New Delhi: The spices used daily in our kitchen not only enhance taste but also offer numerous health benefits. With growing awareness about Ayurveda in the country, everyday household spices are now being viewed from a fresh perspective. Patanjali Ayurveda claims that spices like turmeric, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper not only boost immunity but also help protect the body from several serious illnesses.
Baba Ramdev’s book The Science of Ayurveda highlights the medicinal properties of several common kitchen spices. According to the book, if used properly and in regular quantities, these spices not only help detoxify the body but also address issues such as hormonal imbalance, digestive problems, and mental health concerns. Let us explore which spices Patanjali describes as life-changing and their unique benefits.
Black pepper provides relief from cough
If you’re suffering from a cough, chew 2–3 black peppercorns. This not only helps relieve the cough but also improves sleep quality. If you have hives, grind 4–5 black peppercorns into powder and consume it with warm ghee—this offers relief. Another remedy: mix 20 grams of black pepper, 100 grams of almonds, and 150 grams of crystal sugar, and store in a bottle. Take a small quantity of this mixture with warm milk or water to reduce coughing.
How to use cardamom
If you have mouth ulcers, cardamom can help. Mix cardamom powder with honey and consume it. This heals the body from within and gradually reduces the ulcers. Cardamom is also beneficial for urinary issues such as low urine output. Mix 2–3 grams of cardamom powder with crystal sugar and take it regularly.
Better digestion with cinnamon
Cinnamon is an antiseptic and detoxifying spice. It improves digestion and provides relief from cold and cough. For this, prepare a decoction by boiling cinnamon, ginger, and cloves together. Drinking this helps reduce Vata and Kapha imbalances and energizes the body.
Cloves relieve pain
Cloves are effective in easing migraine symptoms. Mix 4–5 grams of clove powder with water and apply it to your forehead to reduce headache and migraine pain. Chewing 2–3 cloves can also help relieve cough. For toothaches, a mixture of clove powder and clove oil can be applied for quick relief.
Cumin offers digestive benefits
According to Patanjali, drinking cumin powder mixed with curd or buttermilk helps relieve diarrhea. You can also boil 5–7 grams of cumin seeds in 400 ml of water until it reduces to half. Drinking this twice a day can prevent intestinal issues.
Control blood sugar with fenugreek seeds
Fenugreek seeds are highly beneficial for diabetes patients as they help regulate blood sugar levels. Soak the seeds in water overnight and consume both the water and seeds in the morning. To address Vata dosha, mix equal parts of fenugreek seeds, dry ginger, and turmeric, and store the blend in a bottle. Taking this regularly may help balance Vata dosha.
Celery helps reduce alcohol addiction
Celery may aid in reducing alcohol cravings. According to Patanjali, boil celery in 4 liters of water until only half remains. Strain and store the liquid. Drink this half an hour before meals daily. It supports liver health and reduces the urge to consume alcohol.
Turmeric and its many benefits
Turmeric has antibacterial properties. Besides being used for skincare, it can help eliminate bad breath. It also helps in treating pyorrhea. Simply massage your teeth with a mixture of turmeric, salt, and mustard oil, and you’ll see improvement within a few days. Turmeric also relieves cold, body aches, and swelling.
Use garlic like this
Garlic is highly beneficial for osteoarthritis and heart health. Chop 3–4 garlic cloves, soak them in water overnight, and eat them on an empty stomach in the morning. This helps reduce cholesterol and supports heart function.
Lemon helps with acne
Lemon works wonders for acne. Mix lemon juice with honey and apply it to pimples. For conditions like metrorrhagia or piles, a home remedy can provide relief. Take a cup of lukewarm milk on an empty stomach in the morning and add the juice of half a lemon. Drink it immediately as the milk begins to curdle. This remedy acts as a haemostatic agent and helps stop internal bleeding. Follow this for 3–4 days, but consult a doctor if there is no improvement.
