People have known for centuries about the healing power of herbs and spices. Spices can not only enhance almost any dish, but also heal the body.
However, doctors warn that some of them in high doses can cause side effects or interact with drugs. An interesting example is the one with nutmeg, the use of which in small and reasonable doses will only enrich your dishes and senses, but in large quantities would cause hallucinations.
There are five herbs, that are the healthiest and here are a few more details about the benefits of each.
Turmeric
This golden spice benefits from a powerful antioxidant called curcumin. Studies show, that it can help treat a number of health problems, from mild toothaches to chronic conditions such as arthritis, heart disease and diabetes. The potential for treating Alzheimer's disease, colon, prostate and breast cancer is also being studied. A small clinical study has confirmed that curcumin may be a safe and effective treatment for depression.
Ginger
Ginger is well known for its ability to deal with nausea. Studies show that it can help relieve conditions, including after surgery or chemotherapy. Although there is still no conclusive evidence, many people take ginger against nausea and seasickness.
The spice is also rich in gingerols and anti-inflammatory compounds, that some scientists believe may help treat some cancers, reduce osteoarthritis pain and soothe muscle pain. One study found that injections of ginger extract helped relieve knee pain associated with osteoarthritis.
Cayenne pepper
A small amount of hot red pepper added to meals will help you lose weight faster, especially if your body is not used to spicy foods. Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, which can increase your metabolism and burn more calories. It also stimulates the production of substances, which tell the brain that the stomach is full.
Cinnamon
The American Heart Association recommends using cinnamon to add sweetness to food. Some studies show, that the spice can help reduce blood sugar spikes in people with type 2 diabetes.
Garlic
Thanks to its powerful bioactive compounds, garlic has been shown to be effective against high blood pressure. One study found that taking a daily supplement with garlic reduced it as effectively as the beta-blocker atenolol. And while some experts say the evidence is questionable, other studies show, that garlic can help prevent colds and speed up recovery.
