Three Most Common Spices of India That are Healthy

In the Ayurvedic System of medicine, spices are used not for taste but more so for their use as health ingredients or therapeutics. The same spices are used in Indian kitchens, they are used as flavors but the health benefits accrue. Very few people in other countries realize the health benefits of Indian spices. The role of spices is used in flavoring, coloring, and even as a preservative. Most of the spices are also used in the industry in pharmaceutical industry, medical, cosmetic, and perfumery.

The masalas also cure many diseases like heart disease, diabetes, skin disorders, and anti-inflammatory agents. They contain vital chemicals, antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. Some of the spices are also linked to preventing  AIDs, cancers, and other disabling diseases. Some of the spices are well touted for a healthy heart.    

The spices are used in various Indian recipes, and there are hardly any recipes where the masalas are not added. They are most often used in tampering. Some of the commonly used spices are:

Cumin

Cumin is universally used, except in sweets, it is called Jeera by many other vernacular names in different regions of India. Jeera has an aromatic odor and a sweet spicey taste. It is used as condiments but goes well with curries, soups, and even fried food where the powder is sprinkled over the whole seeds. Cumin is often roasted grounded and then used in the recipes. Cumin is used all over India in local and regional dishes hence, it is indispensable.    Nutritional Values.

Calories- 350Kcal,

Protein- 18.7g,

Total Fats- 15g,

Carbohydrates- 36.6g,

Fibre- 1.2g,

Minerals- 5.8g,

Calcium- 1080mg,

Phosphorus- 511mg,

Iron- 11mg

 

Turmeric 

Turmeric is a rhizome, that grows in India, and is also imported from Afghanistan. Its use is widespread, and pan India. It has a woody taste but obliterates when used in curry powders, and other masalas.  It is not very aromatic but often smells like orange and ginger. Turmeric is known as haldi in Hindi and has many other vernacular and regional names. It is easily recognizable because of its bright orange color and thus, it is often used as a dye in the industry.

Mustard Seeds  

Mustard is also known as "sarsonh" in Hindi, and many other vernacular and regional names. It's a small seed shaped like small round balls.  They are used as a whole and in powdered form. Oil is also extracted from mustard.  and is known as sarsonh oil in India. It is widely used in North India for frying.

Nowadays, spice is available as whole mustard seeds in beautiful packings.  It is sold all over India by Living Beyond company based in India. It is also available in whole-spice curry recipes sold by Living Beyond in India.