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Healing Herbs and Spices
Although there are hundreds of different herbs and spices
used for health purposes, some of the more common ones
are listed below, along with their uses.
Cayenne
Cayenne may be taken or used topically. It contains
capsaicin, a substance which is also used as an active
ingredient in many commercial pain medications. Cayenne
also aids in digestion.
Tumeric
This spice has been used to treat arthritis, dysentery and
heart disease. It is believed to lower the risk for certain
cancers by attacking free radicals.
Repeated studies suggest it is highly effective in suppressing
the formation and growth of tumours in the colon. It also
has strong anti-inflammatory properties.
Garlic
Garlic is one of the best-known and widely used herbal
medicines. Garlic is a strong weapon against infection and
a natural antibiotic. It has been found to reduce cholesterol
and high blood pressure and is sometimes used to treat
yeast infections.
Ginger
Ginger has many medicinal uses. It is very effective
treatment for motion sickness and general nausea. It is also
used to treat menstrual cramps and the nausea associated
with chemotherapy.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek is used by many women who suffer from the
symptoms of menopause. It is also used to reduce
cholesterol and relieve constipation. It has been discovered
that fenugreek binds with whole sterol in the intestine and
encourages the excretion of cholesterol from the body.
Cloves
Cloves act as a wound antiseptic by killing harmful bacteria.
It is also used to treat indigestion and diarrhoea. Cloves also
act as a deterrent to free-radical damage to the body.
Star Anise
This herb is used in cough mixture and also has a vital
function as the source of Shikimic acids from which the
drug Tamiflu is made, an anti-viral drug against avian flu.
Coriander
Aids in digestion and acts as a natural diuretic.
Cinnamon
This spice is used to control the level of blood sugar for
diabetics. It is also used to relieve the symptoms of urinary
tract infections and yeast infections.
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Cumin
Aids in digestion, relieves pain and cramps in the abdomen.
Contains anti cancer agents carevol and limonene.
Sage
This pungent herb is used as a remedy for colds, sore
throat and other respiratory ailments, as well as urinary
tract problems. It has been used to control some symptoms
of diabetes.
Saffron
Studies have shown saffron to be instrumental in destroying
the cancer cells that cause leukaemia.
Nutmeg
A common household spice, nutmeg is a natural stimulant
to the cardiovascular system. It is also used to relieve the
joint inflammation associated with gout. This spice should
be used carefully since large doses can be toxic. It is not to
be pregnant women or children as a herbal remedy.
Cardamom
Used to help in a variety of digestive problems, helps
soothe indigestion and flatulence.
Liquorice Root
Liquorice root is remedy to relieve menopausal symptoms.
In some instances, it has been found to have as much
effect as hormone replacement therapy in women.
Chamomile
Chamomile is often used as a tea for its mild sedative
effects. It is also used to soothe digestive ailments and to
reduce fever. It may also be applied topically to soothe skin
irritations and diaper rash.
Black Pepper
Alleviates constipation, dry haemorrhoids, gas and loss of
appetite has anti bacterial effect.
Celery Seed
This spice is also used to treat heart disease, high blood
pressure and to reduce cholesterol.
Tamarind
Contains Hydroxycitric acid compound (HCA) which assist
weight loss.
Disclaimer - This article is not intended to treat, diagnose or
prescribe. The information contained herein is in no way to
be considered as a substitute for your own inner guidance
or consultation with a duly licenced health-care professional
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