Medicinal Spices & Herbs

Some plants contain parts that may be used medicinally as both a spice and an herb. Dr. Michael Murray, a naturopathic doctor, herbal medicine expert and author of "The Healing Power of Herbs," states that more and more researchers are discovering the healing properties of the natural compounds found in herbs and spices, which has led to a trend toward natural medicine. Before using spices and herbs medicinally, visit your physician to discuss all aspects of supplementation.

Ginger

Ginger is one of the most commonly used medicinal spices and herbs. Ginger, notes the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, has been used to treat many health problems, such as stomach aches, nausea, diarrhea, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, joint pain and muscle pain. Ginger has also been used to treat digestive disturbances, migraine headaches and blood vessel conditions. Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-atherosclerotic and cardiotonic action. Ginger is a tropical plant.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a popular medicine herb and spice. According to the University of Michigan Health System, cinnamon is an ancient herbal medicine and spice that has been helpful in treating Type 2 diabetes, colic, acid reflux, heavy menstruation, yeast infections and poor appetite. Cinnamon may also be helpful in treating passive bleeding in your gastric, pulmonary, intestinal and urinary tracts. Cinnamon is purported to have astringent, diaphoretic, antiseptic, antibacterial and antifungal action.

Fenugreek

Fenugreek is a commonly used medicinal spice and herb. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center notes that fenugreek has many purported uses, including arthritis, alopecia, diabetes, elevated cholesterol, muscle pain, infections, inflammation, skin ulcers and gastrointestinal tract disorders. Fenugreek is best known for its ability to lower blood glucose levels in people with diabetes. Fenugreek possesses demulcent, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic and anti-atherosclerotic action and contains beneficial alkaloids, saponins and flavonoids.

Considerations

Before using herbs and spices medicinally, consider visiting your physician to discuss the risks, side effects, dosage, duration of supplementation, drug interactions and other issues associated with the specific herbs or spices you are interested in taking. Not all herbs and spices are appropriate for every individual. If you are pregnant or have been diagnosed with certain health conditions, some herbs may be harmful to your health. Using herbs and spices to help treat your health problem does not guarantee a cure.