1. What Is Star Anise?
Star anise grows as dark brown pods with six to eight segments each containing a seed. This spice hails from an evergreen tree plant native to southwest China2 and northeast Vietnam, although it's also cultivated in Spain, France, Italy, Morocco, India and the Philippines.3 Star anise tastes sweet and spicy, but slightly more bitter than Spanish anise. Some chefs use it to provide a licorice flavor for savory dishes.4
Some people think that star anise and anise seed are the same. While both spices contain a substance called anethole,5 their similarities end there. Anise seed belongs to the Apiaceae family,6 while star anise comes from the Illiciaceae family.7 Anise seed is used more in Western dishes, particularly in Greek and French cuisines,8 while star anise is more common in Asian cooking.9
6 Health Benefits of Star Anise
If you're looking for a flavorful spice with health benefits, star anise might be a good choice. Research has revealed that star anise may:
1.Provide antioxidants for the body — According to a Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry article, star anise extract has potent antioxidant abilities against H2O2-induced cell death and DNA damage.10
2.Help reduce cancer risk — A study published in the journal Chemico-Biological Interactions revealed that animals fed star anise had inhibited cancer development.11 However, more research is needed to show the full extent of this supposed benefit.
3.Exhibit antifungal and antibacterial capabilities — Results showed that star anise extracts and essential oils have antifungal abilities, especially against Candida albicans, a common yeast infection.12
Star anise also has antibacterial properties. Four antimicrobial compounds derived from the spice were effective against nearly 70 strains of drug-resistant bacteria.13
4.Target conditions like influenza and cough — Star anise can help fight influenza because of its shikimic acid content.14 A 2008 study discovered that shikimic acid, together with a plant antioxidant called quercetin, enhanced immune system function and helped protect the body against viral diseases.15 Ingesting star anise may also help relieve cough16 and sore throat.17
5.Improve digestion and dealing with digestive complaints — Star anise tea may help alleviate gas, abdominal cramps,18 indigestion, bloating and constipation.19
6.Address sleep disorders — This spice has mild sedative properties that may aid in calming nerves and ease sleep disorders.20
2.Help reduce cancer risk — A study published in the journal Chemico-Biological Interactions revealed that animals fed star anise had inhibited cancer development.11 However, more research is needed to show the full extent of this supposed benefit.
3.Exhibit antifungal and antibacterial capabilities — Results showed that star anise extracts and essential oils have antifungal abilities, especially against Candida albicans, a common yeast infection.12
Star anise also has antibacterial properties. Four antimicrobial compounds derived from the spice were effective against nearly 70 strains of drug-resistant bacteria.13
4.Target conditions like influenza and cough — Star anise can help fight influenza because of its shikimic acid content.14 A 2008 study discovered that shikimic acid, together with a plant antioxidant called quercetin, enhanced immune system function and helped protect the body against viral diseases.15 Ingesting star anise may also help relieve cough16 and sore throat.17
5.Improve digestion and dealing with digestive complaints — Star anise tea may help alleviate gas, abdominal cramps,18 indigestion, bloating and constipation.19
6.Address sleep disorders — This spice has mild sedative properties that may aid in calming nerves and ease sleep disorders.20
How to Use Star Anise
Star anise is mainly used for culinary purposes, especially in Chinese, Indian, Malaysian and Singaporean cuisines.21 It can be added to alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages.22 Star anise is a vital ingredient in Chinese five-spice powder, along with cloves, fennel seeds, Chinese cinnamon and Sichuan peppercorns.23
This spice is also known for its medicinal uses. In traditional Chinese medicine, star anise boasts stimulant and expectorant properties, and may increase libido24 and facilitate proper digestion.25 Research revealed that using star anise tea can help alleviate diseaseslike colic and arthritis.26
Growing Star Anise at Home
Star anise plants are usually cultivated from cuttings or seeds, and are best grown in USDA zones 7 through 10, in full sun or partial shade.27 According to "Spices: Agrotechniques for Quality Produce," star anise thrives in warm, subtropical climates, and in places where temperatures don't dip below 10 degrees F.
When growing star anise at home, start by sowing seeds in pots or containers, or plant them directly outside. Adding 3 inches of compost or aged manure on the ground around the tree during spring can work as your fertilizer, although you can also apply slow release fertilizer during the same season.28
The soil should be humus- and compost-rich, with a loamy29 and well-drained texture, and with a neutral to acidic pH level.30 Water the plant frequently to keep the soil slightly moist. While the plant is young, actively prune it so it can have the appearance of a bush, and remove dead, diseased and weak branches.
