10 Health-Boosting Spices (spices #6-10)

6. Ginger: Used as a medicinal for centuries, ginger is kind of a cure-all, treating everything from headaches and stomach aches to nausea and colds. It's a great addition to marinades for fish or as a sushi topper.

Ginger has been revered for its medicinal and culinary benefits for centuries. The underground stem known as the rhizome contains the most medicinal benefits of the plant. The volatile oils of the ginger plant gives ginger its characteristic odor and taste. Ginger is used as a common spice to add flavoring to many dishes as well as baked goods such as the famous gingerbread cookies. It is best to use ginger in its fresh form to obtain the most health benefits from its use.

Ginger can help alleviate diarrhea, aid digestion and reduce flatulence. It also helps relieve the nausea associated with morning sickness and motion sickness. Ginger also helps to neutralize stomach acid that can cause upset and diarrhea.

Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties. It helps reduce the inflammation associated with arthritis. A study conducted by the University of Miami on osteoarthritis patients showed a marked decrease in pain in the group given ginger over a six-week period.

Ginger is a natural decongestant and antihistamine. It helps to relieve the congestion of colds, and reduces fever as well. Sipping ginger tea sweetened with raw, unpasteurized honey is an excellent aid to reducing symptoms of cold or flu.

Ginger may help prevent the formation of blood clots by relaxing the muscles around blood vessels. Ginger is also a natural blood thinner.

Ginger can help lower cholesterol and prevent blood platelets from clumping together. It also stimulate the circulatory system.

Ginger may also be beneficial in the prevention of heart disease and cancer, as well as in the treatment of diabetes. Research continues to determine the effectiveness of ginger in these areas as well as other health conditions.


7. Oregano: With as much antioxidant power as broccoli, this spice can stave off ageing and diseases like cancer. It adds a flavourful kick to pizza, pasta and salad dressings.

Hippocrates, the great Greek philosopher and scholar, used oregano for medicinal purposes. He used it as both an anesthetic and for digestive problems. Oregano’s key chemical components are Acetate, Borneol, Bisabolene , Carvacrol, Caryophyllene, Cymene, Geranyl, Linalool, Linalyl Acetate, Pinene, Terpinene and Thymol. All of these chemicals are present in the leaves and in the oils, so they have both topical and internal benefits.

It has been thought to be an effective treatment for bacteria and parasite infestation in the colon and intestines. In fact, Mexican researchers have found it effective in combating giardia, a bacterial amoeba.

Because of its anti-parasitical affect, its oil has been used in head lice treatments. Herbalists recommend it for the treatment of E-coli.

Oregano also has anti-inflammatory benefits. Some people rub the oil on inflamed joints and muscles. Topically, it can also be used as an antiseptic and anti-bacterial spread to relieve acne, cold sores, and minor cuts and scrapes.

It has been used in the treatment of allergies and even to regulate menstrual periods. Some cultures use it as a powerful pain killer. A few drops of the oil in juice consumed for 3-5 days may help clear up a sinus infection.

Oregano also has a large amount of antioxidants in its oil and leaves. It has 42 times the antioxidants as a medium sized apple, 30 times more than a white potato and 12 times more than an orange.

Warning: women who are pregnant should not eat oregano during the pregnancy. While oregano has very definite health benefits; it is one of those herbs that should not be ingested in large quantities.


8. Rosemary: Delicious on pizza or in potatoes, this spice is known to improve the health of the heart and may reduce inflammation. I have a pot of rosemary growing on my balcony. It is a hardy plant and very easy to grow.

Rosemary leaves contain certain phyto-chemical (plant derived) compounds that are known to have disease preventing and health promoting properties.

The herb parts especially flower tops contain phenolic anti-oxidant rosmarinic acid as well as numerous health benefiting volatile essential oils such as cineol, camphene, borneol, bornyl acetate, α-pinene etc. These compounds are known to have rubefacient (counter irritant), anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-fungal and anti-septic properties.

Rosemary leaves provide just 131 calories per 100 g and contains no cholesterol. Apart from nutrients this humble herb contains many noteworthy non-nutrient components such as dietary fiber (37% of RDA).

The herb is exceptionally rich in many B-complex group of vitamin, such as folic acid, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, riboflavin. It is one of the herbs contain high levels of folates; providing about 109 mcg per 100 g (about 27% of RDA). Folates are important in DNA synthesis and when given during peri-conception period can help prevent neural tube defects in the new-born babies.

