Which spices are the most useful — Top 10 types
A few centuries ago, spices were valued above gold. Thanks to them, new trade routes were built and unexplored lands were discovered. And this is not surprising, because no cuisine in the world can exist without spices.
Today, spices and seasonings are not only a way to improve the taste and aroma of any dish. It is also a source of valuable biologically active substances for our body.
10 most useful spices
Below we will look at 10 types of spices and spices that can rightfully be considered the most useful (based on scientific sources).
1. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is one of the most popular spices on the planet. It is used in the manufacture of bakery products, is included in folk recipes and some medicines.
The spice contains a large amount of cinnamaldehyde, which is responsible for the main beneficial properties.
Chinese specialists proved that cinnamon, due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action, is able to normalize Total cholesterol level and its atherogenic fractions (especially TAG).
Pakistani scientists celebrate marked decrease in the level of total and "harmful" (LDL) cholesterol in patients with type II diabetes mellitus. To achieve the effect, you should take the spice in a dose of 1 to 6 grams daily for 2 months or more.
Similar properties make it possible to use cinnamon for the therapy and prevention of atherosclerotic vascular damage and the development of deadly cardiac diseases.
The hypoglycemic effect of the plant should be noted separately. Cinnamon slows down absorption of carbohydrates from the intestinal lumen (blocks key enzymes) and increases the sensitivity of peripheral tissues to insulin.
Cinnamon can be found in the form of "sticks" or powder (ground). The second option is suitable for making confectionery and bakery products, fruit salads, porridges, stewing meat, the first one is for tea and other fragrant drinks.
Cinnamon has found wide application in folk medicine. It is used to fight nail fungus, improve skin condition and repel insects.
2. Sage
Sage became firmly established in folk medicine back in the Middle Ages, when it was actively used to fight the plague.
Scientists from New Zealand have revealed the ability of spices raise the level of acetylcholine in brain tissues. Such a change indirectly prevents the development of Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders.
Marked even improvement of brain functions during the course of Alzheimer's disease – Restoring memory and attention , thinking. According to British scientists, the same results were received and on the model of absolutely healthy people.
Sage is often used during pregnancy to relieve symptoms of toxicosis (e.g. nausea). In folk medicine, it is used to have a baby.
The seasoning can be taken both fresh and in the form of tea, decoction, infusion, alcohol tincture or essential oil. Each form is unique in its properties, but it is beneficial for health.
In the culinary industry, sage is served along with meat dishes (chicken, beef, pork) and vegetable salads.
3. Peppermint
Mint since ancient times it has been used in aromatherapy and folk medicine, as a means for relaxation and therapy of diseases of the digestive system.
Research show that the plant facilitates the course of irritable bowel syndrome, a functional disease manifested by numerous dyspeptic disorders.
Mint useful for people suffering from constipation. The plant relaxes the smooth muscle tissue of the intestinal wall, facilitating the passage of feces and reducing the severity of pain during the act of defecation.
Mint is multifunctional. It can be chewed, boiled, added to meat dishes and soft drinks in fresh form.
4. Turmeric
Turmeric , as well as curry seasoning based on it,
has
curcumin is a special substance with a strong antioxidant and anti–inflammatory effect.
The plant is not only on its own struggling with free radicals, but also increases the antioxidant status of the human body. As a result, the risk of developing malignant tumors decreases, and, if present, the probability of metastasis decreases.
Due to its pronounced anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric is acceptable use to slow down the course and prevent Alzheimer's disease. The plant prevents the formation of beta-amyloid cells, large clusters of which underlie the development of neurodegenerative disease.
Turmeric is also effective against a number of inflammatory disorders of the musculoskeletal system (for example, osteoarthritis, arthritis, etc.).
Seasoning is often used in Russian and Indian cuisines. It doesn't change the flavor much, but it can give a beautiful look to any dish.
In folk medicine, the plant is used to stimulate the production of bile and gastric juice, normalization of liver function .
5. Basil
Basil can
destroy
some bacteria and fungi that cause infectious diseases of the intestine and urinary system.
Also revealed that the plant increases the activity of local immune factors, increasing the body's resistance to any external influences.
The positive properties are not limited to this. Basil has a complex effect on health, reducing blood sugar levels, preventing the development of cardiovascular and oncological diseases, destroying pathogenic microorganisms and facilitating the course of skin diseases.
Fresh basil is commonly used to make salads (with fresh cucumbers and tomatoes), dried basil is usually added to dishes of beef and other meat, beans, cabbage, beans.
