The active ingredient in many medicines and pharmaceuticals are extracts from spices and peppers. Without question, spices and peppers play significant roles in enhancing health. Their medicinal benefits cannot be denied. Peppers, like cayenne, make the blood feverish, which is especially necessary when the body is under a microbial attack. Spicy peppers contain capsaicin which is a metabolism booster. Cayenne in particular, is said to have properties that help regulate blood pressure, ease in digestion and lower cholesterol among other benefits.
Several medical and nutrition journals have published their findings on different studies done on various spices such as garlic and ginger. It is said that garlic is significantly more potent than penicillin. It is antiseptic and from days of old, has been used to treat many diseases including leprosy. Also, the Journal of Nutrition has published several studies on the benefits of garlic in treating heart disease and high cholesterol.
Every spice has healing and other health properties. A trip to the library or a Google search of reputable websites will afford a wealth of information on the health benefits of well-known spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and turmeric. Poultices made from these spices or even blends of several spices have been successful in treating inflammations and treating infections.
African, Indian, Caribbean and Latin American spices are not only responsible for many spicy and savory dishes in North America and other parts of the world; but for their healing benefits. Where can one go and not experience savory nutmeg from Grenada? Is there a country on earth that does not have Indian curry or masala? Spices and peppers transcend borders in flavor and medicinal value.
