7 Miracle Spices With Huge Health Benefits (and Big Flavor)
- Chili Peppers. Add some heat to your dish with chili peppers -- and choose versions that are especially spicy to get the maximum amount of capsaicin.
- Cinnamon. You already love cinnamon in pumpkin pie, cinnamon rolls, raisin bread, and cinnamon sugar topping, but there are healthier ways to reap the benefits of this power spice: ...
- Tumeric. ...
- Parsley. ...
Full Answer
What are the best spices for health?
The Best Spices for Your Health
- Cinnamon. When you’re craving a little sweetness, skip the added sugar and add a dash of cinnamon. ...
- Ginger. If you tend to have a sensitive stomach, make ginger your new best friend. ...
- Turmeric. We can’t get enough of this vibrant yellow spice. ...
- Black Pepper. ...
- Garlic. ...
What herbs and spices are good for health?
Eat These Herbs and Spices to Boost Immunity
- Chamomile. Chamomile is an herb that's known for its daisylike appearance and many medicinal uses. ...
- Ginger. Ginger has been used as a supplement in traditional medicine for centuries. ...
- Cinnamon. ...
- Garlic. ...
- Sage. ...
- Lemon. ...
- Honey. ...
- Thyme. ...
- WATCH: How to Make Chamomile Health Tonic
What are the medical benefits of spices?
Spices comes with amazing health benefits such as treating heart burn, nausea, and indigestion. Some spices include nutmeg, tamarind, cinnamon, anise, allspice, and more.
What is the best spice for health?
The Best Spices For Your Health
- Ginger. A staple ingredient in Asian and Indian cuisine, ginger has also served medicinal purposes for centuries.
- Turmeric. Even though it's been around for centuries, turmeric has gained quite a bit of popularity in recent years.
- Garlic. It turns out that garlic isn't just good for warding off vampires. ...
- Cinnamon. ...
- Rosemary. ...
- Chili powder. ...
- Oregano. ...
What is the healthiest spice in the world?
10 of the healthiest herbs and spices and their health benefitsTurmeric.Ginger.Cumin.Peppermint.Echinacea.Cinnamon.Chili powder.Parsley.More items...•
Which spice is good for health?
Cinnamon is especially great for people who have high blood sugar. It lends a sweet taste to food without adding sugar, and studies indicate it can lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Cinnamon may also provide heart-healthy benefits, such as reducing high blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
What are the five healthiest spices?
5 Healthiest Spices on the PlanetCOCOA: Heart-Shaped Healing.CINNAMON: Balancing Blood Sugar.TURMERIC: Boosting Brain Power.GINGER: Taming Tummy Troubles.CHILI: Burning Up Fat.
Do powdered spices have health benefits?
Many phytonutrients have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory or even anti-cancer properties, and in the case of spices, these phytonutrients can be very concentrated. So spices do more than perk up the flavor of your food — they put a natural pharmacy in your kitchen.
What spice is good for inflammation?
9 Herbs and Spices That Fight InflammationGinger. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a delicious spice with a peppery yet sweet flavor. ... Garlic. Garlic (Allium sativum) is a popular spice with a strong smell and taste. ... Turmeric. ... Cardamom. ... Black pepper. ... Ginseng. ... Green tea. ... Rosemary.More items...•
Which spice keeps the heart healthy?
Like cayenne pepper, cinnamon has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that are responsible for its heart health benefits.
What is the most powerful herb?
TurmericTurmeric is certainly the most powerful herb on the planet. It is from the ginger family that is primarily grown in India, China and Indonesia. It contains various compounds with medicinal properties. For example, turmeric contains Curcumin which is a powerful antioxidant that boosts the body's own antioxidant enzymes.
Which spice is highest in antioxidants?
cloveWhen sorted by antioxidant content, clove has the highest mean antioxidant value, followed by peppermint, allspice, cinnamon, oregano, thyme, sage, rosemary, saffron, and estragon, all dried and ground, with mean values ranging from 44 to 277 mmol/100 g.
What spices help you lose weight?
13 Herbs That Can Help You Lose WeightFenugreek. Share on Pinterest. ... Cayenne Pepper. Cayenne pepper is a type of chili pepper, popularly used to bring a spicy dose of flavor to many dishes. ... Ginger. ... Oregano. ... Ginseng. ... Caralluma Fimbriata. ... Turmeric. ... Black Pepper.More items...•
What happens if you eat spice everyday?