6. Cayenne pepper
Cayenne pepper is saturated with capsaicin, which is known to have anti-inflammatory and antitumor potential.
Japanese specialists discovered that pepper can be an effective means for weight loss, as it accelerates metabolism at the level of adipose tissue and initiates the breakdown of fats. Similar data show works of Dutch scientists.
The ability of cayenne pepper to suppress appetite has been revealed. Despite the mass of extractive substances in the composition, the product reduces cravings for food for several hours.
It has been proven that pepper can reduce the risk of developing malignant tumors (including breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men), prevent the manifestation of chronic pathologies at an early age.
7. Ginger
Ginger is a common spice that is actively used in cooking and medicine.
The plant contains anti-inflammatory substances that quickly stop pain and eliminate swelling and inflammation. It can be used to treat chronic pathologies of the musculoskeletal system and internal organs.
Ginger at least effective in order to prevent colon tumors, one of the most common forms of cancer. In terms of effectiveness, it is comparable to some medications (ibuprofen, acetylsalicylic acid).
8. Fenugreek
Fenugreek has been considered a symbol of masculinity and masculine strength since ancient times.
The main property of the plant is a decrease in blood glucose levels. Fenugreek stimulates the effect of insulin and slightly blocks insulin resistance &8212; the main pathogenetic mechanism for the development of type II diabetes mellitus. To achieve a therapeutic effect, only 1 gram of plant extract is enough.
The herb is also used to normalize the lipid profile and improve potency.
In folk medicine fenugreek is used to maintain the functioning of the stomach and improve the condition of the hair.
In cooking, fenugreek is added to soups, salads, meat and fish dishes. The plant goes well with vegetables and mushrooms. In Mediterranean countries, it is added to baked goods and cheeses.
9. Rosemary
Rosemary is rich in rosemary acid, which suppresses allergic reactions and effectively eliminates nasal congestion.
In the works of Japanese scientists it is indicated that only 50 mg of rosemary acid (equivalent to 2 grams of the plant) is enough to stop allergic pathologies.
The herb also reduces the number of inflammatory markers in the blood and can be used to reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases.
Infusions, tinctures and teas are prepared on the basis of the plant. They destroy harmful microorganisms and eliminate the phenomena of inflammation.
Twigs and dried rosemary leaves are used to give a special taste and aroma to meat or fish dishes, potatoes.
10. Garlic
Garlic has been used throughout history to protect against infections and treat cardiovascular diseases.
According to Oxford University experts, adding only 0.6-0.9 grams of garlic powder to the diet per day allows reduce the level of total cholesterol and LDL ("bad" cholesterol) by 10-15%.
Also garlic, according to Indian research, reduces blood pressure level. How claim experts from Saudi Arabia, garlic is more effective than some medicines, for example, atenolol.
Garlic can be used for the prevention and additional therapy of hypertension, coronary heart disease, chronic cerebral ischemia, as well as myocardial infarction and strokes.
The antimicrobial properties of the product are also highly appreciated. Garlic is valuable remedy for acute respiratory infections.
Garlic is added to almost all dishes. In folk medicine, it is used to fight bacteria and viruses, strengthening the immune system and cancer prevention.
Other options
There are other spices that have medicinal properties, but were not discussed above:
- Bay leaf . Normalizes the work of the heart and blood vessels, the digestive tract. It has a diuretic and bactericidal effect. It is used as a spice in the preparation of soups and marinades, fish and meat dishes. The smell of the plant deters moths and other insects.
- Horseradish. Only the roots of the plant are used for food. Horseradish enhances the production of digestive juices and is used to fight urinary tract infections. In cooking, it is used as a base for making sauces, it is rarely used on its own.
- Saffron. Increases the production of hormones of "happiness" (serotonin). It quickly and effectively eliminates headaches and muscle pain, reduces cholesterol and blood sugar levels. In folk medicine, it is used in its pure form or in the form of tinctures, in cooking it is used to give special properties to pilaf and fish dishes.
- Carnation. Clove oil is a strong antiseptic. It can be used to alleviate and prevent acute respiratory diseases. In folk medicine, it is used to eliminate toothache (it has a local anesthetic effect). It is combined with any dishes, mainly with mushroom, meat or vegetable marinades.
Many spices have a significant and positive effect on human health.
Conclusion
- Spices have become firmly established in everyday life. They are used to give special properties to any dishes or drinks.
- Science has revealed hundreds of positive properties of spices. Their proper inclusion in the menu is a way to improve health and protect your own body from many infectious and chronic pathologies.
