5 Indian spices with health benefits
The history and culture of spices is as old as India’s civilization. Many Indian’s believe that spices are the natural way of caring for oneself. These spices can not only ameliorate the taste of your food but also improve the state of your health. They are used as appetizers, preservatives, and many with their rich and varied properties are used in pharmaceutical, perfumery, cosmetic products, religious rituals etc. Moreover, special preparation of spices also knows as “nuskhe” are integral part of Indian culture and society.
Curry powder, ground spices, and other blended powders hold an important position in flavor and aroma. These spices should be consume in moderation for health benefits, because overdose of any spice can lead to indigestion or ulcers. Internet is flooded with the health benefits of turmeric, but there are other Indian spices too which healthy and are kept under wraps.
Black Pepper
This humble spice holds more benefits than you’d imagine. Black pepper help in digestion, Improve skin, enable weight loss and give relief from cough and cold. You can save yourself from digestive problems, flatulence and constipation. Black pepper is antibacterial in nature, it reduces blood pressure and contains iron that is beneficial for the body.
Cinnamon
This spice is aromatic and has a refreshing taste. Adding cinnamon in curries, pulao and even desserts will add spark to your bland dish. Researches have shown that this woody spice is also diabetes friendly and if you show symptoms of insulin resistance, cinnamon will help reduce it.
Apart from this, cinnamon is used to give relief from indigestion, common cold, diarrhea, poor blood circulation and tension during menstruation.
Cumin
Cumin, or jeera, is an integral part of a majority of our curries and stews. Starting your day with a glass full of jeera water could prove to be game changer for you in terms of health and weight loss. Tempered jeera adds the spice that dal fry needs. All the better for us, as cumin is known to relieve you from digestive problems, reduce your chances of anemia and alleviate common cold.
Saffron
This ingredient adds color and spice to biryani or dessert and make them look good. Saffron is expensive but the health benefits are priceless. It has the ability to treat depression, prevents loss of vision, and improves memory. The stigma of the flower can relieve you from digestive issues with the help of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-depressant properties.
Cloves
It is known to everyone that clove is the spice to treat tooth problems since it contains anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Due to these healthy characteristics cloves are an important ingredient in natural tooth pastes. If you are feeling queasy after indulging in too much food or alcohol, cloves have the properties to put you at ease. Cloves can relieve you from vomiting, indigestion, cold and cough, an upset digestive tract and loose motions.
