“People who generally cook at home and use fresh spices tend to be healthier and have less disease.” — Alison Gernand of the University of Texas School of Public Health.
Spices not only work as appetizers or accentuate bland tasteless dishes into mouth-watering ones but are also a valuable source of antioxidant compounds that contribute towards a healthy life.
Livepunjab showcases 6 spices that provide both flavour and health in every bite.
1. Cardamom: Commonly known as choti elaichi, the fragrant seeds of cardamom stimulate digestion and act as a great aphrodisiac when sprinkled over coffee in powder form.It stimulates appetite, aids in nausea and rectifies bad breath problem.
2. Cloves: The dried flower buds of the clove tree possess antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and antiseptic properties.They are also a natural anesthetic, which is why they are an excellent remedy for toothache.The oil in cloves contains eugenol, which is a powerful anti inflammatory antioxidant.Clove oil is often recommended for acne. It is also effective in curing hypotonic muscles, including multiple sclerosis.
3. Asafoetida: This culinary herb with its pungent flavour and strong taste has multiple medicinal properties. Asafoetida is rich in mineral, calcium and iron.Just a pinch dissolved in water helps fight respiratory disorders like whooping cough, asthma and bronchitis.It helps in treating painful and excessive menstruation and is believed to beneficial in tackling impotency. It is one of the best remedies available for flatulence.
4. Saffron: Popularly referred to as the golden spice saffron is truly a wonder herb. Apart from adding color and flavour to a dish, this expensive and exotic spice has is known to treat nearly 90 ailments.The spice is a purifier and has a cooling effect. It is used for the treatment of kidney, bladder and liver disorders. It also is heart healthy is known to lower blood cholesterol and triglycerides.Moreover, saffron helps enhance skin tone.
5. Cinnamon: The common kitchen spice prized for its unique aroma does more than add flavor to food. Cinnamon is an antidote for everything from diarrhea to an upset stomach.Studies have established cinnamon can lower LDL cholesterol, help regulate blood sugar and prevent diabetes.It keeps arteries healthy and can help alleviate arthritis pain. Moreover, it is a natural food preservative.
6. Cumin: A member of the parsley family, cumin, a good source of iron, calcium, potassium, vitamin A and B is thought to aid in digestion and bloating.Tea made by boiling 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds in 1 pint of boiling water, is a wonderful remedy for acute stomach problems.
While the health benefits of spices are undisputed they should be used with caution. Remember, spices are not medicines! These are not meant to be eaten raw.
