We are coming into the winter months and our immune system could use a little boost from our diets. Here are the top 4 spices that you should incorporate into your meals to help build your body’s immune defence and ability to be strong and healthy.
1) Cinnamon
Cinnamon is mostly used for its aromatic properties and is one of the most commonly used spices in a variety of dishes and cuisine. It is harvested from the inner bark of the Cinnamon tree and is available as either whole or ground. There are two varieties of cinnamon Ceylon and Cassia.
Ceylon cinnamon is from Sri Lanka and is considered true cinnamon, while Cassia cinnamon is what is readily available and most commonly used in North America.
The health benefits of cinnamon are as follows:
- Acts as an Anit-oxidant, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory agent
- Boosts the immune system
- Helps blood sugar
- Plays a key role in lowering triglycerides
When used in moderation in your daily diet Cinnamon can play a vital role in helping manage symptoms of diabetes, high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease.
2) Cloves
Cloves is ground or whole and it has a very strong and distinguishable flavour. It is considered a pungent spice and is used in savoury dishes, including to flavour meats, sauces, rice dishes, desserts and drinks such as teas.
The health benefits of cloves are as follows:
- Its oil is used to freshen breath
- It is know for its anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties
- It helps with liver health and support
3) Ginger
Ginger is considered as one of the healthiest and arguably the most delicious spice in your kitchen. It is very versatile and is used fresh, dried, ground, or as an oil, or juice, thus making it a very common ingredient in many dishes. Ginger has long been used to treat a number of health issues, in particular, digestive problems such as nausea, motion sickness, and morning sickness in pregnant women.
The health benefits of ginger are as follows:
- Aids to reduce nausea, digestive imbalances, motion sickness, and morning sickness
- Helps with weight loss by keeping the body more alkaline
- Enhances brain function by augmenting the body’s ability to absorb essential nutrients
- Boosts immune system
4) Cardamom
Also known as the queen of spices, it is the third most expensive spice in value by weight. It has an intense aroma and a light sweet flavour akin to mint.
The health benefits of cardamom as follows:
- Helps treat bad breath and fight cavities
- Helps calm the nervous system
- Packed with Vitamin A and C
