Spices are a familiar feature in anyone’s kitchen. It’s not only their use of adding variety, color and flavor to food that makes them valuable. Different studies have shown that some have significant influence over reducing the risk of some diseases like cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and other chronic and degenerative illnesses.

So of spice rack is limited to salt and pepper, you might as well get some refilling done to take advantage of the numerous health benefits of spices. In no particular order, here are 10 of the most beneficial spices commonly used in dishes.

1. Black Pepper

   No dish leaves the kitchen without a dash of pepper- whether it is from the bottle or freshly ground. The numerous health benefits of black pepper includes relief and prevention of heart disease, diarrhea, pyorrhea (copious pus discharges), muscular strains, impotency, anemia, digestive disorder, constipation, common cold, cough and other respiratory disorders. Black pepper is harvested from the fruit of the black pepper plant and contains a potent chemical known as piperine that gives it its distinctive spicy flavor. Studies have shown that piperine has an antioxidant property effective in preventing cancer, liver problems and cardiovascular disease. Black pepper is best served freshly ground; whole peppercorns can keep their freshness for a longer period of time compared to the readily ground ones.

2. Chili Peppers

   Adding chili peppers to any dish does not only add sting, flavor and color but it also helps promote better health and prevent the onset of diseases like cancer and chronic health conditions. A study published in Cancer Research showed that the consumption of chili pepper helps in inhibiting the growth of prostate cancer. Researchers are looking at the capsaicin content of chili peppers as a potential natural treatment for cancer of the prostate. Capsaicin can also restrain neurotransmitters that relay the sensation of pain to the brain, making it an effective pain killer. It can also help relieve chronic sinusitis, reduce inflammation in cells, aid in weight management and improve heart health.

3. Curry

   Curry is an oriental spice native in India. A study conducted by a group of researchers from the University of Texas revealed the potential health benefits of curry in the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease. Lead researcher, Bharat Aggarwal, said that though further research is needed in order to better establish the potential preventive properties of curry against Alzheimer’s disease, their study have gathered significant indications that the spice can indeed prevent the onset of the disease. Other studies also show that curry can reduce cancer risk.

4. Garlic

   Garlic is a widely used spice and is also considered to be the most-sold natural supplement in the market. Different manufacturers have been encouraged by the numerous studies on garlic to create supplements that make use of the disease-preventing properties and health benefits of one of the world’s most popular spice. The two highlights of garlic’s enumerable health benefits are in the prevention of cardiovascular disease and in lowering the levels of cholesterol in the body. Though studies are showing mixed results, medical experts are convinced that garlic lowers the LDL or bad cholesterol level in the blood. Garlic contains a substance called allicin that scavenges hydroxyl radicals that is responsible for oxidizing cholesterol; the oxidation of cholesterol results to the formation of cholesterol plaques on the wall of arteries and leads to an obstruction in healthy blood flow.

5. Ginger

   The best natural home remedy for sore throat is a glass of warm ginger ale. It can also ease nausea and motion sickness, and inhibit dry heaving and vomiting. But treating a minor inconvenience is not the only health benefit of ginger. Ginger has also been found by different studies to prevent the risk of developing arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer and heart disease through its ability to reduce the inflammation in cells. Ginger is usually ground and added in dishes or used to make tea.

6. Nutmeg

   In history, nutmeg was used to cure different illnesses from stomach cramps and indigestion to the plague. More current scientific studies have gathered evidence that indicate the numerous health benefits of nutmeg. A certain study showed that nutmeg stimulates the brain, improves mental alertness and relieves stress. And like other spices, nutmeg can prevent inflammation and reduce the risk of diseases like cancer, muscle pain and joint swelling. Nutmeg is also used to help detoxify the body, act as an effective liver tonic, improve quality of sleep and improve a person’s mood.

7. Parsley

   The unique aroma and texture of parsley makes it an essential spice of a variety of dishes including soups, casseroles, salads, and other vegetable, meat, chicken and fish dishes. Scientific studies have shown that parsley has strong properties in fighting and reducing the risk of developing cancer. In a study on animals, parsley was found to inhibit the growth of tumors in the lungs. They are also known to neutralize carcinogenic substances, including those which are found in cigarettes. Parsley contains vitamin C, folic acid, and other antioxidants that have been proven to lower cancer risk and other diseases triggered by the activation free radicals.

8. Rosemary

   The oil extracted from rosemary has been found by studies to stimulate the brain and improve brain function. It is also a good remedy for forgetfulness, mental fatigue and depression. The mere inhalation of rosemary oil was found to improve a person’s mood. Rosemary is also effective in relieving pain, fight respiratory problems and ease indigestion.

9. Saffron

   Herbalists claim that yellow saffron contain compounds that helps treat diseases and health conditions like cough, atherosclerosis, insomnia, asthma and depression. It has also been found by scientific studies to lower blood cholesterol levels and improve blood circulation and cardiovascular health. Saffron is also used to relieve kidney stones and stomach aches. Independent studies on this popular spice reveal that saffron also has benefits in improving mental health and memory.

10. Thyme

    Thyme is commonly used in sauces, salads and pasta recipes – and it is not only an important part of anyone’s cupboard but it can also be added to your medicine cabinet due to its numerous health benefits. Studies showed that thyme contains a volatile oil called thymol that acts as a strong disinfectant, antibacterial and antiseptic substance. Thyme’s oil helps in soothing mouth and throat problems. The terpenoids in thyme is also recognized for its properties that help prevent cancer.

Sources
vegetarian-nutrition.info
usatoday.com
health.learninginfo.org
naturalhealthremedies.org