Attributes of Spices

Besides adding zest to a meal or fragrance to a home, spices have been used as medicinal supplements for centuries. Many spices possess restorative properties that can aid in everything from easing an upset stomach to alleviating the pain of arthritis.

Antispasmodic

• Antispasmodic spices help suppress muscle spasms and seizures. Mint leaves are a commonly available antispasmodic, often crushed and used in tea bags to calm the body and soothe spasms in the stomach. Garlic is another commonplace spice which can help to reduce intestinal spasms. It augments the natural production of bile in the liver and decreases the body's discomfort from gases in the stomach. The saffron crocus is a less-known antispasmodic, which can be ground into powder and ingested as tea or a seasoning for rice. However, saffron must be used with discretion, as overdoses can be fatal.

Digestive Aids

• Ginger is a readily available spice which assists and multiplies the production of saliva and digestive juices, alleviating pain from cramping, bloating, indigestion and diarrhea. It also aids in cleansing and purging the bowels and kidneys. Hyssop oil is helpful for relieving colic and gas pains, and hyssop leaves can be used in tea to aid digestion. Lemon grass, bay leaves and mint leaves have also been known to help with indigestion.

Anti-Inflammatory

• In addition to aiding digestion, ginger can also reduce swelling and inflammation in the joints, making it a helpful supplement to those with arthritis and ulcerative colitis. Turmeric, an Indian spice, is also recognized as a natural painkiller and anti-inflammatory treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. Other spices, such as rosemary, bay leaf, licorice, mint and allspice, can be used in tea or poultices as a home remedy for arthritis and joint pain.

Blood Pressure and Heart Disease

• Besides aiding the digestive process, regular ingestion of fresh garlic can help lower cholesterol and reduce the chance of blood clots and heart attacks. Excessive amounts of sugar and salt in one's diet can increase the chance of heart disease, but cinnamon and rosemary provide heart-healthy substitutes. Ground cinnamon enhances circulation and reduces the level of glucose in the bloodstream, providing a sweet alternative to refined sugar. Replacing salt in one's diet with rosemary increases blood flow to the heart and strengthens weak capillaries.