Spice Up Your Health with Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a versatile and aromatic spice rich in polyphenolic compounds that act as protective antioxidants. In one recent study, cinnamon was shown to reduce the oxidative stress and impaired fasting glucose (two risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease and diabetes) in overweight and obese adults

Spice Up Your Health with Cayenne

The fiery and flavorful cayenne pepper contains a potent active compound known as capsaicin, which is responsible for the burning sensation caused by coming in contact with this spice. Capsaicin's anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent topical pain reliever. The potent antioxidant powers of the cayenne pepper also come from capsaicin, which has been shown in several studies to inhibit the growth of breast and prostate tumors in mice.

Spice Up your Health with Turmeric

This bright yellow spice is well-known as a component of curry powder. Turmeric contains a high concentration of curcumin, a natural compound with powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.  One study involving mice concluded that curcumin may help protect the brain from the oxidative damage that is thought to contribute to Alzheimer's

Spice Up Your Health with Ginger

According to an article in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, ginger is one of the top food sources of antioxidants. In addition to fighting free radicals, ginger may also help those suffering with joint issues. In one study, ginger showed a statistically significant effect on reducing symptoms associated with osteoarthritis in the knee. Ginger is also a popular remedy for occasional nausea and stomach upset.

L-Arginine plus Herbs and Vitamins to get You in the Mood

L-arginine is an amino acid that's converted in the body to nitric oxide, which causes blood vessels to dilate for healthy blood flow. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 108 women ages 22 to 73 who reported lack of sexual desire were given placebo or a combination of L-arginine, herbs (Ginkgo biloba, Korean ginseng, damiana), vitamins and minerals. There was a significant improvement in sexual desire across all age groups for the combination of L-arginine plus herbs and vitamins as compared to placebo. Premenopausal and perimenopausal women appeared to benefit the most with significant improvement in several sexual areas.

Maca to Get You in the Mood

Maca is a Peruvian plant (Lepidium meyenii) found in high-altitude areas of the Andes mountains and is rich in minerals, fatty acids and beneficial phytochemicals. It was used traditionally by South Americans to enhance fertility and improve sexual performance in both men and women. To test the effect of Maca on sexual desire, a 12-week double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial was conducted on a group of men from 21 to 56 years old. Self-assessment of sexual desire was scored at four, eight and 12 weeks. An improvement in sexual desire was observed with Maca starting at eight weeks of treatment.

Korean Ginseng to Get You in the Mood

Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) is a plant native to China and Korea. Its roots contain active components called ginsenosides believed to be responsible for the herb's health-promoting effects. In a 2007 study, 60 men with sexual health issues were given 1,000 mg of Korean red ginseng, or placebo, three times daily for 12 weeks1. In the ginseng group, 67 percent of men reported improved erection and scored significantly higher on a test used to measure erectile function than those taking placebo.

Must-Have Pantry Spice- Cumin

Used as a medicine in ancient Egypt, cumin is still extolled for its health benefits: It's believed to stimulate the pancreatic enzymes responsible for digestion and the liver enzymes that handle detoxification. Incorporate cumin into black beans, or make a simple spice butter to serve with corn on the cob.

Must-Have Pantry Spice- Paprika

Ground from dried peppers, paprika can be smoky, fruity, or bitter. Applied topically, the capsaicin in peppers has been known to relieve headaches, psoriasis, and shingles. Pair smoked paprika with parsnips and butternut squash, or sprinkle Spanish pimenton dulce on your morning eggs.