There was a day, believe it or not, when we people didn’t need to check the nutritional value of everything we ate. Products weren’t even labeled! There was even a time when we didn’t worry about whether or not what we ate was made in a laboratory rather than grown in a field. Genetically modified grub didn’t exist like it does now. The worst thing they sprayed on the fields was cow poop.
People used to spend more time experimenting with herbs and spices, creating some fantastic and dynamic flavors. Of course, some people still do that, but it’s not the art it used to be, especially in the average home. Our ancestors had spice cabinets that were larger than their medicine cabinets. Or maybe it’s better to say that their spice cabinets WERE their medicine cabinets!
For many, many years, the cures for many ailments were no further away than the spice cabinet- and this is still true today- with one important caveat: the spices we mention must be of high quality, or they won’t have the effectiveness you want. Don’t cheap out on something as critical as health potential or great taste. Many spices are now mass-produced and loaded with fillers that aren’t on the labels. Spend a little more for better quality — they go a long way!
Culinary Herbs & Spices Support Health
One of our favorite things to add to most ethnic “styles” of food is GARLIC. It’s natural in Italian, Mexican, and Asian fare, adding a gentle heat and full flavor. And you probably already know it’s an excellent remedy for almost everything. People use it for high and low blood pressure as well as infection. For these reasons, and because it’s delicious, we recommend it.
GINGER is another spice that can serve multiple purposes. It’s great for your stomach (some moms gave gingersnaps for tummy troubles back in the day – We don’t recommend that today), your circulation, and even your intestines. We might even suggest some ginger ales if it weren’t for all the sugar. Unfortunately, a good thing CAN be ruined.
Do you know anybody with whooping cough or laryngitis? How about bronchial issues in general? An ounce of THYME a day will be the ticket for them.
Are you looking for something to stimulate your immune system? Try ROSEMARY. It will also increase your circulation and improve your digestion. It will also add a spectacular flavor to many dishes.
Did you know that TURMERIC is a blood purifier? Like rosemary, it will support your circulation AND can be applied internally and externally to heal wounds. And ladies, that circulatory boost will also help regulate your menstrual cycle and help with those cramps.
CINNAMON is not only a sweet flavor enhancer; it also has many health benefits. It has been used for centuries to treat chronic diarrhea, cramps, lower back, and abdominal pains. Many doctors also recommend it to patients with diabetes.
Another excellent spice for indigestion and/or gas is CARAWAY. Just soak an ounce of seeds in 2 cups water overnight, then take in two tablespoon doses until you’re feeling better. Or you could add BAY LEAVES to your favorite soups and stews for the same effect.
CARDAMOM is another great spice for diarrhea, colic, and headaches.
CUMIN is a spice we often use when making Mexican food (or the Americanized version of it) because it’s a wonderful flavor that isn’t hot, but highly flavorful. It has been used to prevent and relieve gas. It has the added benefit of increasing breast milk and shrinking the uterus after childbirth.
These are just a few of the medicinal benefits of what you can find in your spice rack. Now, you get to experiment with flavors and combinations and feel better in the process.
