The Healing Power of Herbs and Spices

Throughout the ages, herbs and spices have enhanced food flavor. But ancient civilizations did not distinguish between the flavor benefits and medicinal benefits of plants. Modern science has now shown that many of them do indeed carry remarkable health benefits. Herbs not only have the ability to heal and boost physical health, but also mental well-being.

For one, herbs add a burst of flavor to food, allowing you to cut back on salt without sacrificing taste. And several herbs have significant amounts of the essential vitamins A, C and K, as well as antioxidants. Hence, inclusion of herbs in the diet can be an excellent addition to one’s wellness routine.

Let’s take a look at some of the benefits herbs and spices can give us.

Holy Basil: Helps Fight Infections and Boosts Immunity

Not to be confused with regular basil or Thai basil, Holy basil, also known as Tulsi, is considered a sacred herb in India. Studies show that Holy basil can inhibit the growth of a range of bacteria, yeasts, and molds. One small study also found that it can boost function of the immune system by increasing certain immune cells in the blood. Holy basil is also linked to reduced blood sugar levels before and after meals, as well as treating anxiety and anxiety-related depression.

Mint: Promotes digestion, weight loss and provides relief from fatigue

Aside from adding a refreshing kick to any meal or beverage, Mint boasts many impressive benefits such as promoting digestion and weight loss, as well as providing relief from nausea, depression, fatigue, and headache. The Mentha, or Mint family includes around 20 different plant species such as peppermint, spearmint, or apple mint. 

Cinnamon: Lowers Blood Sugar Levels and Has a Powerful Anti-Diabetic Effect 

Cinnamon is a popular spice, found in all sorts of recipes and baked goods. Cinnamon has potent antioxidant activity, helps fight inflammation, and has been shown to lower cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. But, where Cinnamon really shines is in its effects on blood sugar levels.

Cinnamon can lower blood sugar by several mechanisms, including by slowing the breakdown of carbs in the digestive tract and improving insulin sensitivity. Studies have shown that Cinnamon can lower fasting blood sugars by 10-29% in diabetic patients, which is a significant amount.

Turmeric: Contains Curcumin, a Substance with Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Turmeric is the spice that gives curry its yellow color. It contains several compounds with medicinal properties, the most important of which is curcumin. Curcumin is a remarkably powerful antioxidant, helping to fight oxidative damage and boosting the body’s own antioxidant enzymes. This is important, because oxidative damage is believed to be one of the key mechanisms behind aging and many diseases. 

Curcumin is also strongly anti-inflammatory, to the point where it matches the effectiveness of some anti-inflammatory drugs. Given that long-term, low-level inflammation plays a major role in almost every chronic Western disease, it is not surprising to see that curcumin is linked to a variety of health benefits.

Studies suggest that it can improve brain function, fight Alzheimer’s, reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer, and relieve arthritis, to name a few.

Ginger: Can Treat Nausea and Has Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Ginger is a popular spice used in several forms of alternative medicine. Studies have consistently shown that 1 gram or more of ginger can successfully treat nausea. This includes nausea caused by morning sickness, chemotherapy and sea sickness. 

Ginger also appears to have strong anti-inflammatory properties, and can help with pain management.

Cardamom: Helps manage diabetes and digestive problems

Cardamom is one of the most valued spices in the world with an intense aromatic flavor used to bring out the best in both savory and sweet dishes. Its eloquence, culinary magic and healing powers have earned it the title “Queen of Spices”.

It has antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps in protecting your heart from elevated cholesterol levels and high blood pressure. It also helps manage diabetes and lowers the risk of cancer and liver toxicity. It is used as a carminative for digestive problems as well. It helps alleviate oral health problems like cavities and bad breath.

Cardamom is a spice found in the form of a small pod with black seeds inside. It belongs to the ginger family. Cardamom has been traditionally used in Ayurveda and Chinese medicine for many years.

Herbs and spices are not a cure-all

It is important to note that the extent of the power herbs and spices hold for medicinal purposes is also still being explored. These alternatives are not cure-alls, and they are not perfect. Many carry the same risks and side effects as manufactured medicines. Many of them are sold with unfounded promises.

However, many herbs and teas offer harmless subtle ways to improve your health. Consider trying the 100% organic cold water infusions from Tezahn. Our infusions are a pure product of nature that offers healthy hydration with benefits. Delicately crafted with just pure herbs and spices, Tezahn water enhancers are made with ingredients with inherent wellness promoting properties that can help build a strong immunity and support a healthy lifestyle.