Spice of Life III

Before rummaging through your medicine cabinet when you're not feeling better, why not check your spice rack first? The herbs and spices we have in our kitchen can be just as essential as the conventional medicine we're used to when it comes to preventing and treating diseases. Science proves it that many spices and herbs have medicinal qualities and can help prevent everything from cancer to the common cold. Let's get to know the 10 most popular herbs and spices and see how they can help improve our overall health.

1. BASIL can help combat colds. It is rich in antioxidants which help boost immunity. It also acts as an antimicrobial which fights germs that can cause colds. Try to get 1 to 2 tablespoons a day and mix it with your favorite dishes.

2. CUMIN prevents cancer. The curcumin in this spice inhibits the enzymes that help cancer cells invade healthy tissue and also keeps tumors from developing the new blood vessels that help them grow. Six tablespoons of seeds or 1/2 teaspoon of powder each day can keep cancer at bay.

3. THYME can help ease a cough. The herb is an antispasmodic, which helps with bouts of nonstop coughing. Its antiseptic properties also make it very effective against inflammation of the throat, which can cause coughing. try to get 2 to 3 teaspoons a day. You can use it to top your roast or simply mix it with your vinaigrette.

4. CLOVES can help ease arthritis pain. Chinese herbalists say that cloves have hot and moving properties that relieve arthritis pain caused by cold and stagnation. They contain a phytochemical that interrupts the pathways of a protein complex in the body that's been linked to inflammatory diseases such as arthritis. Try to get 1/2 teaspoon a day.

5. TURMERIC is an ancient spice that gives curry its deep golden-orange color. It reduces the inflammation in the body that causes pain. Curcumin, a component in turmeric inhibits cell enzymes that contribute to inflammation. Try to get 1/2 to 1 teaspoon a day. You can add it to your soup or use it to flavor your grilled fish.

6. NUTMEG lowers blood pressure. Warming spices like nutmeg can bring blood from the center of the body to the skin. This helps disperse the blood more evenly throughout the body, reducing overall pressure. This spice is great for soups and steamed vegetables. Try to get 1/2 to 1 teaspoon a day.

7. ROSEMARY improves memory. The ursolic acid in rosemary inhibits the breakdown of a neurotransmitter essential for memory. Try to get 1 to teaspoons a day.

8. CINNAMON fights diabetes. It contains a substance that can help cells respond to insulin, resulting to reduction of blood sugar levels. Try to get 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon (1 stick a day). Mix it to 2 tablespoons peanut butter and spread over sliced apples.

9. GINGER calms nausea. A substance in ginger shuts down a nerve receptor in the body that triggers the vomiting reflex. Drink it as a tea or eat candied ginger.

10. GARLIC reduces cholesterol. This kitchen staple is an antioxidant and it helps prevent the oxidation of cholesterol in the arteries. Try to get 3 to 5 crushed cloves a day.

Mommy's Little Corner

Comments

Anonymous said…
great post! this is so true. We use a lot herbs and spices for our health as well.
Anonymous said…
How stinkin' cool! I'm emaiing this to myself and my mom!
These are wonderful cures! I am always looking for ways to be more natural. Thanks!
Raymonty said…
I agree with what your article says. Try it and you will like it!
Anonymous said…
Great post! Healthy spicies information, i tried the ginger for nausea, and i also tried garlic before for tooth ache and it works. Good to know all this
thanks for sharing.
Anonymous said…
I have always liked spices, helps balance out that whole junk food diet.
Unknown said…
Great information. I hope to use some of those.
Unknown said…
Thanks for sharing these! I like using natural cures too.
Unknown said…
this is a very informative post... thanks for sharing... :)
Anonymous said…
wow cool! i didnt know spices, aside from its great taste, can also be an alternative cure. nice one!
Cascia Talbert said…
I had no idea that common spices can help when you are feeling ill. Thank you for sharing! I might have to try some of these remedies.
Anonymous said…
Thanks for pointing out cinnamon's impact on elevated blood sugar. It may also help reduce cholesterol and triglycerides. We wrote about this recently at http://dentistryfordiabetics.com/blog/?p=226.

- Dr. Charles Martin
Founder, Dentistry For Diabetics