Indian Food’s Star: Healthy, Delicious Spices

Indian food indeed is one of the spiciest out there. But it is simply untrue that everything is spicy. The spices added are solely for flavors (cardamom, ginger, garlic, cumin, mustard, and, more): chilies/pepper that adds heat to the dish. Since it is a matter of preference, the user can limit or omit these altogether. 

The “endless list” of healthy Indian spices

There seem to be as many health benefits from natural spices as there are spices . Here is a list of must-haves in your kitchen and diet:

1. Turmeric Curcuma longa:

Turmeric, scientifically called Curcuma longa, is a special root is grown in the warm and humid, hilly areas of India. It has almost magical properties to heal wounds, pain and has anti-inflammatory properties. 

Curcumin (a chemical found in turmeric) is proven to reduce the symptoms of hay fever, common cold, osteoarthritis, and high levels of fat or cholesterol. Research also shows that it reduces depression symptoms in people already using antidepressants.  

2. Ginger:

Doing double-duty as a popular, prominent food flavoring agent by day, it is also an indigestion remedy by night. It can treat many forms of nausea, morning sickness and can help with osteoarthritis. A dramatic improvement in hemoglobin levels was seen in type 2 diabetes patients(*Research conducted in 2015 on a small group). People with heart disease risk factors can also benefit from ginger. 

3. Cumin/Jeera:

Cumin’s active ingredients have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. A healthy diet along with an additional intake of cumin seed powder is an effective weight loss strategy. It also helps to stimulate the Central Nervous System for improved efficiency this might result in sharper memory and better control over limbs.

4. Garlic:

A highly nutritious low-calorie spice, Garlic can combat the common cold/flu, cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. It also improves skin, memory, and blood pressure(stability). Athletic performance may also be improved due to stronger bones. 

5. Clove:

Filled with antioxidants, they help kill bacteria, improve liver health, regulate blood sugar, protect against cancer and reduce stomach ulcers*( Research is in pursuit). Ground cloves can add flavor and provide important nutrients like fiber, vitamins(K), and minerals(manganese). 

There are other spices like bay leaves, mustard seeds, cardamom, and more with health benefits. 

During the pandemic, many Indian families relied on Kashaya(a beverage made out of mixed spices boiled in water) and to prevent infection successfully.

Why are spices prominent in Asian countries? The historical Spice trade route might have impacted the practices of people centuries ago. Added interest: Scientific proof that spices prevent our food from spoilage. That’s because bacteria and food pathogens cannot survive along with spices. Proving that