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When you think of healthy eating, you’re
probably filled with thoughts of less fat and fewer carbs, more fruits and
vegetables, and portion control, but this is just the beginning. Healthy
eating doesn’t stop here, you have to take it to the next level in order to
have your food help you. Herbs and spices help any dish go from bland to
astonishing. Most people associate their seasonings to the type of cuisine
you’re cooking and not what medicinal attributes they may have. From raising
your spirits to aiding in digestion, there are many herbs and spices that
can help your body become healthier.
Cleanse
Cooking dinner every night can become
extremely boring without an extra pick me up. Herbs and spices are the way
to go. One in particular, sage, is used most during the holidays for
stuffing and dressing. Try incorporating it into other dishes because sage
is believed to aid in digestion especially when accompanied with fatty
meals.
Clogged arteries, high cholesterol levels, and
beaucoup amounts of fat can cause an array of problems for you if you’re not
careful. Part of the problem is free radicals, which can cause damage to
your skin and precipitate health problems. In order to help keep
free-radicals in check, sprinkle some oregano on your pizza, next time you
have a slice or chop up fresh rosemary and toss with roasted vegetables. If
rosemary and oregano aren’t your bag, but black pepper is, don’t worry, this
spice is believed to focus on stemming tumor development and protection
against some cancers because of its high concentration of antioxidants. So
the next time you’re at a home goods store, pick up a pepper mill so you get
an extra fresh dose of black pepper in your food.
Many home cooks are afraid of spicy foods with
various different spice combinations, but you shouldn’t be. Yes, it’s
intimidating to know how to combine five or six different spices and make it
taste good, but it’s worth it. In India, the use of cardamom, cumin, tumeric,
coriander (cilantro) and saffron are said to guard against digestive cancers
as well as thought to protect against breast cancer. Becoming familiar with
these exotic spice combinations is necessary.
More common herbs like thyme and basil seem to
find their way into almost every dish. Whether it’s a salad or pasta, chefs
across the world are adding copious amounts of these healers and you should
thank them. Both can fight off stomach ulcers. On its own, thyme helps with
indigestion and is great on a first date because it has been used as mouth
wash in many countries. Basil, on the other hand, is an antibacterial that
relieves fevers, colds, congestion, and joint pain.
Relax
With Americans working harder every year and
even longer hours, you may be looking for something special to calm your
nerves. At first glance you may think wine is the way, but try something
different …tea. Even though wine is believed to fight against heart
problems, choosing the right tea can help you just as much if not
more. Chamomile, a common household tea, often doesn’t get the recognition
it deserves. Known for its calming effects, chamomile can also prevent gum
disease and gingivitis. If you’re pregnant and looking for a bit of
relaxation, combine peppermint tea for soothing and cooling with a knob of
ginger to ease nausea. Once you’ve started your quiet time, why not ease
into a bath of cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, the homey aroma will have
you craving more quiet time with this holy trinity. The nutmeg eases
migraines, while cinnamon fights cramps and inflammation. Cloves help
stimulate your mind and body and takes your stresses away. If you’re looking
for a romantic touch, try rose and jasmine. Jasmine is an external soother
of dry and sensitive skin as well as a reliever of tension through its
aromatics. Rose or rose petals are known for their antidepressant
capabilities. Couple these two amazing herbs together for a special night of
peace and quiet. Once you’re ready to get tucked in to bed, slip a lavender
satchel underneath your pillow for a refreshing nights sleep.
Starting with these herbs and spices in your
arsenal can make a considerable difference in your life. Sometimes, it’s
better to take the time to buy fresh herbs and special spices than the
vitamin supplements. Making sure you have all the healthiest and freshest
ingredients are key to making them work for your body. Although these herbs
and spices pack a powerful punch, if you have any symptoms that persist
after a couple of days, please consult your physician. You made need
something else to work with your healthy ingredients to make you feel
better.
Patricia Virella
is a freelance food writer and the owner of Comida, Catering by
Patricia. When she’s not throwing fabulous parties with friends, she enjoys
spending time with her fiancé. |
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