Christopher Columbus said "But in truth, should I meet with gold or spices in great quantity, I shall remain till I collect as much as possible, and for this purpose I am proceeding solely in quest of them. "
The above statement in itself explains the significance of spices since ancient times.Ayurveda ,the ancient medical system of India,encompasses the healing of body,mind and spirit though diet,lifestyle and rejuvenation.Food and diet can have a profound influence on maintaining good health.Ayurvedic doctors credit herbs and spices (as well as certain foods) with health giving properties.Some of the most prominent seasonings used in Indian cooking with their therapeutic properties.
Black Pepper
Black pepper originates from green peppercorns,which when they dry in the sun become black.White peppercorns then originate from black peppercorns when they are soaked and their skins and pulp are removed.Indian cooking uses green,black and white peppercorns.Black pepper is known as king of spices.In India,black pepper is often added to tea as a stimulant,and peppercorns are sucked to soothe a sore threat.
The key benefits of black pepper are-
1.Aids digestion
2.Improves appetite
3.Since it is antibacterial,it prevents diseases.
Chile Peppers
Chile peppers were introduced in India by the Portugese,but it is impossible to imagine Indian cooking without them now.Similar to black pepper,chiles are warming to body.They are used in Ayurvedic medecine to promote digestion and to soothe a sore throat.When ground with coriander seeds and ginger,chiles soothe abdominal pains and nausea.
The key benefits of chile peppers are-
1.It contains more Vitamin C than citrus fruits .They also contain Vitamin A.
2.They soothe abdominal pain,nausea,and throat irritation.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon ,along with cardamom and bay leaf is part of Ayurvedic triangle of aromatics used to heal the body and disguise the taste of medecine.Cinnamon Tea,made by steeping cinnamon in warm water,is beneficial as it harmonizes the flow of circulation,aids digestion,and helps the stomach to discharge gas.It also reduces nausea and congestion.
The key benefits of cinnamon are-
1.Strengthens the heart,stimulates the kidneys,and aids circulation.
2.Cinnamon oil is used to soothe headaches,rheumatic pains,bosy aches and toothaches.
3.Cinnamon tea soothes colds and nervous tensions and stimulates digestion.
Stay tuned for more information about many other herbs and spices.
