10 Magical Kitchen SPICES That Can HEAL You Naturally!

Kitchen SPICES 

That Can HEAL You Naturally!

Our kitchen spices can work wonders in enhancing the overall immunity of our body. They possess the power to heal our bodies naturally from within, enabling us to stay healthy and fit. Various common ailments such as constipation, acidity, digestion issues, infections, headaches, insomnia, skin disorders, hair fall, and weight loss can be treated naturally by using the right spices.

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Spices have played a significant role in traditional medicine for centuries, owing to their potent healing properties. Our ancestors relied on natural remedies, including herbs and spices, to treat various ailments and diseases long before the advent of modern medicine. These natural remedies were widespread and recognized across cultures, and many of them continue to be used in traditional medicine today.

Spices are known to contain a wide range of bioactive compounds that impart therapeutic benefits. For instance, turmeric, a widely-used spice, contains curcumin, a bioactive compound that has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger, another commonly used spice, contains gingerol, a bioactive compound that has been shown to reduce nausea and inflammation. Cinnamon, cloves, and garlic are other spices that have been associated with various health benefits.

It is worth noting that while spices have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, their use should not replace professional medical advice. It is always important to consult a healthcare professional before using any natural remedies, especially if you have an existing health condition or are taking medication.

COMMON KITCHEN SPICES WITH THEIR 

HEALING BENEFITS

Spices have been used since ancient times in the traditional Ayurvedic system, Unani medicines, and other traditional medicines for their healing and health benefits. Countless spices have healing powers that heal us from within in a natural way. But we cannot write about them all here. Out of them, we have selected 10 such spices that are common and easily available in every kitchen.

1) CUMIN (Zeera)

Cumin has been a well-liked spice for centuries due to its pleasant aroma and distinct flavor. It originates from ancient India and is recognized for its remarkable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Because of this, it has become an essential ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine. Ayurveda suggests using cumin as a natural remedy for various health issues. 

Whether whole or in grounded form, cumin seeds are an essential addition to Indian cuisine, especially when used for tempering. Its versatility and health benefits make cumin a must-have spice in any kitchen.

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FEW BENEFITS

• Taking cumin seeds in the form of tea is very useful in digestive disorders like -  morning sickness, indigestion, flatulence, etc. 

• Taking roasted cumin seeds or decoction of it increases the secretion of breast milk in lactating mothers. 

• Applying a paste of cumin over the boils gives beneficial results. 

• Taking cumin tea after meals induces weight loss as well as helps in anemia. 

• Having roasted cumin powder with curd is quite good for fixing upset stomachs.

• Cumin also helps in increasing appetite.

2) CINNAMON (Dalchini)

Cinnamon, an age-old spice known for its delightful fragrance and warm, sweet taste, has been used for thousands of years. Its bark is the most commonly used part, but the leaves, flowers, fruits, and even the roots of the cinnamon tree have also been employed in cooking and for medicinal purposes. 

Cinnamon is a rich source of antioxidants and possesses remarkable anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and antibacterial properties, making it a valuable addition to any diet.

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FEW BENEFITS

• A pinch of powdered cinnamon mixed with honey is an effective remedy for the common cold.

• Cinnamon is one of the best remedies for treating bad breath. For this boil half an inch of cinnamon in a glass of water. When it cools down, rinse your mouth with this decoction once or twice a day can bring good results.

• Powder of cinnamon sticks can be used as a paste over pimples and acne for beneficial results.

3) FENUGREEK SEEDS (Methi Dana)

For centuries, fenugreek has been recognized for its versatile use in both culinary and medicinal practices. The plant's leaves are often used as a nutritious vegetable, while its seeds are commonly utilized as a flavorful spice. 

Rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants, fenugreek is known to help eliminate harmful toxins from the body, promoting optimal health and well-being. By incorporating fenugreek into your regular diet, you can maintain a clean and healthy body, while enjoying its delicious taste and numerous health benefits.

