The Many Health Benefits Of Spices

By Connie Sears


People seem to always be looking for better ways to stay healthy today. Some buy memberships at gyms or buy exercising equipment for home to work out with and get physically stronger and healthier. The virtues of watching what one eats has been known for years, but few people think about adding a little extra something into their foods to protect them from some illnesses and relieve the symptoms of other illnesses they may already have. One thing to consider is the health benefits of spices. Many come in powdered form that can be easily sprinkled onto meals, soups and deserts.

An old long time favorite in some societies is the root from the ginger plant. One benefit that some people realize is relief from the nausea associated with chemotherapy and motion sickness. Other people who have poor circulatory systems have found that the ginger root helps the blood vessels to relax and allow a greater flow of blood throughout the body. The antioxidant properties are helpful in addressing symptoms from arthritis, cancer and heart disease. Most people put ginger into beverages, seafood and meat meals.

Oregano is a perennial plant that grows in the wild in warmer climates and can also be grown annually in colder areas. This herb is loaded with antioxidants and phytonutrients that help to strengthen the immune system and kill bacteria. This is a favorite additive to Italian food dishes like pasta and pizza.

East Asia has a tropical tree that produces cinnamon. Cinnamon attacks yeast, fungi and bacteria that cause illness in humans Cinnamon also helps to prevent the clotting of blood in the arteries. The spice is commonly used as an additive in tea, coffee and hot chocolate drinks. Many people use it as a topping on puddings and other deserts.

The Country of India is home to the turmeric plant. This spice acts as an anti inflammatory agent that is good to relieve the symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis, cystic fibrosis and Crohns disease. Fighting heart and liver disease can be helped when one takes turmeric. This spice is often put into Indian dishes and curry sauces. It is also used in mustard and gives mustard its yellow hue.

Sage is a leafy plant that can be found almost everywhere. The herb as anti inflammatory and antioxidant that has enzymes that promotes the movement of oxygen throughout the body. People suffering from bronchial asthma, atherosclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis have found this herb to be useful in making them feel better. There is some proof that sage also improves brain function. This spice can be used to flavor casseroles, sauces, and meat dishes.

Red chili peppers are used by some people to help them lose weight. They are also good for controlling cholesterol and triglyceride levels. People will put the pepper into salsa, soups and curries.

There are many health benefits of spices that almost everyone can use for some reason. Whether they are looking for relief from a painful condition or looking for something that will help maintain a higher level of mental alertness, there is usually a plant that will work for them. One may want to try a couple of different spices to see which works best to address their needs.




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