Ayurveda is one of the world’s oldest healing systems, and Indian cooking was originally based on the principles of Ayurveda. Spices and herbs not only delight your taste buds and add a distinctive aroma to recipes; they also contain a plethora of nutrients, minerals, and vitamins. Since ancient times, spices have been a vital part of our diet. They also significantly distinguish Indian cuisine from other cuisines. Likewise, herbs and spices are also used in preparing Ayurvedic churna, kadha and chyawanprash.
Over the years, spices and herbs have grown in popularity and have become even more relevant, not only for their ability to add flavour and colour to food, but also because they are essential for overall wellness, making them a must-have in every diet.
Below Are Some of the Vital Herbs and Spices Used in Cooking:
- Coriander
Coriander is an herb that’s commonly used to flavour dishes. Antioxidants found in coriander have been shown to have immune-stimulating, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. Coriander has a spiciness, bitterness, and astringency, according to Ayurvedic traditions. It is an ancient medical ingredient that Ayurveda greatly appreciates. Its nutrients elevate mood, stimulate appetite, eliminate toxins from the body, reduce gastrointestinal cramps, and reduce fever.
- Mint
Mint is a popular plant that is used both in cooking and for its medicinal properties. It is known as the best breath freshener. Mint is well renowned for being a reliable digestive and appetiser, as well as being helpful for treating stomach ulcers, nausea alleviation, muscle soreness, and skin conditions, making it a popular herb in Indian kitchens.
- Rosemary
This herb can be consumed both fresh and dried, and it is referred to as a miracle herb that can treat many diseases. Rosemary essential oil is used in Ayurveda to improve memory and relieve headaches, indigestion, eczema, and infections. Because of its antimicrobial properties, rosemary oil speeds up the recovery from colds. According to studies, those who frequently consumed rosemary had a lower risk of developing cataracts, fractures, heart disease, and Alzheimer's disease.
- Garlic
In Indian cooking, garlic is one of the key ingredients and is touted as one of the most efficient foods to treat health issues and provide benefits like detoxification, anti-ageing properties, and weight loss. The flavour of garlic is described as hot, bitter, and astringent in the traditions of Ayurveda. It is considered an Ayurvedic medicine for weight loss and even cleanses the blood and lymph of toxins. It is also found to be effective against viruses and bacteria in the respiratory system and gastrointestinal tract.
- Cinnamon
Cinnamon, also called dalchini, is derived from the inner bark of several tree species in the family Cinnamomum. It is a well-liked spice that is used in a wide variety of dishes and baked items. It is an essential ingredient in Indian food and helps with digestion, lowers cholesterol and cancer risk, boosts blood flow, and takes care of the heart. Additionally, it has antimicrobial, antispasmodic, and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Clove
Cloves are frequently used in Indian cuisine because of their rich flavour and spicy aroma and one of the key components of Indian garam masala. This spice is made from the dried, closed flower buds of the evergreen myrtle tree. Cloves are used in ancient Ayurvedic medicine to treat respiratory problems such as laryngitis, sore throats, asthma, and severe coughs. This spice is recognised as a powerful aphrodisiac.
When used properly and in the right quantities, herbs and spices have a number of health advantages. One may utilise these spices and herbs in cooking with ease, with enough practise and expertise. With their ability to be potent, it is important to add them to food to make modern-day cooking flavoursome, aromatic, and healthy. Additionally, one of the most reliable places to find ayurvedic medicine online is the Jamna Herbal website, where you can find everything from Ayurvedic joint pain oil, hair oil to other medicines easily.
