Golden Spices for Optimum Health BY SALLY KARLOVITZ, CN
SPICES HAVE RECEIVED a lot of attention as their therapeutic value adds to their culinary uses. In this article, we take a closer look at three golden yellow spices and their benefits that go beyond the palate.
GINGER Ginger is loved by many for its tummy calming properties. It’s a tonic herb for the digestive system. Ginger has been shown to help improve digestion, to have a protective effect against stress-induced ulcers, and it was found to be more effective than medications for various forms of nausea— from motion sickness to morning sickness. Ginger has also been used as a natural anti-inflammatory agent that improves circulation and reduces the pain that’s associated with arthritis, headaches, and menstrual cycles. Coming into winter, ginger is a warming spice that can bring comfort when symptoms of a cold are present.
SAFFRON This exotic spice is known for its distinct color and flavor, but also has a long history of medicinal use in Eastern and Western herbalism. Saffron has been used as an aid to control appetite, with studies showing that people who
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took saffron snacked less and lost more weight. Saffron has been used to support mood health. In a review of six placebo-comparison trials, saffron exhibited antidepressant activity similar to pharmaceutical medications. Research also suggests that saffron may be helpful for symptoms of PMS and may play a role in cognition and memory health.
TURMERIC Most people know turmeric as the main ingredient of curry powder, used to flavor traditional Indian dishes. Curcumin, responsible for the yellow color of turmeric, is the active compound that
Organic Fermented Turmeric & Ginger Drink Mix Proprietary fermentation of whole herb turmeric and ginger for maximum bioavailability Mildly sweet, smooth, refreshing, and fresh in flavor and texture.
has become the object of research because of its many potential beneficial actions in the body. Curcumin is best known as an antioxidant and antiinflammatory. Studies have shown that curcumin outperforms non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen or aspirin when it comes to pain and inflammation. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions of turmeric also make it helpful for the heart and may help keep the lining of veins and arteries healthy and reduce cholesterol levels. Research is looking at other potential roles for curcumin in GI health, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Source Naturals
Serene Science Saffron Extract For mood support.* Delivers a clinically studied dose of 15mg of saffron extract. Standardized to 2% safranals.
Supports healthy inflammation response and enhances digestion.*
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