Spices and Herbs for Natural Healing
On the natural journey to healing, we need look no further than the spices that we have in the cabinet, or perhaps growing on the windowsill or in the garden.
Consider adding the following spices to your cooking and/or raw juices or smoothies to benefit your digestion and prevent inflammation.
1.) Turmeric –
One of the best spices to incorporate is Turmeric – one of nature’s strongest healers. Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-cancer spice. It is a natural liver detoxifier.
I sprinkle Turmeric on whenever possible. It is good on eggs, veggies, soups, etc. It is said to be absorbed in the body best when mixed with an oil. It does stain everything yellow, however (including clothes, and the counter…. so be careful…. 🙂
2.) Black Pepper –
Black pepper has a therapeutic role in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. It triggers the stomach to increase hydrochloric acid, which is necessary for proper digestion.
It reduces oxidative stress and reduces inflammation. It is a natural antioxidant and has anti-bacterial effects. Black pepper contains manganese, Vitamin K, iron, fiber, and copper.
I add black pepper to just about everything that makes sense to. I also add it to my daily green juice to help warm it up.
3.) Cayenne Pepper –
Cayenne Pepper helps to ease an upset stomach. It breaks up and moves out congested mucus and is anti-fungal. It also has antioxidant properties.
Cayenne Pepper assists in digestion, as it increases the flow of enzyme production and gastric juices. It assists in the removal of digestive gas.
Cayenne Pepper is also said to prevent blood clots, and improve circulation.
I like to add Cayenne Pepper to anything that makes sense, as I enjoy the spicy kick 🙂
4.) Cumin –
Cumin stimulates immune function through improved kidney and liver functioning. It is anti-fungal and attacks three different strains of Candida. It reduces stress induced oxidative changes in the brain and prevents blood clotting. It is high in iron.
Cumin assists in digestion – removing flatulence, indigestion, diarrhea and nausea. It is said to improve metabolism. It protects against cervical and colon cancer.
I love Cumin in my beans or anything that tastes good with the Mexican style flavor this spice provides.
5.) Cinnamon –
Cinnamon helps stabilize blood sugar and lowers bad LDL cholesterol in the blood. It inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria, molds and yeasts, including Candida.
Cinnamon contains fiber, calcium, iron and manganese. It also contains a natural chemical called cinnamaldehyde, which is said to increase progesterone, and decrease testosterone production, helping to balance out hormones.
I love cinnamon on my sweet potatoes, acorn squash, etc. Yum!
6.) Ginger –
Ginger helps to fire up digestive juices. It improves absorption of essential nutrients in the body. It helps with nausea and helps the removal of flatulence.
Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and helps improve blood flow. Overall, it helps to boost the immune system. It is said to decrease the chances for ovarian and colon cancer.
Fresh Ginger is great grated into juice, or in soups or other stir-fry style dishes.
7.) Basil –
Basil is a natural liver detoxifier. It also helps with inflammation. It helps to treat constipation and indigestion.
Basil contains phytochemicals that have been said to decrease cortisol in the blood, thus reducing stress in the body. It contains a good amount of iron and magnesium.
I like Basil on my gluten free, dairy free pizzas 🙂 It’s also great on spaghetti squash.
8.) Oregano –
Oregano is anti-bacterial, anti-viral and has several potent anti-oxidant components. Oregano is high in iron, fiber and manganese. It contains compounds that aids in digestion and upset stomach.
Oregano is a source of good Omega 3 fatty acids, which help with inflammation.
I use Oregano alongside anything that is good with basil.
On the Positive Side?
Sometimes eating healthy gets boring, but I find that it doesn’t have to be with the incorporation of different flavors and spices.
Admittedly, I am not the greatest cook, and find my way through simple meals, smoothies and juice. Regardless, I still try and incorporate the spices reviewed above. They add extra flavor and help even more with digestion and inflammation.
Perhaps I will try adding more to my juices and smoothies this week 🙂
Do you have any other spices that you consume for natural healing? Or different ideas as how to incorporate these healing spices into your own cooking? Please feel free to comment below.
Peace to You….
