Herbs and Spices of Thailand
Mixed Herbs and Spices
Let us explore some of the wonderful health benefits derived from aromatic Herbs and Spices which form part of the intricate and delicate art of Thai cuisine. Having gained extensive experience during my many travels around south-east Asia, I have set aside a few examples for you to consider.
Thai Lemongrass
Herb Health BenefitsLemongrassLemongrass has a host of medicinal benefits including anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Helps with the relief of stress and insomnia. Helps detoxify the liver, kidneys, pancreas and digestive tract. Cuts down uric acid and high cholesterol. Can also help with the relieve of excessive gas.Kaffir Lime and LeavesKaffir Lime and Leaves has a strong fragrance and flavour. It helps to cleanse the blood. It helps maintain healthy teeth and gum when rubbed on. The lime leaf ingredient is also found in certain shampoos which help maintain healthy hair and scalp and it is believed to help with hair loss.CilantroCilantro is a herb found to be potentially beneficial in helping control blood sugar levels. It assists in the fight against inflammation and free radicals. It raises good and lowers bad cholesterol levels. It protects against viral and bacterial infections as well as a whole host of other advantages.Chilli PeppersChilli Peppers helps lift your spirits. It is good for your heart and it helps aid blood circulation. It helps with the fight against colds and flu and I am told that it also helps with weight loss but don't hold this one against me. Thai's swear by it. Well!! How many over-weight Thai people do you know?GalangalGalangal is a member of the rhizome family and display similar protuberant segments as turmeric and ginger but have finger-like stems and are known for their pungent flavor. Galangal is freely available throughout Asia and until very recently, unobtainable in the west, but now easy to come by as ginger. They are used as both herbs and spices and can be bought either fresh, dried or in powder form. The health and dietary benefits are infinite.Curry LeavesCurry Leaves are excellent as a herbal tonic for strengthening various functions of the stomach. Juice extracted from the leaves mixed with honey and used as a tea has medicinal properties effective in treating diarrhea, dysentery and piles. Juice extracted from the leaves and mixed with lime is effective in treating morning sickness, nausea and vomiting.TamarindTamarind available fresh, as compressed blocks, dried slices and in paste or concentrate form is used extensively in South East Asian cuisine. It contains a good source of antioxidants to help in the fight against cancer. It helps in the treatment of bile disorders, acts as a mild laxative, lowers cholesterol, protects against colds and flu and helps in reducing fevers.Thai BasilThai Basil a close cousin of sweet basil is frequently used in Thai cuisine. The lemon scented hairy basil and holy basil are some of the other known varieties of the herb grown in Thailand. Basil has powerful antioxidants to help protect the body from the damage caused by toxins and free radicals. Basil has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties to assist in the fight against inflammation as well as a whole host of other medicinal benefits.
Red Chillies
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