The Powerful Benefits of Herbs & Spices

Your spice cabinet may be much more than just an assortment of seasonings! In fact, it may actually be a powerful addition to improving your health while boosting the flavors of your food! Many people do not realize the healing properties certain herbs and spices contain, but we are here to share some of these benefits to take with you and broaden your understanding of Food as Medicine!

Here are 5 herbs/spices and their benefits:

Turmeric- this spice is grown primarily in Asia and Central America, and is most known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric is used for some pain relief with conditions such as arthritis. Its golden orange color makes it distinguishable and stand apart from other spices. Some easy ways to incorporate turmeric are in curries, dressings, and lattes.
Cinnamon- this is a very popular and well-known spice, and is most recognized for its role in blood sugar balance! Cinnamon was found to reduce blood sugar in various clinical studies, and can also help to protect the heart and lower cancer risk. Some ways to incorporate cinnamon into your diet are to add it to your oatmeal or yogurt, as well as sprinkle it into your tea or coffee!
Oregano- this herb is popular in many Mediterranean and European recipes, and provides a distinct flavor and smell. Oregano contains many anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Oregano oil may also be used to help treat certain skin conditions such as acne and psoriasis. Some ways to use oregano are to add it to pasta sauces, sprinkle over salads, or incorporate into marinades.
Ginger- ginger is most known for its strong taste and role in aiding digestion. Ginger has been found to aid certain conditions such as nausea, as well as being a helpful aid to our overall digestive processes in the stomach and intestines. Ginger may also possess healing properties for inflammation and help to boost our immune system. Some ways to use ginger are in teas, in broths for soup, in salad dressing or marinades.
Basil- basil was first discovered in Indian, Asian, and African cultures and is used in many cuisines in modern day. Basil has been discovered to contain anti-oxidant properties and can work against free radicals that promote damage and aging to the body. Basil has also been linked to aiding in blood sugar regulation and improving blood pressure. Some ways to use basil are in a pesto sauce, adding fresh leaves to a salad, or in a pizza/ pasta dish or sauce!

Written by: Elizabeth Hoffman, Ellen Byron & Associates

References:

Jiang, T Alan. “Health Benefits of Culinary Herbs and Spices.” Journal of AOAC INTERNATIONAL, vol. 102, no. 2, 2019, pp. 395–411., https://doi.org/10.5740/jaoacint.18-0418.

Leech, Joe. “10 Delicious Herbs and Spices with Powerful Health Benefits.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 4 June 2017, https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-healthy-herbs-and-spices#TOC_TITLE_HDR_3.