Spice Rack Rx

As someone who tends to be heavy-handed with spices, I was delighted to learn that many of those herbs and powders have strong healing powers.

In fact, it's almost as if my spice rack can do double duty as my medicine cabinet.

Who knew, for instance, that turmeric functions a bit like ibuprofin, because it reduces inflammation and soothes sore muscles? Not only that but it also may stave off Alzheimers by sweeping away bits of plaque that can accumulate in the brain.

That's according to an article in Self magazine, which also cites recent studies on the many benefits of chili peppers. Research shows that adding red chili flakes to a meal can curb appetite throughout the day.

Along with its powers as an appetite suppressant, chilis may be a mood-lifter. Research shows they release feel-good endorphins in order to soothe the pain receptors in our mouths. The result is a cheerier disposition.

But these aren't the only healthy spices at our disposal. According to Web MD, here are some other spices to reach for on a regular basis to increase well-being:

Cinnamon has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels, and some scientists say that a half teaspoon of cinnamon sprinkled on lattes or cereals can help prevent diabetes. It's also great for digestion and circulation and fighting off colds, coughs, and fevers.

Cardamom can help ease indigestion, sore throats, and nasal congestion. As an added bonus, it freshens breath. Try adding it (along with cinnamon and ginger) to some chai.

Cumin is said to be excellent for colds, fevers, and digestion. Perhaps that's why Indian doctors believe that it purifies the blood.

Garlic has long been known to have curative powers. Some swear that it boosts the body's immune system and fends off colds and the flu (it's never worked for me). But it's also proven to improve cardiovascular health. Maybe that's why so many of us love the stuff.

Ginger, as anyone who's turned to flat ginger ale for an upset stomach will tell you, settles the disgestive system.

http://www.lime.com/blog/savasthi/15930/spice_rack_rx

putting some garlic into pet foods also helps stave off fleas as it taints the taste fo the blood.

My mother always made us parsley tea when we had menstrual pains.

I always had iced spearmint tea in the fridge growing up for tummy pains....

I've used capsicum to stop a cut from bleeding. And, although not a spice, I've used honey to treat burns.

Cinnamon made into a tea is good for high blood pressure.

Parsley tea is very good to drink if you suffer kidney stones. If they are only gravel it can help you pass them.

Thyme infused as a tea is good for a digestive tonic and for hangovers.

Sage infused as a tead helps with diarrhoea. Also a good nerve tonic.

When we were getting sick Mom would boost us up with cayanne pepper by adding a wee bit more to our foods. It would help to burn out what ever was trying to take root.

I posted a list of my common herbs/spices  and foods along with their magickal properties on the inside of my cupboard door so I can cook with magickally empowered ingredients.

— Novia wrote

putting some garlic into pet foods also helps stave off fleas as it taints the taste fo the blood.

Cool!  I need to do that!

late to this thread I know, but I wanted to add my two cents worth.  I think eating lots of strong seasonings might help keep bugs away from you as well as your pets.  My little brother lives off Garlic powder and Texas Pete and never has a problem with mosquitoes.  I notice when I eat lots of ramen (To which I add garlic powder and pepper flakes.) I don't have as many problems with mosquitoes and fleas.

I read some where also that drinking cat nip tea can help your period get started when it's late.  Could come in useful if you are irregular.