Herbs and spices have been an integral part of ancient medical science. Our ancestors have been using herbs as a remedy, before using them as a culinary topping. Spices not only add flavor to your food but also protects your body against acute and chronic illness. Much evidence shows that spices and herbs have antitumorigenic, anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. These properties help in lowering glucose and cholesterol levels. It is also believed that consuming spicy foods lowers the chances of ischemic heart and respiratory diseases and cancer.
First, you need to know their benefits and usage to add spices and herbs to your diet. This article will find 10 spices and herbs that will help you lead a healthy lifestyle.
Top Spices and Herbs to help you Lead a Healthy Lifestyle
- Turmeric
This golden spice is famous for its bright yellow pigment and medicinal properties. It is one of the most prevalent remedies in Ayurveda, the ancient science of medicine. It is used in Asian households for ages to prepare curry and heal lacerations.
Turmeric contains curcumin that is believed to relieve joint pain and arthritis. The antioxidant properties of curcumin are so powerful that it might stop liver damage caused due to toxins. This magical spice is also believed to offer protection against multiple myeloma, prostate cancer, and pancreatic cancer. You can consume turmeric with essential food items or mix a teaspoon of turmeric in a glass of warm milk for the best results.
- Garlic
Garlic hails to the allium family and is closely connected to shallots, leeks, and onions. Organosulfur compounds present in garlic helps in treating brain tumors by killing glioblastoma cells. The anti-inflammatory properties of garlic promote blood flow, just four cloves of garlic and you are back on track. Consuming garlic for a brief period might lower cholesterol levels and deter cardiovascular diseases.
Freshly chopped or crushed garlic is found effective against cold and flu. Add more garlic to your food when you feel a little cold-ish. In ancient times, garlic was also used to enhance the performance and power of athletes.
- Cayenne Pepper
To add a little bit of fire, cayenne pepper is the best option. This herb is used for the last 9000 years and can stimulate blood circulation and subsidies acidity. This spice is used in its natural form or powdered version. However, to enjoy more benefits of cayenne pepper, people use it in the form of capsules and cream.
There are numerous health benefits of cayenne pepper-like healing upset stomach, prevent stomach pain, stop diarrhea, end intestinal gas formation, and more. It is also beneficial to reverse blood clots, lower cholesterol levels, and prevent cardiovascular diseases.
- Sage
Sage is an aromatic development made from the leaves of common sage. It is commonly used as a voice but has a medicinal history to embark on. Sage is widely used in making medicinal tea; it contains anti-inflammatory properties that help in neutralizing the impact of free radicals. You can find sage online, go for ' herbal stores near me and visit the store to get it right away.
It is an excellent source of rosmarinic acid that might help in lowering blood sugar levels and severe inflammation. Sage might promote healthy glowing skin and heals wounds.
- Basil
Basil is a rich source of many minerals and vitamins such as beta-cryptoxanthin, zeaxanthin, lutein, and beta-carotene. The health benefits of basil come from these antioxidants. These compounds are also found in the natural state; dried basil leaves are useless from a medicinal point of view.
Lemon basil contains limonene, and sweet basil has eugenol. Both these antioxidants, along with beta carotene, help to fight free radicals. Holy basil is believed to be effective against cancer and cold, and flu. The phytochemicals help in preventing liver cancer, lung cancer, skin cancer, and oral cancer.
- Rosemary
Rosemary is a well renowned culinary item that has a woody, pungent aroma and flavor. It is a good source of calcium, B-6 or pyridoxine, Vitamin C, A, and iron. The anti-inflammatory compounds and antioxidants promote blood circulation and strengthen the immune system.
Rosemary oil has skin nourishing properties and is often used in beauty products and regimes. The smell of rosemary is believed to lower stress level and promotes alertness and focus.
- Peppermint
Peppermint is believed to relieve digestive issues like bloating, gas, and indigestion. It is a hybrid of spearmint and watermint. It is found effective for pregnancy-induced vomiting and nausea. Menthol is an active ingredient in peppermint and is a potent decongestant that helps in relieving cold symptoms.
The diluted peppermint oil is capable of relaxing migraine headaches. Many hair oils do contain peppermint and claim to relieve tension-induced headaches.
- Ginger
The usage of ginger is rooted back in Ayurveda and is still a prevalent household spice. Ginger contains gingerol, which is responsible for all its health benefits. It is believed to treat chemotherapy-induced nausea, but it lacks human evidence.
Ginger is also beneficial in losing weight. Dieticians recommend consuming ginger for weight loss because of its ability to burn calories.
- Fenugreek
Many herbs products contain fenugreek extract because of its health benefits. Fenugreek is a staple spice in every Indian household. It is believed to treat digestive symptoms such as gastritis, constipation, and loss of appetite.
Consuming fenugreek might help in lowering sugar levels and high blood pressure. This healthy spice is a good source of protein, fiber, and iron; add it to your diet and enjoy healthy living.
- Cinnamon
Cinnamon has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-viral properties and is also a rich source of polyphenol antioxidants. It boosts gut health and reduces blood pressure.
Consuming cinnamon for a long time can prevent Type 2 diabetes and lowers glucose levels. The antioxidants help in boosting the immune system and relieve digestive discomfort. Use cinnamon in your dessert or main course, and stay healthy.
Spices & Herbs for a Healthy Life!
Spices such as clove, sage, rosemary, cinnamon, and oregano are excellent sources of antioxidants because of the high content of phenolic compounds. Moreover, the fundamental role of herbs and spices is to maintain your overall health and boost immunity.
