Feeling under the weather? Instead of searching your medicine cabinet for a remedy, have you ever considered checking your spice rack? Lots of herbs and spices have surprising medicinal properties that may just help you!
The Healing Powers of Spices and Herbs
Whether you’re suffering from a cold or want to take better care of your heart, there is a spice that can help! Listed below are just a few examples for you to try. But, remember to consult with your doctor first!
Cinnamon
Beloved in everything from buns to baked sweet potatoes, cinnamon is a go-to spice in many cultures. It also has many health benefits. Science has shown that cinnamon has anti-inflammation and antibacterial properties that can help fight off disease and infections. It’s also been said to help lower blood sugar and protect against neurodegenerative diseases.
Add more cinnamon into your diet with cinnamon-flavored bread pudding or cookies. You can find recipes for more cinnamon treats on the MLN website!
Turmeric
Feeling an illness coming on? Reach for the turmeric in your spice cabinet!
There are properties in turmeric that can naturally bolster your immune system. This can be especially helpful if you suspect that you’re coming down with the flu. So, add this south Asian spice to your diet by eating more south Asian cuisine. Or consider making yourself a cup of turmeric tea.
Ginger
Native to southeast Asia, ginger shares some similarities with turmeric. Just like turmeric, eating ginger can enhance your immune system, but that’s not all! Ginger can help fight colds and it has anti-inflammatory properties, too.
If you find yourself battling an illness, consider making your own cough drops with honey, fresh ginger juice, and mint extract. Your throat will thank you!
Saffron
Saffron is a spice that comes Middle Eastern flowers. This very special spice is thought to help with heart health due to its effect on lowering cholesterol. It’s also said to lift a person’s mood and increase blood flow, making it the ideal spice for romance. In fact, you can include the spice in the next dish you share with your partner—it’s a loving and romantic way to look after the health of your loved one. Plus, it tastes delicious!
Honorable Mentions: Rosemary, Oregano, and Black Pepper
Cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, and saffron aren’t the only spices and herbs that can help improve your overall health. Rosemary, a classic Mediterranean herb, has antioxidants that can help better your health. Oregano is an herb that, according to a few different studies, can help with chronic diseases like heart disease. And black pepper is thought to help with gas, indigestion, heartburn, and constipation. So, be sure to give these herbs a try as well!