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We’re all acquainted with the phrase ‘Spice it Up’ and how it can be used for multiple reasons and on occasions — here we shall only talk about one, Your Kitchen!

In most homes, kitchen is where the heart is at and spicing it up, quite literally, is always a good idea. Spices are, of course a great way to make scrumptious food, but at the same time can be extremely beneficial for your health. Research suggests that spices and herbs have been used to treat multiple ailments for hundreds of years in most parts of the world.

Here is our list of 8 spices and herbs that should definitely make way to your kitchen!

• Black Peppercorns

The good old salt and pepper combo is a must have for all of our meals. Well at least most of them. The slight pungency in taste and the raw aroma can make any recipe better, especially in case of an emergency. Let’s be honest all of us have last minute kitchen emergencies!

Much like most spices and herbs out there, black pepper too, has health benefits. Black Peppercorns help with digestion and also allow for better dental health. Go ahead and stock your kitchen up!

• Oregano

The herb of all dressings! Oregano is one herb that majority of people are familiar with but don’t necessarily have stocked at home. It is one of the most aromatic herbs out there and can make almost everything taste better — instantly!

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Please notice how we said almost everything since it might not apply to the Italian takeout in your fridge from last week! Jokes apart, Oregano is an absolute essential with the flavour it provides and the antioxidants it has. Antioxidants work in multiple ways to improve our health and are known for being a counter treatment to cancer .

• Cinnamon

Cinnamon is one versatile spice! The taste and texture is as such that it allows to be used for sweet as well as savoury dishes. I mean imagine the variety that the spice offers you. It can come handy when you are trying to make this recipe by Nonna Box for dessert or when you have to spice up your regular grilled chicken. Ceylon cinnamon, also known as true cinnamon, is known for its medicinal properties.

Not only does the spice allow you variety, but it also helps keep your health in check. Scientists have deduced that the spice is good for heart health and helps keep the cardiovascular system healthy.

• Cilantro/Coriander

Known by two different names across the world, Cilantro/Coriander is a fantastic seasoning option to have in your kitchen cabinet. From meat to salsa and even to pasta this herb is a great choice for seasoning.

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Even though the taste is not very significant the tantalizing savor and scent can change your dining experience. It looks pretty and tastes decent and more importantly — it turns your meal into a high-end experience within seconds.

You don’t want to miss out on something as multipurpose as Cilantro. Oh and it’s wondrous for your health too!

• Cayenne Pepper

This tiny bright red pepper can do wonders for your food as well as your health. Size, in this case definitely doesn’t matter, as it is the basic ingredient in a multitude of sauces and gravies. Cayenne pepper provides just that tinge and little bit of heat that can turn the dish around and make your taste buds happy!

Speaking of its health benefits, cayenne pepper has often been associated with a boost in immunity and isn’t that the core of everything health related? Cayenne pepper, powdered or otherwise, is a great addition to your kitchen directory owing to the amazing properties and its multiple health benefits. The pepper is also used as a treatment for headaches in some parts of the world.  

• Peppermint

You can love it or you can hate it but you cannot deny the unique flavour that peppermint can add to your homemade meal!

It has one of the most distinct aroma out of all herbs and can be used for several kinds of foods and desserts. Toss that minty lemonade or go for a warm peppermint mocha right in the comfort of your kitchen by adding peppermint to your weekly grocery list.

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Need we add that it has health benefits too? Well okay if you insist. Peppermint leaves, in the form of tea, have been linked to a decrease in congestion and headaches. We all need that after a hard day at work, don’t we?

• Garlic Powder

It can be a problem to chop garlic to perfection every time it is your turn to cook at home. For ease and convenience, you can always get yourself dehydrated garlic powder that works just as well as the actual thing.

For anyone who cooks, it should come as no surprise that garlic is the main ingredient for several major recipes belonging from various parts of the world! Be it something along the lines of an Indian Curry or the Italian Agliata, Garlic is king! Of course, we weren’t going to stop before highlighting the health benefits! Garlic is rather efficient with lowering Cholesterol levels. Get yours now!

• Basil

The Basic Basil! We saved the best herb for the last. It is one of the most common herbs used around the globe owing to its intense flavour and persistent taste. Basil can be used in dishes like lasagne, pies, curries and even salads. What more can you ask for? It is commonly available, fits in with almost every cuisine in the world and does wonders for your inner system! The herb is extremely rich in antioxidants which is known to fight cancer and inflammation.

These aren’t just spices and herbs, they are super spices and herbs that make your food and your health better with every passing day! So jot down these essential spices before you head out for your next grocery trip. They will surely up your cooking game and let you boast about your cooking skills among your friends. That’s all from us, share your kitchen essentials with us if we missed them!