Delicious Benefits

By: June Owens

Over the counter and prescription medications have been used to treat medical conditions for many years. They can cure the common cold and are part of medical recommendations for those with a variety of diseases. As I grow older and my medication list seems to grow longer, I have been on the search for more holistic ways to improve my health. After much conversation with the medical team at my rheumatology office, I’ve gained new insight regarding some hidden power sitting right on my pantry shelf.

TUMERIC > This anti-inflammatory spice is my favorite, now incorporated into just about every recipe I make. It has been proven to reduce both pain and swelling and some preliminary testing shows it may also aid in the fight against both Alzheimer’s and cancer. This golden spice that gives cumin its yellow color has even recently been proven to reduce toxins in the body, helping keep the liver healthier. And research is currently being done with positive results regarding tumeric’s ability to also help fight depression. This makes me happy. ?

CINNAMON > Both my husband and mother have diabetes so this is one I love added to smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, and even savory dishes like chili (now I’ve spilled the beans and they may veto the next pot). Lowering blood sugar levels and increasing the amount of insulin production in the body has been evidenced in studies for years. In addition, just ¼ tsp of cinnamon provides blood pressure and cholesterol lowering abilities and is even beneficial in boosting cognitive function. In several studies, this gem even outshined oregano and garlic in the antioxidant category, even being proven effective as a natural food preservative.

CLOVES > This spice can do it all, from fighting arthritis to ridding the body of infection and even helping resolve minor skin problems or toothache pain. Smelling a few crushed cloves placed inside a thin handkerchief has even been said to provide some immediate relief for headaches. They assist in the secretion of enzymes that aid in the digestion process, helping to eliminate gas. Phenolic compounds such as isoflavones, flavones, and flavonoids in cloves are beneficial for healthy bones, aiding in the retention of bone mass. They may be small in size, but they certainly pack a powerful flavor and health punch.

GINGER > Digestive problems have been successfully treated with this spice for over a thousand years. In 2012, a University of Rochester study verified a 40% reduction in post chemotherapy nausea and ginger has been used for morning sickness with great success. It also decreases the duration and intensity of menstrual pain and has been shown to reduce exercise induced muscle pain when consistently used. Lower cholesterol levels have also been noted which can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease.

CAYENNE > Besides slightly increasing metabolism, this pepper may help boost the stomach’s defense against infections and deliver specific enzymes that aid in digestion. It is rich in beta-carotene and vitamin C, helping boost the immune system plus helps lower blood pressure and clears congestion (no surprise there if you’ve ever taken a bog whiff). Cayenne has alkaloid capsaicin, which reduces pain by stopping the chemicals that deliver pain messages to the brain.

GARLIC > One of the most used spices, incorporating this one provides strong protection against various cancers and promotes cardiovascular health by slowing down blockage in the arteries. Both raw and cooked, it has been used medicinally for centuries. Ancient cultures relied on garlic’s fatigue reducing abilities and Olympic athletes in ancient Greece utilized it, making it one of the eeriest ‘performing enhancing’ substances. Besides its flavor boosting abilities for sauces and soups, garlic is also rich in vitamin C, B6 and manganese. Keep in mind that chopping or crushing the clove releases the allicin that provides the best health benefit.

SAGE > Mental alertness can be increased by adding sage to your diet and this one has been proven effective in preventing the onset of Alzheimer’s. Diabetics also benefit with the hidden power of insulin level maintenance. Harmful free radicals linked to chronic illness can be neutralized through the antioxidant power in this spice rack gem that is high in vitamin K, also making it helpful in maintaining bone heath.

OREGANO > This common spice shelf item has at least four substances that can ease coughs and a variety of antibacterial properties that can even help reduce body odor. Oregano is also an effective digestive aid as it can help un-knot muscles in the intestinal tract and known to help reduce blood pressure levels.

ROSEMARY > This is one of my favorite smelling herbs and I recently learned that the fragrance helps improve memory and focus. Research points to the compound 1, 8-cineole known to boost brain activity, acting in the same manner as medications used to treat dementia. Also rich in antioxidants, adding this one prevents cell damage by neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body while boosting your intake of iron, calcium and vitamin B6.

Food can be an army and your kitchen has delicious benefits in fighting a variety of ailments. Though these natural ingredients may have less side effects than traditional medications, it’s always important to verify the safety of using them in treating conditions, especially when using them in high amounts or as supplements and oils. Be sure to consult with your medical professional before stopping or starting any current treatments. Now, go check out your spice rack and get cooking!