Spices play a very important role in Indian cuisine. Be it to enhance the flavors or to tickle our taste buds spices are very crucial in Indian cooking. What makes Indian food so special is its preparation that includes the right spices in the right quantity. Each dish is unique in taste with the perfect blend of masalas making the dish yummy and mouth watery. The use of spices in Indian cuisine has been a tradition since ancient times. Our elders used natural and organic spices that have medicinal values and that is the reason they were always fit and healthy. Spices are not only used as flavor enhancers but each spice has its benefits and when used with other spices it brings numerous health benefits. We Indians are blessed to have the ideal land and climate for growing spices. Several spices are grown in different regions of India and are exported to other cities and countries.

Indian spices have anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial properties and are also rich in antioxidants. These properties also help in improving the immune system which is much needed these days. If spices are consumed moderately one can derive all the health benefits but on the other hand overdose of spices can cause ulcers, indigestion. Apart from the right quantity of spices, another thing that needs our attention is the quality of spices. In the ancient days, people used fresh spices directly from the herbs, farms and grounded them with their hands hence no question of added preservatives, colorants. Today it is difficult to find pure, authentic spices from so many brands available in the market. To avoid any more confusions and doubts we at EFGH (eat for good health) offer a wide range of chutney pudis, ready mixes, easy to cook spices, or masalas that are 100 % natural, hand-picked. EFGH products are a combination of good health and taste at the same time.

If someone is very keen on knowing which masalas to use in everyday food and where to find them the answer is in your kitchen. Yes, although there is a wide range of spices available there are some basic masalas without which every Indian food is incomplete.

Here are five spices with health benefits that will not only do wonders for your health but will also enhance the flavors of your food.

1. Turmeric: Turmeric has been used as a medicine for many years in Indian cuisine it adds color to the food and has anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric has an active compound called curcumin which has the potential to prevent some major health issues like heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, arthritis. It also helps in treating depression. Apart from these turmeric also helps in treating any kind of injuries and helps prevent cold. It is also a boon for many skin issues and helps delay aging.

2. Ginger: Ginger is an essential ingredient used in various Indian dishes. It has some essential compounds and metabolites that improve metabolism and helps in reducing nausea and helps in enhancing the digestion of food. It helps in reducing the risk of diabetes and helps to build a stronger immune system. Ginger also helps in relieving menstrual cramps. To use it in the meal add it to the stir-fry dishes or use it while preparing tea.

3. Cinnamon: A very essential spice used in Indian cuisine cinnamon has a strong aroma and a refreshing taste. This woody spice gives relief from indigestion, cold, diarrhea. It also helps in reducing cholesterol levels. It is great for people suffering from diabetes. It is also great for metabolism. It is sweet in taste and has many inflammatory properties that provide various health benefits. You can add it to different curries and pulao.

4. Cumin: Almost used in every food cumin seeds are very popular in Indian cuisine. Cumin seeds are great for digestive problems. It helps in treating the common cold and anemia. Cumin seeds are rich in iron and also helps in reducing the problem of piles. It has anti-microbial properties and is also rich in antioxidants. Cumin seeds can help in weight loss when added to a low-calorie diet. It can be used in curries and especially in dal fry.

5. Coriander: coriander can be used either in the form of seeds or the herb itself it is used as a spice and as well as to garnish the food. This superfood is loaded with nutrients and has anti-microbial, anti-fungal properties. It helps in lowering blood pressure, sugar levels, and cholesterol levels. It provides relief from any skin diseases and flushes out the extra sodium from our body.

Include the right spices in the right quantity in your diet and enjoy the health benefits without compromising on the taste.