Although spicy foods don't cause ulcers, they can trigger abdominal pain in some people. One study specifically highlighted that frequent consumption of spicy foods can trigger upper gastrointestinal symptoms in some people with dyspepsia (or, indigestion).
Which is better ginger or turmeric?
One animal study that looked at rheumatoid arthritis found that even though both turmeric and ginger reduced the incidence and severity of flare-ups, turmeric had significantly more anti-inflammatory and antioxidant power than ginger.
What does paprika do for the body?
Paprika contains capsaicin, a compound found in peppers that has been shown to have a wide range of health benefits. For example, it has antioxidant properties, can help reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease, improve immunity, and even alleviate gas.
What spice is good with everything?
10+ Spices that Go with EverythingBlack Pepper. Virtually any savory recipe can be improved with a pinch of pepper. ... Cayenne. Are you trying to come up with a way to give a recipe a hot, peppery kick? ... Chili Powder. ... Cinnamon. ... Cumin. ... Garlic Powder. ... Ginger. ... Oregano.More items...
Is it good to eat spices everyday?
Although spicy foods don't cause ulcers, they can trigger abdominal pain in some people. One study specifically highlighted that frequent consumption of spicy foods can trigger upper gastrointestinal symptoms in some people with dyspepsia (or, indigestion).
Which Indian spices are good for health?
Health benefits of Indian spicesCinnamon: This spice is aromatic and has a refreshing taste. ... Cloves: ... Cumin: ... Black Cardamom: Do not confuse it with green cardamom; black cardamom is a common spice in briyani. ... Saffron: Kashmir is synonymous with the production of the best quality of saffron in India. ... Nutmeg:More items...•
Which is better ginger or turmeric?
One animal study that looked at rheumatoid arthritis found that even though both turmeric and ginger reduced the incidence and severity of flare-ups, turmeric had significantly more anti-inflammatory and antioxidant power than ginger.
What is the yellow color of turmeric?
Turmeric is the spice that gives curry its yellow color. It contains several compounds with medicinal properties, the most important of which is curcumin ( 25. Trusted Source. ). Curcumin is a remarkably powerful antioxidant, helping to fight oxidative damage and boosting the body’s own antioxidant enzymes ( 26.
What is the most important compound in a saline solution?
It contains several compounds with medicinal properties, the most important of which is curcumin ( 25 ).
Why is curcumin important?
Trusted Source. ). This is important, because oxidative damage is believed to be one of the key mechanisms behind ageing and many diseases. Curcumin is also strongly anti-inflammatory, to the point where it matches the effectiveness of some anti-inflammatory drugs ( 31.
Why is fenugreek used in Ayurveda?
Fenugreek was commonly used in Ayurveda, particularly to enhance libido and masculinity.
What is the healthiest spice?
Here are 10 of the world’s healthiest herbs and spices, supported by research. 1. Cinnamon Lowers Blood Sugar Levels and Has a Powerful Anti-Diabetic Effect. Cinnamon is a popular spice, found in all sorts of recipes and baked goods. It contains a compound called cinnamaldehyde, which is responsible for cinnamon ’s medicinal properties ( 1 ).
What is peppermint used for?
Peppermint has a long history of use in folk medicine and aromatherapy.
What is a cayenne pepper?
Cayenne pepper is a type of chili pepper used to prepare spicy dishes.
What is the best spice for digestion?
Allspice: It is a kind of berry that combines flavors of pepper, nutmeg, and cinnamon for a power-packed flavour dose. It helps in digestion, has anti inflammatory properties, improves circulation, promotes dental health, enhances immunity and promotes heart health. 3. Ajwain: Ajwain is also known as carom seeds.
What is star anise used for?
1. Anise: Star anise is usually used for culinary purposes in Chinese, Indian, Malaysian and Indonesian cuisines. Star anise is a rich source of two important antioxidants namely linalool, an essential oil, and vitamin C that protects the body against cellular damage caused by environmental toxins.
Why is cinnamon so popular?
It has large number of antioxidants which protects body from body diseases and have many anti-inflammatory. Cinnamon forms a part of many exotic dishes and is currently trending because of its ability to reduce a tummy bloat. Cinnamon is a favourite household spice which has been used throughout the world for ages. 12.
