The foods we eat and the stress we experience can contribute to inflammation, which is a natural part of the body’s immune system response. However, chronic inflammation can lead to problems like heart disease, type 2 diabetes and arthritis.
A healthy diet can help keep inflammation in check and some everyday spices have anti-inflammatory properties. Spices that are used widely in many cultures have long been used for health boosting benefits, including East India’s Ayurvedic medicine.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a powerful spice that can help in soothing inflammation. This is due to the antioxidants that it contains.
It’s also been found to lower blood pressure, triglycerides and cholesterol levels to keep your heart healthy.
As an anti-inflammatory, cinnamon can be helpful in decreasing muscle soreness, menstrual pain, and allergic reactions. It’s a common ingredient in some over-the-counter pain medications.
The cinnamaldehyde present in cinnamon may also be helpful in decreasing the risk of cancer. Animal and test-tube studies have shown that it can reduce tumor growth by limiting the formation of blood vessels in cancer cells.
While there aren’t many clinical trials available to prove the effectiveness of cinnamon, it has been found to be a safe and natural substance. However, it is still important to talk with your healthcare professional before taking any type of dietary supplement. This way you can get the best results.
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper contains a compound called capsaicin that has vasodilatory properties. This means it helps in widening the blood vessels, which improves the blood flow to your heart and reduces the risk of heart disease.
It also lowers blood pressure and prevents blood clots, which can cause strokes. The high antioxidant content in cayenne pepper may also help in fighting cancers.
This is because capsaicin can help inhibit the growth of certain types of cancer cells. It also kills off inflammatory cells in the body, which can trigger tumors to form.
Another benefit of cayenne pepper is that it may help in suppressing your appetite. This will help you lose weight naturally.
In addition, it can help in soothing inflammation that causes bloating and pain. This is because it reduces the amount of substance P that sends pain signals to your brain.
Black Pepper
Black pepper is an important spice owing to its bio-enhancement or bioavailability properties that help in boosting the absorption of nutrients and therapeutic medicines in our digestive tract. It is said to be effective in enhancing the digestion of proteins as well as cleansing our intestines from harmful toxins.
It is a good source of antioxidants that protect the body from radical cell damage. It also helps in reducing blood pressure and enhances brain health. Moreover, it is said to be good for your eyes as it helps in preventing the development of cataracts and other eye disorders. It also prevents skin pigmentation and reduces the appearance of dark spots and wrinkles.
Ginger
Ginger, which is a flowering root plant, provides a host of health benefits, including antioxidants, minerals and vitamins. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
Inflammation is a common immune response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can lead to heart disease, obesity and diabetes. Taking ginger supplements or consuming it in your diet may help reduce inflammation, according to a 2020 meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
The spice also has antibacterial and antifungal effects. It can kill off bacteria that cause periodontal disease and keep respiratory viruses like RSV at bay.
It can also help prevent the formation of stomach ulcers, which are painful sores that form in the lining of the stomach and cause pain, indigestion and abdominal discomfort.
It can even soothe menstrual pain. Adding ginger powder to your tea or incorporating it into your meals can ease the pain and cramping associated with PMS.