EVEN MORE SPICES WITH HEALTH BENEFITS
The uses of spices date back many centuries in Britain. In the 14th century the use of spices in cooking was a mark of wealth and status as only the rich could afford exotic food imports. The poor had to use local herbs and flavours such as garlic, chives and horseradish; however those with a lot of money and power bought spices from merchants. In some instances in the middle ages people were paid in spices instead of money, as the spices could be used as food and medicine and was worth a lot to people.
In the previous blog we discussed The Health Benefits of Indian Spices and how their complex chemical make-up can battle illness. Spices and herbs are basically parts of plants, including the seeds, roots and leaves, so they contain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. In that blog we discussed the various healing properties of specifically Indian spices such as turmeric and saffron. Below we discuss benefits of further common spices which originate in various countries but are often used in Indian cuisine.
Coriander. This amazing herb, also known as Chinese herb is a staple ingredient in Indian cooking. It’s leaves contain antioxidants so are good for breaking down toxins and strengthening the immune system. It can be used as a digestive aid, so can fight constipation and Irritable bowel syndrome. Additionally, tests have shown that it can reduce anxiety.
Garlic. Garlic contains Acillin which is a derivative of sulphur, which gives garlic such as strong smell. According to research when eaten daily, garlic can help lower heart disease risk by as much as 76 percent. The sulphur compounds, thin the blood, therefore reducing the risk of blood clots heart attacks, and lowering cholesterol. Research has found that garlic could help to improve the birth weight of babies and reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia complications at birth.
Ginger. This root can be used fresh, dried or powdered and adds tang to both savoury and sweet foods. Ginger is most famous for its anti-nausea properties and still today women are recommended ginger herbal teas to combat morning sickness. Recent discoveries prove that ginger is a good anti-inflammatory and can help treat arthritis.
Black Pepper. Black pepper corns now used daily in food production, but in ancient times these were highly sort after and demand for pepper was one of the reasons Christopher Columbus set out to find India. One of pepper’s oils piperine can be used to treat cancer, digestive disorders, high blood pressure and much more.
Nutmeg. Nutmeg is a mysterious spice; if eaten in vast quantities it can cause poisoning and hallucinations. In smaller quantities it can improve mood, act as an aphrodisiac and improve memory. Nutmeg, and its outer shell, mace have strong anti-bacterial properties. It has the ability to relieve pain, soothe indigestion, detoxify the body, boost skin health, and increase the immune system.
Chillies. Chillies come in many forms from cayenne pepper, to jalapeños and the mouth-searing habaneros. All varieties of chilli contain capsaicin which is a medicinal acid. It helps relieve soreness and inflammation and it is also a digestive aid, making your intestines healthier and can speed up metabolism.
Here at Shop Spicy we stock an impressive range of herbs, spices and delicious ingredients from India to contribute to your food. From Ajwan Seeds to bay leaves, we are sure to have the ingredients you’re looking for to create healthy, authentic Indian cuisine. Next time you buy Indian Spices online, just remember how healthy your dish will be if it is packed with the goodness of spices.