What is the purpose of ajwain?
Carom seeds are often chewed for medicinal purposes. Despite a partially bitter taste, ajwain or carom seeds provide a whole host of health benefits. Ajwain promotes digestion, cures stomach ache and helps relieve tooth pain. These seeds are rich in calcium, proteins and fibre too.
What are some spices that are used in cooking?
There are many spices we use in our day to day cooking, these include popular ones like cumin, black pepper, turmeric and coriander seeds.
How many celery stalks should I eat a day?
Research has shown that eating as few as four celery stalks a day can reduce high blood pressure. 11. Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a favourite household spice which has been used throughout the world for ages. It has large number of antioxidants which protects body from body diseases and have many anti-inflammatory.
Where does fennel come from?
18. Fennel: It is native to Southern Europe and grown all over Europe, Middle-East, China, India, and Turkey. This spice is a rich source of dietary fiber. Its powerful antioxidants helps in removing harmful free radicals from the body and promotes a healthy being, it helps fight aging and other degenerative neurological diseases.
History of Spices
Spices have been around for millennia! Most of the spices that we know of and use today originated from the Middle East, Asia, and the Mediterranean. ( 1) These regions used spices for both healing and culinary purposes dating back well before the common era. ( 2 )
Health Benefits of Spices
All spices have compounds in them that protect us from diseases. Here are some general health benefits of spices:
5 Common Spices Health Benefits
Fun fact: You may be wondering why such a common spice like black pepper is the first spice on the list. It is because we sprinkle a dash of pepper on so many things that we cook! Pepper is the most sold spice in the United States. ( 13) Pepper sits alongside salt most of the time and pretty much lives on all of our kitchen tables.
Spices Cooking Tips
Learning how to cook with spices can help improve their palatability. Here are our top tips for cooking with spices:
How to Purchase Spices
As spices age, they lose some of their flavor, so if you know that you won’t use a lot of a certain spice, purchase a small quantity. The bulk section at many grocery stores can help you purchase smaller quantities.
Spices Storage Tips
Store spices out of sunlight and in dry areas of your kitchen. A rotating spice rack on your kitchen counter can be a great reminder to incorporate more spices into your recipes! Store spices in glass containers with tight fitting lids to preserve quality.
What are the benefits of cardamom seeds?
In particular, the volatile oils present in cardamom seeds are analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antispasmodic.
How long has cinnamon been used?
Ancient civilizations have used cinnamon since 2,800 BCE for anointing, embalming, and treating ailments. Though not as widely used for its therapeutic properties as it was thousands of years ago, cinnamon still provides myriad health benefits as an antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and anticarcinogenic spice.
What spices are good for cancer?
Peppermint. Echinacea. Cinnamon. Chili powder. Parsley. Oregano. Cardamom. Summary. There are several herbs and spices with multiple potential health benefits, such as those with anti-inflammatory properties, cognitive boosters, and some that may even aid in fighting cancer, to name just a few.
What are the benefits of oregano?
Another herb that is prevalent in the Mediterranean diet is oregano, which many use not only as a flavor enhancer for food but as an aromatic oil and supplement. The herb’s antioxidants contribute to its powerful taste and smell, and may also provide benefits such as: 1 strengthening the immune system against infections 2 reducing inflammation 3 regulating blood sugar 4 improving insulin resistance 5 alleviating urinary tract symptoms and menstrual cramps 6 fighting cancer
What is the best herb to use in Mediterranean diet?
Another herb that is prevalent in the Mediterranean diet is oregano, which many use not only as a flavor enhancer for food but as an aromatic oil and supplement. The herb’s antioxidants contribute to its powerful taste and smell, and may also provide benefits#N#Trusted Source#N#such as:
What did Hippocrates use to cure fever?
Hippocrates (460-377 BCE) used saffron, cinnamon, thyme, coriander, and other plants as treatments, many of which people still use today as holistic remedies for fevers, aches and pains, and other ailments. While there is little to no scientific evidence that they directly cure serious diseases, research increasingly shows ...
What are some herbs that are used in medicine?
Some of these herbs and spices include turmeric, peppermint, ginger, and many more. Long before modern medicine, the ancient Greeks used a variety of spices and herbs for their healing properties. Hippocrates (460-377 BCE) used saffron, cinnamon, thyme, coriander, and other plants as treatments, many of which people still use today as holistic ...
