Health benefits of some herbs and spices

Herbs and spices, just like other plants and roots, are an excellent way to boost our health. Some of these include the following:

Ginger

Ginger is packed with nutrients and health benefits. Ginger has amino acids, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc and vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6 and C. In addition to those nutrients, ginger is a well-known traditional herbal remedy for mild and occasional digestive discomfort and indigestion. It helps protect the liver and stomach, promotes circulation, helps support joint health, and supposedly holds mild aphrodisiac properties.

Garlic

Garlic contains manganese, vitamins B6 and C and selenium. Studies show that garlic can help support the immune system. Garlic supplements are popular for promoting cardiovascular health. It is also high in antioxidants, which may have a supportive impact on blood pressure and cholesterol already within the normal range. Garlic is one of the jack-of-all-trades of cooking. It pairs well with most savory dishes.

Turmeric

Turmeric is the antioxidant king! It is a member of the ginger family and has been gaining popularity for its health benefits. The main active component of turmeric is curcumin, a potent antioxidant with powerful effects. Curcumin also acts as a mental booster, increasing brain function while working to delay age-related decreases in brain function. Turmeric helps support cardiovascular health, joint health, digestive health and mood. Turmeric is traditionally used in curries.

Black Pepper

Most notably, black pepper is great at facilitating good digestion by increasing hydrochloric acid secretion in the gut. Black pepper may also aid weight loss efforts since it assists the breakdown of fat cells. Many people supplement black pepper because it enhances bioavailability of other herbs and supplements, maximizing the benefits of taking vitamins and supplements. It is especially known to enhance the benefits of curcumin (found in turmeric), so try to use the two together whenever possible.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is one of the most popular spices in the world (just behind pepper and mustard). This spice is well-loved for the warm, sweet flavors it lends to desserts and has numerous health benefits. It warms the body while naturally counteracting nausea. Cinnamon can also fight bad breath and aid circulation.

Mustard

Mustard seeds contain selenium and magnesium, two nutrients that can be difficult to find in the average diet and have powerful antioxidant properties. Mustard seeds also have good amounts of phosphorus, copper and manganese. Mustard is a member of the Brassica family, like broccoli and cabbage, and has phytonutrients that support overall wellness. Mustard seed is beneficial for gastrointestinal health.

Parsley

Parsley can help improve general wellness since it has such strong antioxidants and nutrients. It is a natural source of many vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, K, C, B1 and B3, folate, iron, copper, fiber, zinc and much more. Parsley is known to benefit urinary tract, kidney and digestive health.