Mental wellness made easy: 5 spices to try
What's the story
African spices have long been revered for their culinary and medicinal properties. They are not just essential in traditional African cooking but also in boosting mental wellness. From enhancing mood to improving cognitive function, these spices offer a natural way to support mental health. Here are five African spices that can help you improve your mental wellness.
#1
Turmeric's golden touch
Turmeric, with its active compound curcumin, is famous for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These properties can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety by fighting oxidative stress in the brain. Adding turmeric to your diet may improve mood and cognitive function. It can be added to curries, teas, or smoothies for an easy boost.
#2
Ginger's warming effects
Another spice with a long history of use in traditional medicine is ginger. It is known to improve circulation and reduce inflammation, which can directly impact brain health. Ginger also has compounds that may help regulate serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in mood regulation. You can add fresh ginger to teas or use it as a seasoning in various dishes.
#3
Cinnamon's comforting aroma
Cinnamon is not just a delicious spice but also comes with some brain-boosting benefits. It has compounds that may improve cognitive processing by enhancing neural activity. Cinnamon is also known to have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. Sprinkling cinnamon on oatmeal or adding it to baked goods are easy ways to include this spice in your diet.
#4
Clove's aromatic benefits
Cloves are rich in eugenol, an essential oil with calming properties. These properties can help alleviate stress and anxiety levels. Cloves also contain antioxidants that protect brain cells from damage due to free radicals. You can add cloves to chai tea or use them while cooking rice dishes for their aromatic benefits.
#5
Fenugreek's nurturing qualities
Fenugreek seeds are packed with nutrients like magnesium and potassium, which are essential for brain health. These minerals are essential for nerve function and muscle contraction regulation. Fenugreek may also help improve memory retention by increasing acetylcholine production, a neurotransmitter that is essential for learning processes. You can add fenugreek seeds as seasoning or soak them overnight and consume them on an empty stomach for maximum benefits.