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fenugreek seeds or methi dana

FEW BENEFITS

• Fenugreek seeds are highly useful in arresting hair fall and removing dandruff. For this half a tablespoon of fenugreek seeds can be soaked in water overnight. In the morning these softened seeds should be ground to make a fine paste and applied on the scalp for 30 minutes. The scalp and hair then can be washed thoroughly with any herbal or mild shampoo.

• The tea made by boiling fenugreek seeds in water is quite beneficial in soothing the lining of the stomach as well as in eliminating bad breath.

• Having water empty stomach in which fenugreek seeds have been soaked overnight is quite good for skin and hair health. Consuming this water is also good for diabetic people.

• Use of roasted fenugreek powder in foods helps in digestion.

4) BLACK PEPPER (Kali Mirch)

Black pepper, also known as the 'king of spices', is a highly prized spice that has been used for centuries. It has a distinctive flavor and aroma and is one of the oldest spices in the world. 

Black pepper is packed with antioxidants and has potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body. This spice is also known to improve blood circulation and promote brain health, making it a popular choice for those looking to boost their cognitive function. From its origins in India, black pepper has become one of the most widely used and recognizable spices in the world, adding flavor and depth to dishes of all kinds.

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FEW BENEFITS

• Black pepper is quite good for digestive disorders. It increases the flow of gastric juices which helps in digestion. It is useful in relieving flatulence and indigestion.

• Black pepper is also very effective in relieving cough due to the common cold. A few seeds of it can be chewed with a couple of tulsi (holy basil) leaves can provide relief.

• Massaging the scalp with coconut oil mixed with black pepper powder controls hair fall to a great extent.

• Taking black pepper powder mixed with jaggery provides quick relief in phlegm and cough.

Suggested reading: 9 Reasons Why You Should Consume Tulsi every day?

5) CLOVE (Long)

Cloves are a versatile and fragrant spice that comes from the flower buds of a tree. With a distinctive sweet and slightly bitter taste, cloves are used in a wide variety of cuisines to add flavor to dishes such as curries, stews, and baked goods.

For over 2000 years, India has been incorporating cloves into their culinary traditions, recognizing the unique flavor and aroma that they bring to dishes. However, cloves are not only used for their culinary properties but also for their medicinal benefits.

In traditional medicine, cloves can be found in powdered form and as decoctions, which are made by boiling the cloves in water. Additionally, the oil that is extracted from cloves, known as clove oil, has many medicinal properties. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and analgesic properties, making it a valuable natural remedy.

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FEW BENEFITS

• Clove is used as a natural anesthetic to soothe toothache. It also helps in decreasing tooth infection due to its antiseptic properties.

• Mouthwash prepared by boiling a few cloves in a glass of water is a good way to prevent plaque building and bad breath.

• Chewing a piece of clove is an effective way to ease irritated throat and cough caused by congestion.

• cloves are used with other spices such as cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, etc., to make 'Kaadha' (brew) to prevent cough and cold.

• Use of clove while making food boosts digestive functions and also gives relief in flatulence.

6) TURMERIC (Haldi)

Turmeric has been a staple in Asian cultures for centuries and has been an integral part of Ayurveda, Unani, and traditional Chinese medicine. Known as the "golden miracle of the earth," turmeric has numerous health benefits such as being anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, antimicrobial, and antiseptic. 

Turmeric is a key ingredient in many dishes and is the main ingredient in curry powders in India. It is typically used in its dried, powdered form, but can also be used fresh like ginger.

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FEW BENEFITS

• A paste made by mixing turmeric powder with water or milk can be applied to boils to speed up the healing process. It can also be applied to pimples and acne to give relief.

• The use of turmeric is one of the best home remedies and acts as a first aid to stop bleeding and to heal a cut.

• Turmeric milk or 'haldi doodh' is a traditional Indian recipe. The tradition of drinking this golden milk whenever we fall or get hurt has been going on for centuries in Indian homes. This golden milk is also very effective in relieving cough and cold. It can be prepared with powdered or fresh turmeric. Half a teaspoon of powdered turmeric or an inch of fresh turmeric can be boiled in a glass of milk on a low flame to make this golden milk. 

