Health Benefits of Spices

If you thought spices only flavor your food then think again, because spices are also very good for your health. It has been observed that some of the common spices contain several phytochemicals that can help in warding off damage to cells that are usually seen in chronic diseases. Also some time ago The US Department of Agriculture had found that spices, especially the hot ones have more cancer fighting antioxidants than vegetables and fruits. Spices have been used for thousands of years but their health benefits are yet to be fully discovered. Below are some of the health benefits associated with 8 important spices.

1. One of the most commonly used spices is cinnamon and it comes packed with several health benefits. The medicinal compounds present in cinnamon include eugenol and cinnamaldehyde. Eugenol is used for relieving pain and cinnamaldehyde has sedative properties. Cinnamon has been used to boost metabolism and also to relieve diarrhea and an upset stomach. Because of its blood thinning action it improves circulation and it is used for its anti-inflammatory properties. It has been found to reduce the cholesterol, triglyceride and blood sugar and is therefore useful in the prevention of type 2 diabetes.

2. Black pepper is a very commonly used spice in the US. However, few people are aware about its health benefits. It has antibacterial and anti oxidant properties and it also assists in digestion. Black pepper has been found to prevent flatulence, promote sweating and urination. Its outermost layer helps in breaking down fat cells. It is also a good source of dietary fiber and iron.

3. The active ingredient in ginger is gingerol which has been found to have anti oxidant properties necessary for preventing cancer and diseases. It also has been used to calm spasms and to reduce flatulence inside the digestive tract. It also works well against nausea and vomiting making it very useful in morning sickness as well as motion sickness. Ginger has been used for thousands of years and even now it is used to flavor food, dessert, cakes and biscuits.

4. Although mainly a spice cayenne pepper has been used for centuries as an important medicinal substance. In addition to enhancing the taste of your food it also boosts your immunity, prevents ulcers in the stomach, relieves pain, clears congestion also bestows cardiovascular benefits by lowering triglyceride and cholesterol levels in your body. It is also rich in vitamin A.

6. Researchers have found that garlic can reduce triglyceride and cholesterol levels and is therefore very useful for a healthy heart. Many people have benefited form its regular consumption which has lowered their cholesterol and blood pressure levels. It is also useful for digestion and preventing flatulence. Recent research has indicated that it may also be useful for treating diabetes.

7. Cumin has also been used for thousands of years and is grown in Indonesia, China, India and Japan as well as the Mediterranean where it had originated. Middle Eastern and Asian people use it in stews, breads, curries and chillis. It helps in digestion and reduces bloating. Cumin tea is made by steeping a teaspoonful of cumin seeds in a pint or so of boiling water.

8. Cardamom is also a spice used in India from ancient times. Now it is used all over the world in cooking vegetables, curries, pilaf rice dishes and desserts. It contains an essential oil that relieves flatulence and stimulates digestion. For relieving digestion make a broth by crushing a handful of cardamom and mixing it in half a cup of water along with a little ginger. Simmer this mixture for sometime and then add a little honey and warm milk. Use this to relive flatulence and indigestion.

9. Turmeric powder is used to color mustard and curry powder yellow. It is rich in cancer fighting antioxidants and also contains compounds called curcuminoids that fight inflammation. It has antiseptic properties. It is usually used in stews and curries.