A star anise tree takes at least six years to grow from seeds, so you might have to wait for the plant to fully mature. Once the tree is ready, harvest star anise while they're still green, and then sun-dry them until their color changes to a reddish-brown hue. The seeds can be removed from the pods after.31
Try These Delicious Recipes With Star Anise
You can find whole or ground star anise in Asian supermarkets or spice stores,32although whole spices are more ideal. Grind whole star anise using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. Keep unused star anise inside an airtight container in a cool and dark place that isn't exposed to heat, moisture or sunlight, where it can keep for at least one year.33 If you bought ground star anise powder, use it within six months, or else you'll end up with a spice that lacks flavor.34
In cooking, star anise is used to enhance the flavors of duck, eggs, fish, leeks, pears, pork, poultry, pumpkin, shrimp or pastry, to name a few.35 It also goes well in soups, just like this carrot soup with star anise recipe.
Source : https://www.google.com/amp/s/articles.mercola.com/herbs-spices/amp/star-anise.aspx
2.
What is Nutmeg?
Nutmeg is a spice that comes from the seed of the evergreen nutmeg tree (Myristica fragrans). [1] The nutmeg tree, interestingly, is a host to one more incredibly potent and unique spice, mace, which is the dried reddish seedcovering.
The tree is native to the Maluku or Spice Islands of Indonesia and is the only tree which is the source of two distinct spices in the world. It is commonly grown in the Caribbean, other tropical areas of the world, and also in Southern India in the state of Kerala.
Uses of Nutmeg
Nutmeg spice has a pungent fragrance and a slightly sweet taste which is why it is widely used in cuisines around the world. Nutmeg is used and found in many forms like essential oils, powder, and extracts. While the ground nutmeg is used in many preparations like baking, puddings, confections, beverages like eggnog, pumpkin pie and apple pie, it is most used in making nutmeg butter. The spice is also a key ingredient in creamy and cheesy dishes like alfredo.
Nutmeg Nutrition Facts
While nutmeg is only a spice that is used sparingly in dishes, it can still impact your health in a variety of ways, mainly due to its nutritive content of vitamins, minerals, and organic compounds related to essential oils. [3] [4] According to the USDA National Nutrient Database, these beneficial components include dietary fiber, manganese, thiamin, vitamin B6, folate, magnesium, copper, and macelignan. [2]
Health Benefits of Nutmeg
The health benefits of this amazing spice are explained in greater detail below.
Relieves Pain
People suffering from chronic conditions like cancer, inflammatorydiseases, and diabetes often suffer from persistent pain. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine, nutmeg oil, derived from the seed of nutmeg tree, has been proven to be an analgesic and a chronic pain reliever. [5]
Published in the Food and Nutrition Research journal, a 2016 comparative study conducted on rats, showed that topical application of nutmeg oil, when compared to other pain alleviators like diclofenac, has a better effect on the inflammatory pain. [6] The same study also shows that nutmeg oil can also alleviate joint swelling as well as mechanical allodynia, which is an intense pain caused by even a light touch.
Relieves Insomnia
For generations, nutmeg has been recommended as a home remedy for sleeplessness and insomnia. A pinch of nutmeg in warm milk always seems to do the trick.
An uncontrolled trial by Naidu et al. was conducted on 251 patients, who were administered with a nutmeg-containing herbal capsule. [7] The patients received the capsule for 4 weeks regularly. All the people who participated in the research apprised that they witnessed an improvement in the overall weakness levels and insomnia. One animal studyalso suggested that nutmeg extracts helped in increasing the duration of deep sleep. [8]
Promotes Digestion
According to Essential Oils in Food Preservation, Flavor and Safety, by Gomathi Perisamy, et al. nutmeg is known to have medicinal properties and has been used to treat digestive issues such as indigestion and stomach ulcers. [9] These medicinal properties come from the unique scent of the nutmeg seed.
Improves Brain Health
Nutmeg is often connected with neuroprotective properties. In recent research by Dr. Waluga Plaingam, et al.,these effects of nutmeg volatile oil are tested on rats. [10]
Results of the study show that nutmeg contains volatile oils like myristicin, eugenol, and elemicin, all of which helped in increasing the levels of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in the hippocampus of the rats. The hippocampus is the organ located in the brain that is mainly associated with memory and spatial navigation, which is the part of memory responsible for recording and retrieving all the information in the brain.
Therefore the study concluded suggesting that the oils in nutmeg have a therapeutic effect on the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Huntington’s disease.
Oral Health
A 2012 study led by Shafeie Z, et al.suggests that nutmeg has antibacterialproperties and has the potential to inhibit the activity of bacteria such as Porphyromonas gingivalis that causes periodontitis and Streptococcus mutans that are associated with tooth decay. [11]
Furthermore, according to Chemistry of Spice by Valtcho D. Jeliazkov (Zheljazkov), myristic acid and trimyristin found in nutmeg also exhibit good antibacterial activity. [12] The methanol extract found in nutmeg has anticariogenic properties and helps prevent tooth decay and dental caries. Macelignan, another antibacterial agent found in this spice, also helps inhibit the activity of bacteria that cause the cavity. [13]
Moreover, a 2016 study led by Wei Kevin Zhang, et al. and published in the Foodand Nutrition Research journal suggests that topical application of nutmeg oil may relieve a toothache. [6]
Liver Protection
Nutmeg is a well-known plant with various medicinal applications including its use in treating liver disorders. An animal study by Dr. Frank Gonzalez, (Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Maryland, US) et al. [14] suggests that nutmeg rich in myrislignan may help in relieving liver injuries.
