Food must be enjoyed for its true essence to be brought out. Many cultures and countries thrive on the culinary fare they represent. Each ingredient is integral to the overall presentation and taste of any particular dish of any such culture or country. With the growing awareness of nutrition and healthy eating presiding over the culinary world, healthy spices have also become an essential component of any kitchen. Not only do they lend rich flavor and aromatic pleasures, they also help prevent diseases and increase fitness levels.

To begin with, there is the highly aromatic cinnamon. It is sued in the beverages that we drink as well as the foods we eat. In coffee, it lends a rich flavor and a superb aroma. Sprinkled in cake batter, it makes for delightful baking accoutrement. Also used in cooking several vegetables and meats, cinnamon is resplendent in health benefits. It contains iron, manganese and calcium. It is also known to be excellent for lowering the levels of blood sugar in the body.

Cumin comes with some advantages of its own. Cooked in vegetable preparations and especially popular when cooked with rice, it is also good for reducing levels of blood sugar in the body. Moreover, for those ridden with arthritis, the consumption of cumin can provide immense relief from inflammation.

A spice used extensively in Indian cooking is turmeric. It adds color and flavor to many dishes it is used to prepare. Known for its anti-inflammatory qualities, turmeric is added to plain milk and handed to children suffering from a cold for almost immediate respite. Another benefit it its ability to reduce the risk of cancer when regularly consumed.

Ginger is a food that has a range of health benefits. Its anti inflammatory properties are quite popular. It proves effective in curing a sore throat. Ginger tea is a popular concoction the world over. Also used in cooking, ginger is a known accompaniment of its cousin, garlic.

A rather well known and used herb is sage. It goes extremely well with a lot of vegetable dishes. It can also be added to Italian, European and Indian cuisines. Sprinkled lightly over cooked vegetables, it is best savored in moderate quantities. Some of the known benefits of this food include the sharpening of memory and its qualities of boosting capabilities academically.

Saffron is the spice of the kings and queens. This is so due to its costly nature and use in only very exclusive preparations. Saffron rice, shellfish made with saffron as well as some exotic desserts make this delicacy so sought after. It is, however, also the price one must pay to cure depression and anxiety. Those suffering premenstrual syndrome can also hugely benefit from its consumption.

Not a very popular spice, rosemary gels well with both meats and vegetables. Its goodness extends beyond imagination. It is known to reduce the risk of cancer. Moreover, it is replete in antioxidants, the oxygen for the human body. Not only does it come with healthy benefits, it adds a rich taste and fragrance to any food too.

To consume good quality as well as delicious culinary fare is something everyone deserves. When you know what you are eating is actually right for your body or not, you are doing yourself a huge favor. So, get to know the healthy spices that can add taste and wellbeing to your daily diet.