Herbs and Spices recommended by Dr. Eric Braverman MD

Feb. 28, 2012 - PRLog -- Dr. Braverman recommends the following herbs and spices for flavor and health:

CAYENNE (CHILE PEPPER)

Properties: When fresh or lightly cooked, these peppers are high in vitamin C. When added to the diet in sufficient quantities, cayenne was found to reduce appetites. Believe it or not, when capsules of cayenne are taken before meals, it can reduce heartburn.
Cooking: Adds color and heat, rather than flavor, to curries, soups, and stews. Put it on fish to give it a slight reddish color, but do not blacken.

CINNAMON

Properties: Research shows this spice has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties. Also, water extracts may reduce ulcers.
Cooking: Can enhance both sweet and non-sweet dishes. Cinnamon on banana controls blood sugar, and gives you a nice, sweet desert.

CUMIN

Properties: Research has shown that cumin may stimulate the secretion of pancreatic enzymes, compounds necessary for proper digestion and nutrient assimilation.
Cooking: Cumin, a spice found in curry, can be put on steak. It’s also good in tomato- or grain-based dishes, and its digestive properties mean that it is also ideal with beans.

GARLIC

Properties: Garlic has been researched extensively, and has shown benefit in the following areas: high cholesterol, hypertension, blood clotting, infections, and intestinal parasites.
Cooking: This herb adds flavor to a wide range of non-sweet dishes. Its flavor is milder when whole or sliced; crushing or chopping releases the oils, making the flavor stronger. Overcooking reduces its health benefits.

GINGER

Properties: Ginger is well-known for its beneficial effect on motion sickness and nausea. It also stimulates the digestion process.
Cooking: It’s good in both sweet and non-sweet dishes, adding a hot, yet refreshing, flavor to marinades, stir-fries, soups, curries, grains, and fresh vegetables. Use ginger sauces on salads and fish.

OREGANO

Properties: This herb can relieve digestive problems.
Cooking: A variety of marjoram, oregano has a stronger flavor that goes well with tomato-based dishes.

PAPRIKA

Properties: Paprika is a digestive stimulant and has antiseptic properties. It can also improve blood circulation.
Cooking: This spice is a milder relative of cayenne, and can be used in greater amounts to add color. Use paprika on eggs to add color.

ROSEMARY

Properties: This herb has a reputation for invigorating the circulation, and for relieving headaches and respiratory problems.
Cooking: Rosemary is traditionally used in meat dishes, but it can also add a smoky flavor to hearty bean and vegetable dishes. It adds extra flavor to chicken.

TURMERIC

Properties: This spice has antibacterial and antifungal qualities. It is also a good antioxidant, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Cooking: Like cumin, turmeric is found in curry. Besides its yellow color, this spice adds an earthy, peppery flavor to curries and stews.

Please note:
Information on this web site is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. You should not use the information on this web site for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing any medication or other treatment.

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Dr. Eric R. Braverman, MD
304 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10010
(212) 213-6155
www.pathmed.com