Remarkable Health Benefits of Herbs and Spices
April 1, 2021
Pisgah Valley Retirement Community got creative during the pandemic and started our very own Livestream cooking class. So far it has been a hit with our residents. Some of the dishes featured have been fresh beet and arugula salad, healthy brownies for Valentine’s Day (low calorie but tasty) and then we turned up the heat with our Mardis Gras themed creole jambalaya!
Each recipe has included a variety of herbs and spices to take the flavor to the next level of deliciousness. While herbs and spices makes our food tastier, there are a multitude of other benefits. Using herbs and spices provides an opportunity to use less sodium, less sugar and less fat when cooking. Besides being fun to grow (like we do in our butterfly garden at Pisgah Valley), read on to see what other herbs and spices can offer YOU in specific health benefits.
Cinnamon
One of the most well-known spices used around the world. Cinnamon’s health benefits include regulating blood sugar levels as well as reducing triglycerides and LDL cholesterol in type II diabetes sufferers.
Peppermint
This herb contains chemicals that help aid in reducing nausea. One of the best qualities peppermint oil can provide is relief to skin burns, whether it is a sunburn or burn from cooking.
Turmeric
This herb has taken a front row seat in the nutrition world! Turmeric is recommended as one of the best herbs you can consume daily. Turmeric contains the phytochemical curcumin which gives it the yellow color it is most known for. Curcumin can help in weight loss, eliminating cancer cells and control symptoms from metabolic diseases. Scientists have also created a new molecule from curcumin that can help restore brain cells after a stroke.
Oregano
It contains antioxidants that boosts the immune system. Oregano is rich in Vitamin K, iron and manganese. This spice can kill E.coli and almost any foodborne illness.
Rosemary
unbelievably, it can block the absorption of carcinogenic compounds found in foods such as grilled meats. Rosemary oil can improve cognitive performance and especially in people that suffer from Alzheimer’s.
Ginger
A king of the herbs, it contains over 50 antioxidants which can boost the immune system. Ginger also helps increase circulation, calms the digestive system, lowers cholesterol, eases arthritis pain, and reduces inflammation throughout the body.
Asheville hosts one of the biggest herb festivals in the United States every year at the WNC Farmer’s Market. This year it will take place May 1-2. It is the perfect opportunity to gain knowledge about growing, preserving and using different herbs and spices. Maybe you’ll run into some of our residents during their annual trip to stock up on herbs!
As with all new herbs and supplements, it is highly recommended to consult with your doctor before taking something new. Herbs and supplements can interact with certain medications so please be sure to consult with a medical professional before making any changes