Rosemary herb contains very good amounts of vitamin A, 2924 IU per 100 g; about 97% of RDA. Vitamin A is known to have antioxidant properties and is essential for vision. It is also required for maintaining healthy mucus membranes and skin. Consumption of natural foods rich in vitamin A is known to help body protect from lung and oral cavity cancers.

Fresh rosemary leaves are good source of antioxidant vitamin; vitamin-C. Contains about 22 mg per 100 g, about 37% of RDA. It is required for the collagen synthesis in the body. Collagen is the main structural protein in the body required for maintaining the integrity of blood vessels, skin, organs, and bones. Regular consumption of foods rich in vitamin C helps body protect from scurvy; develop resistance against infectious agents (boosts immunity) and help scavenge harmful, pro-inflammatory free radicals fro the body.

Rosemary herb parts, whether fresh or dried, are rich source of minerals like potassium, calcium, iron, manganese, copper, and magnesium. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids which helps control heart rate and blood pressure. Manganese is used by the body as a co-factor for the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase.

This herb is an excellent source of iron, contains 6.65 mg/100 g of fresh leaves (about 83% of RDA). Iron, being a component of hemoglobin inside the red blood cells, determines the oxygen carrying capacity of the blood.


9. Thyme: Looking for a respiratory system boost? Adding thyme to stir-frys or dips can help -- the powerful spice has compounds that promote lung health.

Thyme contains an essential oil that is rich in thymol, a powerful antiseptic, antibacterial, and a strong antioxidant. The oil of thyme is used in mouthwashes to treat inflammations of the mouth, and throat infections. It is a common component of cough drops.

Because of its essential oil, thyme possesses expectorant and bronchial antispasmodic properties, making it useful in the treatment of acute and chronic bronchitis, whooping cough, and inflammation of the upper respiratory tract. Thyme enhances the action of the cilia in the bronchi and directly acts on the bronchial mucosa. The terpenoids are responsible for the expectorant activity of thyme while a variety of flavonoids are responsible for the spasmolytic effect of thyme on the bronchioles.

All the members of the mint family, including thyme, possess terpenoids which are recognized for their cancer preventive properties. Rosmarinic and ursolic acids are major terpenoids in thyme that possess anti-cancer properties.

A tea can be made by adding one teaspoon of crushed thyme in half cup of boiling water, letting it steep for 10 mins and then straining. The tea can be drunk 3 to 4 times a day for the treatment of coughs. The tea may be sweetened with honey, which also acts as a demulcent, thereby increasing the tea's effectiveness.


10. Turmeric: A popular spice in India (it's used in curries), this spice contains curcumin, a spice that promotes liver health and fights infection as well as respiratory ailments. It may also stave off brain degeneration.

It is a natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent, useful in disinfecting cuts and burns.

When combined with cauliflower, it has shown to prevent prostate cancer and stop the growth of existing prostate cancer.

Prevented breast cancer from spreading to the lungs in mice.

May prevent melanoma and cause existing melanoma cells to commit suicide.

Reduces the risk of childhood leukemia.

Is a natural liver detoxifier.

May prevent and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease by removing amyloyd plaque buildup in the brain.

May prevent metastases from occurring in many different forms of cancer.

It is a potent natural anti-inflammatory that works as well as many anti-inflammatory drugs but without the side effects.

Has shown promise in slowing the progression of multiple sclerosis in mice.

Is a natural painkiller and cox-2 inhibitor.

May aid in fat metabolism and help in weight management.

Has long been used in Chinese medicine as a treatment for depression.

Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, it is a natural treatment for arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Boosts the effects of chemo drug paclitaxel and reduces its side effects.

Promising studies are underway on the effects of turmeric on pancreatic cancer.

Studies are ongoing in the positive effects of turmeric on multiple myeloma.

Has been shown to stop the growth of new blood vessels in tumors.

Speeds up wound healing and assists in remodeling of damaged skin.

May help in the treatment of psoriasis and other inflammatory skin conditions.


IF you don't want to add the actual spices to your cooking; but, you still want the health benefits, remember most health food stores sell empty gel caps. That way, you can save by buying the ground spices in bulk; storing them in a cool, dry place; and, making up a couple gel caps when you won't be eating the spice that day.

10 Health-Boosting Spices (spices #1-5)

A glimpse of some of the array of spices available worldwide. Photo courtesy: houseofnubian

Forget diamonds, spices are a girl's real best friend. Not only will adding them to most of your meals help stave off disease, they can also prevent aging (the wrinkles, weight gain!) and age-related conditions. Of all the spices out there, here are 10 you should add to your diet immediately.

