Medicinal Spices

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Medicinal Spices

A spice is a dried seed, fruit, root, bark or flower of a plant or a herb used in small quantities for flavor, color or as a preservative. Many of these spices are also used in traditional medicines with different climates in different parts of the country. India produces a variety of spices, many of which are native to the subcontinent. Pepper, turmeric, cardamom and cumin are some examples of Indian spices. Spices are used in different forms whole, chopped, ground, roasted, sauteed, fried and as a topping. Spices are the foundation for Indian cooking. They can transform any dish into a tasty meal and give life to even the simplest ingredients.

1. Turmeric (Haldi)- Turmeric is the spice that gives curry its yellow color. It contains several compounds with medicinal properties the most important of which is curcumin. Studies suggest that it can improve brain function, fight Alzheimers disease, reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer and relieve arthritis.

2.Basil(tulsi)-Basil is used in tea ,pastas and curries.There are many varieties of basil.It is most commonly used fresh in vegetables. It is one of the main ingredients in pesto-a green Italian oil and herb sauce.Chinese also use fresh or dried basil in soups and other foods.

In folk medicine practices ,basil is thought to have therapeutic properties.

Basil is considered a sacred herb in India. Basil is also linked to reduce blood sugar levels before and after meals, as well as treating anxiety and anxiety-related depression.

3. Fenugreek (Methi)- This fragrant dried herb has a slightly bitter taste. Many human studies have shown that at least one gram of fenugreek extract per day can lower blood sugar levels, particularly in diabetes.

4. Carom seeds (Ajwain)- Ajwain promotes digestion, cures stomach ache and helps relieve tooth pain.

5. Black pepper (Kaali Mirch)- Black pepper, also known as the king of spices, promotes weight loss, helps relieve cold and cough, boosts metabolism. A glass of Haldi milk becomes more therapeutic with a pinch of black pepper.

6. Clove (Laung)- Cloves are antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiseptic. It is used as an antiseptic and pain reliever especially for toothaches and stomach pain.

7. Cardamom Elaichi)- A rich source of vitamin A(retinol) and vitamin C (Ascorbic acid), calcium, zinc and iron. This spice promotes heart health, helps in digestion, helps fight depression.

8. Fennel (Saunf)- Its powerful antioxidants help in removing harmful free radicals from the body and promotes a healthy being , it helps fight aging and other neurological diseases.

9. Asafoetida(heeng)- Asafoetida is one of the chief ingredients used in tadka or tempering to flavor the Indian dishes.Asafoetida has proven to restrict the growth of harmful viruses in the body.