Other uses for Cinnamon, Fennel, Fenugreek and Black Pepper

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a well-known and well-used spice in many households.  Whether it is used in puddings, milk tart or pancakes, but many other things.  Cinnamon is high in antioxidants and cinnamaldehyde works against blood platelet clotting.  It is good for arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis, it stops the growth of harmful bacteria, for example candida and it helps to maintain a healthy colon.  It also boosts brain function and controls blood sugar levels (can be used by diabetics). 

Fennel

Fennel is used in many Italian dishes. It can help alleviate severe period pains and aids digestion.  Grind it into a power and add it to salads, soups, stews or curries.  You can also add fennel seeds to your green tea.  Fennel is also good to use to help you detox.

Fenugreek

Fenugreek seed extract reduces weight gain induced by a high-fat diet.  Adding the leaves to your sandwiches, salads, soups or curries, is an easy way to use Fenugreek. The seeds can also be grinded to make Garam Masala; add it to a dish or use it as a meat-rub.

Black Pepper

Black pepper contains antioxidants, which aids in lowering the risk of diseases like cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis and neurological conditions.  It aids in digestion- and intestinal health and supports the immune system.  Due to its strong taste, black pepper brings out the nutrients and flavours when you add it to meat.  Do take care, however, if you do have a sensitive stomach, as too much black pepper powder, can spoil a dish.  It can be added to macaroni and cheese, to bring out the flavours, or to any other dish.

There are so many other herbs and spices that you can use in the kitchen, in almost any (if not all) dishes – from drinks, to salads, main courses, deserts and the like, that it is too many to mention here.  I will, however, in a later blogpost, look into this again, as many people want to use more natural remedies these days.  In the meantime, always make sure that, whatever you use, is safe; especially if you have a health condition or if you are pregnant.