Be it Indian, Continental and Mediterranean, any cuisine is virtually incomplete without the addition of spices. These aromatic spices in the form of seeds, bark, powder may occupy a very little space in your kitchen cabinets but bring in extra nutritional value to the food. Several studies suggest that tweaking your food with these magical culinary wonders not only dish out a variety of tastes and flavours but also aid in treating a multitude of ailments.
A pinch of these extremely beneficial spices not only tantalise your taste buds but also contribute towards building immunity, improving gut health, balancing hormonal disorders and help in maintaining overall health.
Turmeric
This vibrant, yellow coloured wonder added to your daily food, is a remedy to a number of health issues. Curcumin, the active ingredient of turmeric is known for possessing a host of therapeutic properties that are anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral and anti-diabetic in nature. These spices play a highly significant role in treating a multitude of ailments like diabetes, arthritis, indigestion, joint pain, skin infection and cancer.
Cumin
Being a rich source of iron, this incredible spice is a natural blood purifier. It is extremely useful in the formation of haemoglobin and red blood cells and ranks as the best choice for people suffering from anaemia. Traditionally, cumin holds greater importance for promoting digestion, managing diabetes and reducing blood cholesterol. Consumption of cumin in food or in hot water plays a vital role in reducing fats and promoting weight loss.
Ginger
Ginger being a powerhouse of essential minerals and vitamins, is one of the most important spices added in almost all cuisines. The bioactive ingredient gingerol present in ginger has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and serves as a pivotal remedy for nausea, morning sickness, sore throat, bacterial infections and arthritis. Ginger added to the daily diet has shown proven results in managing weight and promoting digestion.
Cinnamon
This powdered bark of the cinnamon tree is a powerful spice imbued with therapeutic benefits. The use of this ingredient in the daily cooking dates back to thousands of years in history as it not only adds a beautiful aroma to the dish but also plays an incredibly important role in fighting infections, reducing risk of cardiac disease and reportedly managing diabetes. Loaded with antioxidants it prevents the risk of cancer and shields the body against bacterial and fungal infections.
Chilli Peppers
Chilli peppers or paprika not only gives your meal a hot and spicy flavour but also punches your body with a host of benefits. Being a rich source of Vitamin A, it is extremely beneficial for the vision. The abundance of antioxidants in this spice relieves from pain, promotes weight loss, treats diarrhoea and intestinal diseases and reduces the risk of cancer.