7 spices and herbs with proven health benefits

Many of us include spices and herbs for food simply because we like their taste and aroma, not realizing their incredible benefits.

However, herbs and spices have been used for centuries to heal. Even 2,500 years ago, Confucius recommended eating ginger at every meal to improve the digestion process, and in Ayurvedic medicine, which originated in India more than 3000 years ago, spices and herbs were used to heat and cool the body, to restore the balance of the digestive system.

Spices and herbs are rich in antioxidants, have antibacterial properties, can reduce blood sugar levels, suppress the growth of cancer cells, relieve nausea and pain, reduce inflammation and much, much more. In addition, adding them to dishes is also an excellent way to minimize the use of ingredients that can be harmful to health, such as salt, sugar and saturated fats.

Let's take a closer look at herbs and spices, the benefits of which have been proved on the basis of many studies and do not cause any doubt.

Cinnamon

Many people love cinnamon for its taste, similar to sugar. In many kitchens it is used for adding to drinks, desserts, pastries. But it also boasts powerful healing properties. Made from the inside of the bark of Cinnamomum trees (cinnamon), this spice is filled with antioxidants, which protect the body from cancer-causing free radicals. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and, according to the Mayo Clinic, powerful antidiabetic properties.

Caraway

Like cinnamon, this Mediterranean spice helps reduce blood glucose levels. In addition, numerous studies have also found that cumin can kill bacteria known as Helicobacter, which are associated with a stomach ulcer. Black cumin, in particular, can help in reducing the inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

Turmeric

This beautiful bright orange spice, which is part of the ginger family, is made from the root of the plant Curcuma longa (Turmeric is long). As established by the National Institute of Health, it can be used to treat a variety of diseases, including arthritis, heartburn and stomach pain. It can also be used externally to treat skin inflammation and infected wounds. Studies have also found that a powerful antioxidant, known as curcumin, increases the effectiveness of chemotherapy in breast cancer.

Cayenne pepper

This spice is widespread and is a constant ingredient in many kitchens. Cayenne pepper can stimulate blood circulation and neutralize acidity in the body. This burning red powder contains a very useful compound called capsaicin, which gives relief from pain in the joints. And as a result of one of the studies even found that this compound can help prevent lung cancer in smokers. Cayenne pepper also has anti-irritant properties and can help alleviate discomfort with sore throat, cough and diarrhea.

Ginger

This spice comes from China has long been known as a reliable tool that is used for intestinal disorders, helps digestion, and also struggles with flu and colds. Gingerol, which is the main biologically active substance contained in spices, is characterized by many medicinal properties. Studies have shown that ginger also has the ability to alleviate muscle pain and soreness, reduce inflammation, reduce blood sugar, reduce heart pain and fight cancer.

Rosemary

Hailing from southern Europe, this caustic perennial herb is a member of the labiate family. Has various health benefits. Studies show that rosemary, due to its antifungal and antibacterial properties, can help reduce the risk of cancer if added when cooking meat.

Thyme

This plant is very popular in aromatherapy as essential oil. It is characterized by antiviral, antiseptic, antifungal, antiparasitic and antirheumatic properties.