While spices are commonly associated with cooking and dishes from around the world, there’s a lot more to learn about those jars in your spice rack.
While they can help with cooking and adding flavour to your food, there are unique health benefits to each spice.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a root, but you’re more likely to recognise it as a golden powder. It is an Indian and South Asian ingredient, most commonly used to add colour and spice to curries and stews. Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Using turmeric can help improve your skin and prevent hair thinning.
Peppermint
Peppermint is a small green leaf, most commonly used in tea. It became popular thanks to its refreshing taste. However, there is much more to this leaf than its minty flavour. Its primary active ingredient is menthol. which has lots of health benefits. Peppermint has been proven to help those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) as it eases digestive pain. Also, when used in oil form, it can help relieve headaches.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a common household spice used across the world, particularly in baking. It comes from the inner bark of an evergreen tree, when peeled and dried it rolls into a stick. You’ll also see it as a brown powder. In both Eastern and Western cultures cinnamon is used to help digestion. Some studies show that it can have a moderate effect on lowering blood sugar.
Garlic
The white bulbs of garlic are another common-place kitchen ingredient. The cloves can be grounded into granules or also in capsules. Garlic has a historic record of being used for medicinal purposes. It is packed with flavour and nutrients. A single clove of garlic can be full of vitamin C, alongside calcium, iron and potassium. It can be used to help your immune system and fight bacteria.
Ginger
Just like turmeric, you’ll originally find ginger as a root. You’ll also see it as a pale yellow powder. Its distinct flavour makes it a popular ingredient all over the world, and it’s been used medicinal purposes for centuries. Modern-day science has backed up ginger’s healing properties. Chewing fresh ginger can help nausea, ease digestion, and motion sickness. It’s also been proven to help pain relief.
Cayenne
Cayenne is a bright red pepper that is found in North and South America. These peppers can be dehydrated and turn into a vibrant red powder. It’s considered to be a hot spice. It’s famously used to help with weight loss. Cayenne can also help with gut health and pain relief.
Spices can offer a variety of flavours and health benefits. Remember the importance of a healthy diet and to have everything in moderation. Which spice is your favourite?