• A pinch of turmeric powder can be added to face masks for glowing and healthy skin.

7) FENNEL SEEDS (Saunf)

Fennel seeds have been utilized for both flavoring and medicinal purposes, particularly to alleviate intestinal gas, since ancient times. They can be consumed as tea or chewed after a meal. In India, it is customary for restaurants to offer saunf (fennel seeds) to their patrons after a meal, as it is known to aid digestion, particularly for carbohydrates.

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FEW BENEFITS

• Fennel tea made by boiling a teaspoon of fennel seeds in a glass of water on a low flame for about 10 to 15 minutes is highly beneficial in indigestion and flatulence.

• Fennel tea in small quantities can also be given to children to release gas.

• Fennel seeds are also very good for nursing mothers. Its use helps in producing more milk.

• Tea made from fennel seeds gives good benefits in respiratory conditions and cough. Drinking this tea a little hot sip by sip gives a lot of relief in this condition.

You might also like: 10 Types of Herbal Teas and Their Health Benefits!

8) CAROM SEEDS (Ajwain)

Carom seeds, also known as Bishop's seeds, ajwain, or Omam Podi (in Tamil), have been used in Ayurvedic traditional medicine practices since the times of Charaka Rishi. These seeds are a common household spice in India and are known for their various health benefits. Carom seeds are also known to have antiseptic, antifungal, and analgesic properties, making them a go-to ingredient in many Ayurvedic remedies for a variety of ailments.

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FEW BENEFITS

• A teaspoon of carom seeds with a pinch of black salt if taken with warm water gives quick relief in relieving gas and indigestion. This common household remedy is also very good for relieving menstrual pain.

• An effective gargle of water can be made by boiling a teaspoon of carom seeds in a glass of water. This gargle gives relief to sore throat and the hoarseness of the voice due to shouting or due to cough and cold.

• Drinking one or two tablespoons of warm carom seed water (water in which carom seed has been boiled), provides quick relief in coughing due to cold.

9) BAY LEAF (Tej patta)

Bay leaf is a highly fragrant and flavorful spice that boasts a subtle bitterness and earthy undertones. It is a staple ingredient in Indian cuisine and is especially popular in rice-based dishes, such as biryanis and pulao. Additionally, bay leaves are commonly used to add depth and complexity to soups, stews, and sauces, as well as in the spice blend known as garam masala. The leaves are typically added whole to dishes and are removed before serving.

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FEW BENEFITS

• Tea made with bay leaf along with spices like ginger, pepper, and cinnamon helps boost the body's immune system.

• Use of bay leaf in foods provides digestion and also helps in setting upset stomach.

• An effective hair rinse can be made by boiling a few bay leaves in a liter of water. Rinsing hair with this water helps eliminate dandruff.

• Besides improving the immune system, bay leaf tea is also quite good in reducing inflammation in the body.

• Inhaling burnt bay leaves reduces stress and anxiety and helps in enhancing mood.

10) CARDAMOM ( Choti elaichi)

Cardamom is a highly aromatic spice that is widely used in Indian cuisine. It is one of the most expensive spices in the world due to its intense flavor. Cardamom is a common ingredient in traditional Indian sweets, masala tea, biryanis, herbal teas, garam masala, and other dishes.

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FEW BENEFITS

• This aromatic spice is quite good in strengthening the digestive function of the body.

• Chewing a pod or a few seeds of cardamom acts as a good breath freshener. It also helps in increasing the flow of saliva which helps in digestion.

• Chewing one or two pods of cardamom is also good for the liver and people with high blood pressure. It also helps in weight loss.

• Having cardamom in tea or milk relaxes the body, and reduces anxiety and restlessness.

USEFUL TIPS!

• Although, natural ingredients are safe to use, but still if a person is allergic to something then he should avoid using it.

• Always make small batches or use in small quantities, if you are trying any home remedy for the first time. If it suits you and gives you good results, then you can use it further.

• Natural ingredients work slowly, but they give good results, and that too without any side effects.

Stay Healthy, Stay Fit!

Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for more information.