Turmeric: The root of a plant belonging to the ginger family, turmeric powder is a distinctive yellow and an excellent antiseptic. It contains curcumin, a natural chemical that is believed to help preventing Alzheimer’s. This is due to the fact that  Alzheimer’s is linked o the formation of knots in the brain, known as amyloidal plaques. Research has shown that curcumin can cut down the formation of these. Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory action works well against coughs, colds, asthma and other bronchial-related illnesses.

Cumin: Cumin seeds, when boiled in plenty of water and drunk as a herbal tea before bedtime, can help counteract insomnia. It also contains anti-cancer agents carevol and limonene.

Peppercorns: Available as black, white or green peppercorns, these are good for the digestive system. They also help with coughs and colds, as they are believed to have antiviral properties. Their spicy aroma can help clear the airways and peppercorns are also associated with combating impotence.

Chilli: When you eat hot food, it causes your heart rate to increase. That is why chillies can raise the metabolic rate by up to 50 per cent for a couple of hours after consumption. The key component of chillies, known as capsaicin, is believed to be a strong painkiller. Taken in small quantities regularly, chillies are also believed to be beneficial for the immune system. They stimulate the digestive juices and as they make you sweat, they assist the release of toxins.

Garlic: For centuries, garlic had been used to cure a number of ailments. It is a powerful antioxidant, fighting off the effects of damaging free radicals in the body. The key chemical in garlic, allicin, works as a natural antibiotic. Hence, regular intake of garlic boosts the body’s immune system and helps keep away coughs, colds and other respiratory tract infections. Allicin is also thought to play a role in preventing cancer. Due to its high level of sulphides, which medical research indicates can help ‘thin’ the blood, garlic is used to lower high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It is also thought that garlic can help fight skin problems and nosebleeds.

Ginger: Ginger is also an enormously effective antioxidant and is known to improve circulation. Ginger also reduces or prevents flatulence and can help with overall digestion. Medical evidence indicates that its reputation for combating rheumatism and arthritis is due to its key component zingerone. This antioxidant has a beneficial effect upon the free radicals (unstable molecules), which can lead to inflammation of the joints. Some believe it also helps with anaemia and liver complaints.

Cinnamon: The bark of cinnamon, whether used in stick form or ground to a powder, is known to be anti-bacterial. That is why it is used to fight bad breath and helps with digestion. Regular use helps keep away the common cold. Cinnamon oil has been used to treat toothaches and headaches as well as impotence.

Cardamom: In antiquity, cardamom pods were believed to have aphrodisiac qualities similar to saffron. Cardamom can also freshen the breath, dissipate nausea and calm the digestive tract. Inhaling the steam of cardamom scented hot water is a natural remedy against headaches.

Coriander: The leaves and seeds of coriander have numerous medicinal properties. In ayurveda, they are described as removing heat from the digestive system and eyes. This translates into assisting the digestive system, whether the seeds and leaves are used directly in cooking, or when the seeds are steeped overnight in a cup of water and drunk as a herbal tea. This can also help with constipation. The coriander water can sometimes help with mild conjunctivitis when applied to the affected area.

Fenugreek: Fenugreek’s leafy form belongs to the spinach family. However, its seeds are useful when cooking to combat the flatulence caused by certain foods, such as lentils and cauliflower. Its anti-viral properties mean it also helps against sore throat and mouth ulcers. Historically, fenugreek has been used to treat diabetes and is now thought to reduce blood pressure.