Holistic ayurvedic knowledge and hints
Ayurvedic medicine gives a very special role and meaning to different spices. They are the heart and soul of your kitchen, not only because
they can turn an ordinary dish into a feast for the taste buds, but also because they possess immense medicinal healing properties.
Spices can increase the appetite, can influence the digestion or even neutralize the effect of certain types of food.
Fennel
The quick fix for stomach and digestive issues
Hint: In Asian countries people digest fennel after a meal. Mixed with Anis and cumin it helps to maintain fresh breath.
Ginger
Asafetida
The appetite increasing wonder spice
Hint: when preparing a lentil dish, make sure to add some of this wonder spice.
Fenogreek
Something warming for cold days
Fenogreek – also called cultivated trigonella is hot, bitter and warming. It increases the metabolism and can have weight reducing properties. It is a strong substance agains liver weakness and a lack in stamina. It is known to have very good healing properties with liver, spleen and the gall bladder. Furthermore, fenugreek is also told to have a blood cleansing effect.
Hint: Mixed with cane sugar it is said to help in the production of maternal milk. It reduces high cholesterol and insulin.
Ginger
The famous home remedy
Hint: If eaten or drank regularly it preempts colds and runny noses during the cold season. Do you suffer from travel sickness? Take 3-4 slices of ginger root, poor hot water, let it sit for 5 minutes and then drink while still warm. You’ll be surprised at the effect of it!
Fennel
The quick fix for stomach and digestive issues
Hint: In Asian countries people digest fennel after a meal. Mixed with Anis and cumin it helps to maintain fresh breath.
Ginger
Preemptive measure against the risk of strokes
Bayleaf
Hint: Bayleafs strengthen the immune system and is therefor recommended especially in wet and cold seasons.
The golden spice from the East
Tumeric
Curcumin the active component of turmeric is anti inflammatory and is medically promising because inflammation and oxidative damage are contributors to many diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, arthritis and various cancers. The prevalence of Alzheimer’s and certain cancers in India is among the world’s lowest. Turmeric blocks the growth skin cancer, and inhibits the spread of breast cancer into the lungs.Turmeric is a wonder spice and finds much use in medicine and is known to cleanse the blood, detoxify the system, increase the functionality of the liver and bile production. In India ground turmeric is mixed in hot milk to strengthen bones and heal injuries. Recent studies point towards role of turmeric in the reduction of fat and its action as an antioxidant in delaying aging.Hint: Tumeric helps with skin issues. In India it is often used as a facial mask. It lends the typical color in curry mixtures and adds wonderful flavor to different types of vegetables, as well as Dal-dishes. It is known for its digestive properties.
One of the most agreeable ayurvedic spices
Cardamom
Cardamom stimulates the spleen functions, activates Agni (digestive fire) and gets rid of Kapha in areas such as intestines and lungs. It also helps in gaining clarity. If you chew two capsules of cardamom after eating, it will aid the digestion and also give you fresh breath. Ancient Greek, Roman, Egyptian and Arab cultures were equally fond of this spice, which was considered to have aphrodisiac qualities and was used in love potions. Besides being a catalyst for romance, cardamom also has numerous other health benefits: Added to milk it neutralizes its mucus forming properties and detoxifies caffeine in coffee. It also clears sinuses. It stimulates the mind and heart and gives clarity and joy.
Neem
A natural antibiotic remedy
Neem is used as a natural antibiotic in Ayurvedic medicine.
Not only does it help with skin irritations and ailments but it is also used with all sorts of other infections. A mixture of neem, sandalwood, and camphor is very effective if suffering from allergies or skin irritations.