It’s officially Pumpkin Spice Season. Did you know there are many health benefits to the spices that make up pumpkin spice/pumpkin pie seasoning?
Happy September; happy fall; you know what that means…pumpkin spice season! Did you know there are many health benefits to the spices that make up pumpkin spice/pumpkin pie seasoning.
Cinnamon not only smells good, but it is also good for your health. Cinnamon can help with blood sugar control; it has anti-inflammatory effects; it can be good for your heart by lowering cholesterol levels; it can protect against neurogenerative disease like Alzheimer’s; and it can improve digestion and immunity. The daily recommended dose of cinnamon is ½-1 teaspoon, do not exceed this.
Nutmeg is an antioxidant, which can protect cells from oxidative damage; it has a relaxing effect and can help with anxiety; it can help relieve pain; and it has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Along with cinnamon, Nutmeg is anti-inflammatory and can help with digestion and immunity. Do not exceed ½-1 teaspoon, as it can be toxic is large amounts.
Ginger has many of the same health benefits as the ones listed above. Ginger helps with inflammation, digestion, blood sugar, heart health/cholesterol, and has antibacterial properties. Differently, ginger can help lower blood pressure and reduce nausea and menstrual pains.
Cloves have many of the same health benefits as well. Differently, Cloves are good for oral health, it can relieve toothache, gum pain, bad breath, and has antibacterial/antifungal properties.
I’m not necessarily saying to go get a pumpkin spice latte everyday this fall but try adding these spices to your smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt, tea, coffee, roasted vegetables and soups. Or make a homemade pumpkin pie for your family! You can also buy these essential oils and diffuse them or make homemade simmer pots to help your house smell good, along with the health benefits of breathing it in.
Homemade Fall Simmer Pot
- 6 cups of water
- 1-2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- Orange slices (and/or apple slices)
Combine all ingredients, place on stovetop, bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low and allow fragrance to fill your home, add water as needed. After you are finished you can store in refrigerator and re-use up to 3 days later. This is perfect for family gatherings and can boost people’s moods and immunity.
