Health-conscious chefs and nutritionists have long recommended including spices and herbs in dishes to add flavor without the fat, salt or sugar. But now studies on the antioxidant richness of spices and herbs suggest using these flavor powerhouses as a way to add more health to your meals, too.

“It’s the ultimate in good nutrition news when adding a favorite ingredient increases the health benefits of the foods we’re already enjoying,” says Dr. Bazilian. For example, one teaspoon of ground cinnamon has the equivalent level of antioxidants as a half cup of blueberries and one cup of pomegranate juice. Just think of all the foods to which you add cinnamon!

The healthy benefits of spices and herbs

To advance the science of spices and herbs, McCormick created the McCormick Science Institute, an independent research organization supported by McCormick & Company, Inc. Researchers are looking at antioxidants as well as other health-promoting advantages offered by consuming more spices and herbs.

Antioxidant power: Research has shown that antioxidants are substances -- found in foods like fruits and vegetables --that may protect cells against the effects of free radicals. Free radicals are molecules produced when your body breaks down food, or by environmental exposures like tobacco smoke and radiation. Antioxidants can protect you against heart disease, cancer and other diseases. Antioxidants include beta-carotene, lutein, lycopene, selenium and vitamins A, C, and E.

Anti-inflammatory properties. Researchers are investigating the unique protective properties of spices and herbs, and their role in possibly reducing inflammation. Inflammation has been identified as a precursor to many chronic diseases, such as heart disease, allergies, and Alzheimer’s to name a few. Spices and herbs can be included in an anti-inflammatory diet to not only add flavor but to also assist in healing the body.

Weight loss. Researchers are exploring the potential of spices to boost metabolism, promote satiety, aid weight management and enhance the overall quality of a diet. The capsaicin in peppers are believed to have metabolic boosting properties. In addition, if the food you eat is flavorful and satisfying, there is a good chance you will eat less and consume fewer calories, too.

What are the seven super spices?

Spices and herbs are botanically classified as fruits and vegetables. And since they no longer contain the water that makes up a significant part of the fresh produce, spices and herbs offer an even higher level of antioxidants. In addition, spices and herbs also are rich in phytonutrients, such as carotenoids, flavonoids and other phenolics, all of which possess health-promoting properties.
Many spices and herbs appear to have some beneficial effects, but here are the seven super spices with the greatest health-enhancing potential and tips to include them in your meals.

Cinnamon

Dr. Bazilian says cinnamon is easy and versatile (and delicious!). “Put 1/2 to 1 teaspoon in your coffee grinds before brewing or stir into your honey to sweeten your tea,” she suggests.

Dr. Bazilian adds, “Mix into yogurt or sprinkle onto oatmeal. Stir into pumpkin or put into smoothies. Cinnamon is a great addition to sprinkle into a traditional PB&J, too (whole grain bread, natural peanut butter, all-fruit preserves, of course!).”

According to Dr. Bazilian, in addition to the antioxidant benefits, research is underway to determine the role of cinnamon in improving and helping to regulate blood sugar and cholesterol in the body.

Oregano

“I call oregano a ‘mini salad,’ says Dr. Bazilian, “one teaspoon has as much antioxidant power as three cups of chopped broccoli (but don’t ditch the broccoli – have both!).”

Oregano is among the highest in antioxidants of the dried herbs and it goes seamlessly and flavorfully into familiar, everyday foods as well as new recipes. Dr. Bazilian recommends adding oregano to commercial or homemade pasta or pizza sauce or even sprinkle oregano onto a grilled cheese sandwich.

She adds, “Sliced tomatoes become exceptionally pretty and tasty with a sprinkle of oregano, a grind of pepper and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.”

Ginger

It may surprise you but one teaspoon of ginger has similar antioxidant levels as one cup of spinach! And ground ginger can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.

To satisfy a sweet tooth, Dr. Bazilian recommends this pungent spice be sprinkled onto fresh fruit slices or stirred into frozen yogurt or ice cream.

For savory fare, ground ginger can be mixed with honey and heated to provide a sweet gingery glaze on steamed carrots or broiled salmon fillets. Ginger also livens up marinades and sauces.

In addition, Dr. Bazilian says, “Scientists are looking at the role compounds in ginger for digestive issues (nausea and others) along with its role in reducing pain.”

Dried Red Peppers

Spices derived from red peppers include cayenne, crushed red pepper and paprika. In addition to adding fiery flavor, these spices may just be a tasty friend to dieters, too. Dr. Bazilian says, “Red pepper in its various forms is showing promise for enhancing metabolism, increasing satiety and potentially stimulating fat burning, too.”

She recommends using cayenne, crushed red pepper and paprika to spice up hummus, guacamole, cottage cheese and even mashed potatoes. She adds, “Give marinades or dressings a kick with a little cayenne or sprinkle paprika onto fish for a tasty and pretty change.”

Rosemary

The compounds in rosemary appear to help reduce inflammation in the body and inflammation is a trigger and indirect risk factor for many chronic diseases. Rosemary is also being studied for its role in heart health.

Include rosemary in marinades for meats and tomato sauces as well as whole grain breads and rolls. And for the adventurous palate, try ground rosemary in cakes and sweet quick breads.

Thyme

According to Dr. Bazilian, in addition to the antioxidant advantages, research is looking at the role of compounds in thyme in relation to respiratory function.

To get more thyme in your diet, whisk it in salad dressings and creamy dips, sprinkle it on cooked vegetables and fish, and include it in stir-fries or sautes.

Turmeric

This bright yellow spice is commonly found in curry powder. Researchers are looking into the role of turmeric in brain health and protecting against cognitive decline associated with aging. In addition, curry is a heart-healthy condiment.

Stir curry into egg salad, chicken salad and tuna salad mixes for lunch. Add curry to simmer sauces for poultry. Whisk curry into dips and even vinaigrettes for cooked vegetables.

How much of a spice or herb will deliver health benefits?

More than a dash will do you. Dr. Bazilian recommends including spices and herbs at every meal. However, there is not yet a specified amount.

“Just like foods, it’s not possible to provide a specific ‘prescription’ (like we do with medications) for [spices and herbs]. Just have an herb and/or spice at every meal,” recommends Bazilian.

She adds, “They enhance flavor and nutrition while also providing a tasty way to cut some of the salt, fat and added sugars from the plate.”

Does heating spices and herbs kill their nutritional potential?

Dr. Bazilian says, “The science on spices and herbs and their properties and functions is still emerging.”

Researchers are looking into the effects of heat and preparation techniques and there is no official answer on whether or not certain compounds or nutrients are altered when exposed to heat or other practices.

According to Dr. Bazilian, some research has suggested that heat may actually enhance the bioavailability (the ability of the body to absorb and use a nutrient) of certain compounds, while others may be potentially decreased.

She says, “It is likely that we will discover there are great benefits to be had from including herbs and spices along with other health-promoting SuperFoods, regardless of preparation techniques.”

Spice – and herb – up your meals

To make it easy and delicious SpicesForHealth.com has a new, unique collection of tasty recipes and a variety of tips to get more spices and herbs in your meals. Many of the recipes – some of which have been provided by Dr. Bazilian – provide 1/2 teaspoon of seven super spices per serving. Try a new recipe every day or every week!

And to get you started on your health and culinary quest to spice – and herb – up your meals, check out Seven superfood recipes with herbs and spices.