Spices have been around for thousands of years. We use some of them in our cooking every day. But did you know that some of them have beneficial aspects and are actually quite nutritious?
Cinnamon is one of America’s favorite spices. The aroma wafts through our home while cinnamon rolls are baking. We love the delicious smell and look forward to biting into a bread texture that has delicious taste. Cinnamon also helps to level blood sugar. For those that are insulin resistant this spice is highly healthful as a treatment for Type 2 diabetes. It has also been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and high cholesterol. Cinnamon is a powerful antibiotic and has calcium, manganese, vitamin a, and vitamin k in it.
Nutmeg has both anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It can also help to stop tumors from growing and certain cancers from developing. It can also help you to sleep and sooth stomach ailments.It is used to detox the liver and the kidneys. This spice is a good source of calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, potassium, and copper. It also is rich in folic acid, vitamin a, vitamin c and b-complex vitamins. Nutmeg is also thought of as a anti-depressant, a aphrodisiac and a help in carminative complaints. Large amounts can cause vomiting and nausea.
Cayenne pepper is a great way to rev up your metabolism and in doing so will help to suppress your appetite and in losing weight. It is high in vitamin c and vitamin a, vitamin b6(pyridoxine and niacin) and b1(thiamin and riboflavin). If you are allergic to bananas, avocados or kiwis you could also be allergic to cayenne pepper.
Cumin is used in taco seasoning and refried beans. It provides 22% of the RDA of iron. This wonderful tasting spice also has magnesium in it and helps in the absorption of calcium. It helps in the absorption of nutrients in the body and is considered a very good natural body tonic. Cumin increases immunity, metabolism and helps in treating constipation. It enhances the liver’s detoxification enzymes and helps with acid indigestion. It is best to grind up fresh seeds for best potency.
Rosemary is rich in calcium, iron and vitamin B6 as well as fiber. It improves concentration by increasing the blood flow to the brain. Improves digestion and is rich in antioxidants. It also improves blood circulation and boosts the immune system. Helps to stifle the producation of breast carcinoma and leukemia cells. Rosemary has a chemical called sailcylate in it which is similar to aspirin. It also contains camosic acid which scientists believe helps to ward off free radical damage in the brain.
In Conclusion
Spices and herbs are good for us. Check the nutrients and benefits of your favorite ones and you might be surprised.
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