Natural Remedies are in Your Spice Rack and Cupboard

Natural remedies can be found in your kitchen cupboard. It sounds amazing, but it's true. Many herbs and spices have been used as medicines throughout history, and while we may only use them for seasoning our food now, they still have their healing qualities.

For example, the spice turmeric is an ingredient found in curry. If you are fond of curry, you're already doing yourself a favor. There is scientific evidence that turmeric may help relieve arthritis pain. According to Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine curcumin, the active constituent in turmeric, may also have an effect on colon cancer. A 2006 study also showed that curcumin can help the brain get rid of built up plaques that may be associated with Alzheimer's disease. By utilizing curry in your diet as often as possible, you can give yourself a leg up on some of these illnesses.

Do you like cinnamon? A favorite spice used on toast, in pies and cookies and other baked goods, cinnamon also has health benefits. German studies have shown that cinnamon can help lower blood sugar levels and cholesterol. That's good news for diabetics and those who have been diagnosed as pre-diabetic. While the occasional bit of cinnamon in your food is great, large amounts can be dangerous. If you want to reap the health benefits of cinnamon, it is best to use a cinnamon extract.

Rosemary is a popular herb used with poultry, lamb and beef. It also is a beautiful garden herb. It has been discovered that rosemary helps prevent heterocyclic amines (HCAs) from forming when meat is cooked at high temperatures. HCAs have been proven to be carcinogens. Just by putting this powdered herb on your meat can make a difference. Studies have also shown that rosemary may be effective against tumors.

Ginger has long been known as an aid to an upset digestion. It is helpful for morning sickness, nausea and motion sickness. Some studies have also shown ginger to have some effect against high blood pressure, arthritis pain and some risks for cancer, especially ovarian cancer.

If you like growing your own herbs, you may want to give Holy Basil a try. This is a specific strain of the familiar basil that is often used in Italian cuisine. Taken as a tea, Holy Basil can help relieve stress, and there are some preliminary studies that show it may also be effective against cancer tumors.

St. John's wort first came to everyone's notice when it was discovered to help mild depression. Besides that, it is being studied for its effects in helping people fall asleep. Keep your ears open for more about this unassuming little plant with the bright yellow flowers.

Garlic has long been touted as a blood cleanser and for its antibacterial qualities... now it can add lowering blood pressure and the prevention of strokes and cancer to its long list of healthy attributes. If you don't like garlic enough to eat several cloves a day, you can try a garlic supplement. Be aware that garlic supplements that have no odor are not effective.

While natural remedies may be preferable, don't assume they are all safe. If you are unsure, check with your physician or a certified herbalist. Follow dosages carefully... more doesn't necessarily mean better.