Kake2Kale’s Favourites

Basil – Rich in vitamin C, A, K, Magnesium, potassium and calcium.  Basil’s antioxidants are good for heart health.  Loaded with beta-caryophyllene, basil offers anti-inflammatory benefits.  It has high anti-bacterial and anti-aging properties.  It is also a  great source of essential omega 3 and 6 fatty acids.

Cardamom – This is considered the Queen of Spices and ranks behind saffron and vanilla for most expensive spice. Its antimicrobial properties have been studied and found to be effective at inhibiting the spread of dangerous microbes that cause food poisoning. It may also have anti-carcinogenic properties as well.

 Cilantro (Coriander) –  It contains lots of vitamin B’s, A, and C, as well as minerals, like potassium, calcium, magnesium and iron.  Also contains antioxidants like quercitin (which is a natural anti-histamine). Cilantro can also help detox heavy metals from the body.

Cinnamon –  Diets rich in cinnamon can help counter the negative effects of a high-fat diet in the body.  This spice may also balance blood sugar and fight bacterial and fungal infections.

Cumin – Contains Cuminaldehyde, which stimulates the salivary glands helping with digestion which starts in the mouth.  Thymol is a compound present in cumin that causes the glands to secrete acids, bile and enzymes that aid in digestion of food in the stomach and intestines.  Thymol is also antimicrobial, antifungal and antibacterial.

Ginger – Anti-nausea, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, antiseptic. Recipes: Ginger Kale Cake, The Ginger Bomb

Oregano – Antibacterial, antiviral, antiseptic, anti-spasmodic, anti-fungal. I always carry oregano oil when I travel, and take a few drops after boarding the plane as prevention from catching any nasty germs or viruses.

Peppermint – Peppermint leaves can be made into a tea and can be effective with indigestion.  Peppermint oil has been studied to have relieve symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome.   It is also an analgesic, so try applying peppermint oil when a headache strikes.

Turmeric – This is herb is catching on as being a powerful pain reliever; it is also anti-inflammatory and has anti-cancer properties. Recipes: Tumeric Tea