Alternative Uses Of Indian Spices

The warm aroma and the unique flavour of each spice in the spice rack contributes to making the dish delicious. Indian spices are not unknown to the rest of the world. The European and the Arab explorers have taken Indian spices to places across the world making them popular. So what is it that makes spices so special? They definitely excite our taste buds but the composition of spices is pretty impressive too. Spices contain important antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, and phytonutrients that are known to have immunity-boosting properties. Since ancient times, spices have been used for their anti-inflammatory & anti-flatulent properties. We’re all aware of the side-effects of consuming painkillers and other antibiotics on the liver of the human body. Hence it is always advisable to resort to home remedies for ailments like common cold, cough, and indigestion. Here’s how you can use various spices for curing day-to-day ailments.

1. Turmeric

The spice that is used in every household in India – turmeric is known for its medicinal properties. Turmeric is rich in curcumin which is a very powerful antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric blocks all the enzymes causing pain and inflammation in the body. Turmeric has anti-aging properties and hence is very good for the skin. 

2. Clove

Clove, commonly known as Laung is known for its aromatic properties in the recipe and is a major component used for making garam masala. Apart from this, the use of cloves for alleviating toothache and dental decay is very common. It has antiseptic properties that fight the infection and prevent it from spreading to other teeth. Hence it reduces swelling and pain in that area. Clove also prevents clotting of blood and purifies it.

3. Black Pepper

For all the right reasons black pepper is known as the ‘king of spices’. It is our favourite seasoning of all time and also has multiple benefits for the human body. Black pepper is a very effective antibiotic due to its high Vitamin C content. It also has other nutrients like magnesium, Vitamin K, and iron. Black pepper works wonders on sore throat, tonsilitis and other cold symptoms. Black pepper also has piperine which helps better bowel moment and improves the digestive system.

4. Cinnamon

We are aware of the warmth and sweetness that cinnamon offers. In recipes, we use bark of the cinnamon tree for the flavour. Some studies suggest that cinnamon has the highest antioxidant content amongst all other spices. Antioxidants protect the body against radical damage and prevent aging. Cinnamon oil has anti-microbial properties that prevent tooth decay. Cinnamon is known to lower blood sugar levels and bad cholesterol. So the next time you find a piece of cinnamon in your biryani or paneer butter masala, know that you’ve eaten something very beneficial for your body.

Apart from these spices, one can always use garam masala in their recipes because it has most of the spices and combines the flavour and benefits from each of those. In our day-to-day life, the consumption of spices may not seem much but in the long run, it makes a huge difference.