If you have been to the Indian kitchen, you might have observed a round box on the top shelf having six to seven spices. The spices changes from region to region. These spices are used to cook and also to cure some common diseases. All these spices are centuries old and give an awesome taste to food.
You can not even imagine a few dishes without spices. From delicious biryani to a slice of pizza, spices are part and parcel of the recipe. Are you not excited to get to know about spices? Let us now get to know a few interesting facts about the spices of our country.
Turmeric
Turmeric has a distinct aroma adding rich flavor to food and this golden spice helps in boosting immunity and also nourishes your skin. It is being used in Asian culinary for 2,500 years. The scientific name for turmeric is Curcuma Longa. India produces this spice in huge amounts. Turmeric can cure heart diseases, Alzheimer’s, and cancer.
It has the power to cure symptoms of depression and arthritis. Turmeric also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Milk mixed with turmeric powder (also known as golden milk) cures throat infection and cold. Turmeric powder can be applied to the face for glowing skin(do a patch test to test before you apply).
Cardamom
Cardamom has a rich aroma which is used in preparing chai, foods like biryani, and no sweet is complete without cardamom flavor. It is also used in preparing soaps, perfumes, and creams. It is rich in iron and magnesium content. Cardamom is used as a traditional cure for digestion problems.
It is a natural detoxifier that cleanses the urinary tract, bladder, kidneys, and fights infections. It also prevents flu and cold symptoms and promotes good oral health. Cardomom has many health benefits which have the origin from forests of the Western Ghats in South India.
Ginger
Ginger’s scientific name is Zingiber Officinale, it belongs to the Zingiberaceae family. The leaves of ginger are often used to weave mats or can also be consumed directly. It is a spice, flavoring, food, and also medicine.
This is the native plant of Southeastern Asia. Ginger is a rhizome hence it can be grown from ginger available at the grocery stores. If you are a Chai lover, extra kadak chai might be your favorite one. It has many health benefits.
It can reduce menstrual cramps, treats nausea, regulates sugar levels, and eases digestion. It also prevents cell damage and chronic diseases. Ginger is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Black Pepper
The sharp flavor of black pepper makes it unique in the world of spices. Adding this spice to your diet can help to lose bodyweight. Black pepper fights cancer-causing agents, regular blood sugar levels, and benefits symptoms related to degenerative brain diseases. Black pepper is mostly grown in Kerala. Black pepper is colloquially called black gold as it treats various diseases. It is almost 4,000 years old spice.
Cumin
Cumin is a small dried fruit that belongs to the family of spices. Cumin is locally called Jeera. It gives flavor to a wide range of foods and can also treat illness. It is cultivated mostly in India, China, and Mexico. Cumin seeds have antioxidant and anticancerous properties. It lowers cholesterol and aids weight loss.
Cumin controls blood sugar levels and treats diarrhea. Jeera can be added in breakfasts like dosa, poha upma, etc. Jeera rice is widely consumed in a few states of India. One can also have jeera water or soda to balance blood sugar levels and clear any throat infection problems.
All the spices available in our kitchen having medicinal properties. No recipe is complete without adding spices. Also one must realize that our kitchen serves all the medical purposes. Before consuming anything in the excess amount one must do proper research.
A few people may be allergic to spices, one must consult a doctor if they observe side effects after consuming. Many other unaddressed spices are extensively used in India. If you are unaware of adding spices in cooking, you can dial your mom to know the authentic recipes. If possible it would be great if you can grow your spices at your home itself.
Written By - Khushi Prajapati
Edited By - Kashish Chadha
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