Spices are delicious and flavourful additions to winter stews and curries and they can protect us from colds, flu and other ailments during winter.  Research has shown that spices are packed with antioxidants and contain powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Here are 6 must-have spices to include in your diet this winter.

Cloves

Cloves are a popular culinary ingredient all year round but they are especially beneficial during the winter months due to their ability to improve circulation, clear mucus, heal coughs and boost immunity. Try to buy whole cloves to avoid rancid oils and grind them yourself to add to curries, stews, hot drinks and bakes.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is very high in antioxidants and is well-known for its delicate spicy, aromatic taste and ability to lower blood glucose and cholesterol levels. Cinnamon also stimulates digestion, improves circulation, reduces inflammation and contains antimicrobial properties. Add it to tea, smoothies, curries, stews, pancakes and muffins, or sprinkle it on your eggs, salad, toast and much more!

Nutmeg

Nutmeg is a delicious spice that is reminiscent of freshly baked biscuits and frothy hot chocolate in winter. Nutmeg contains antioxidants and antimicrobial properties which make it a tasty way to fight infections this winter. Add nutmeg to soups, stews, curries, coffee, biscuits and desserts.

Cayenne pepper

Cayenne pepper is a warming spice which can help to boost the immune system and relieve colds and flu this winter as it is packed with antioxidants and vitamin C. Add it to soups, juices, teas, curries and stews to clear mucus, coughs and sore throats.  It is also a thermogenic spice which means that it boosts metabolism and may help to get you closer to your summer body goal.

Ginger

Ginger boosts immunity, improves digestion, boosts circulation, decreases inflammation and creates warmth within the body. It can add flavour to sweet and savoury dishes and is popular in stir-fries, fresh juices, tea, soups and curries. Ginger contains antimicrobial properties and making a tea with fresh ginger, lemon and raw honey is the perfect hot drink for colds, flu and throat infections this winter.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a well-known orange spice with an earthy taste that is a powerful anti-inflammatory due to its flavonoid content. You can use ground or fresh turmeric and add it stews, soups, curries, casseroles and make turmeric tea during the winter to stay warm from the inside. 

You can find organic spices here.

Sources

http://kitchen.nine.com.au/2016/06/20/07/49/lisa-guy-winter-herbs-200616
http://www.care2.com/greenliving/5-warming-winter-spices.html