The season of spice

Did you know that certain spices are beneficial for your health? By Amy Rohu

As the evenings get dark and the crisp winter air makes us add more layers, we naturally gravitate towards warmer things such as open fires, tea and snuggly blankets. In the wintertime when our immune systems get lowered, it is extra important to look after ourselves and practice good habits (like those discussed on page 67). Drinking plenty of water, getting enough sleep and taking our vitamins are all good places to start, but is there anything else we can do to help give us a seasonal boost?

While adding cinnamon to your apple pie or cloves to your hot whiskey are considered classic winter additions, warming spices have been used for centuries for their potential health benefits too. Our bodies crave the warmth in the colder months, so it might be a good idea to try adding some spices to your daily routine this season if you don’t already, and if you are really into your spice, then hopefully you’ll get some fresh ideas for how to use them here.

There are so many different spices out there, so let’s take a look at some of the most popular ones that you can pick up in any supermarket and one or two special spices, which will get a mention at the end.

Cinnamon

First up, we have cinnamon, a classic spice which pairs perfectly with poached fruits such as apple and blackberry. Cinnamon is a great addition to baked goods such as pies and breads or you could try sprinkling some over your morning bowl of porridge to give you a warming boost first thing.

This versatile spice has antiinflammatory and anti-bacterial properties as well as boosting your immune system and lowering blood pressure.

Ginger

Another classic spice which has similar benefits to cinnamon, is ginger. Available in powdered form as well as fresh, ginger is a must-have for any kitchen and can be added to curries, soups and baking. To make ginger tea, peel and chop a thumb sized amount of fresh ginger, allow to simmer in boiled water for 5 to 10 minutes and strain into a cup. You could sweeten with maple syrup or add some apple cider vinegar to really give it a boost.

Star anise

Herbal teas are one of the easiest ways to take spices and another one which is particularly delicious is star anise tea. Star anise is used to help with digestive issues such as bloating, gas, indigestion and constipation. Drinking star anise tea after meals could help with these issues. Simply boil in some water for five to 10 minutes and enjoy! This spice is said to have sedative properties, too, and its soothing effects can calm the nervous system, making it the perfect brew to enjoy before bed.

“If you are a spice aficionado, then maybe it’s time to find some mace and experiment in the kitchen”

Nutmeg

Another classic winter spice which has similar properties to star anise is nutmeg. Nutmeg is believed to help in the release of serotonin and can also help to calm the nervous system. As well as this, it is rich in antioxidants which can help prevent cellular damage and it has anti-bacterial properties too. Nutmeg pairs perfectly with vegetables such as sweet potato and butternut squash or you could try adding a sprinkle into a cup of warm plant milk, for a soothing treat.

Allspice

Next up on our spice journey, we have the classic allspice. Allspice contains iron which can help with energy in the dark winter months as well as copper, a potent antioxidant that defends cells from free radical damage, which is linked to signs of ageing. Allspice is versatile and is perfect in sweet or savoury dishes. Try it sprinkled over roasted root veg or for adding more spice to apple pie.

For another delicious pairing, why not try adding a teaspoon to tomato based stews and soups? It not only gives a fullbodied taste and flavour but it really packs a nutritious punch, too, with the addition of lots of veggies.

Clove

Another classic winter warmer is clove. Cloves are an essential accompaniment for warm winter drinks such as mulled wine, but did you know they also provide a rich source of manganese? One teaspoon of ground clove contains 55 per cent of the daily value of manganese, a nutrient which is essential for maintaining brain function and building strong bones. Cloves are also high in antioxidants and are perfect for adding to curry. Try simmering a few whole cloves for 10 minutes in boiling water for a health boosting winter tea.

Cardamom

Cardamom is a wonderful warming spice which can be used to help with digestive issues and can fight bacteria in the mouth. In some cultures, whole pods are chewed after eating to freshen breath. Try adding some cardamom to baking by pairing with ginger in gingerbread biscuits for a seasonal treat.

Mace

Finally, we have our two special mentions, first up, mace. Mace is not as common as the other spices discussed here, but as part of the nutmeg family it is something worth trying. Common in Indian cuisine, mace is perfect in savoury dishes and has been linked to helping sore joints.

Saffron

The last spice on our journey is saffron. Saffron is expensive and sometimes hard to come by, but if you can try it, it’s worth it. Invest in a good quality saffron and try adding to curries and rice dishes to enhance their flavour. This spice has been linked to helping depression, anxiety and even easing menstrual cramps. Centuries ago, saffron was used in place of cinnamon in apple pie, something worth trying if you really like the flavour.

There is such a huge variety when it comes to spices and there’s something to suit everyone. You can’t go wrong with the classic cinnamon and ginger spices, so if these are new to you start there. If you are a spice aficionado, then maybe it’s time to find some mace and experiment in the kitchen.

Please remember that while these spices have been linked to health benefits, if you are concerned about a certain ailment in particular, then please consult your doctor and always use spices in moderation.

Words by Amy Rohu, IG @vegan_with_amy