Are Spices Good for You? A Closer Look at Five Common Condiments.

Spices were widely used by ancient cultures. The Egyptians employed them in embalming, in ancient India and China the medical systems used them, and they were also employed in religious and magic rituals. In the West today, they are largely limited to the kitchen.

The potential benefits of spices are being taken more seriously. They could be used to treat a range of physical complaints, to aid weight loss, or to simply promote general health. Knowing more about spices could open up a whole new world of sensation and well-being. Scientific research into the beneficial effects of herbs and spices is ongoing, but there are certain established facts that can be kept in mind.
Black Pepper has Many Virtues to Recommend it

Unlike its tabletop companion, there's no limit to how much black pepper can be consumed. It's been claimed that it actually helps with the digestive process (triggering the stomach to start preparing to digest via the whetting of the taste buds), and that it has antioxidant and antibacterial effects. Like other spices, it's a good source of manganese ("a catalyst in the synthesis of fatty acids and cholesterol, [which] facilitates protein and carbohydrate metabolism, and may also participate in the production of sex hormones and maintaining reproductive health" (source).)

Black pepper is also a source of iron and dietary fiber. It's said that the outer layer of the peppercorn aids in the stimulation and subsequent breakdown of fat cells, and it's generally agreed upon that it can help forestall flatulence. This everyday condiment could do much more than simply flavouring your meal.
Cayenne Pepper has an Array of Beneficial Properties

It's claimed that cayenne pepper is good for those trying to lose weight. Studies have found that consuming this spice increases temperature and, as a result, temporarily speeds up the metabolism for the hours immediately following its intake. Some claim it can increase metabolism and also the body's ability to burn off fat by up to 25%..
Cayenne pepper is a good source of vitamin C and is believed to be good for colds and the immune system. It's also full of vitamin A, which aids in the maintenance of healthy skin, helps strengthen immunity and strengthens vision, particularly in low light.


The capsaicin found in this spice (an ingredient found in many pain relief creams) also means it's useful in reducing swelling and inflammation, working as a natural pain killer. In this respect, it's pertinent to the treatment of a variety of complaints, from headaches and nerve pain to arthritis.

Because cayenne pepper encourages blood flow, it is claimed to do wonders for the skin, and even able to cure complaints as serious as psoriasis. There is also much talk of its cardiovascular benefits: this spice reportedly regulates blood pressure, lowers cholesterol, and keeps blood clots from forming. It has been noted that societies and cultures which use a high amount of cayenne pepper in their diet have a lower rate of heart disease.
Cinnamon has been Valued for Millennia

One of the oldest known spices, cinnamon has a lineage that stretches back to biblical times, and was used in ancient Egypt as an embalming agent, at which time it was considered more precious than gold. Today, it is still widely used, but the array and extent of its benefits in the West are perhaps less well publicized.

With the Egyptians in mind, it's no surprise that cinnamon's antimicrobial properties extend to being used as an alternative food preservative. Cinnamon is a good source of manganese, iron, dietary fiber and calcium. It's said that it can be used to treat diarrhea and upset stomachs, that it can help with the growth of fungal bacterial (such as candida), and that it can help people with type 2 diabetes normalize their blood sugar levels (American Diabetes Association). It is, additionally, claimed to boost metabolism, thus aiding those wanting to lose weight.

It has also been claimed that cinnamon has a beneficial effect on the brain, that the very smell of the spice can enhance a general feeling of well-being, boost memory and improve brain function. This was found by research done by Dr. Zoladz and presented in April 2004 at the Association for Chemoreception Sciences in Florida.
Garlic Will Boost the Immune System and Keep Your Heart Healthy

The myth is that garlic wards off vampires. The facts are that it was revered by the ancient Egyptians and is known for fighting off colds and for keeping your heart healthy. It's recognised as an antibiotic, and functions in a similar way to penicillin. Garlic is used in treating high blood pressure, cholesterol, circulatory problems, diabetes and stomach complaints. It has a history as an aphrodisiac, helps improve blood circulation, and is there is extensive research taking place into its use in treating cancer.
Eating Fresh, Root Ginger will Inhibit Nausea and Soothe the Stomach

As well as being a versatile and delicious ingredient in many recipes, ginger is well-known for inhibiting nausea, particularly when caused by travelling or pregnancy. It also speeds the metabolic rate, and so helps the body break down calories more quickly. It is said to assist in improving circulation and is generally soothing for the stomach, helping to ease stomach cramps. Made into juice and drunk with lime juice, ginger is said to calm the digestive tract and reduce flatulence. Made into oil, and applied to localized areas, ginger is used to relieve arthritic and muscular pain.

With only these five spices in mind, the diversity and degree of potential physical and mental benefit is enormous. As William Cowper said, variety is the spice of life, and there are a whole variety of spices to investigate and enjoy.

Source:
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