When it comes to Ayurvedic spices, a wide range of herbs can provide numerous health benefits and enhance the flavors of your dishes. We’ve consulted various experts to compile their top recommendations on essential Ayurvedic spices that should be a staple in every kitchen. Let’s delve into these expert suggestions and uncover the marvels of these herbs. So, what are the must-have Ayurvedic spices for your kitchen?
“Your kitchen is a sacred place where medicine lies in the form of food.”
Dr. Vasant Lad
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Ayurvedic Expert Dr. Remya Krishnan’s Essential Kitchen Herbs [1]:
- Turmeric [2]: It possesses antibacterial properties and remarkable wound healing capacity, along with antioxidant properties that act as a blood purifier. Additionally, it exhibits diuretic properties and is commonly used as a remedy for coughs and colds.
- Coriander [3]: Due to its high iron content, seeds are beneficial in the treatment of anemia. They also possess diuretic properties and can aid in reducing high lipid levels in the body.
- Ginger [4]: known for its numerous health benefits. It can alleviate issues like indigestion, constipation, and bleeding. Additionally, fresh ginger is effective in soothing a sore throat and providing protection against a runny nose and cold. It also offers relief for respiratory problems such as asthma and pneumonia.
- Black pepper: exhibits carminative properties, providing relief from flatulence. It improves circulation in the body and helps eliminate excessive mucus from the digestive tract, thereby aiding in digestion.
- Fenugreek seeds [5]: known to aid in the treatment of loss of appetite and indigestion. They enhance appetite and digestive power. Additionally, fenugreek seeds can be beneficial for lactating women to promote lactation.
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Dr. Zeel Gandhi: An Ayurvedic Expert and Kitchen Herb Enthusiast suggested [6]:
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Salila Sukumaran: The Ayurvedic expert, shares essential kitchen herbs for optimal health [9]:
The use of spices is an important part of Ayurvedic cooking, and spices have medicinal properties that promote digestive health and wellness.
The non-negotiables in an Ayurveda newbie kitchen are:
- Turmeric: Turmeric is especially the queen of the spice rack because it has anti-inflammatory properties and helps reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Asafoetida [10]: Its properties are antispasmodic, expectorant, stimulant, emmenagogue and vermifuge. Asafoetida has also been used as a sedative. It also thins the blood and lowers blood pressure. It is widely used in India in food and as a medicine in Indian systems of medicine like Ayurveda.
- Coriander: Coriander prevents flatulence and controls spasmodic pain as recommended by Ayurveda. Extract of coriander seeds has a marked antispasmodic activity. Coriander contains both Cineole and linoleic acid. These elements pose antirheumatic and antiarthritic properties which help reduce skin inflammations.
- Pepper: Black pepper is a warming spice and contributes to the pungent taste. It is excellent for pacifying Kapha, helps pacify Vata, and increases Pitta.
- Fennel [11]: “In Ayurveda, it holds a special role in digestion. Because of its cooling and sweet properties, it specifically strengthens and warms Agni (the digestive fire) without provoking pitta. As a tridoshic herb, fennel is also balanced for vata and kapha, making it a great digestive choice for anyone to keep on hand.
- Cumin seeds [12]: Cumin is generally considered to be a heating herb. It is said to stimulate digestion, support the immune system, and help to relieve stress.
“In Ayurveda, every meal is a chance to nourish and heal.”
Ananta Ripa Ajmera [13]
Explore the extraordinary realm of Ayurvedic spices! While the ones mentioned here offer a mere glimpse, an entire cosmos of flavors and well-being awaits. Immerse yourself in a cornucopia of herbs and spices, craft your bespoke blends, and embark on culinary escapades that will enchant your senses and nurture your well-being. Let your taste buds and vitality flourish!