Black Pepper

The Benefits
of Indian
Spices
Should patients really avoid
them?

Turmeric/Haldi
Turmeric contains a wide variety
of antioxidant, antiviral, anticarcinogenic, and antiinflammatory properties. Research
studies have shown that Turmeric
can help prevent prostate cancer
by stopping the growth of existing
cancer cells or destroying cells.
The anti- inflammatory properties
of this spice can also treat both
osteoarthritis and rheumatoid
arthritis by destroying free
radicals in the body that damage
cells. It has been found that people
suffering from arthritis who
consume turmeric experience
relief from joint pains and
inflammation. It also contains a
substance called
lipopolysaccharide that stimulates
the bodys immune system.

Black pepper comes from the pepper

plant, which grows in humid
climates. One serving of this spice if
rich in manganese and Vitamin K.
Furthermore, it stimulates the taste
buds which in turn alerts the
stomach to release HCL, thus
improving digestion. Black pepper
has been recognized as carminative
(a substance that prevents intestinal
gas). It promotes sweating and
urination, which rids the body of
toxins. Pepper provides relief from
sinusitis and nasal congestion.
Moreover, an antioxidant like pepper
can prevent or repair damage caused
by free radicals and thus helps in the
prevention of cancer, CVD and liver
problems. Lastly, Piperine, one of the
key components in black pepper, has
show in numerous studies to reduce
memory impairment.

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Jeera/ Cumin
Cumin seeds are an excellent
source of iron, which plays vital
roles in the body. Iron is an
integral part of hemoglobin,
which transports oxygen to all
the body cells and is also part of
key enzymes in cell metabolism.
Additionally, iron is necessary in
keeping ones immune system
healthy. Cumin seeds play an
important role in menstruating
women who lose iron each
month during menses. They
have also been noted to be
beneficial in digestion as they
stimulate the secretion of
pancreatic enzymes. Cumin
seeds might also have anti
carcinogenic properties.

- Donec vehicula mauris in est

Elaichi (Cardamom), has various health

benefits. The essential oils in elaichi strengthen
the mucosal lining of the stomach and also
increase the amount of saliva you secret.
Furthermore, it increases circulation of blood
to your lungs thereby aiding in reliving
symptoms of breathing problems such as
asthma, cold and cough. It is primarily known
for its importance in the production of red
blood cells, thus helping to fight anemia.

Cloves, contain a significant amount of

eugenol, which is an anti- inflammatory
substance. Research studies have found that
eugenol decreases inflammation by 15-30%.
They also contain a variety of flavonoids,
including kaempferol and rhamnetin, which
also contribute to cloves anti- inflammatory
properties. They are also an excellent source of
manganese, Vitamin K and dietary fiber. It can
also be used as a expectorant for an upset
stomach, as it becomes easier to cough up
plegm.