5 Indian Herbs And Spices For Good Health
In India, various herbs/spices are being used since time immemorial for the upkeep of good health. Here is a list of the herbs and spices that are an important part of our lives and diet.
Mint
Mint is a herb that is widely used due to the health benefits it offers. Including it in our daily diet is a good idea. Perhaps that is the reason why mint chutney is made in Indian households.
- The menthol present in mint soothes the tummy and treats indigestion.
- According to studies done on animals, it has been found that mint has a compound in it that has anti-cancer properties.
- Mint is anti-microbial in nature.
- It is known to be beneficial for those who suffer from asthma and cold due to allergy.
- Mint is a good source of copper, manganese and vitamin C.
Turmeric
Turmeric is one of the most used ingredients in the Indian kitchen. Almost every dish has turmeric in it. Turmeric root has medicinal properties.
- Turmeric is anti-inflammatory in nature and it can be compared to the over the counter anti-inflammatory drugs.
- It is the curcumin present in turmeric that is behind this effect. The best part is that it does not have side effects.
- Curcumin is also known to provide relief from rheumatoid arthritis.
- Turmeric has anti- cancer effects.
- It lowers cholesterol and is good for heart health.
- It is known to improve the function of the liver.
- Research says that it can us protect from neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Cinnamon
The perfect spice for the winters, cinnamon is used quite a bit in the Indian kitchen. Cinnamon tea is used in India for weight loss.
- It has anti-clotting properties.
- It is has essential oils that are anti-microbial in nature. It is so effective that it can be used in place of traditional food preservatives.
- It controls blood sugar levels. Seasoning food high in carbs with cinnamon can lessen the affect on levels of blood sugar.
- The smell of cinnamon boosts the function of the brain. This was found in a recent study.
- It protects against heart disease.
- Cinnamon is good for colon health as has calcium and fibre in it. It can provide relief to those who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome.
- It is traditionally known to bring warmth to the body. Having cinnamon tea is considered beneficial for those suffering from cold.
Black pepper
Black pepper is a regular in the indian kitchen. It adds a distinct aroma and flavour to food. It has several health benefits to offer.
- Black pepper stimulates the taste buds such that secretion of hydrochloric acid increases. This improves digestion.
- It prevents formation of gas in the intestine.
- It is an anti-oxidant and an anti-bacterial by nature.
- Peppercorn is also known to break down fat cells and help in weight loss.
Ginger
This spice is added to most of the Indian dishes. It has a distinct flavour and aroma that takes the dish to another level. Talking about health benefits there are many! Ginger has been used in traditional medicine to alleviate several health problems.
- It provides gastrointestinal relief. It is effective in preventing motion sickness.
- It has been found that ginger wards off certain kinds of cancer.
- Ginger has anti-inflammatory effects. Consuming ginger regularly has helped people suffering with arthritis.
- Ginger is known to boost immunity as it promotes sweating.
These herbs can also be used in low carb indian diet. Add these herbs and spices to your food, enjoy the taste and reap their health benefits too!
References –
Researched all over the web and by experience, we use these herbs everyday 🙂
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