Nutritional Benefits
Some reported health benefits of the ingredients.
As with all herbal supplements, please remember that these claims have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, we recommend always consulting with your own health care provider before use of any seasoning/supplement. Seasonings/supplements should not replace medications prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Basil
Studies on certain types of basil have shown that the leaf and seed may help people with type 2 diabetes control their blood sugar levels. In addition, the seed has been found to relieve constipation by acting as a bulk-forming laxative in one study.
The oil of basil has shown antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral activity in test tube studies. There are also indications that basil can help to relieve intestinal gas and excessive fluid buildup act as a carminative, relieving intestinal gas, and as a mild diuretic, though these actions have yet to be definitively proven.
Black pepper/ White pepper
Black pepper is derived from the fruit of a climbing vine native to southern India and Sri Lanka. White pepper is likewise made from this fruit but is processed differently. The spicy tang of black pepper is due to its most important and well-researched phytochemical, piperine, which may enhance the bioavailability of important nutritive compounds in other foods and spices.
Thanks to many of its constituent compounds such as eugenol, kaempferol, myrcene, quercetin and rutin, black pepper is an proposed antioxidant like many fruits and vegetables.
Celery seed
Celery is thought to be a natural muscle relaxer and sedative. Celery contains an extensive supply of nutrients, including, Calcium, Flavonoids, Iron, Magnesium, Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Zinc.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon's potential healing abilities come from three basic types of components in the essential oils found in its bark. These oils contain active components called cinnamaldehyde, cinnamyl acetate, and cinnamyl alcohol, plus a wide range of other volatile substances.
Seasoning a high carb food with cinnamon can help lessen its impact on blood sugar levels. Cinnamon slows the rate at which the stomach empties after meals, reducing the rise in blood sugar after eating.
Cinnamon may also significantly help people with type 2 diabetes improve their ability to respond to insulin, thus aiding in normalizing their blood sugar levels.
Cinnamon is also thought to be an antioxidant.
Not only does consuming cinnamon improve the body's ability to utilize blood sugar, but just smelling the wonderful odor of this sweet spice may boost brain activity.
Cinnamon is a source of the trace mineral manganese and a source of dietary fiber, iron and calcium in certain quantities. The fiber in cinnamon may also provide relief from constipation or diarrhea.
In some cultures, cinnamon has been used to provide relief when faced with the onset of a cold or flu.
Cumin
Cumin seeds contain iron, a mineral that plays many vital roles in the body.
Cumin seeds have traditionally been noted to be of benefit to the digestive system, and scientific research is beginning to bear out cumin's age-old reputation. Research has shown that cumin may stimulate the secretion of pancreatic enzymes, compounds necessary for proper digestion and nutrient assimilation.
Cumin seeds may possibly have anti-cancer properties. This cancer-protective effect may be due to cumin's potent free radical scavenging abilities as well as the ability it has shown to enhance the liver's detoxification enzymes.
Dill weed
Dill's unique health benefits come from two types of healing components: monoterpenes, including carvone, limonene, and anethofuran; and flavonoids, including kaempferol and vicenin.
The activity of dill's volatile oils qualify it as a "chemoprotective" food (much like parsley) that can help neutralize particular types of carcinogens (cancer causing agents).
The volatile oil portion of dill has also been studied for its ability to prevent bacterial overgrowth.
Dill in significant quantities is a source of calcium which is important for reducing the bone loss that occurs after menopause and in some conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Like many plant products, dill is also a source of dietary fiber. Dill also contains the minerals manganese, iron and magnesium.
Garlic powder
Multiple studies in humans have reported small reductions in total blood cholesterol and low-density lipoproteins ("bad cholesterol") over short periods of time (4 to 12 weeks) with garlic consumption.
Preliminary research in humans suggests that deposits of cholesterol in blood vessels may not grow as quickly in people who take garlic. It is not clear if this is due to the ability of garlic to lower cholesterol levels or to other effects of garlic.
Preliminary human studies suggest that regular consumption of garlic (particularly unprocessed garlic) may reduce the risk of developing several types of cancer including gastric and colorectal malignancies. Some studies use multi-ingredient products so it is difficult to determine if garlic alone may play a beneficial role. Further well-designed human clinical trials are needed to conclude whether eating garlic or taking garlic supplements may prevent or treat cancer.
Numerous human studies report that garlic can lower blood pressure by a small amount, but larger, well-designed studies are needed to confirm this possible effect.
Ginger
Ginger has been suggested as a possible weight loss aid among other things, but more study is needed.
Lemon peel
Lemon peel has a high nutritive content. It is thought to help to build the body's immune system and it may ward off infection, and to help to ease indigestion, colic and nausea. Lemon Peel may also reduce vomiting.