What is the best spice to use for inflammation?
Researchers think one of its compounds, called 1,8-cineole, may boost brain activity. Turmeric. This yellow spice gets a lot of hype, and for good reason. It’s a good source of curcumin, an antioxidant that eases inflammation. Research suggests that curcumin may help ease pain.
Why do we add spices to our diet?
Adding herbs and spices to your diet has another benefit: “Because they’re so flavorful, they make it easier to cut back on less healthy ingredients like salt, sugar, and added fat ,” says Adrienne Youdim, MD, an associate clinical professor of medicine at the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine.
What spice is good for an upset stomach?
Here are some standouts to think about adding to your next meal: Cardamom. This sweet, pungent spice is in many pumpkin spice mixes. It’s known to soothe an upset stomach, and lab studies show it may also help fight inflammation.
What are herbs made of?
Herbs, like basil, are the leaves of a plant, while spices, like cinnamon, are usually made from the seeds, berries, bark, or roots of a plant. Both are used to flavor food, but research shows they’re chock-full of healthy compounds and may have health benefits.
Why are chili peppers so spicy?
They also may boost your metabolism and help keep blood vessels healthy. One possible reason is capsaicin, the compound that makes them spicy.
Do you cook with herbs and spices?
“You should be cooking with herbs and spices regularly -- and, if possible, using several at a time.”.
Is cocoa good for you?
Cocoa. You may think of cocoa as the key ingredient in chocolate, but it’s a spice with many health perks. The cocoa bean is chock-full of flavonoids, which are antioxidants that have been shown to boost heart health. Flavonoids seem to play a role in lowering cholesterol and blood pressure and helping keep your coronary ( heart) arteries healthy, among other things.
What is tumeric used for?
Tastes like: Turmeric has a distinctive flavor to it, and is the primary spice used in many Indian-style curries.
What spices are good for diabetics?
4. Cumin. Ground cumin deserves a place on your spice shelf not only because of the flavor it provides, but also its health benefits. Among these are digestive benefits, helping to avoid diabetes, and providing much-needed nutrients.
Why is turmeric good for you?
Turmeric can be used as an all-natural way to treat the symptoms of arthritis, and to sooth the digestive system. But perhaps the most pressing reason to take turmeric is its anti-cancer benefits, backed by promising research that shows turmeric can help you avoid cancer, or stop its progression if you already have it.
What does basil taste like?
Tastes like: The peppery taste of fresh basil is tough to match in the world of herbs and spices. The number one dish that showcases basil’s amazing flavor is pesto, as basil is the primary ingredient. Pesto is a great way to add the goodness of basil to a wide variety of meals. [hr]
What spices are good to use with cumin?
On its own it has a tart taste to it, which is why you’ll often see it used with cumin, cardamom, and other spices to help round out the flavor. 2. Rosemary. Rosemary is a boon to the immune system, helping to keep it healthy and functioning properly.
Why do people use cardamom?
Perhaps the biggest reason to start using more cardamom is because of the way it helps with digestion. It can help with symptoms like indigestion, upset stomach, and heartburn, which is great news for those looking for non-medicinal ways to treat common problems like these.
What herbs are good for chicken and potatoes?
You’ll often see rosemary used to enhance the flavor of chicken and potatoes because it does a good job of permeating the entire dish. [hr] 3. Basil. Basil may not be on your health radar because of its classification as an herb and use as an ancillary ingredient, but it’s time to start upping your intake of it.
Why are spices used?
Spices and herbs have been in use for centuries both for culinary and medicinal purposes. Spices not only enhance the flavor, aroma, and color of food and beverages, but they can also protect from acute and chronic diseases. More Americans are considering the use of spices and herbs for medicinal an …. Spices and herbs have been in use ...
What are some good foods to eat to reduce the risk of cancer?
Spices and herbs such as clove, rosemary, sage, oregano, and cinnamon are excellent sources of antioxidants with their high content of phenolic compounds. It is evident that frequent consumption of spicy foods was also linked to a lower risk of death from cancer and ischemic heart and respiratory system diseases.
Why are spices important?
Spices not only enhance the flavor, aroma, and color of food and beverages, but they can also protect from acute and chronic diseases. More Americans are considering the use of spices and herbs for medicinal and therapeutic/remedy use, especially for various chronic conditions.
