The Indian spices add life to every dish. They play an important role in flavouring and giving essence to any dish. There are many Indian spices, which we use in our daily cooking. This includes the popular ones like cumin seeds, cinnamon, cardamom, black pepper, cloves, etc. However, most of are unaware of the importance of Indian spices in our diet.
Here is the list of different Indian spices which you should add to your daily diet for a good food and a good life.
1. Cinnamon (दालचीनी)
Cinnamon is a most common spice, which is used in every Indian dish because of its distinctly sweet and warming taste. According to the research and studies, cinnamon is the best source of antioxidants. A daily intake of 1/2 (half) teaspoon of cinnamon powder in your diet can be beneficial in regulating the blood sugar levels, digestion and immunity. It is also beneficial for skin health as cinnamon has anti-microbial properties in it which help to fight skin allergies.
2. Cardamom (इलाइची)
Cardamom or Elaichi is a famous Indian spice. It is very expensive in cost. However, cardamom is the best solution to the problem of nausea, vomiting, acidity, bloating and constipation. It is also helpful in eliminating body waste through the kidneys. Cardamom also promotes heart health because of its antioxidant properties. The importance of Indian spice in our diet can also be identified with the fact that cardamom also helps to fight depression and asthma.
3. Cloves(लोंग)
It is a very known fact about the clove that it is a spice which is beneficial for tooth related problems. Therefore, it is an important ingredient in almost every toothpastes. Moreover, cloves are also beneficial in giving relief from vomiting, indigestion and loose motions. And due to the presence of anti-inflammatory properties, cloves also reduces inflammation.
4. Nutmeg (जैफल)
Nutmeg helps in giving relief from insomnia (a sleeping disorder). It is antiseptic in nature, hence, it helps in purifying your skin from dust and dirt and further prevents any skin disease too. If you drink daily a glass of warm milk added with a pinch of nutmeg powder you may observe positive results. It also soothes indigestion.
5. Mace (जावित्री)
Mace spice is dried and outer cover if nutmeg kernel. Mace spics has an intense aroma and it is composed of certain essential oils. Therefore, mace spice has better antioxidant compounds, minerals and vitamins. Mace has several vital nutrients like calcium, iron, copper and magnesium.
6. Black Pepper (काली मिर्च)
Black pepper is also known as the 'King of the Spices'. It not only enhances flavor but also promotes weight loss and gives soothing relief in a cough and cold. Black pepper also treats indigestion by improving metabolic activity in your body. Remember, a moderate quantity of black pepper should be preferred else it can cause heartburn and ulcers.
7. Cumin Seeds (जीरा)
Cumin seeds are the best option to aid digestion, as its compound 'Thymol' stimulate the glands that secrete acids, bile and enzymes to smoothen the digestion process. It also boosts the immune system of your body. Its antiviral properties are beneficial in a number of ways. Cumin seed is a high source of iron and is considered to be good for an expectant mother.
There are numbers of Indian spices which can be used in different forms - whole, chopped, ground, roasted, sauteed. fried and as well as in toppings. They all have several health benefits, still spices should be consumed in a moderate quantity, as excess of anything is not good for health.
Happy Spicing!