When we think of spices, our minds dart to the hot spices used in Indian cuisine such as garam masala, curry powder and green chilies. Indian cooking is characterized by hot, sharp tasting and pungent spices that give it its distinct flavor.
Spices are not only used to enhance the flavor of food but also for their healing, digestive and drying properties and for improving the absorption of nutrients. Not everyone tolerates the powerful odor of certain spices, and not all spices are so strongly flavored. Some, in fact, have milder tastes and digestive effects such as the seed-like spices, fennel, cumin, fenugreek, caraway and anise. Both kinds of spices intensify the taste and increase the body’s ability to digest vegetables, whole grains, meats, dairy products and desserts.
Green leafy aromatic herbs like oregano, mint, basil, dill and others are refreshing and digestive and relieve flatulence when they are infused together. They also enhance and soften the taste of certain legumes and stews. A bouquet of herbs add flavor to steamed vegetables, salads, soups, stews and pastas.
Aromatic seeds such as anise, fennel, caraway, cumin, coriander and cardamom decrease gases and have antispasmodic properties. Cumin controls loose stools, while anise relieves constipation and bloating. Mix equal parts of dry anise, fennel, caraway and cumin seeds. Take a teaspoon of the mixture to relieve flatulence and spasms.
Aromatic seeds add flavor to breads, soups, legumes and certain vegetables like cabbage. Cardamom gives Arabic coffee and desserts that special twist.
Fresh and dry gingerroot is very effective on certain health conditions. Both are recommended for nausea, vomiting, morning sickness, suppressing menstruation cramps, colds, sinus infections and allergies. They also boost immunity. A full-body massage with your favorite oil and ginger increases warmth and blood flow in the body and muscles.
In cooking, fresh ginger, not only adds zest to food, but also cleans meat of its harmful toxins while breaking down proteins, decreasing their uric acid effect. Ginger does the same to legumes and reduces the discomfort that comes with eating them.
Steeped gingerroot increases digestibility of meals and relieves colds and sinus infections. For the fast treatment of motion sickness, ginger capsule supplements are very effective. I had immediate results from these supplements on a boat trip.
Cinnamon gives herbal teas and infusions a sweet taste and pastries like apple pies, cakes and hot drinks a special aroma. Cinnamon tea with honey has a healing effect on many conditions such as cold and flu, sore throats, mental and physical fatigue and ear infections. The spice helps with yeast and urinary infections, abscess, colic and diarrhea, intestinal parasites and digestion. It is also relaxing and sweet smelling.
Garlic and onion are both considered spices and vegetables that are known for their strong flavor as well as for their healing and antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal characteristics. Their antibiotic effects make them popular to use with the onset of cold viruses and their symptoms. Both plants balance the effects of a high protein and animal diet and overindulgence. They eliminate the growth of intestinal harmful bacteria and yeasts.
Garlic and onion have cancer-fighting agents, decrease blood cholesterol levels, and increase enzymes that neutralize oxidized cell action, boosting the immune system. A poultice of garlic and onion is effective in relieving the pain and swelling of insect bites; turmeric also gives the same effect.
Turmeric is the Indian spice, which gives curry its typical yellow color. It’s the most important compound is curcumin, which is known for its antioxidant properties that enhance memory and may contribute to preventing Alzheimer’s disease. It also detoxifies and decongests the liver and breaks up gallstones.
Curcumin has shown anti-inflammatory effects on joint swelling in rheumatoid arthritis patients while increasing joint flexibility. It inhibits blood clots in arteries and improves blood flow to the heart and brain. Recent studies have revealed its protective effect against cancer. Add a dash of turmeric to a glass of milk or hot soup. It also relieves menstrual cramps.
Cayenne and hot peppers are very rich in vitamin C. They are effective on common colds. Garlic and cayenne clear chicken stock acts like antibiotic at the start of a cold and helps sweating. It also stimulates the blood circulation and increases the blood flow to the heart and brain. Cayenne and hot peppers are popular in Asia, Africa, South America and the Middle East. They are either used in cooking or added as condiment.
Spices come in different forms, aromas and flavors and have a myriad of uses. They were unknown in Europe until first imported from India to be sold in the West. They were highly prized for their healing and aromatic characteristics. Some scientists believe that spicy food could reduce incidents of Alzheimer’s disease, which is pretty low in India. There is no risk in moderately adding spices to your cooking to enhance flavor and benefit health if you are able to tolerate them. They could add to the “spice” of your life.
(Mariam Alireza is a holistic science specialist. Send comments to [email protected].)