Lemon Peel is loaded with important minerals and vitamins (especially ascorbic acid/vitamin C) that are beneficial in cases of vitamin deficiency, such as scurvy, etc., as well as helping to build immunity against infection.
Lemon Peel is thought by some experts to improve peripheral circulation that helps to stimulate blood flow to the hands and feet, which can be of great relief to older people with poor circulation.
Ground Mustard
Mustard seeds are a source of selenium, a nutrient which has been proposed to help reduce the severity of asthma, decrease some of the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, and help prevent cancer. Mustard seeds also contain magnesium, which have been shown to help reduce the severity of asthma, to lower high blood pressure, to restore normal sleep patterns in women having difficulty with the symptoms of menopause, to reduce the frequency of migraine attacks, and to prevent heart attack in patients suffering from atherosclerosis or diabetic heart disease. Whether or not mustard seed provides these benefits is still to be determined.
Mustard seed is also a source of omega-3 fatty acids, iron, calcium, zinc, manganese, magnesium, protein, niacin and dietary fiber.
Onion powder
Onions are very rich in vitamin C and numerous flavonoids, most notably, quercitin. In addition, onions are a source of chromium, the mineral component in glucose tolerance factor, a molecule that helps cells respond appropriately to insulin. Clinical studies of diabetics have shown that chromium can decrease fasting blood glucose levels, improve glucose tolerance, lower insulin levels, and decrease total cholesterol and triglyceride levels, while increasing good HDL-cholesterol levels. Marginal chromium deficiency is common in the United States, not surprising since chromium levels are depleted by the consumption of refined sugars and white flour products as well as the lack of exercise.
The regular consumption of onions may lower high cholesterol levels and high blood pressure, both of which help prevent atherosclerosis and diabetic heart disease, and reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke. These beneficial effects are likely due to onions' sulfur compounds, its chromium and its vitamin B6, which helps prevent heart disease by lowering high homocysteine levels, another significant risk factor for heart attack and stroke.
In addition, it is thought that the regular consumption of onions is associated with a significantly reduced risk of developing colon cancer. Onions contain a number of flavonoids, the most studied of which, quercitin, has been shown to halt the growth of tumors in animals and to protect colon cells from the damaging effects of certain cancer-causing substances. Cooking meats with onions may help reduce the amount of carcinogens produced when meat is cooked using high heat methods.
Several anti-inflammatory agents in onions may render them helpful in reducing the severity of symptoms associated with inflammatory conditions such as the pain and swelling of osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis, the allergic inflammatory response of asthma, and the respiratory congestion associated with the common cold. In addition, quercitin and other flavonoids found in onions work with vitamin C to help kill harmful bacteria, making onions an especially good addition to soups and stews during cold and flu season.
Oregano
In addition to European oregano, there are several types of related species. Oregano contains several constituents, including carvacrol, thymol, and borneol, plus flavonoids, rosmarinic acid, triterpenoids (e.g. ursolic and oleanolic acid), sterols, and vitamin A and vitamin C. The thymol and carvacrol contents in oregano may be responsible for antimicrobial and antifungal effects.
Paprika
Paprika is a spice made from the grinding of dried sweet red or green bell peppers. Paprika is rich in vitamin C. High heat leaches the vitamins from peppers, thus commercially-dried peppers are not as nutritious as those dried naturally in the sun.
Sage
The most commonly cultivated species of sage originally came from the area around the Mediterranean but now also grows in North America. The leaves of this common kitchen herb are used in medicine as well as in cooking.
In modern European herbal medicine, a gargle of sage tea is commonly recommended to treat sore throat, inflammations in the mouth, and gingivitis (inflammation of the gums). Sage is also thought to improve mild gastrointestinal upset.
Savory
It has been suggested that savory plays a role in improving kidney and lung health.
In some parts of the world, savory tea mixed with other herbs is used in treating some medical conditions such as uterine contractions, headaches, coughing, tuberculosis, influenza, gastric disorders and urine retention. It's good to keep an open mind about alternative therapies, but further research is needed.
Turmeric
Turmeric is one of the key ingredients in many curries, giving them color and flavor. The root and rhizome (underground stem) have been used medicinally in other parts of the world.
Clinical trials in colorectal cancer patients suggest that biologically active levels of curcumin found in turmeric can be achieved in the gastrointestinal tract through oral curcumin supplementation. Such trials provide support for further clinical evaluation in people at risk for gastrointestinal cancers.
Although a few preliminary trials suggest that curcumin may have anti-inflammatory activity in humans, larger randomized controlled trials are needed to determine whether oral curcumin supplementation is effective in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. As a result of promising findings in animal models of Alzheimer’s disease, clinical trials of curcumin supplementation in patients with early Alzheimer’s disease are under way.