In the study, mice were administered with thioacetamide (TAA), which is a chemical compound that causes chronic liver disease like fibrosis and cirrhosis and treated with nutmeg. Nutmeg extracts helped lower the hepatic inflammation and also the free radical activity in the liver.
Another study on rats by Prof. Morita T, et al. suggests that myristicin found in nutmeg oil has hepatoprotective properties. [15] However, further studies are required to explain the benefits of nutmeg for the liver.
Anti-depressant Properties
In Ayurvedic medicine, nutmeg has been treasured for a long time for its medicinal properties when it comes to depression. In a 2012 study conducted by Dr. Deepak Kumar Khajuria and his team, from the Al-Ameen College of Pharmacy, Bangalore, India, it was found that nutmeg extracts demonstrated an antidepressantactivity. [16] Moreover, it also has fewer side effects than conventional allopathic drugs.
In a mice study led by Dhingra D. and Sharma A., it was found that extract of nutmeg seeds exhibited antidepressant effects. [17]
Regulates Blood Pressure
In a comprehensive guide to lowering blood pressure by the National Institutes of Health, it is suggested to add more spices like nutmeg to the diet. [18] The guide also mentions and emphasizes using less sodium in the food to keep the blood pressure levels healthy.
Another study reported that nutmeg extracts did not exhibit any significant effect on blood pressure levels. More scientific evidence is required to prove the effects of nutmeg on blood.
Anticancer Potential
A lesser known quality of nutmeg is its potential use against cancerous cells. According to a study published in Chemico-Biological Interactions, myristicin found in nutmeg has chemopreventive properties. [19] It is found to induce cell death (apoptosis) in leukemia cells. This, in turn, may help in preventing the growth of cancerous cells and metastasis of leukemia that commonly afflicts children.
Skin Care
Although the exact mechanism is not fully understood, herbal and traditional medicines have long used nutmeg to boost the appearance and health of the skin. Most commonly, it is applied as a paste mixed with water, or even honey, which is also great for skin care.
According to a recent 2016 research, nutmeg has shown a positive response in treating skin infections. [7]Interestingly, a research by KE Lee et al.found that nutmeg and the bioactive compounds in it like macelignan helped in delaying premature aging caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. [20] Nutmeg oil has also gained popularity for its skin-enriching properties. [21]
Lowers LDL Cholesterol Levels
In an animal study, nutmeg extracts showed hypolipidemic effects. [21] This means that there was a significant reduction in the LDL cholesterol levels in them. Another animal study showed that nutmeg seed extracts help lower LDL cholesterol along with total cholesterol levels. [22]
Even though there is less scientific evidence available, nutmeg seems to have the potential to lower the bad lipoproteins in the body.
Antidiarrheal Effect
According to Llewellyn’s Complete Book of Ayurveda, nutmeg has been commonly used for giving relief from diarrhea. [23] It is rich in carminative properties and helps promote digestion. It can be either applied topically or consumed with ginger and cold water.
The study conducted by Prof. J K Grover et. al., from the Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, showed that nutmeg could actually decrease the loose stools. [24] Therefore, it can be concluded that nutmeg extracts have a good antidiarrheal effect.
Anticonvulsant Properties
A 2009 study by Wahab A, et al. suggests that use of nutmeg oil may help prevent the spread of seizures. [25] It is also indicated that this oil may be effective against both grand mal and partial seizures.
Source : https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/nutmeg.html
3. Galangal health benefits includes fighting inflammation, increasing sperm count, enhances blood circulation, support digestion, improving cognitive function, healing skin burn, getting rid of motion, morning and sea sickness, prevent cancer and tumor, lowering cholesterol level and blood lipid, strengthening the immune system and alleviating light fever.
What is Galangal Root?
We use and speak of many herbs on a regular basis, but not many of us have come across or even heard about the herb known as Galangal. Galangal is a bitter herb that comes from the ginger family and belongs to genus Alpinia. It is native to Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, and people there use it as a spice to flavor products and medicine. Many people describe galangal’s taste as citrus and earthy at the same time, with a kick of spice that hits you instantly and then goes away.
At present day, many countries around Europe import it for its medicinal and flavor properties. There are four main types of Galangal, namely Sand ginger, Chinese ginger, greater galangal and lesser galangal.