1. Cardamom: Use this ground-up spice to add flavour to exotic Asian dishes -- it's known to detoxify the liver and boost the immune system.

According to traditional wisdom, cardamom is effective in improving digestion, relieving nausea and stomach cramps. It is a good stimulant and beneficial for those suffering from flatulence and gas.

Cardamom also helps in cleansing the body as it has detoxifying properties. It improves blood circulation to the lungs and can be helpful in prevention of spasms or convulsions. Hence, cardamom in small quantities is beneficial for those suffering from asthma or bronchitis.

Cardamom enhances appetite and provides relief from acidity in the stomach. It is used in the cure of halitosis. It is chewed after a meal in India, not only to help with the digestion of the meal; but, to freshen the breath. It is beneficial for those suffering from various kinds of respiratory allergies. When you have a sore throat, you can try out a little quantity of this medicinal spice.


2. Cayenne or Dried Chili Flakes: These fiery spices may enhance your metabolism while also making you feel fuller longer. Use them in salsa, guacamole, pasta sauces, etc.

Cayenne has the ability to ease stomach upset, ulcers, sore throats, spasmodic and irritating coughs as well as diarrhea.

When you have a cold or flu, cayenne pepper helps break up congested mucus and gets it moving. Once the mucus starts to leave your body, you will get some relief from many of the flu symptoms you may be experiencing.

The results of one study indicated that cayenne pepper could effectively prevent the formation of the fungal pathogens phomopsis and collectotrichum.

Many naturopaths have known of the health benefits of cayenne pepper, especially for migraine symptoms. This may be related to the pepper’s ability to stimulate a pain response in a different area of the body, thus reverting the brain’s attention to the new site. Following this initial pain reaction, the nerve fibers have a depleted substance P (the nerve’s pain chemical), and the perception of pain is lessened.

Cayenne is a wonderful anti-inflammatory agent and may even help relieve allergies.

This spice is a well-known digestive aid. It stimulates the digestive tract, increasing the flow of enzyme production and gastric juices. This, in turn, aids the body’s ability to metabolize the food (and toxins) we take into the system. Cayenne pepper is also a wonderful medicinal herb for relieving intestinal gas. It stimulates intestinal peristaltic motion, aiding in both assimilation and elimination.

Cayenne’s anti-inflammatory properties make it a great herb for arthritis, diabetes, psoriasis and herpes-related nerve damage.

Cayenne stimulates the production of saliva, an important key to excellent digestion and maintaining optimal oral health.

Cayenne pepper also helps reduce atherosclerosis, encourages fibrinolytic activity and prevents the formation of blood clots, all of which can help reduce the chances of a heart attack or stroke.

Cayenne is a known circulatory stimulant. It also increases the pulse of our lymphatic and digestive rhythms. By heating the body, the natural process of detoxification is streamlined. Cayenne also causes us to sweat, another important process of detoxification.

Extremely high in a substance called capsaicin, cayenne pepper acts to cause temporary pain on the skin, which in turn sends chemical messengers from the skin into the joint, offering relief for joint pain.

Cayenne is an excellent food-preserver and has been used traditionally to prevent food contamination from bacteria.

Studies done at the Loma Linda University in California found that cayenne pepper can prevent lung cancer in smokers. This may be again related to cayenne’s high quantity of capsaicin, a substance that can stop the formation of tobacco-induced lung tumors. Other studies have also shown a similar reaction in cayenne’s ability to inhibit liver tumors.

Scientists at the Laval University in Quebec found that participants who took cayenne pepper for breakfast were found to have less appetite, leading to less caloric intake throughout the day. Cayenne is also a great metabolic-booster, aiding the body in burning excess amounts of fats.

Cayenne helps to keep blood pressure levels normalized. It also rids the body of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.

Cayenne is an excellent agent against tooth and gum diseases.

As a poultice, cayenne has been used to treat snakebites, rheumatism, inflammation, sores, wounds and lumbago.

On a personal level, I take 120,000 heat units a day in capsule form.


3. Cinnamon: This sweet spice is loaded with antioxidants and may regulate blood sugar and lower cholesterol. Add a pinch to your yogurt or baked goods. Remember cinnamon toast as a child? One of my favourite treats; and, I had no idea it was so good for me.

Studies have shown that just 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon per day can lower LDL cholesterol.

