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Top: Cloves are the dried flowers of the clove tree. Cloves can be used whole or ground. People often include ground cloves in spice mixes and whole cloves in recipes to add depth and flavor to a wide variety of foods. Cloves are a great source of beta-carotene, which helps give them their rich brown color. The carotene family of pigments are important antioxidants and provitamins. Carotene pigments can convert into vitamin A, an important nutrient for keeping your eyes healthy. Cloves include multiple compounds that are linked to anti-inflammatory properties. Eugenol is the most important of these compounds. Eugenol has been shown to reduce the inflammatory response in the body, reducing the risk of diseases such as arthritis and helping to manage symptoms. >> Source
Right: Cumin is a spice made from the seeds of the Cuminum cyminum plant. Cumin lends its distinctive flavor to chili, tamales and various Indian curries. Its flavor has been described as earthy, nutty, spicy and warm. Modern studies have confirmed some of the health benefits cumin is traditionally known for, including promoting digestion and reducing food-borne infections. Research has also revealed some new benefits, such as promoting weight loss and improving blood sugar control and cholesterol. Nine powerful health benefits of cumin can be found here: >> Source
Bottom: Coriander is full of antioxidants, which are important for fighting free radicals in your body. Free radicals are loose oxygen molecules that can damage your cells, potentially causing cancer, heart disease, and more. Coriander has multiple effects that can benefit your heart health. The herb acts as a diuretic, which can help flush extra sodium from your system and reduce your blood pressure. Early research also suggests that coriander can help lower “bad” LDL cholesterol, reducing your risk of atherosclerosis, a form of coronary heart disease. Coriander seeds have been shown to significantly lower blood sugar in people who have diabetes. More information on Coriander can be found here: >> Source
1. Star anise contains a high level of antioxidants, such as linalool, quercetin, thymol, terpineol, caffeic acid, anethole, kaemferol, and coumaric acid, as well as a significant amount of iron. Also contained in star anise are smaller amounts of vitamin C, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. The other active compounds and organic acids, such as shikimic acid, fats, and dietary fiber, also provide star anise with a few extra health benefits. The most notable health benefits of star anise may include its probable ability to lower the risk of cancer, promote healthy skin, prevent fungal infections, support respiratory health, stimulate the immune system, optimize digestion, boost circulation, and aid sleep. >> Source
2. Loaded with vitamins and minerals, mustard seeds are a popular ingredient of Indian and American cuisine. Mustard seeds are also good for your bones as they are packed with a mineral called selenium, which makes your bones stronger. They also help to strengthen your nails, hair, and teeth. Mustard seeds contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help in relieving pain in the gum, bones, and teeth. More details here >> Source
3. Fenugreek Improves Blood Sugar Control. Fenugreek was commonly used in Ayurveda, particularly to enhance libido and masculinity. While its effects on testosterone levels are inconclusive, fenugreek does seem to have beneficial effects on blood sugar. It contains the plant protein 4-hydroxyisoleucine, which can improve the function of the hormone insulin. Many human studies have shown that at least 1 gram of fenugreek extract per day can lower blood sugar levels, particularly in diabetics. >> Source
Once known as black gold, black pepper came from the Sanskrit word pippali. It is a sought-after spice because it adds flavor to foods, acts as a preservative, and brings heat to any dish. Beyond that, black pepper has a range of health benefits. The Black pepper plant (Piper nigrum) grows primarily in southwest India's forests, around the regions of Kerala, Goa, and Karnataka.
Cinnamon Lowers Blood Sugar Levels and Has a Powerful Anti-Diabetic Effect. Cinnamon is a popular spice found in recipes and baked goods. It contains a compound called cinnamaldehyde, responsible for cinnamon’s medicinal properties. Cinnamon has potent antioxidant activity, helps fight inflammation, and is maybe known to lower cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. But where cinnamon shines is in its effects on blood sugar levels. Cinnamon can lower blood sugar by several mechanisms, including slowing the breakdown of carbs in the digestive tract and improving insulin sensitivity. >> Source
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The Spice Route | Spice Dabba | Art of Spice Tempering | Science of Spices | Briyani is Bliss | Spices and Colorado Cultural Connection
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STATE OF THE SPICES is a body of work by fine arts photographer Raj Manickam. The collection of photographs and mixed media artwork investigates the diaspora of spices from their indigenous grounds to worldwide spaces. The Portuguese, Dutch, and Spanish original intentions were to dominate the spice trade. Manickam outlines the early spice routes and colonial conquest of the South Asian and Indian subcontinent. Manickam has a distinct grasp of being an observer in his photography. He has an extensive array of Indian spices and has a passion for cooking authentic South Indian food. Manickam's photographic subjects and mixed media works identify some of the most used and flavorful spices in this collection. Here, he connects aspects of these spices in their present-day use, especially in Colorado's South Asian Indian community.
Note: all health benefits here are not artist's claim but from respective published source as listed in articles.
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© Raj Manickam 2022 | AllinGoodlight.com