CORIANDER (Coriandrum sativum)
Coriander contains two of the 11 essential oils: Cineole and linoleic acid. Both oils contain antirheumatic and antiarthritic properties, and can reduce skin swelling and inflammation. It contains disinfecting, antifungal, and detoxifying properties that help to clear skin disorders (i.e eczema). Coriander also contains acids that help to reduce LDL (the bad cholesterol) levels. Coriander stimulates the endocrine glands, thus allowing secretion of insulin into the blood. This results in better sugar absorption, which is essential for diabetics and for more effective metabolic functions.
CUMIN (Cuminum Cyminum)
The aroma of cumin itself stimulates the salivary glands and contains Thymol, which aids in better food digestion. It is a carminative, and therefore relieves gas troubles. Taken with hot water, cumin can ease stomach aches and pains. Can’t sleep? Take cumin! It promotes better intake and absorption of vitamins and good digestion, reducing stress and resulting in better sleep. Cumin has an anti-congestive property that makes it the perfect remedy for respiratory disorders (i.e asthma). Cumin also contains lots of iron which increases the production of hemoglobin. When there is proper blood flow and circulation, more oxygen is able to reach the brain and other organs, leading to better function.
GINGER (Zingiber officinale)
Ginger is good for easing nausea, loss of appetite, motion sickness and pain. Studies have shown that increasing ginger intake reduces obesity, heart disease, and diabetes risks. Ginger contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties (especially for osteoarthritis). One study showed that ginger decreased inflammation, thereby reducing the risk of colon cancer. Ginger contains an overall abundance of vitamins and minerals that aid in proper function of organs and digestion. According to a medical research study, ginger also contains a substance able to kill of cancer stem cells. To get ginger in our diet, we like to make ginger garlic paste (pictured below - stay tuned for the recipe)!
TURMERIC (Curcuma longa)
Curcumin, a component in ginger, has been shown to increase levels of BDNP, a hormone in the brain responsible for brain function. When too low, the lack of BDNP can cause brain disorders like Alzheimer’s disease. Multiple studies have also shown that turmeric contains over 600 therapeutic properties, and around 175 physiological effects on the body. It is comparable to a number of medications including Lipitor, Prosac, metformin, corticosteroids and oxaliplatin, a chemotherapy drug. According to UCLA doctors, curcumin, a component found in turmeric, blocks an enzyme that causes head and neck cancer. Curcumin is the most active ingredient in Turmeric.