Herbs and Spices that Optimize Your Health

“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” - Jim Rohn

Thats a lovely line :) Im Feeling So sick with this winter, though it isnt too much but my body immunity isnt able to stand the change of weather, bfr it was prolonged cold and now developing with breathing issues, Ive been slow on blogging and feel nuts over my condition. I have lots of recipes to share and few pending guest posts. I dont know with this speed when shall I finish all. 

Coming back to todays topic, Its all about herbs and spices an articles sent by Tracy Rose Healthline.com She sent me a mail asking me if I would like to feature their guest post. And as usual all bloggers and non-bloggers are invited. She sent me this lovely post written by David Novak. Lets read this very informative post below.

Being healthy should be the number one priority of every individual. It doesn’t only guarantee prolonging our lives, but it also ensures that our physical, social and mental well-being are operating at optimal levels.

If you are looking for a simple and effective way to optimize your health, you really don’t need to look far. Herbs and spices are commonly overlooked as part of our daily diet, and most of us assumes that they are there just for palate improvement. These flavor-enhancers, with their antioxidant contents, promote healthy immune system, improves heart health, supports memory functions, neutralizes substances that cause stress and provides support to our cells against excessive oxidation and free radicals.

Herbs and spices have plenty of health benefits, but still too much of a good thing can be bad, especially if you are taking medications or ongoing treatments, so its always advisable to consult your physician before making any changes in your daily nutrition. Herbs and spices can support our health, but should not be treated as a cure-all or a substitute for medication.  Having said that, there are many endorsements for herbs and spices, particularly because many contain natural chemicals and nutrients that do our body’s good.  Here are some examples:

Turmeric

This mustard-yellow spice is the foundation of most curry dishes. It contains curcumin, a polyphenol known as the active ingredient, which exhibits over 150 potentially therapeutic activities, including anti-cancer, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric also reduces fat storage and weight gain, and can prevent many chronic diseases associated with obesity. It also supports a healthy skeletal system, particularly the bones and joints.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon has numerous benefits. It helps regulate blood-sugar level, lowers cholesterol and is a natural metabolism booster. Cinnamon has natural anti-infective compounds that are effective against ulcer causing H. Pylori bacteria and other pathogens. It’s advisable to have at least one-fourth to half a teaspoon of cinnamon twice a day to optimize its benefits.

Cayenne Pepper

This spice contains a chemical called Capsaicin, which helps in metabolism and weight loss. This chemical is a natural thermogenic that when consumed, it increases heat in your body allowing you to burn more calories. Cayenne also stimulates circulation and blood flow in the skin, which helps reduce fever and relieves colds and congestion.

Ginseng

Ginseng is a nutritious herb that usually grows in cooler climates such as Northern America and eastern Asia. It is a slow-growing perennial plant that is known to be a powerful natural aphrodisiac and tonic. It also acts as a natural metabolism booster and appetite suppressant, which is great for weight control. When it comes to mental well-being, Ginseng can stimulate brain cells resulting in improved concentration and thinking ability.

Ginger

In several studies, ginger was found to be effective in reducing motion sickness and nausea. It is also known in alleviating symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders. Ginger is also great for those who want to lose weight, since it acts as a natural appetite suppressant, helping you feel full and satisfied for longer periods of time.

Cumin

Cumin is a spice that can be found as a whole seed or ground.  It’s very popular in Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine. This little spice is known to have numerous health benefits from anti-glycation to antioxidant to anti-osteoporotic, and much more. Cumin also helps with digestion and acts as a natural energy booster. It also helps in memory improvement and stress relief.

Garlic

Garlic is a bulbous plant native to Central Asia. It is well known as a natural health remedy that can treat numerous ailments. It is also recognized as a natural antibiotic and antioxidant. Several studies also show that with garlic supplementation, accumulation of cholesterol has been greatly reduced. It is also a great source of vitamin B6, which is required for a healthy immune system and efficient cell growth.  

Oregano

Oregano is a perennial herb, which is a staple of Italian-American dishes, but it’s also widely used in Mediterranean and Middle-Eastern cuisines. It is said to have been used by Hippocrates as an antiseptic, as well as for curing intestinal and respiratory ailments. Oregano also contains thymol and carvacrol, two oils which have exceptional bacteria-fighting power.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a perennial herb mostly found in the Mediterranean region. It can be found dried or fresh like most herbs, and has numerous culinary and medicinal uses. Rosemary is said to have the capability to stop gene mutations. It also aids in preventing damage to the blood vessels, which may lead to heart attacks. Rosemary is also used in alleviating muscle pain, boosting immune and the circulatory system, and promotes hair growth.

Sage

Sage is an herb native to the Mediterranean region, and can be found fresh or dried. It is used in medicines to help alleviate symptoms of digestive problems and mental conditions. It contains acetylcholinesterase-inhibiting compounds, which are said to reduce Alzheimer's disease symptoms, and with its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, it combats inflammation that is often linked to cognitive decline.

David Novak’s byline has appeared in newspapers and magazines around the world.  He’s an avid health enthusiast, and frequently is featured in regional and national health publications. He is also a weekly writer for Healthline.  To visit his other stories on Healthline,

visit http://www.healthline.com/. 

 Thanks For such a lovely guest post Would love to get more of such useful guest posts from you in future :)