At Val Healing we understand there is more to gaining health than simply eating and exercising. Water for hydration, green tea for helping to keep away impurities., massage to break up impurities in the system, and a little Tai Chi to strengthen our muscles and make us flexible. All these things are now accepted in our part of the world as beneficial to our health.

In the western world, the United States, many of us associate spices with food and cooking. While spices add color and flavor to the foods we eat, most spices actually have a medicinal property which makes them even more valuable.

For years I have told my clients who were suffering with stomach ailments to eat ginger. Ginger has the ability to aid with digestion, digestive disorders and nausea. Studies also support Ginger as an excellent way to decrease inflammation and inhibit pain. In fact, a most recent study regarding the pain relief of migraines shows powdered ginger(s) to be just as effective, in relieving migraine pain than the most prescribed pharmaceuticals. While most pharmaceuticals have many unfavorable side effects the powdered ginger has virtually none.

Also in the Ginger family are Turmeric and Cardamom; Cardamom has a unique peppery citrus flavor. This makes it an intriguing spice to use with desserts as well as main dishes. Rich in fiber, Cardamom also has been shown to aid in digestion and has been found effective in silencing ‘hiccups’. The seeds of the Cardamom plants have many uses as well. Chewing the seeds are an excellent aid with the cessation of smoking;  In India is common practice to chew on a couple cardamom seeds after a meal as a ‘breath mint’.  An anti-inflammatory, Cardamom has been shown to lower blood pressure and is especially effective in healing issues of the mouth. If you are not inspired to add Cardamom to your diet yet, the fact that it is high in antioxidants makes it a must.

Another amazing spice comes from India and is called Turmeric. Turmeric is used as an anti inflammatory agent,  can be used topically, and internally as well. In healing of rashes, bites or bruises, use Turmeric topically.   Turmeric ranks high on the list for antioxidants as does its cousin Cardamom. Studies suggest that both, Cardamom and Turmeric, are vital players in fighting cancer and both are instrumental in the role of brain health so invest now and your body will thank you later.

All three spices can be found and bought dried or powdered, as oil, tincture or extract. Remember when buying any spice or herb, go with THE FRESHEST. It is wise to consider the plants origin, the source, and the length of time from farm to retail market. Explore the ranges of flavors, aromas and health benefits that flow in abundance with these magical spices.