The wonderful news about these Spices and Herbs is that in addition to adding great flavor to all of your favorite dishes they contain amazing health benefits. These 10 Spices and Herbs possess particularly noteworthy healthy attributes.
Cinnamon is known to have antibacterial, antifungal and anti-parasitic properties. It is one of the spices that are rich in antioxidants. Cinnamon also possesses anti-inflammatory properties that may be helpful in reducing inflammation in our bodies that contributes to heart disease. Cinnamon is a good source of iron, magnesium, calcium and dietary fiber. Recently there has been increasing evidence in scientific studies indicating that Cinnamon may play a positive role in regulating blood sugar levels. This is potentially hopeful news for people with Type 2 Diabetes. In addition, Cinnamon may help lower LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol and triglycerides. Additionally, some studies indicate that actually smelling Cinnamon may help improve memory.
Ginger is commonly known to help prevent and treat symptoms of nausea, vomiting and dizziness caused by motion sickness or gastric distress. Ginger also possesses anti-inflammatory properties that may be helpful in reducing inflammation in our bodies thereby helping to reduce symptoms of arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. These anti-inflammatory properties may also reduce the symptoms of migraine headaches. Ginger is rich in magnesium, manganese, potassium, copper and vitamin B6.
Oregano is known to be rich in antioxidant properties that may exceed those antioxidant properties found in apples and blueberries. Oregano also contains antibacterial properties that may help prevent skin infections. Oregano contains anti-parasitic properties that may help prevent digestive problems. Oregano may also help strengthen the immune system.
Turmeric has recently been the subject of many medical research studies that point to hopeful findings concerning Turmeric’s possible role in slowing the growth of certain tumors. In combination with Black Pepper, Turmeric is believed to show promise in the treatment of breast cancer. Turmeric contains antioxidant properties that account for the reduction of premature aging and give it anti-cancer properties. Turmeric contains natural pain reduction properties and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce joint pain and inflammation from arthritis. In studies, Turmeric has been shown to lower cholesterol and triglycerides helping with cardiovascular health. These properties may improve circulation to help reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Turmeric stimulates gastric mucus that
may be soothing to the stomach and aid with digestion.
Garlic is known to have cardiovascular benefits that help to reduce cholesterol and reduce high blood pressure. These properties may help to lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Garlic is also believed to help stop plaque buildup in arteries helping to prevent atherosclerosis. Garlic has antibacterial properties that may help the body resist infections. It has natural antibiotic properties that are considered to be powerful for certain infections that are resistant to modern antibiotics. Garlic contains antifungal, antiviral and antioxidant properties.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes contain the chemical capsaicin which accounts for its many health benefits. Red Pepper may improve digestion by stimulating saliva secretions in the mouth and acid secretions in the stomach that help to metabolize carbohydrates. It may help reduce high blood pressure and also may help reduce high cholesterol thereby helping to reduce the risk of heart disease. Red Pepper may help clear a stuffed nose by irritating the mucus membranes in the nose’s lining. Red Pepper also possesses pain reducing properties because capsaicin intercepts pain messages sent to the brain by nerves.
Cardamom has antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. Cardamom stimulates the digestive system and helps to reduce acid in the stomach and to reduce gas. Cardamom may also help to stimulate the appetite. Cardamom may act as an expectorant that helps circulation in the lungs and may help reduce symptoms of asthma and bronchitis. Cardamom may be beneficial to the urinary tract by cleansing the kidneys and the bladder of toxins. The ancient Romans and Greeks believed that it was an aphrodisiac and added it to their love potions.
Cumin is known to aid the digestive system by reducing symptoms of indigestion, nausea, gas and diarrhea. Cumin may reduce symptoms of the common cold due to its antiseptic properties. Cumin may be applied topically as a paste to relieve boils. Cumin is rich in Vitamin E which makes it beneficial for the skin because it contains antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Cumin may be beneficial for individuals with anemia because it is a good source of iron required to create hemoglobin in the blood.
Rosemary may help reduce symptoms of stomach upset and digestive disorders. Rosemary contains anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce the symptoms of asthma and other respiratory disorders. Rosemary possesses antioxidant properties that may help to stimulate the immune system. Rosemary helps to stimulate blood circulation which may help to improve concentration and memory.
Cloves contain eugenol, a volatile oil, which possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Cloves also contain flavonoids which contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These anti-inflammatory properties may play a role in the reduction of symptoms due to arthritis and migraine headaches. Cloves are rich in calcium, magnesium, manganese, omega 3 fatty acids and Vitamin C. Cloves may reduce the symptoms of nausea associated with morning sickness.
This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and is for educational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
