose, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels.
Garlic: Improves your heart's health. Garlic consumption can lower your cholesterol and triglyceride levels by an average of 10 per cent.
Cloves: Clove oil is a well-known treatment for toothache, and its antiseptic properties make it an excellent mouthwash. The main ingredient in the oil is eugenol, which is anti-inflammatory and can help ease the stiffness and pain associated with arthritis. It is a warming spice, which can help reduce congestion and stimulate digestion.
Ginger: Ginger contains antioxidants and can help protect against diseases. It calms down spasms and reduces flatulence in the digestive system. It is also an excellent treatment for nausea associated with travel sickness, pregnancy and hangovers.
Reasons to Season - Health Information for Spices
Spices and herbs make food taste great. You already know that. And you're probably aware of how they can help you eat healthier by cutting down on salt, fat and sugar when cooking. Now there's emerging evidence that these kitchen essentials may help protect your health. With each pinch, dash and spoonful, spices and herbs can help boost the antioxidant power of practically everything on your plate.
So what exactly are these things called antioxidants and why should you care? Antioxidants are extraordinary workhorses in our bodies. Studies suggest they provide a range of benefits, including giving our immune system a boost. They also appear to reduce inflammation, which is increasingly recognized as a first step in heart disease, cancer, diabetes and other chronic disease.
Preliminary studies indicate that spices and herbs have anti-inflammatory properties that may hold tremendous potential in promoting good health. Other studies suggest spices and herbs may help curb your hunger and boost your metabolism – which might make it easier for you to manage your weight.
Now more than ever, there are new reasons to season.
Check out this link and discover the health benefits of sea salt as used in our spice blends.