A full spice cabinet is a wonderful investment. Not only because of the delicious flavors they can add to your meal, but more importantly for their amazing health benefits. Here are my 3 favorite spices to always keep in your kitchen and cook with frequently!
Ginger.
Rich in inflammation-fighting compounds this spice is traditionally used to relieve colds by helping clear up phlegm and soothing the respiratory system if you have a cough or sore throat. Studies show that it is also wonderful for stomach ailments including gas, as well as nausea caused by morning sickness, post surgery or during chemotherapy. It can be used fresh grated over fruit or pressed into juice or as a dry powder. Fresh, peeled ginger can be kept in the fridge for up to two weeks and unpeeled ginger can be kept in the freezer indefinitely. Chewing on tiny pieces of ginger also helps freshen breath so you can finally get rid of that gum chewing habit and replace it with a healing spice.
Cinnamon.
This versatile spice can help support healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels while helping to boost the immune system. Cinnamon also contains a compound that helps tell cells in the body to absorb blood sugar and research has shown that ¼ teaspoon a day may help lower blood sugar by up to 18% making it the perfect spice for anyone facing hypoglycemia, pre-diabetes, or diabetes. Always add cinnamon to high carb foods such as oatmeal or rice pudding to help avoid a spike in blood sugar. Cinnamon paste can be used externally on arthritic joints to help relieve pain. Simply mix equal parts honey and cinnamon powder to form a paste and massage it on the arthritic joint in slow, circular motions; usually this massage will reduce pain in about 30 minutes.
Turmeric.
It seems to be making a lot of news these days, and for good reason. Its active ingredient, curcumin, is rich in antioxidants and has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can improve the health of practically every organ in the body. Daily use can eliminate chronic low-grade inflammation, which triggers a host of diseases. Studies have even shown that it can help stop the spread, or recurrence, of certain types of cancers, including breast cancer. It can be easily sprinkled on your favorite foods, made into “golden milk” by adding 1/2 tsp. turmeric into 1 cup of your favorite warm milk, such as almond or coconut, or as a tea by adding ¼ tsp. turmeric to 1 ½ cups hot water with a bit of honey. If you’re short on sleep turmeric can even help you reduce dark circles under your eyes. Just add some honey to make a paste, apply to the dark area under the eye and leave on until it starts to dry.
The more you use these spices the better you’ll get at learning how to use them. Play with your food and make cooking fun by trying out new flavor profiles and taking advantage of the health benefits of these amazing spices!
Jacqueline Banks, who grew up in Casa de Campo, is a certified holistic health counselor and busy mother.
Her focus is on helping other busy moms in all stages of motherhood keep themselves and families healthy and happy. She uses natural and organic solutions to solve individual health problems and promote clean living.
Spanish
