Herbs for a healthy heart

MANILA, Philippines - Herbs and spices add flavor to food, but it may come as a surprise that they are good for the heart, too, protecting your health with every pinch and dash.

While herbs and spices have become kitchen superstars in the past century, they have been used as traditional medicine dating back to the earlier civilizations. 

McCormick, the world market leader in herbs and spices, names the seven “super spices — cinnamon, ginger, oregano, red peppers, rosemary, thyme, and yellow curry — all packing rich flavor and heaping health onto each spoonful.

For one, spices are extremely rich in antioxidants that help protect cells from damage caused by the effects of harmful environmental factors and free radicals that get past the body’s defenses.

They boost the immune system and reduce inflammation, preventing heart disease, cancer, diabetes and other chronic ailments.

Studies also indicate that herbs and spices may help curb hunger and boost metabolism, making it easier to manage weight.

Here is the lowdown on the seven super spices and how they function as natural heath supplements:

Cinnamon. This fragrant spice is used in both sweet and savory dishes. It has one of the highest antioxidant levels found in any spice. It is also rich in natural compounds called polyphenols, which function like insulin and help regulate blood sugar levels.

Ginger. It contains as many antioxidants as a cup of spinach. Its active ingredient, gingerol, has long been associated with relieving pain and inflammation and is a natural remedy for indigestion, arthritis, nausea and migraines.

Oregano. It has one of the highest antioxidant levels. A teaspoon of dried oregano leaves has as much antioxidants as three ounces of almonds and one-half cup of chopped asparagus. Oregano contains rosmarinic acid, which helps fight the growth of bacteria and parasites.

Red peppers. Capsaicin is the powerful compound in peppers that gives chilies their heat. The hotter the pepper, the more capsaicin (and antioxidants) you’ll find. Cayenne or ground red pepper contains the most, yet all red peppers — including chili powder and the milder paprika — are good sources of antioxidants.

Red peppers can also help you eat less, as capsaicin increases satiety or a feeling of fullness. Studies show that people who eat food with red pepper eat fewer calories during the meal and even on the next meal. Peppers also help boost metabolism by increasing calorie burning.

Rosemary. Commonly found in Mediterranean cuisine, this aromatic herb is packed both with flavor and antioxidants.  

Thyme. One teaspoon of thyme has the equivalent antioxidants found in a carrot or half a cup of chopped tomatoes. It also contains healthy compounds called flavonoids that increase its antioxidant capacity and may offer anti-inflammatory and age-related benefits such as maintaining cognitive function and promoting heart health.

Yellow curry. Turmeric, the ochre spice found in yellow curry powder, is a concentrated source of antioxidants, comparable to strawberries, raspberry and cherries. A teaspoon of curry — which contains turmeric and other spices, has as much antioxidants as one-half cup of red grapes. Evidence suggests that curcumin, the bright yellow compound in turmeric, may help inhibit the growth of cancer cells, reduce inflammation, and safeguard the brain against Alzheimer’s disease.