Grenada, also known as “Spice Island” is home to an abundance of different spices. It’s the southernmost island in the Caribbean, and produces spices such as cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and turmeric. It is most famous for its numerous nutmeg plantations, and hilly terrain. The spices produced on Grenada are proven to have major health benefits, and the spice industry relies on the island for producing them.
Grenada’s spices and their health benefits:
Cinnamon
The bacteria found in cinnamon have prebiotic properties which aid in gut health and digestion. Cinnamon is also anti- viral, anti- bacterial, and anti-fungal. The smell and taste have soothing properties, which is why its frequently used in Chinese herbal medicine. It also has the ability to lower blood sugar and the risk of developing type-2 diabetes. This is because it manages the amount of glucose that enters the bloodstream.
Ginger
Ginger can treat various forms of nausea. Studies show that pregnant women consuming ginger may be less affected by morning sickness. It can also help people undergoing some types of surgery who are affected by nausea. Ginger can help with osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis can lead to joint pain and stiffness, and people who consume ginger tend to be less inhibited by these symptoms. Ginger can lower blood sugars, improve heart disease risk factors, help treat chronic indigestion, and may help lower cholesterol levels.
Nutmeg
This spice contains anti-inflammatory properties, powerful antioxidants, and antibacterial properties. It’s even shown to possibly benefit various health conditions, including heart health, blood sugar control, and mood control. The antioxidants in nutmeg can help protect against signs of aging, and conditions such as cancer and liver disease.
Cloves
Containing anti-inflammatory properties, cloves have the power to reduce symptoms of arthritis. They also have the ability to protect the stomach lining, reducing one’s risk of developing ulcers. Cloves also promote better liver function. They contain various vitamins such as eugenol, vitamin K, potassium, and beta-carotene which boost immune health.
Turmeric
Curcumin, the main active ingredient in turmeric, has strong anti-inflammatory effects which help with conditions such as heart disease, cancer, and alzheimers disease. Curcumin suppresses the chronic inflammation that can lead to these diseases. Studies show that turmeric may help prevent cancer because it can contribute to the death of cancerous cells, reduce the spread of cancer, and reduce the growth of new blood vessels in tumors.
