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| Cumin | Coriander | Ginger | Turmeric | |
| Another potent healer in the Ayurvedic apothecary, this aromatic seed in the shape of the crescent moon, holds it’s own mysterious power. Cumin is heating and is known to purify blood, aid in digestion and relieves indigestion and bloating. Cumin, along with coriander and fennel, creates the famous triad for restoring balance to the doshas. As a tea, this combination can be sipped daily. Cumin, even though heating is good for Pitta as it purifies the blood and assists the liver in detoxification. Cumin is rich in iron and is also used as an antiseptic, both topically as a paste and taken internally as a tea or used as a spice in food. | |
| Whether it’s the green leafy fresh cilantro or the grounding earthy coriander seed, this is an herb to always have on hand. The cilantro leaf acts as a cooling balm to Pitta or a bitter refreshment to Kapha and the seeds are balancing to all doshas. Used to balance and reset the body and mind, coriander is used for digestive disorders and to help in the assimilation of other herbs. Works on the digestive, respiratory and urinary systems, valuable for Pitta skin ailments and digestive issues where other pungent digestive spices are usually contraindicated. | |
| Ginger | A must have in every kitchen apothecary, the fresh rhizome brings flavor, pungency and excitement to food and is used widely as a digestive. Also an excellent remedy for respiratory conditions for Kapha and Vata, ginger is an invigorating spice and is known as ‘the universal medicine’ for it&rss versatility and healing properties. Also used for arthritic conditions to clear stagnation in the joints and for stimulating blood flow. Excellent as a tea for colds and coughs. Increases agni (digestive fire). |
| Turmeric | A golden healing rhizome and a relative of the ginger family, this magic spice is full of healing properties. Primarily known as an anti-inflammatory-helping to relieve swelling and pain in the joints, helpful in alleviating osteoarthritis as well as cleansing the blood and detoxifying the liver. More recently studies have shown the benefits of turmeric in arteriosclerosis, certain cancers and as an anti-oxidant. Turmeric is also effective for digestive disorders, lung infections and skin infections. This spice is also the base of many curry blends and is a valuable addition to your kitchen apothecary. |
| For more Ayurvedic spice wisdom, check out The Mystic Masala website here | |