5 Indian Spices and their Benefits
Today we will learn about 5 common spices in Indian cooking, and what are their health benefits.
5 Indian Spices and their Benefits
Today we will learn about 5 common spices in Indian cooking, and what are their health benefits.
Turmeric
A bright orange spice that is related to ginger
Flavor Profile:
Warm, earthy, and slightly bitter, with hints of pepper and mustard
Benefits:
Antioxidant & Anti-inflammatory: Reduces oxidative stress and inflammation related diseases
Develops Brain Cells: Boosts development of proteins in the brain related to memory and learning
Cancer Prevention: Stops the growth and spread of cancer cells
Slows Aging: Key to longevity
Antidepressant: Boosts feel good chemicals like serotonin and dopamine
Cardamom
An aromatic spice derived from seeds of a plant related to ginger
Flavor Profile:
Sweet, herbal, and citrusy with a peppery and minty finish
Benefits:
Diuretic: Removes excess fluid in the body
Lower Blood Pressure: Regulates blood pressure spikes
Aids Digestions: Studies suggest it can treat nausea, vomiting, as well as help with ulcers
Treats Bad Breath: Lowers bacteria content in the mouth and helps with bad breath
Improves Breathing: Improves airflow and oxygen content to the lungs
Cumin
A spice derived from the seeds of a plant in the parsley family
Flavor Profile:
Nutty, peppery and smokey
Benefits:
Improves Digestion: Boosts digestive enzymes and can even treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Rich in Iron: Iron is necessary for improved brain function, healthy pregnancy, and muscle metabolism
Regulates Blood Sugar: Helps diabetes symptoms
Improves Blood Cholesterol: Lowers bad cholesterol
Promotes Weight Loss: Cumin supplements were tied to healthy weight loss
Coriander
An herb from the parsley family
Flavor Profile:
Citrusy and mildly sweet
Benefits:
Regulates Blood Sugar: Helps diabetes symptoms
Boosts the Immune System: The compounds in coriander protect your immune system
Antioxidant & Anti-inflammatory: Reduces oxidative stress and inflammation related diseases
Protects the Heart: Flushes out excess sodium, which can negatively affect heart health
Protects the Skin: The antioxidant compounds in coriander can help alleviate age-related skin problems
Anti-Bacterial: Contains compounds that prevent food poisoning
Asafoetida
A gum resin ground into a yellow paste, also known as hing
Flavor Profile:
Savory flavor that is similar to sauteed onions and garlic
Benefits:
Antioxidant & Anti-inflammatory: Reduces oxidative stress and inflammation related diseases
Improves Digestion: Can be used to treat bloating and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Antibacterial, Antifungal, and Antimicrobial: Protects from a wide range of pathogens
Helps With Asthma: Has a relaxing effect on airway muscles
Sources:
Healthline: 10 Health Benefits of Turmeric and Curcumin
Healthline: 10 Health Benefits of Cardamom, Backed by Science
Healthline: 9 Powerful Health Benefits of Cumin
Healthline: 8 Surprising Health Benefits of Coriander
Healthline: What Is Asafoetida? Benefits, Side Effects, and Uses
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