Spices may be ubiquitous in today’s vast sea of grocery aisles, but in ancient and medieval times, these ingredients were the catalyzing force for oceanic expeditions and exploration. Countless miles were trekked to find these fragrant plants, as they were revered for their medicinal, aromatic, and food-preservation capabilities. We have probably all sprinkled a pinch of pepper, garlic, or onion into our at-home culinary experiments, but it’s time to branch out and start incorporating these five versatile spices that pack a punch for your taste buds and overall wellness:
Photo by Simon A. Eugster1.Turmeric has been used for thousands of years in India for wedding celebrations, dying clothing, warding off evil spirits, and of course medicinally. Turmeric contains a little bit of an extraordinary compound called curcumin. There may be no other botanical compound that can rival the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capabilities of curcumin. Whether you’re adding turmeric to create your own curry, livening up your mashed potatoes, assembling you own steak rub, or mixing it into your morning eggs, be careful because turmeric contains powerful pigments tha can discolor certain surfaces—and hands!
2. Oregano is perhaps best known for its shining role in Mexican and Italian dishes, but it’s also one of the most potent antimicrobials in the plant world. Not only will you be intensifying the essence of savory dishes with dried or fresh oregano, you will also be supporting your body’s immune system with the potent natural compounds, thymol and carvacrol, that come along in this herb. Add some fresh oregano to your next pasta sauce, or incorporate into your chicken marinade.
Tip: Add a few sprigs of fresh oregano to extra virgin olive oil to create your own herb-infused oil.
3. Basil is a very fragrant and diverse spice, and is almost synonymous with pesto. Aside from its use as a delicious sauce, basil contains compounds that are antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. Plus, it’s a great source of vitamins A, K, and C. Just two tablespoons of this sweet and peppery herb gives you more than 25 percent of your recommended daily value of vitamin K.
Tip: When using fresh basil, try adding it at the end of the meal you are preparing to preserve the flavor and prevent the basil from becoming bitter.
4. Rosemary is distinguished by its needle-like leaves and pungent aroma. Resembling a small evergreen, some describe its taste as a mix between lemon and pine—earthy, yet delicate. It is also a great anti-inflammatory and circulatory stimulant, and can improve digestion and support cognition and memory. Try some rosemary paired with grilled sweet potatoes, or even in your favorite cookie recipe to provide a perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite.
Tip: Use rosemary twigs as you would toothpicks: to hold appetizers or sandwiches together, as skewers, or to freshen your breath!
5. Ginger is great for soothing stomach upset after a meal, but can also be used to boost and brighten the zest of any style of cooking. Prized for its anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea abilities, ginger is one of the most widely used condiments in the world. Another sweet or savory herb, try adding fresh ginger to creamy soups, paired with flaky fish, or make yourself some ginger tea to accompany your meal and aid in digestion. And who doesn’t love gingerbread!
Tip: When trying to peel ginger, use the tip of a spoon to gently rub away the outer skin.
Article originally appeared in Good Health Lifestyles magazine, Fall 2016 issue; modified by Peach Vitamins staff.