Nature’s pharmacy includes some amazing spices and herbs that not only pack a wonderfully flavorful punch for meals, but also help cure various health conditions. Below, we discuss some super spices that can cure illnesses and benefit your overall health.
Thyme: Infections, Inflammation, and Respiratory Issues
Thyme is a versatile herb that has numerous health benefits. It is particularly revered as a powerful antiseptic, due to the actions of thymol, a volatile oil found in all types of thyme. Thymol can help fight infections, even the stubborn, drug-resistant kind. Thyme is also useful in calming bronchitis, treating respiratory infections, providing antioxidant support, reducing blood clots in those with a high-fat diet, lowering inflammation, and aiding digestion.
Rosemary: Super Antioxidant
Rosemary enhances the flavor of grilled meats and has powerful antioxidant abilities that can prevent the formation of harmful compounds that damage DNA when meats are overcooked. These compounds, called HCAs (heterocyclic amines), increase the risk of cancer and other diseases. Studies have shown that adding rosemary to meats before grilling or cooking can reduce HCAs by 60 percent or more. Rosemary is also useful in preventing radiation sickness, pesticide poisoning, sun damage to the skin, and improving cognitive health, memory, cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular health, and arthritis.
Caraway Seed: Digestive Aid and More
Caraway seeds are particularly known for their use in rye bread. When cooked, these aromatic dried seeds provide a boost to the digestive system, and when combined with peppermint, they can work better than commercial antacids. Both caraway and peppermint contain carvone, which calms the digestive tract and reduces upset stomachs. Caraway is also known to support cardiovascular health by reducing unhealthy cholesterol levels and maintain metabolic health by promoting healthy blood sugar levels. In addition, Caraway can help fight cancer, prevent food poisoning, treat constipation, and combat colds and respiratory infections.
Coriander: Cilantro Super Seed
Coriander comes from the seed of the cilantro plant and has been used worldwide as a powerful natural medicine. While cilantro leaves are beneficial for detoxification and immune support, coriander works to aid digestion, cardiovascular health, and more. It has been used traditionally to treat digestive upset and has been proven to help relieve the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, stomach ulcers, constipation, and other digestive conditions. Coriander also reduces skin inflammation caused by sunburn, eczema, and other skin conditions. It has been shown that extracts of coriander can balance blood sugar and insulin levels in type 2 diabetes patients, reduce (LDL) bad cholesterol, and alleviate anxiety and insomnia. The spice also supports defenses against colon cancer, fights candida fungal infections, and even helps with lead poisoning.
Fennel Seed: Soothing Protection
Fennel is a healing plant with numerous health benefits. Its seeds have a licorice taste and are rich sources of healing phytonutrients. Fennel reduces menstrual cramps and helps balance hormones in women. It is also a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Some studies have shown that it has more power than vitamin E in combating harmful free radicals. Fennel seed has been found to improve long-term memory by boosting acetylcholine activity in the brain; it can be used to treat dementia and related cognitive issues. The seed also protects against cancer, heart disease, arthritis, glaucoma, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Through a healthy diet and lifestyle, these spices can encourage positive gene expression, impacting long-term health and vitality. By incorporating these time-honored healers into your regular diet, you can greatly boost your overall health and defenses against various conditions while still adding excitement to your meals.
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