The Importance of Spices in Traditional Medicine

By Jessica Rogers April 7, 2023 16 mins read 78 Views

Incorporating spices into your diet can help improve your health and well-being. This is because many of them are packed with healthy compounds and phytochemicals that can protect you from disease.

Spices have been used by ancient civilizations as medicinal agents for centuries. They are an important tool for food product designers, as today’s changing consumer seeks foods that are healthy and delicious.

Cinnamon

Throughout history, people have used cinnamon as a remedy for a variety of health problems. Today, this versatile spice is also a popular addition to many foods and drinks.

Cinnamon is a natural antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It also reduces cholesterol levels and high blood pressure, which can help keep your heart healthy.

It also helps improve digestive function and fight candida, which can cause diarrhea and other health issues. It also lowers blood sugar levels, which can help control diabetes and other conditions.

Turmeric

The rhizome of turmeric (Curcuma longa Linn) has been used as an herbal medicine, coloring agent, spice, and food additive for thousands of years in different parts of the world. It is a popular ingredient in South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines.

The yellow spice has hepatoprotective, anticancer, cardioprotective, hypoglycemic, and neuroprotective properties. It has been shown to inhibit nitrosodiethylamine-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in rat models (Deshpande, Ingle, and Maru 1998b).

Turmeric extracts have also been found to inhibit microsomal activation-dependent mutagenicity of 2-acetamidofluorene in Salmonella typhimurium strains. The phenolic compound curcumin, which is present in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cancer-fighting activities. It has been shown to be effective against various forms of arthritis, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

Garlic

Garlic, an onion-like plant, is a perennial bulbous flowering herb. It grows underground and produces long green shoots that develop into flower stalks called garlic scapes.

Throughout history, people have used garlic to treat many diseases and ailments. In the ancient world, garlic was a popular remedy for toothache, hemorrhoids, consumption, animal bites, bruises, earaches, tapeworms and epilepsy.

It was also used to relieve the pain of stomach ulcers caused by the stomach virus Hepatitis pylori and to reduce circulation problems in the legs. Despite these traditional medicinal uses, there is little scientific evidence to support them.

Ginger

Ginger is one of the most widely used spices in traditional medicine. It is considered to be a potent anti-inflammatory agent, which helps reduce the risk of several health conditions such as arthritis and Type 2 diabetes.

It is also known to lower blood pressure and aid digestion. It can also help to soothe a sore throat and prevent nausea.

In recent clinical trials, ginger is shown to have a strong anti-inflammatory effect on several types of diseases. These include arthritis, dysmenorrhea, and respiratory ailments.

The medicinal properties of ginger are based on the various phytochemical compounds that it contains, including gingerols, shogaols, and a-zingiberene. These compounds are thought to play a key role in the anti-inflammatory effects of ginger.

Coriander

Coriander seeds and leaves are an important part of traditional medicine. They are used to promote digestive health and help with various gastrointestinal disorders such as ama, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and dysentery.

This herb is also an excellent detoxifier and helps reduce inflammation and the risk of developing chronic disease. It has powerful antibacterial properties that can help prevent food poisoning and other infections related to the Salmonella bacteria, including typhoid and cholera.

It is also an effective heavy metal chelator that safely flushes harmful elements like mercury and lead from the body. This makes it a valuable ingredient for those who have suffered from exposure to these toxic chemicals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Almond Flour vs. Almond Meal. What's The Difference?

As an almond flour alternative, an almond meal is more versatile because it can be used for baking, cooking, and even making nut-free dishes.

Almond flour could also contain gluten making it difficult for some people to digest. It is important to avoid gluten-free products if you have celiac or other digestive disorders.

Almond flour isn't considered "superfood", but it is high in healthy fats, fibres, protein, vitamin E, and sodium.

The nutritional benefits of almond meal include magnesium and copper, iron and zinc, manganese as well as potassium and vitamin C.

Almond flour is made with almonds. Almond oils contain polyunsaturated essential fatty acids. Both types lower LDL (bad cholesterol) and increase HDL(good cholesterol).

Almond flour also contains antioxidants like phenolics and flavonoids. These compounds are effective in preventing oxidative damages caused by free radicals.

In a study published in Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry, almond flour was found to have an antioxidant activity comparable to blueberries, cranberries or pomegranates and red wine grapes juice.

Almond flour is typically sold along with almond milk, which is fortified to add additional nutrients.

Which ten spices are most in demand?

Spices are used in flavoring food and drinks. Some spices are more well-known than others. There are many varieties of spices. Let's now take a look at some of the most well-known spices to find out why they are so beloved.

