Herbs and spices belong in every kitchen these days. The difference between herbs and spices is that herbs grow in a temperate climate and spices in a tropical climate. Herbs and spices are packed with antioxidants and therefore have a positive effect on health. Due to their health effects, herbs and spices have been used as medicine all over the world for thousands of years. Half to a whole teaspoon in the meal is sufficient for the positive effects of herbs and spices. An important advantage of using herbs and spices is that less salt needs to be used in dishes. The McCormick Science Institute in America has conducted a study into the amount of antioxidants in herbs and spices and their effect on health. The list below is based on this research.
1. Cloves
The clove is the dried flower bud of the clove tree. Cloves originally come from the Moluccas and have been used as medicine for more than 2,000 years. In addition, cloves are also used as a seasoning in food due to their predominant taste. Clove has an anti-inflammatory effect and is good against bacteria and fungi. Clove has a soothing effect on flu, nausea and diarrhea. In addition, cloves are also good against tough mucus in the throat. In the past, cloves were also used for toothache due to its analgesic effect. In India and China, cloves have been used against bad breath for more than 2,000 years. Cloves are packed with antioxidants and mainly owe their medicinal properties to them.
2. Dried oregano
Oregano is also known as wild marjoram and is a perennial plant with a height between 30 and 60 cm. Oregano grows worldwide in regions with a temperate climate. Oregano is widely used in Spanish, Mexican and Italian cuisines. Oregano is good for digestive problems, nausea and due to the large amount of antioxidants it has a cleansing effect on the body. Oregano is also good against harmful bacteria, fungal and viral infections. In addition, oregano is a strong natural antibiotic and is even good against herpes and the flu.
3. Ginger
Ginger is extracted from the rhizome of the ginger plant. The ginger plant has been cultivated in China for more than 3,000 years. Ginger has been used as medicine for hundreds of years and for good reason. Ginger is good against harmful bacteria, viruses and helps prevent infections. Ginger is also good for nausea and vomiting. Research has shown that ginger also helps against nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. Ginger is also good for digestion and stomach problems. According to a study published in the American Association for Cancer Research Journal, ginger also appears to be beneficial against colon and ovarian cancer.
4. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is made from the bark of the cinnamon tree. The cinnamon tree grows in a tropical climate and preferably close to the coast. The largest cinnamon producers are China, Indonesia, Vietnam and Sri Lanka. Cinnamon has been used for a long time in these countries. The Chinese and Egyptians used cinnamon and even the Bible mentions cinnamon. Cinnamon lowers bad cholesterol and is good for blood sugar levels. This is especially important for people with diabetes. Studies in diabetes patients show that cinnamon significantly lowers blood sugar levels, even 10 to 20%. Cinnamon also helps make insulin more effective, making it easier to maintain weight. Cinnamon is also good against infections, respiratory problems and eases the menstrual cycle. Cinnamon is also a blood thinner and therefore ensures that oxygen is transported faster, which increases metabolism.
5. Turmeric
Turmeric is extracted from the root of the Curcuma longa plant. Turmeric mainly comes from India and is also widely used here. Turmeric has been used in traditional Indian medicine for centuries. Research has shown that common diseases such as Alzheimer’s and various types of cancer are low in India and this is attributed to Turmeric. Studies have shown that turmeric improves brain function and reduces arthritis, heart disease, Alzheimer’s and the risk of several types of cancer. This is mainly because turmeric contains powerful antioxidants. Turmeric has strong anti-inflammatory effects, soothes pain, fever and strengthens the immune system, liver and stomach. Turmeric also helps against bacteria, fungi, eczema and menstrual problems. In addition, turmeric lowers cholesterol, dispels flatulence and has a preventive effect against aging symptoms.
6. Dried basil
Basil or king’s herb is a sacred herb in India. Research has shown that basil is effective against bacteria and infections. In addition, basil strengthens the immune system and lowers blood sugar levels. Basil also helps against cancer, reduces fever, prevents diabetes and reduces stress.
7. Yellow mustard seed
The yellow mustard seed comes from a small plant that is grown almost everywhere in the world today. Mustard seed has a preventive effect against cancer and is packed with minerals. Yellow mustard seeds stimulate metabolism and facilitate bowel movements. Yellow mustard seeds also help with coughing, bronchitis and pneumonia.
