THE TASTE OF TRADITION

Traditional Indian spices

Spices- the gold of India, since the time of the Romans, was traded throughout the world. The taste of Indian food is a gift of these rich Indian spices that add delicious aroma, vibrant color and finger-licking flavor to our plates. India being a vastly diverse nation has people from different cultures using different spices in different parts of the country. But, besides adding taste these spices are believed to have immense healing power.

Spices such as cardamom, ginger, black pepper, cumin, and mustard seed have been a part of ancient herbal medicines for different types of health benefits. In Ayurvedic medicines, spices such as cloves and cardamom were wrapped in betel-nut leaves and chewed after meals to increase the flow of saliva and help in the process of digestion. This article will give you a brief account of the power of Indian spices-

· Cinnamon- This wonder spice adds alluring aroma and adds a refreshing flavour to foods but besides this it is a diabetes-friendly spice. It also helps in relieving indigestion, common cold, diarrhea, poor blood circulation and tension during menstruation.

· Cloves- An excellent spice to treat tooth decay and one of the major ingredients in toothpastes, cloves have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Also, they are helpful in treating vomiting, indigestion, an upset digestive tract.

· Cumin- No food is complete without cumin but surprisingly this spice is also a major source of iron and manganese that helps in the absorption of calcium and controls blood pressure. Cumin is also believed to relieve digestive problems, reduce chances of anemia and alleviate common cold.

· Cardamom- It is known to treat throat problems, chest congestion, and gum infection. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it can also alleviate muscle spasms and is a great ingredient for respiratory problems as well.

· Saffron- The most expensive of all undoubtedly, offers the greatest number of health benefits as well. this magical spice an ability to treat depression, prevent loss of vision, and improve memory. This spice, which is just a stigma of a flower, can relieve you from digestive issues with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-depressant properties.

· Black pepper- Black pepper, considered to be the gold, is a precious commodity for trade. A pinch of pepper can create an explosion in a tasteless dish by adding flavours. Black pepper helps in digestion and saves from flatulence and constipation. It is also anti – bacterial in nature, due to which it reduces blood pressure and contains iron that is beneficial for the body.

· Turmeric- We all remember how our mother used to add a pinch a turmeric to the milk when we fall sick. The most common Indian spice, turmeric helps to treat issues such as breathing problems and can be considered to be a super food that can fight cancer, ease depression and do so much more. 

Ever imagined having biryanis and pani puri that tasted bland and had no flavour. It is the magic of these spices that make these savouries worth a bite. In all, it would not be wrong to say that food and health are both imperfect without a dash of spices.