"FlavorDoctor is not intended to cure or treat any medical condition."
As with all herbal supplements, please remember that these claims have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, we recommend always consulting with your own health care provider before use of any seasoning/supplement. Seasonings/supplements should not replace medications prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Basil
Studies on certain types of basil have shown that the leaf and seed may help people with type 2 diabetes control their blood sugar levels. In addition, the seed has been found to relieve constipation by acting as a bulk-forming laxative in one study.
The oil of basil has shown antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral activity in test tube studies. There are also indications that basil can help to relieve intestinal gas and excessive fluid buildup act as a carminative, relieving intestinal gas, and as a mild diuretic, though these actions have yet to be definitively proven.
Black pepper/ White pepper
Black pepper is derived from the fruit of a climbing vine native to southern India and Sri Lanka. White pepper is likewise made from this fruit but is processed differently. The spicy tang of black pepper is due to its most important and well-researched phytochemical, piperine, which may enhance the bioavailability of important nutritive compounds in other foods and spices.
Thanks to many of its constituent compounds such as eugenol, kaempferol, myrcene, quercetin and rutin, black pepper is an proposed antioxidant like many fruits and vegetables.
Celery seed
Celery is thought to be a natural muscle relaxer and sedative. Celery contains an extensive supply of nutrients, including, Calcium, Flavonoids, Iron, Magnesium, Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Zinc.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon's potential healing abilities come from three basic types of components in the essential oils found in its bark. These oils contain active components called cinnamaldehyde, cinnamyl acetate, and cinnamyl alcohol, plus a wide range of other volatile substances.
Seasoning a high carb food with cinnamon can help lessen its impact on blood sugar levels. Cinnamon slows the rate at which the stomach empties after meals, reducing the rise in blood sugar after eating.
Cinnamon may also significantly help people with type 2 diabetes improve their ability to respond to insulin, thus aiding in normalizing their blood sugar levels.
Cinnamon is also thought to be an antioxidant.
Not only does consuming cinnamon improve the body's ability to utilize blood sugar, but just smelling the wonderful odor of this sweet spice may boost brain activity.
Cinnamon is a source of the trace mineral manganese and a source of dietary fiber, iron and calcium in certain quantities. The fiber in cinnamon may also provide relief from constipation or diarrhea.
In some cultures, cinnamon has been used to provide relief when faced with the onset of a cold or flu.
Cumin
Cumin seeds contain iron, a mineral that plays many vital roles in the body.
Cumin seeds have traditionally been noted to be of benefit to the digestive system, and scientific research is beginning to bear out cumin's age-old reputation. Research has shown that cumin may stimulate the secretion of pancreatic enzymes, compounds necessary for proper digestion and nutrient assimilation.
Cumin seeds may possibly have anti-cancer properties. This cancer-protective effect may be due to cumin's potent free radical scavenging abilities as well as the ability it has shown to enhance the liver's detoxification enzymes.
Dill weed
Dill's unique health benefits come from two types of healing components: monoterpenes, including carvone, limonene, and anethofuran; and flavonoids, including kaempferol and vicenin.
The activity of dill's volatile oils qualify it as a "chemoprotective" food (much like parsley) that can help neutralize particular types of carcinogens (cancer causing agents).
The volatile oil portion of dill has also been studied for its ability to prevent bacterial overgrowth.
Dill in significant quantities is a source of calcium which is important for reducing the bone loss that occurs after menopause and in some conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Like many plant products, dill is also a source of dietary fiber. Dill also contains the minerals manganese, iron and magnesium.
Garlic powder
Multiple studies in humans have reported small reductions in total blood cholesterol and low-density lipoproteins ("bad cholesterol") over short periods of time (4 to 12 weeks) with garlic consumption.
Preliminary research in humans suggests that deposits of cholesterol in blood vessels may not grow as quickly in people who take garlic. It is not clear if this is due to the ability of garlic to lower cholesterol levels or to other effects of garlic.
Preliminary human studies suggest that regular consumption of garlic (particularly unprocessed garlic) may reduce the risk of developing several types of cancer including gastric and colorectal malignancies. Some studies use multi-ingredient products so it is difficult to determine if garlic alone may play a beneficial role. Further well-designed human clinical trials are needed to conclude whether eating garlic or taking garlic supplements may prevent or treat cancer.
Numerous human studies report that garlic can lower blood pressure by a small amount, but larger, well-designed studies are needed to confirm this possible effect.
Ginger
Ginger has been suggested as a possible weight loss aid among other things, but more study is needed.
Lemon peel
Lemon peel has a high nutritive content. It is thought to help to build the body's immune system and it may ward off infection, and to help to ease indigestion, colic and nausea. Lemon Peel may also reduce vomiting.
