The use of spices has been around for thousands of years and used in traditional medicine for the prevention and treatment of various conditions. Recently, growing evidence shows that spices have been effective in the prevention, and sometimes treatment, of conditions such as arthritis, diabetes and even cancer! Additionally, if you’re looking for anti-aging remedies, start with spices.

Let’s take a peek into some of the main spices that have shown to have super-like effects on our health and well-being:

Cayenne Pepper: Contains capsaicin, which has been shown to block Substance P. That’s a certain chemical in the brain involved with the transmission of pain impulses. Also, it boosts endorphins in the body which are natural painkillers. Cayenne has also been shown to help with cholesterol, atherosclerosis and a reduction in allergic responses. Cayenne’s benefits can be linked to its strong antioxidants, flavonoids and carotenoids that it contains, all of which assist in anti-inflammatory effects and circulation. Capsaicin is typically used as a topical cream and in a study in the Journal of Rheumatology, showed to dramatically help with patients who suffered from osteoarthritis in the hands.

Cinnamon: Excellent for the regulation of blood sugar levels. If you are diabetic or prediabetic, studies have shown that just a half a teaspoon a day can help reduce blood sugar, triglyceride levels, and total cholesterol levels (http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1464-5491.2010.03079.x/full). Cinnamon is a strong antioxidant that helps with metabolic syndrome, which is a combination of increased abdominal fat, high blood sugar, and hypertension. All these factors contribute to cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

Ginger: Helps with digestive problems, including upset stomach, acid reflux and GERD. Ginger has also shown to help with intestinal gas by protecting against bacteria and fungi in the gut. Other benefits include anti- inflammatory agents and protection from atherosclerosis by lowering cholesterol.

Turmeric: great for boosting the immune system due to its powerful antioxidant effects. Said to be 5 to 8 times stronger than vitamins E and C. Contains curcumin, which has been shown to inhibit the production of specific enzymes that promote inflammation. Also shown to help with inflammatory bowel disease (IBS), indigestion, arthritis pain and the prevention of some types of cancers. In India, where it is widely used, the rate of breast, prostate, colon and lung cancer is 10 times lower than it is in the United States. According to the University of Texas Cancer center, curcumin blocks a key biological pathway that is necessary for the formation of certain cancers.

Other key spices include:

- Natural salts: Sea or Himalayan salt has been shown to have mood elevating substances. 

- Peppermint: helps with digestive disorders and inhibits the growth of fungi and bacteria. Also, helps with allergies and asthma.

- Oregano: another powerful antioxidant, great for inflammation and joint pain. (Also goes great in a marinara sauce!)

- Black Pepper: If you are concerned with the bioavailability of other foods, black pepper will assist with this. For example, if you are eating a Kale salad, adding black pepper will help your body better absorb the kale to get its true health benefits.

- Nutmeg: Has certain antibacterial agents that help warding off strains of E.Coli and also good for arthritic pain.

- Cloves: Very potent anti-inflammatory; Excellent for muscle aches and pains; also, an antibacterial and antifungal agent; Used for respiratory type conditions, such as asthma, allergies and bronchitis.

Hopefully after reading this, you will get out your spice rack and evaluate things a little closer. Adding spices can enhance not only the nutritional value but the taste as well.

Instead of processed seasonings, dressings or marinades begin adding natural herbs and spices to your meals and snacks. Even when drinking teas, just adding a touch of any of the above spices will make a difference.

There may be some conflicts with certain spices and prescription medications so make sure that you check with your natural healthcare provider and always use in moderation.