Several studies suggest that cinnamon may have a regulatory effect on blood sugar, making it especially beneficial for people with Type 2 diabetes.

In some studies, cinnamon has shown an amazing ability to stop medication-resistant yeast infections.

In a study published by researchers at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Maryland, cinnamon reduced the proliferation of leukemia and lymphoma cancer cells.

It has an anti-clotting effect on the blood.

In a study at Copenhagen University, patients given half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder combined with one tablespoon of honey every morning before breakfast had significant relief in arthritis pain after one week and could walk without pain within one month.

When added to food, it inhibits bacterial growth and food spoilage, making it a natural food preservative.

One study found that smelling cinnamon boosts cognitive function and memory.

Researchers at Kansas State University found that cinnamon fights the E. coli bacteria in unpasteurized juices.

It is a great source of manganese, fiber, iron, and calcium.


4. Cloves: Rich in powerful antioxidants, cloves can help treat inflammation and infection and may work as an all-natural painkiller. For superior oral health: add 2 drops of clove oil to 1/2 glass of warm water. Rinse your mouth thoroughly several times with this making sure to vigorously swish water around mouth for 1 minute each rinse. You should be able to rinse your mouth three times with this clove water.

Eugenol is a chemical compound extracted from the essential oil of cloves and other spices. Eugenol has been shown to be an effective natural anti fungal against the T. mentagrophytes and M. canis dermatophytes (tinia or ringworm), and although tea tree oil is a more effective anti fungal, a combination of tea tree oil and eugenol was found to be more effective. Tests have also demonstrated that essential oil of cloves to be effective against Candida albicans.

The fungicidal potency of clove oil compares very well with that of the commercial antifungal drug nystatin, while providing for a less toxic, safe, and inexpensive alternative to commercial drugs without the risk of ever-increasing resistance shown by the target pathogens, toxicity problems at the increasing required doses, and problematic side-effects.

Eugenol is the principal chemical component of clove oil and is used in dentistry due to its analgesic, local anesthetic, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial effects. It is used in the form of a paste or mixture as dental cement, filler, and restorative material.

Beta-caryophyllene, another component of clove oil, has also been shown to exhibit local anesthetic activity.

Cloves can be used in relieving a toothache by placing a single clove on the aching tooth. Clove oil can also be used by soaking in some cotton wool and then placing the cotton wool on the aching tooth.

USDA’s Richard Anderson reports that bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves, and turmeric all can treble insulin activity, hinting that as little as 500 mg might be enough to have some effect. A tea of 500 mg each of these spices, with coriander and cumin, should be enough to treble insulin activity, possibly helping in late-onset diabetes.

Extract of clove has been shown to enhance the sexual behavior of male mice. The results of the study resulted in a significant and sustained increase in the sexual activity of normal male rats, without any adverse effects. The results seem to support the claims for its traditional usage as an aphrodisiac.

The natural oil of clove is a natural mosquito repellent and can give protection against mosquitoes for 4-5 hours.

Preliminary studies have suggested the chemopreventive potential of clove for lung cancer, and to delay and reduce the formation of skin cancer.

The compound eugenol from cloves has been found to be a potent platelet inhibitor (prevents blood clots).

Allergic reactions to clove and eugenol have been reported.

Clove supplements should be avoided in children and pregnant or nursing women.


5. Garlic: Potentially the most powerful of spices, garlic has been shown to cure almost all that ails you -- from heart disease to arthritis and cancer. The root veggie (used as an herb) can be added to almost anything for a touch of flavour and spice.

Garlic contains natural antibiotic and antimicrobial properties that can help treat a variety of health issues. Throughout history, people have used garlic for many conditions such as infection, high blood pressure and even snake bites. Garlic is commonly used in modern times for lowering cholesterol and reducing the risk of heart disease.

For regular immune-boosting usage, eat one to two cloves of garlic each day. If you prefer not to eat the garlic raw, use this amount to cook with instead.

Studies have shown that eating garlic can help alleviate some of the symptoms caused by gastrointestinal diseases such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Garlic's natural antimicrobial properties make it a good treatment for athlete's foot, warts and Candida yeast.

Some studies have indicated that eating garlic can help repel ticks and mosquitoes, resulting in fewer bites.

Preliminary studies have suggested that eating garlic regularly can reduce the risk of some types of cancer.

Multiple studies have shown that eating garlic on a regular basis can help to reduce total blood cholesterol.

Taking a daily garlic supplement can reduce your risk of getting a cold and cut down on the length of time you have a cold.