5 Benefits of Herbs And Spices

Cooked food, as we know, wouldn’t be as tasty without the addition of herbs and spices. These potent plant extracts are sources of flavors, colors, and aromas. Herbs and spices have also made a reputation for their purported medicinal properties.

Herbs are plant leaves with savory properties used for flavoring and garnishing food, or for medicinal purposes. On the other hand, spices are made from seeds, fruits, roots, bark, or other plant substance, mainly for adding flavor and color to food. Both have been said to possess medicinal qualities.

In case you’re wondering, here are some benefits of herbs and spices:

1. They Can Be Highly Nutritious

Herbs and spices are believed to be loaded with nutrition. A pinch of spice could give you more nutrition than a tablespoon of food, pound for pound. Herbs and spices are reported to be incredibly packed with antioxidants. Half a teaspoon of cloves, for example, is said to contain more antioxidants than half a cup of blueberries. These antioxidants could help protect your body cells from damage. They’re also believed to aid in the prevention of cancer. 

Many food processing companies from America to as far as New Zealand now distribute herbal and spice supplements for health purposes—such as turmeric supplements NZ, and other herbs like echinacea, flaxseed, and ginseng. So, the next time you feel like getting a nutritional boost, consult your dietician about herbal supplements. 

2. They May Be Used As Natural medicine 

Historians revealed that herbs have been used as medicine from as far back as the first century. Some herbs are said to contain properties that give off positive effects on the body. For example, herbs and spices, like turmeric, green tea, and chili peppers are believed to possess anti-inflammation and pain-relieving characteristics. 

Some herbs and spices like chia seeds, quinoa, goji berries, ginger, cacao nibs, and wheatgrass have been named superfoods because of their perceived potency in boosting the immune system. It’s, however, always important to remember that spices and herbs can be quite strong. They have to be taken in a moderate amount and with the blessing of your doctor.  

3. They Are Bursting With Flavors

Spices and herbs liven most food by adding luscious flavors. A curry made from a combination of spices can brighten the food’s color and add to the taste without adding calories. Meanwhile, rosemary adds tang to recipes that contain pumpkin, butternut, or mushroom. 

You can try various herb options and see which suits your taste. Just remember not to put too much. Herbs and spices can be a bit overpowering. 

4. They Are Great For Skincare

Herbs and spices have long been used to enhance beauty. They can be an excellent addition to your skincare routine. Some spices and herbs have been used to make beauty face masks. 

It’s believed that cinnamon could be used to clear pimples and acne. Turmeric, on the other hand, claims to be ideal for skin healing and rejuvenation. Calendula could reduce scars and fungal infections. Meanwhile, rose petals are purported to help soothe irritated skin and retain skin moisture. Other herbs like thyme and basil are used for promoting hair growth.

5. They Are Good For Making Tea

Herbs and spices can be added to hot water to make tea. Most herbal teas are not only believed to have medicinal qualities, but are also famous for their rich aromas. 

Herbal teas are also favored for their lack of caffeine and tannin, which some belief to be hazardous to health. Common herbal teas include mint tea, chamomile tea, and rooibos tea. If you want a healthy and relaxing beverage after a long day, try a good herbal tea like ginseng tea. 

In A Nutshell

Herbs and spices could quite literally spice up your life. They seem to have a multifaceted impact on humans due to their health, culinary, and cultural significance. Moreover, they’re filled with flavor and nutrients, and are also believed to contain natural healing properties. If you’ve been limiting your use of herbs, it’s high time for you to let your palate explore the explosion of flavors.