SIX SPICES AND HERBS THAT BOOST TASTE AND HEALTH

 

Abstract: India is a land rich in medicinal herbs and spices. We often look up home remedies for treating various diseases like colds and flu at home only. Not only this, the Indian kitchen is filled with the aroma of Spices which makes it unique and abundant in taste and health. Let us look at a few of the herbs and spices which help us to boost our immune system and are also appealing to our taste buds.

The Global Pandemic has made us all comprehend the significance of herbs and spices in our kitchen besides adding taste to our food, they can be healthful too. So, below are a few of the herbs and spices which are widely used across the nation to avoid long prescriptions from doctors.

HERBS AND SPICES-

The aroma and essence of Indian spices and herbs add essence, fragrance, quality, and distinctiveness to our kitchen. Herbs are the whole or parts of the plant which are green and leafy, while spices are assembled from the seeds, bark, or roots of the plant. The strategy of curating it in form of spices and dried herbs is very organic and refined. Our ancestors never had the privilege of humongous medical facilities or technology to deal with their ailments, did they not do anything to cure them? Of course, they did! Even our Vedas have mentioned the importance of Herbs and spices for our health. Just like our ancestors, we too must make use of spices and herbs in our kitchen and daily routine to keep our minds and body healthy and active.

CCLOVES-  Cloves have a strong and pungent smell and are obtained from dried flower buds. These are fit for cooking sweet or savory dishes. The cloves which are implanted organically and handpicked with care and love are of the best kind. They are rich in Vitamins K and C which help in boosting our immunity. They are widely used for treating diabetic patients, reducing heart risk, and protecting us from colds and flu. This spice is mostly used to add flavor to food and provides us the essential nutrients.

·   TURMERIC POWDER- Also known as Haldi, it adds a bright and yellow tint to the food. It acts as an antioxidant and is used as an anti-inflammatory agent for the body and improves our immune system too. The practice of putting turmeric powder on the wound can be dated back to the time of our ancestors. Always pick turmeric powder which is made organically without the use of chemicals or added colors because they can cure various diseases and add flavor and color to our food.

·   KASURI METHI- Kasuri Methi is prepared from dried leaves of the fenugreek plant. There are various Vitamins and Minerals present in this like- Calcium, zinc, Phosphorus, etc. which are good for maintaining our health. It is also rich in fiber, and protein content and low in calories making it suitable for any diet. This herb is used in the preparation of Indian curries, parantha, and many such dishes that make our food with it. Adding flavor with health benefits is always a win-win situation.

  CORIANDER POWDER- Also called 'Dhaniya Powder’, this spice is prepared by coarse grinding of roasted coriander seeds. It is the main ingredient that is added to the box of spices for everyday use in the Indian kitchen. It is a staple spice used in Indian cuisine and also to treat various illnesses. Dhaniya powder helps in stimulating memory, cleanses the body by detoxifying it, is good for eyesight, treats ulcers, reduces blood pressure, etc. When a spice has so many benefits besides adding flavor to our food, how can we not use it? This is a must-to-have spice in our household.

   ASAFOETIDA POWDER- Commonly referred to as 'Hing Powder’, this spice is of prime importance for every age and gender. It has a strong and classic aroma. We have often seen our mother or grandmother tempering Dal with thing powder and how we relish it with joy. Besides adding taste to our food, this spice helps in treating digestive issues.

·   CUMIN SEEDS- Cumin or Jeera seeds are kitchen staples and it is bitter and citrus in taste. It acts as an antioxidant which helps in reducing stress levels, treating diarrhea, diabetes, and cholesterol, and reducing weight too. It is majorly used to promote healthy digestion and also acts as a flavoring component in food too.

Indian herbs and spices are often exported abroad due to the flavor they add to the food and also the health benefits associated with them. Either you can organically grow your herbs and spices or choose a reliable brand and make everything unadulterated.