7 Spices to Protect Your Immune System

We’re all looking for ways to boost our immune system but hopefully without any medication and artificial supplements. The best way to strengthen your immunity is to add some new flavors to your food with delicious spices. Which ones should you focus on the most? 

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a weird spice but oh-so-very delicious and aromatic. It comes from an unexpected source, the inner tree bark of various trees and thanks to its antibacterial properties, it keeps the trees healthy. We know that cinnamon gives our beloved baked goods and coffee that mouth-watering aroma, but what many of us don’t know is that cinnamon is full of vitamins A, B6, C, E and K. Since it can protect your body from free radicals, it’s a great immune booster that helps with infections, breathing issues and many other things. Besides being great for keeping your immune system strong, it can also monitor blood sugar levels. A nice cup of cinnamon tea should be a daily ritual for everyone. 

Turmeric

Turmeric is a well-known spice used all over the world. Recognizable for its bright yellow color, turmeric is full of Curcumin, one very important ingredient that can help with inflammations, bacteria and poisoning. Thanks to turmeric, many people have recovered from annoying ailments like colds, coughs, sinus inflammations and even bronchial asthma. According to research, turmeric can provide instant relief with the aforementioned conditions while also boosting your immune system in the long run. 

Ginger

Zesty and a little spicy, ginger is a common ingredient in Asian cooking and many tasty treats (gingerbread anyone?) Ginger has warming properties that can keep your body nice and toasty and boost your immunity. When you happen to fall ill, ginger can soothe your stomach, minimize nausea and boost blood flow. It’s anti-inflammatory and has strong antioxidant properties. Plus, it goes great with many foods, desserts and beverages, so you can easily include it in your diet. 

Black pepper

Black pepper is one of the most valued, beloved and versatile spices. Besides being a strong antioxidant, black pepper can protect you from microbes and help your gastro tract. Thanks to its many protective properties, black pepper can keep your breathing apparatus clean by cleaning it inside out and providing users with clear sinuses and the nose. And you can have black pepper almost every day without getting bored of the taste. You can put it in your salad, sprinkle it on your avocado toast, but it certainly goes best with Florida steak. If you’re ever hitting up Coral Gables restaurants, make sure to order some top-notch steak and enjoy the amazing aroma of red meat and spices. You’ll feel invigorated in every way. 

Nutmeg

Nutmeg is a beloved warming aroma that makes it a perfect addition to both sweet and savory meals. Among its many benefits are weight loss, joint strengthening and insomnia relief (just to name a few), but the reason why nutmeg is on this list is its antibacterial properties. With plenty of nutmeg in your diet, you can not only get well faster after a cold or inflammation but also prevent these ailments. Basically, you’ll get a similar effect to antibiotics, but without all the side effects that can cause nausea, diarrhea, indigestion, bloating, stomach pain and loss of appetite. 

Coriander

Coriander is a spice that comes from the seeds of the cilantro plant. Like many immune boosters, coriander is an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Put this aromatic spice in your salad, in your roast or add it to your soup. 

Cumin

Cumin is popular all over the world and for all the right reasons. It has a variety of positive effects on the body and many beneficial properties—it’s rich in anti-inflammatory elements and antioxidants. Plus, it can keep your blood sugar levels healthy. And that’s not all! Cumin is one of the best sources of iron which is crucial for healthy energy levels and strong bones. It’s mostly used in curries and soups where it adds great depth and interest to the dish. It can also be made into tea, but many people don’t like the overly strong taste (it’s great for the skin though). 

Make sure to include these spices in your diet. And since all of them have a wonderful aroma and plenty of uses, it won’t be hard to eat them often. Put them on your roast, include them in your salad or simply add a sprinkle in your tea, and enjoy all the benefits of these immune boosters.