Cooking is incomplete without spice. It adds flavor and aroma, but doesn't increase calories. Essential vitamins and minerals are found in many spices, which can help maintain a healthy body.

Here are the top ten most-loved spices.

Cinnamon – This spice has been shown to lower cholesterol and improve digestion. It prevents the flu and colds.
Garlic - This spice boosts immunity and fights infections. It helps lower blood pressure and aids digestion.
Oregano-This spice can boost energy and increase athletic performance. It is also good for memory and fighting infection.
Black pepper - This spice is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It reduces stress and helps prevent heart disease.
Basil -Basil has vitamin K, iron, calcium, as well as iron. It can also help fight cancer cells, and boost metabolism.
Salt and vinegar - These ingredients make for a delicious combination. Both vinegar and salt can be used to fight viruses and bacteria.
Cloves – Clove oil can be used to treat sore throats and toothaches. It helps to ease muscle spasms.
Ginger - Ginger has been proven to ease nausea and morning sickness during pregnancy. It clears congestion and helps to relieve headaches.
Curry Powder-Curries have been around since ancient time. They were initially made with coconut milk, but we now use different oils or ghee bases.
Turmeric is one of the oldest and most important medicinal herbs.

So next time you want to add flavour to your meals, try using one of these ten popular spices instead of salt. You may be surprised at what you find!

How to Store Spices

Keep them in an airtight, dry container away from heat or light.

For longer storage, store spices in a dark cabinet. This will help keep them fresh and prevent any deterioration due to oxidation.

Keep spices dry and away from sunlight in a cool, dry place. If the spice is placed near a heater or window, it may lose its flavour and aroma.

Spices should be stored in an airtight tin or glass jar. If you are storing your spices in plastic containers, ensure there is no moisture.

Always check the seal after opening and resealing, as humidity can cause spoilage.

You don't have to throw out leftover spices. Instead, use them up by adding them to other dishes. They can be frozen to prolong their shelf-life.

What are the most common spices, condiments and seasonings that Thais use in their cuisine?

Thai cuisine is a mixture of Asian influences. Its roots are found in India and China, as well as Southeast Asia.

Freshness, the essential ingredient of Thai cuisine, is key. Ingredients that are quickly cooked and picked at the right time will have more flavour. This is why meats and fish, as well as vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds and grains, are often eaten raw and served warm.

Sauces and spices add depth and flavor to dishes. Fresh basil, cilantro, mint, coriander (cilantro), lemongrass, ginger, turmeric, garlic, chillies, chilli paste, soy sauce, tamarind juice, oyster sauce, palm sugar, coconut milk, lime leaves, galangal root, curry powder, shrimp paste, fish sauce, tamarind water, rice vinegar, etc. are used frequently.

Statistics

According to the McCormick Science Institute, indigenous Indian spices were cultivated as early as the 8th century BC in the gardens of Babylon. (spicecravings.com)
India contributes to 75% of global spice production. (en.wikipedia.org)
Their 14 to 20 percent essential oil content means that cloves have the highest concentration of aroma compounds of any spice. (masterclass.com)

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How To

Do you know how to make curry paste?

Curry paste includes dried chillies (scallions, shallots), galangal root and lemongrass as well as kaffir lime leaves, garlic, shrimp pastes, sugar, salt and sometimes coconut milk. It is an important ingredient in Thai cuisine.

One of the most widely used condiments in Southeast Asia is curry paste. This unique flavor can be added to many dishes including curries, soups and stir-fries as well as rice dishes, noodles, desserts, and rice dishes.

It's very simple to make this at home. Follow the steps below to make it easy!

Step1 - Prepare Ingredients

Before you start making this recipe, prepare all ingredients.
Peel and chop shallots (about two cups). Then chop galangal root into small pieces (about 3 inches long) and set aside.
Next, slice four garlic cloves. Finely chop the lemongrass stems to about 1/2 inch in thickness.
Next, crush the dried red chilli peppers (4 tablespoons) and then remove the seeds (optional).
Next, cut kaffir lime leaves into thin strips (about 5 inches long). Remove the white part of the stem and set it aside.
After draining the shrimp paste, wash it well and then coarsely smash it.
Measure out the sugar and salt.

Step2 - Grind Ingredients

Blend all ingredients until smooth
The texture should be comparable to peanut butter.
Take note: If you are looking to reduce oil in your dish you can add water to the mix.

Step3 - Add Coconut Milk

Add coconut milk to the mixture and mix well.
Slowly add coconut milk to ensure that the paste doesn't become too sticky.
For a milder taste, use less chillies and more galangal roots.
If you prefer it spicy, add more chillies or less galangal roots. The final product should be tasty to you.

Step4 – Serve