What crosses across your mind when you read the word “Indian Food”? Is it food filled with so many different spices?
Spices are the main ingredients in all Indian foods and are responsible for their flavour.
But not only this, Indian spices when consumed in moderate amounts have so many health benefits and have the potential to fight diseases like cancer.
Here are some common spices used in our food which have some major health benefits to offer:-
1. Turmeric
This is the one spice that we all recognize because of its yellow colour and its presence in almost every dish. One of the active ingredients of turmeric is curcumin which is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent and an antioxidant. Along with this turmeric can help in preventing major diseases like cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. It also reduces the symptoms of arthritis and depression and is proven to increase longevity. To top all this off it also has anti-ageing properties. What more can we ask from a spice!
2. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is derived from the bark of the Cinnamomum tree. It’s that stick in your kitchen which has a distinct smell and has a sweet and spicy flavour.
It is good for diabetics and is proved to increase their sensitivity towards insulin. It is anti-inflammatory, prevents the risk of heart diseases and prevents neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s disease.
It is good for fighting against bacterial and viral infections and even HIV!
3. Asafoetida
Okay! Don’t be scared by the name, it’s just the sharp smelling ‘Heeng’ in your kitchen. One of the most common use apart from being an ingredient in dishes is as a home remedy for bloating, gas and stomach ache. It is also good for people suffering from asthma and relieves menstrual cramps. It lowers the blood pressure as it is a natural blood thinner, cures headaches and is good to use in case of insect bites. Along with all this, it is also a wonderful hair conditioner and helps reduce acne, bringing a beautiful glow to your face.
4. Cumin Seeds
Commonly known as “Jeera”, cumin is great for digestion and is rich in iron. Its usage can help with weight loss and reduce fat. It is also used for lowering the blood cholesterol level, prevents the growth of foodborne bacteria and surprisingly reduces drug dependence.
5. Cloves
It has a spicy flavour and is full of nutrients like vitamin K and vitamin C. They help in improving bone density, are great for diabetics and reduce stomach ulcers.
Cloves can kill a lot of bacterias thus improving your immunity and are also good for your liver. So, next time you eat a biryani don’t throw them away!
6. Ginger
We all love having Ginger tea, want to know more about this magical spice? Ginger contains gingerol which is a powerful antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory substance. It is can relieve symptoms of sore throat, cure nausea and is good for curing chronic indigestion. Apart from these it prevents cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and reduces osteoarthritis.
All this the time, the secret to good health was lying inside that spice box in your kitchen, now all you have to do is have them in moderate amounts!