5 Healing Herbs and Spices

There are varieties of herbs and spices that have good health benefits along with adding great flavor to foods. Herbs and spices are easy to add to a variety of recipes. Here are five staples in my household and some of the health benefits and suggested uses.

1. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a great spice to add to things such as fruit smoothies, teas, and oatmeal. Some health benefits include stimulation of insulin activity, digestive aid, weight loss aid, and lowering cholesterol. There is a note of caution for anyone taking blood sugar or blood thinning medication. It is best to check with your doctor before consuming cinnamon regularly under these conditions.

2. Cayenne
Cayenne is a nice spice to add to meats, rice dishes, and other side dishes. Some health benefits include help with circulation, digestion, and metabolism.

3. Garlic Powder
Garlic powder is easy to add to many meat, side dishes, and pasta dishes. Some health benefits include immune boosting support, arthritis relief, and lowering blood pressure.

4. Rosemary
Rosemary is a wonderful herb to add to chicken, potatoes, and soups. Some health benefits include increasing circulation, boosting immune system, and improving digestion.

5. Ginger
Ginger is a major ingredient in Asian dishes and can be incorporated into things such as fruit smoothies and tea. Some health benefits include preventing blood clots, treatment for nausea, chest congestion, and stomachache.

References

http://www.womenfitness.net/shed_pounds.htm

http://www.homeremediesweb.com/cinnamon_health_benefits.php

http://www.cayennepepper.info/health-benefits-of-cayenne-pepper.html

http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=75

Food Your Miracle Medicine: How Food Can Prevent and Cure Over 100 Symptoms and Problems by Jean Carper HarpersCollins Publishers 1993