Healthy Flavors of Fall

Many of our beloved fall spices actually have quite powerful medicinal properties.

Cinnamon’s use dates back far into antiquity. It comes from the inner bark of  several different species of Cinnamomum trees. Studies have shown cinnamon has potent anti viral and anti cancer properties, as well as the ability to inhibit Alzheimer’s disease. It can also be used to help lower cholesterol and alleviate the pain of arthritis.

Extremely aromatic and licorice-like in flavor, anise is wonderful for female reproductive health. According to this study, anise “helps increase milk secretion, promote menstruation, facilitate birth, … and increase libido.” It is also helpful for coughs and bronchitis, as well as asthma and colic in children. The oil is a powerful antiseptic and insect repellent.

Cloves are the dried flower buds from Myrtaceae trees. The essential oil of cloves has been used for centuries to ease dental pain and digestive disorders, as well as to expel worms. Studies show it has anti-oxidant properties and is useful in preventing the spread of anti-herpes simplex virus (HSV).

Ginger is the rhizome of the Zingiber officinale plant. It is an excellent anti-nausea agent for morning sickness, seasickness, and chemotherapy. A potent blood-thinner and anti-inflammatory, ginger is useful in lowering cholesterol, treating arthritis, and increasing overall heart health.

Cardamom are the seed pods of the Elettaria and Amomom plants native to India. It’s medicinal uses vary from helping teeth, gum, and throat infections; to improving lung congestion, stomach and digestive issues, as well as relieving constipation. The seeds can be chewed. Kidney and gall stones have been known to be broken up by ingesting cardamom.

Most of these herbs are very warming to the system, which improves circulation. Good circulation is so important in keeping our vital systems healthy.