When better health is the objective, it’s essential to find more ways to achieve it. Aids to help you are in your spice rack. A nice plus for seniors, they’re effective and already on hand.
Peppermint, typically considered a southern staple, is what gives candy its cooling flavor. Adding a fresh sprig to iced tea or a mint julep gives those beverages an unparalleled, unique distinction while giving you more protection than you may realize.
Peppermint’s high concentration of antioxidants makes it an excellent source for important nutrients like beta-carotene, vitamin B2, Vitamin C, iron, and calcium. It also has potassium, magnesium, copper, fiber, and omega-3 fats. Moreover, it contains rosmarinic acid, a substance beneficial for asthma.
Oil of peppermint inhibits the growth of some bacteria and fungi. Furthermore, the menthol in peppermint is a natural muscle-relaxant, helping to add to its many benefits. Some are the ability to relieve irritable bowel syndrome, which includes indigestion, dyspepsia, and colon muscle spasms. Moreover, its phytonutrients have been shown to stop the growth of pancreatic, mammary, and liver tumors; and it’s an effective protection against colon, skin, and lung cancer formation.
Another important food antioxidant that provides numerous health benefits is thyme. It contains several vital flavonoids and oils, which protect and increase the percentage of healthy fats found in cell structure. It increases the amount of DHA (an omega-3 fatty acid) in heart, brain, and kidney membranes. In addition, it’s an excellent source for calcium, iron, manganese, and dietary fiber.
Thyme and turmeric have some similar health benefits. They’re both helpful for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, arthritis, skin diseases, and muscle cramps.
Thyme’s benefits also include respiratory relief (i.e. chest congestion, bronchitis, and coughs). Relaxing stomach muscles, it relieves chronic gastritis, indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome, and lack of appetite. Drinking tea brewed with thyme removes parasites in the gastrointestinal tract, which helps dissolve and eliminate intestinal mucus.
Thyme’s anti-septic and anti-bacterial qualities make it good for mouthwashes, treating oral and throat infections plus gingivitis. Best of all for seniors, by stimulating the nervous system, it provides a defense from cancer-causing toxins, and it improves mental sharpness and concentration, helping depression, nervous exhaustion, nightmares, insomnia, and Alzheimer’s.
Making smoothies using some of the herb and spices you’ve learned about is a perfect way to incorporate them to your diet. Furthermore, you can use several to concoct a delicious and nutritious treat.
