What is a herb and spice?

The definition of a spice is an aromatic part of a tropical plant, whether that is a root, bark, flower or seed and except for vanilla, chilli and allspice, nearly all of them are of Asian origin. Dried herbs are fresh herbs that have been dried to preserve them for storage and to concentrate their flavour.

Dried herbs and spices are used to flavour dishes but they also possess some interesting health benefits including anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and antioxidant properties.

 

Ginger

This pungent root is native to Southeastern Asian countries including China, India and Nepal and has citrus notes and a peppery flavour.

 Ginger has been shown to help quell nausea associated with morning sickness, chemotherapy and sea sickness. Ginger has also been shown to help reduce inflammation in the body with one study suggesting commonalities with aspirin or ibuprofen for pain treatment in those with osteoarthritis.

Turmeric 

Turmeric is native to Southern India and Indonesia and it features frequently in their local cuisine. This spice contains a compound called curcumin which acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory in the body and research has drawn similarities to the effects of ibuprofen for pain relief in those with joint conditions. Reducing inflammation is important as it is considered to contribute to the development of almost every chronic Western disease.

 

Cinnamon

The spice is sometimes called Ceylon cinnamon as this is the bushy evergreen tree it originates from which is native to Sri Lanka, India and Burma.

The active compound in cinnamon is called cinnamaldehyde which may help to fight bacterial infections in the body. Cinnamon has been shown to help reduce blood sugar levels by slowing the breakdown of carbohydrates in the digestive tract and improving insulin sensitivity.

 

Sage

This herb is a member of the mint family and is commonly used to flavour savoury dishes albeit in small amounts given its pungent aroma.

Sage is a rich source of vitamin K which is used by the body to help with blood clotting. This herb is also rich in over one hundred polyphenol compounds that act as antioxidants in the body. Sage is recommended to help treat symptoms of the menopause as it contains phytoestrogens which act in a similar way as human oestrogen but with less effect.

Basil

This aromatic herb originated in India and other tropical regions spanning Africa to Southeast Asia. Today the largest producers of basil are centred around the Mediterranean especially Italy.

Basil contains the antioxidants beta carotene and anthocyanins which can help to protect cells in the body from oxidative stress considered to increase the risk of many diseases. Other research is thin on the ground but has suggested other health benefits including the reduction of high blood pressure.

Thyme

This herb originates from Southern Europe and the western Mediterranean and has a floral scent and peppery taste. The Egyptians used thyme as part of the embalming process while the Greeks used it as incense in their temples.

Thyme is believed to have antimicrobial properties which are due to a class of compounds called biocides including thymol. Studies have suggested that this compound may help to reduce bacterial resistance to drugs such as penicillin. Thyme tinctures has also been researched as an effective way to help treat the skin condition acne.

Rosemary

This herb is native to the Mediterranean and is a member of the mint family. The pungent and slightly bitter taste of rosemary has made it a common addition to savoury mint dishes especially those involving lamb.

In its dried form Rosemary is a source of iron which can make it a useful addition to the diet of those at risk of anaemia which is more common in women than men. Rosemary is often used in alternative medicine as a way of treating indigestion and its essential oil may help to improve concentration and mood according to research.

Mint

This herb is native to North America, South Africa and Australia and some of the most common varieties include peppermint.

Research has suggested that mint (peppermint oil) may help with the management of IBS by relaxing the muscles of the small colon relieving pain during bowel movements. Mint also helps to relieve bloating by relaxing muscles that link to the stomach to the oesophagus allowing trapped air to be expelled.

Adding plenty of herbs and spices to your cooking is not only a delicious way to add flavour to the dishes you prepare but may hold a vital key to helping promote your long-term health.