Index
The spices are elements of plant origin that are used both for seasoning as to preserve food. They are well known for their flavoring capacity, so that throughout history they have had great importance in the gastronomy of many societies around the world.
Although a high percentage of the spices that are known today are native to Asia , there are others that come from the Mediterranean and America.
In addition to their widespread use in the kitchen, spices have also had a great medical and cosmetic use thanks to their wide range of properties and benefits.
Health-beneficial spices
Below we indicate which are the most beneficial spices for health, pointing out their properties, benefits and uses.
1) Basil
Basil is a medicinal and aromatic plant native to India. In addition to its great medicinal properties, it has an exquisite flavor; It is thus one of the most used spices in Italian cuisine.
Profits
The health benefits of basil are vast, both physically and mentally. One of the most prominent is that it helps greatly to combat both insomnia and anxiety thanks to its relaxing properties.
In addition, it favors the good digestion of food , thus avoiding diseases such as constipation . It also fights premature aging of both skin and cells thanks to its antioxidant properties.
And finally, it is worth noting that basil accelerates the recovery process from minor illnesses that affect the respiratory system such as coughs or colds.
Applications
Taking into account the great benefits of basil, it is interesting to know how you can enjoy this plant. It is easy to find it in different presentations: infusions, ointments, lotions, creams … When consuming it, you can choose dry or fresh basil, as a condiment for salads, soups, pasta, sauces … A world of possibilities!
2) Cinnamon
Cinnamon is one of the most used spices in the kitchen, especially in the field of confectionery. In relation to its origin, some studies indicate that it was already cultivated in 2,800 BC. It was in Italy where it received the name of canella, which means small tube, referring to the shape it takes when it dries.
Cinnamon has been used as a natural remedy since ancient times, especially to treat respiratory disorders .
Profits
One of the great benefits of cinnamon is that it helps control diabetes as it normalizes sugar levels in the body . In addition, thanks to its antibacterial, antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, it is of great help when it comes to alleviating certain digestive disorders such as gas .
It is a natural expectorant, so that cinnamon effectively fights infections that affect the respiratory tract. Its high content of antioxidants make it one of the best natural remedies to fight cholesterol.
And finally, cinnamon is a very important source of fiber; increases the feeling of satiety while improving intestinal transit.
Applications
In general, cinnamon is consumed in the form of an infusion when it comes to enjoying its medicinal benefits. Drinking a cup of cinnamon tea helps stop the symptoms of gastroenteritis, such as diarrhea or vomiting.
3) Laurel
The laurel is a plant native to Mediterranean countries. Nowadays it is used in the kitchen, generally to flavor stews. But, in addition, its properties make it one of the most beneficial spices for health.
It is high in antioxidants, minerals, fiber, and vitamins B6 and C , among others. Essential nutrients for the proper functioning of the body.
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Regarding the health benefits of laurel, the most important are related to the digestive system . This spice facilitates digestion and reduces gas , as well as heartburn.
In addition, thanks to its bactericidal, antiseptic, expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties , laurel is widely used for various disorders of the respiratory system, such as pharyngitis .
Another of the great benefits of laurel is that it greatly favors the elimination of fluids, so that it helps the proper functioning of the kidneys.
Applications
The most common form of consumption is the infusion , which can be prepared very simply with dried leaves of this plant.
Laurel can also be used topically to treat minor burns, as well as wounds or acne.
4) Turmeric
Turmeric is an Arabic spice that forms the basis of curry making. In addition to being of great importance in the gastronomy of many countries, especially the Middle East and North Africa, it has great medicinal properties .
Profits
Turmeric is a natural antacid, so it is one of the best natural ingredients to fight heartburn ; In addition, it helps reduce the effects that this condition generates in the digestive system.
It also has anti-inflammatory properties ; It is therefore used to alleviate the symptoms of diseases such as arthritis . In addition to its physical benefits, turmeric has stimulating elements that minimize the signs of depression, thus improving mood.
Applications
Currently, turmeric has different uses. In the kitchen it is used as a powder to flavor many dishes such as rice or meat.
It can also be consumed as an infusion ; in this case, the most common is to mix turmeric with other plants with medicinal properties. Of course, as an essential oil it can be used topically to soothe inflammation or contractures.
5) Ginger
The ginger is a spice native to the Far East, whose cultivation and consumption has spread worldwide. It has a very peculiar, spicy and lemony flavor. In relation to their properties and health benefits , they are very broad.
It is rich in proteolytic enzymes , vitamins B6 and C, and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium . Thus, in addition to its use in cooking, ginger is used as a very effective natural remedy to treat various conditions.