Also referred to as Siamese ginger and Thai ginger, Galangal is a unique ingredient. You can find it in Chinese, Malaysian, Thai and Indonesian cuisine. It features a paler and smoother skin than ginger and flesh that is hard. Furthermore, you have to slice it rather than grating it, like ginger. Besides its wide use in cooking, Galangal oil holds great medicinal importance. It is commonly prescribed by herbalists and homeopaths since it brings many health benefits.
Nutrition Facts of Galangal
One serving (64 grams) of galangal contains 2 grams of dietary fiber and 45 calories. It is also a good source of sodium, flavonoids, vitamins A and C, iron, and some phytochemicals like Beta-Sitosterol, quercetin, Emodin, and Galangin. 100 grams of galangal contains:
- 149 calories
- 15 grams of carbohydrates
- 2 grams of fiber
- 1 gram of protein
- 1 gram of total fat
- 4 grams of vitamin C
11 Impressive Health Benefits of Galangal
1. Contains Anti-oxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties
Research suggests that galangal contains anti-inflammatory properties that make it a great remedy for arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. In addition to that, it also helps alleviate the discomfort caused by ulcers and inflammation of the abdomen.
2. Increases Sperm Count
Galangal root is known to stimulate male fertility. A study published in 2014 in the Iranian Journal of Reproductive Medicine concluded that galangal root increases motility and sperm count, and may also improve the sperm’s general health. A similar study published in PLOS in 2014 suggested that the number of motile sperm multiplied the degree of placebo by three times when 34 healthy males received pomegranate fruit extract and galangal rhizome.
3. Enhances Blood Circulation
Galangal is known to flush out toxins from the body also improve blood circulation. The result is that more nutrients enter the skin tissue. The antioxidant properties of the galangal stop the free radicals from harming the skin, thus maintaining the suppleness of the skin. Galangal can also be used on the scalp as a hair growth promoter since it increases blood circulation. For thinning hair, galangal juice combined with jojoba oil makes a great remedy.
4. Helps Digestion
the oldest and most common use of galangal is for treating an upset stomach, especially in Asian cultures and Ayurvedic medicine. It also works great in providing relief from vomiting, diarrhea, and also hiccups.
5. Improves Cognitive Function
A component present in galangal root, known as ACA, may be responsible for its cognitive-protecting effects, and some studies suggest that it can also help in reducing some kinds of age-related brain degeneration. In addition to that, a phytonutrient in galangal can also suppress TNF-alpha activity, which may help combat depression.
6. Heals Skin Burns
Galangal juice works like magic for skin burns. When applied topically on the affected area, it provides instant relief from the discomfort and also works to heal the burn. You can also rub fresh galangal slices on the burnt area 3 – 4 times every day till to reduce the scars. Although it may take a while (usually 6 – 12 weeks), you will see a difference.
7. Gets rid of Motion, Morning, and Sea Sickness
By chewing some fresh galangal flesh, you can reduce and even cure motion. The fragrant oil present in galangal can calm your nerves. Pregnant women who usually experience morning sickness should try this remedy. Drinking brewed galangal slices with honey and warm water can also relieve morning sickness.
8. Prevents Cancer and Tumor
This is perhaps the most impressive benefit of galangal. Since the spice is host to many antioxidant and anti-inflammatory substances, it can help lower DNA damage brought by toxic components and other free radicals that enter the body. A study carried out by UK researchers found that galangal has cancer-fighting properties according to experiments carried with people suffering from breast and lung. The most effective of those anti-cancer components is a flavonoid known as galanin, which modulates the enzyme activity and destroys genotoxicity.
9. Lowers Cholesterol and Blood Lipid
Researchers from China stated that it’s extract could fight fatty-acid synthase with the help of its flavonoids like kaempferol, quercetin, and galanin. Korean researchers also proved that galangal extract substantially reduced the cholesterol and Triglyceride.
10. Strengths the Immune System and acts as an Anti-HIV
Numerous studies suggest that polysaccharide extract from galangal possessed a stimulating effect on the reticuloendothelial system and increased the number of spleen cells and peritoneal exudates, which play a key role in the body’s immune system.
11. Galangal Root Alleviates Light Fever
Galangal combined with Nila-Embu is a great home remedy for body ache that many suffer from after experiencing cold or cold-related fever. All you need to is take 5 – 6 leaves of Nila-Embu, mix it with ½ “ piece of greater galangal and boil it in a cup of water till it reduces in half. Drink this solution 2 to 3 times in a day.
Conclusion
As you can see, Galangal offers a wide range of benefits for your overall health. Keep in mind that this is just the tip of the iceberg. There are many more benefits that you receive. Hence, you should try and incorporate this herb in your diet and lifestyle so that you can benefit from its amazing properties.
Source : https://www.naturalfoodseries.com/11-benefits-galangal/
Comments
Post a Comment