Being an Indian, I’m always experimenting with different herbs and spices to transform a simple meal to a more colourful and flavoursome one. Many of the most popular spices are indigenous to India and were in fact considered precious commodities in ancient times. It’s therefore no surprise that we have discovered several other uses for herbs and spices other than their versatility in the kitchen. Among their myriad characteristics are their medicinal benefits. Their high phytochemical and antioxidant content makes them ideal for simple home remedies for several ailments including inflammation, digestion or to reduce post-workout soreness. Moreover, spices have been a part of our beauty rituals for centuries, including in skin and hair care treatments.

Here are 5 common spices found in our kitchens and their health and beautifying benefits:

Turmeric

Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric, is a powerful antioxidant, helping fight oxidative damage, which is believed to be the key mechanism behind ageing. Turmeric used in facemasks (mixed with water, yoghurt or honey) has the ability to kick-start cell growth, which increases skin elasticity and slows down the formation of wrinkles. Read more about home-made face masks here 

Turmeric is also considered to be a natural antiseptic for cuts and burns, and an anti-inflammatory agent for several ailments such as arthritis and digestive problems to name a few.

Cinnamon

This ingredient can do so much more than spice up your hot chocolate. It contains a compound called cinnamaldehyde, which is known for its effects in blood sugar levels. Research suggests that cinnamon might help to regulate treatment for people with type 2 diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity.

Moreover, cinnamon’s antimicrobial properties make it an ideal ingredient in face masks to fight acne, or for a DIY dry scrub to slough off dead skin cells.

Peppermint

I’ve been suffering with bloating and indigestion for years and peppermint have always preferred natural products to consuming pills. Peppermint in particular has been my go-to home remedy. It is the oily component of peppermint that provides pain relief for those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). It appears to work by relaxing the smooth muscles in the colon, which relieves pain experienced during bowel movements. It also helps to reduce other digestive symptoms such as abdominal bloating and cramps, and some research also suggests that in aromatherapy, it can help fight nausea. Moreover, being a muscle relaxant means that peppermint oil is a very effective natural painkiller, commonly used to soothe an aching back, sore muscles and to relieve tension headaches.

Ginger

This root not only spices up our teas and flavours dishes, but its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties make it a potent home remedy. In particular, ginger has been used for centuries to relieve digestive problems and nausea. Ginger stimulates saliva and gastric juice which can aid digestion. It also has muscle relaxant properties that can prevent gases becoming trapped in the digestive system, making it an effective remedy for bloating. Furthermore, its anti-inflammatory properties make it an effective remedy for respiratory symptoms such as sore throat, colds and coughs.

Ginger is also commonly used as a cosmetic ingredient. It has the ability to curb pigmentation and even out skin tone. Try this DIY ginger toner for glowing skin by mixing ginger juice, honey and rose water.

Garlic

This common ingredient also has antioxidant and anti-fungal properties. A compound called allicin is responsible for its health effects. Used orally, garlic health combat common cold, and enhances blood flow. Topically, garlic can effectively battle acne. Squeezing a pod of garlic on to the affected areas can reduce redness and swelling within a day!

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