Profits
One of the main uses of ginger is to reduce the symptoms of pregnancy , such as dizziness, nausea and vomiting. In addition, this spice favors the elimination of bacteria present in the digestive system and favors intestinal transit.
Its antioxidant properties make ginger one of the best ingredients to slow down premature aging of both skin and cells . It also has anti-inflammatory properties, so it is a spice used by people with arthritis to relieve symptoms.
Applications
The most common form of consumption is the infusion , which is prepared with ginger root; experts recommend taking a maximum of three cups a day. It can also be grated and added to various dishes.
6) Thyme
Thyme is a spice native to the Mediterranean widely used in cooking to flavor all kinds of dishes thanks to its aroma and flavor.
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The health benefits of thyme are vast. First, it strengthens the immune system , so that it is better prepared to deal with certain conditions such as the flu or the cold.
Thyme is also very beneficial to improve the condition of the skin , which looks more luminous and cared for. In addition, it is worth noting that it prevents the formation of gases in the gastrointestinal tract.
Applications
Thyme is usually used as an infusion , which can be consumed or applied topically. In the second case, it is enough to soak a cotton ball in an infusion of thyme to eliminate acne pimples and clean the skin; It is a great home remedy for oily skin.
7) Cardamom
Cardamom is one of the most appreciated spices in the world. It is derived from a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia that has been used since ancient times to alleviate the symptoms of some digestive disorders, such as stomach bloating.
Profits
One of the main benefits of cardamom in relation to health is that it is a great ally to treat problems of slow metabolism , which is why it helps to lose weight. It also has a stimulating effect thanks to its cineole content, a substance that acts on the central nervous system .
Cineole also has antiseptic properties , so cardamom is a highly recommended spice for relieving colds and other respiratory disorders.
Applications
Cardamom can be used in various ways to take advantage of all its benefits and properties. One of the most common uses in the form of an infusion ; It is prepared with cardamom seeds and boiling water.
To treat stomach pain, ten drops of cardamom essential oil are mixed with a tablespoon of olive oil; then rub gently on the stomach for five minutes.
8) Parsley
Parsley is one of the best known spices in Mediterranean countries. Its origin is located in Ancient Greece, where parsley was widely used in both the gastronomic and medicinal fields. Later, in the Middle Ages, it was considered to have magical powers.
Profits
Parsley is very rich in iron , so it is highly recommended among those who suffer from anemia. One of its great benefits is that it is a great ally when it comes to good digestion ; Some experts point out that before eating it is advisable to have a cup of parsley infusion.
In addition, its diuretic properties favor the proper functioning of the kidneys as they help the elimination of fluids from the body. It is also important to highlight its antioxidant power; parsley is therefore very effective in preventing premature aging of the skin and cells.
Applications
Parsley can be consumed raw in different dishes such as salads or smoothies. It can also be prepared as an infusion to promote good digestion and reduce abdominal inflammation.
9) Saffron
Saffron is a perennial plant characterized by the purple flower; it is in it where the strands are found, which are taken after drying the plant. This spice has played a very important role in the popular medicine of many Asian societies.
Saffron is characterized by being very rich in B vitamins , as well as having a high content of minerals such as magnesium, iron, potassium, calcium or zinc, among other nutrients.
Profits
Saffron is of great help when it comes to improving the digestion of food , promoting intestinal transit and avoiding heartburn. To this must be added that it promotes good blood circulation .
It also helps reduce the symptoms of diseases such as anxiety and depression, regulating smoke changes and irritability. And finally, saffron takes care of both the eyes and the skin .
Applications
The saffron threads can be taken by preparing an infusion with them. Also in the form of a tincture . Or, if you want to apply externally, to prepare a poultice to treat inflammation, for example, you can infuse them with sweet almond oil.
10) oregano
And finally, oregano, one of the most important spices in gastronomy around the world. It contains fiber, iron, vitamin E, calcium, fatty acids and vitamin K .
Profits
Its antibacterial properties make oregano a great ally to fight bacteria. In addition, it has anti-inflammatory properties, so it is a fabulous natural ingredient to relieve the symptoms of diseases such as osteoporosis and arteriosclerosis .
It is also a beneficial spice for the digestive and respiratory systems . And finally, thanks to the large amount of phenolic acids and flavonoids it contains, it is a powerful antioxidant.
Applications
In general, oregano is consumed in the form of an infusion . If various skin disorders are to be treated, such as acne or dandruff, it can also be applied topically.
Hello Readers, I am Nikki Bella a Psychology student. I have always been concerned about human behavior and the mental processes that lead us to act and think the way we do. My collaboration as an editor in the psychology area of Well Being Pole has allowed me to investigate further and expand my knowledge in the field of mental health; I have also acquired great knowledge about physical health and well-being, two fundamental bases that are directly related and are part of all mental health.