Lemon Peel is loaded with important minerals and vitamins (especially ascorbic acid/vitamin C) that are beneficial in cases of vitamin deficiency, such as scurvy, etc., as well as helping to build immunity against infection.
Lemon Peel is thought by some experts to improve peripheral circulation that helps to stimulate blood flow to the hands and feet, which can be of great relief to older people with poor circulation.
Ground Mustard
Mustard seeds are a source of selenium, a nutrient which has been proposed to help reduce the severity of asthma, decrease some of the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, and help prevent cancer. Mustard seeds also contain magnesium, which have been shown to help reduce the severity of asthma, to lower high blood pressure, to restore normal sleep patterns in women having difficulty with the symptoms of menopause, to reduce the frequency of migraine attacks, and to prevent heart attack in patients suffering from atherosclerosis or diabetic heart disease. Whether or not mustard seed provides these benefits is still to be determined.
Mustard seed is also a source of omega-3 fatty acids, iron, calcium, zinc, manganese, magnesium, protein, niacin and dietary fiber.
Onion powder
Onions are very rich in vitamin C and numerous flavonoids, most notably, quercitin. In addition, onions are a source of chromium, the mineral component in glucose tolerance factor, a molecule that helps cells respond appropriately to insulin. Clinical studies of diabetics have shown that chromium can decrease fasting blood glucose levels, improve glucose tolerance, lower insulin levels, and decrease total cholesterol and triglyceride levels, while increasing good HDL-cholesterol levels. Marginal chromium deficiency is common in the United States, not surprising since chromium levels are depleted by the consumption of refined sugars and white flour products as well as the lack of exercise.
The regular consumption of onions may lower high cholesterol levels and high blood pressure, both of which help prevent atherosclerosis and diabetic heart disease, and reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke. These beneficial effects are likely due to onions' sulfur compounds, its chromium and its vitamin B6, which helps prevent heart disease by lowering high homocysteine levels, another significant risk factor for heart attack and stroke.
In addition, it is thought that the regular consumption of onions is associated with a significantly reduced risk of developing colon cancer. Onions contain a number of flavonoids, the most studied of which, quercitin, has been shown to halt the growth of tumors in animals and to protect colon cells from the damaging effects of certain cancer-causing substances. Cooking meats with onions may help reduce the amount of carcinogens produced when meat is cooked using high heat methods.
Several anti-inflammatory agents in onions may render them helpful in reducing the severity of symptoms associated with inflammatory conditions such as the pain and swelling of osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis, the allergic inflammatory response of asthma, and the respiratory congestion associated with the common cold. In addition, quercitin and other flavonoids found in onions work with vitamin C to help kill harmful bacteria, making onions an especially good addition to soups and stews during cold and flu season.
Oregano
In addition to European oregano, there are several types of related species. Oregano contains several constituents, including carvacrol, thymol, and borneol, plus flavonoids, rosmarinic acid, triterpenoids (e.g. ursolic and oleanolic acid), sterols, and vitamin A and vitamin C. The thymol and carvacrol contents in oregano may be responsible for antimicrobial and antifungal effects.
Paprika
Paprika is a spice made from the grinding of dried sweet red or green bell peppers. Paprika is rich in vitamin C. High heat leaches the vitamins from peppers, thus commercially-dried peppers are not as nutritious as those dried naturally in the sun.
Sage
The most commonly cultivated species of sage originally came from the area around the Mediterranean but now also grows in North America. The leaves of this common kitchen herb are used in medicine as well as in cooking.
In modern European herbal medicine, a gargle of sage tea is commonly recommended to treat sore throat, inflammations in the mouth, and gingivitis (inflammation of the gums). Sage is also thought to improve mild gastrointestinal upset.
Savory
It has been suggested that savory plays a role in improving kidney and lung health.
In some parts of the world, savory tea mixed with other herbs is used in treating some medical conditions such as uterine contractions, headaches, coughing, tuberculosis, influenza, gastric disorders and urine retention. It's good to keep an open mind about alternative therapies, but further research is needed.
Turmeric
Turmeric is one of the key ingredients in many curries, giving them color and flavor. The root and rhizome (underground stem) have been used medicinally in other parts of the world.
Clinical trials in colorectal cancer patients suggest that biologically active levels of curcumin found in turmeric can be achieved in the gastrointestinal tract through oral curcumin supplementation. Such trials provide support for further clinical evaluation in people at risk for gastrointestinal cancers.
Although a few preliminary trials suggest that curcumin may have anti-inflammatory activity in humans, larger randomized controlled trials are needed to determine whether oral curcumin supplementation is effective in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. As a result of promising findings in animal models of Alzheimer’s disease, clinical trials of curcumin supplementation in patients with early Alzheimer’s disease are under way.
"FlavorDoctor is not intended to cure or treat any medical condition."
