Imagine getting your meal with no spices. Unthinkable, is it?
Spices have an important role to play in various ways right from the kitchen to the therapeutic uses in homes. India is blessed with a varied climate and each of its states produces some spice or the other. No wonder why the aromatic spices used for cooking desi food in India are so extensive. Today spices are considered to be of great use not only in India but also in most of the other countries.
In addition to adding color, flavor, and taste, spice consumption provides countless health benefits. One will be more innovative in the use of spices if you know its uses better. Some may be an alternative for your costly beauty products or even medicines.
Benefits of Indian Spices
A quick overview of Indian spices and their benefits.
Cardamom (Elaichi) – Helps to control bad breath and digestive disorders. A whole cardamom chewed is good for coping with diabetes.
Cinnamon (Dalchini) – It supports the natural production of insulin and reduces blood cholesterol.
Clove (Laung) – Clove oil is beneficial for coping with a toothache and sore gums. It is also a beneficial remedy for chest pains, fever, digestive problems, cough, and cold.
Coriander (Dhaniya) – It can be used externally on aching joints and rheumatism. It is also good for coping with soar throat, allergies, digestion problems, hay fever, etc. The coriander seed oil has antibacterial properties and is used for treating colic, neuralgia, and rheumatism.
Cumin (Zeera) – It is a good source of iron and keeps the immune system healthy. Water boiled with cumin seeds is good for coping with dysentery.
Turmeric (Haldi) – It strengthens the digestive system, aids in the digestion of protein, and normalizes metabolism. Turmeric is a blood purifier. It regulates blood sugar.
Pepper (Kaali Mirch) – It helps to cope with cold, cough, infections, etc. It helps to deal with muscle pains and digestive problems.
Mustard (Rye) – Mustard oil is good for body massage and even for getting good hair. It consists of omega-3 fatty acids.
Red Chilli (Lal Mirch) – Red chili adds a hot flavor to food and so should not be used in excess. Beta carotene in red chili has an antioxidant effect just like fruits and helps in preventing lung cancer caused by smoking.
Make optimal use of the resources which nature provides. Strike the right balance and add some spice to your life!