GOLDEN SPICES

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 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

SoTru 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. Supports healthy inflammation response and enhances digestion.* 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.

Daiwa Krill Oil

Promotes heart, bone, and joint health.* Supplies omega-3 EPA and DHA plus phospholipids. Source of antioxidant astaxanthin.

Paragon Plus™ Opti-Extract™ Oregano Oil

Provides immediate immune support.* Has broad-spectrum antimicrobial effect.* Standardized extract in convenient capsule form.

Anabol Naturals TJL

Supports healthy tendons, joints, and ligaments.* Supports healthy cartilage growth.* Supplies shellfish-free glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM.

Boiron Camilia & ColicComfort

Natural, gentle homeopathic support formulas. Camilia temporarily relieves symptoms of teething, including gum pain and irritability.* ColicComfort temporarily relieves symptoms associated with colic, including gas pain.*

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