20/08/2026
More than meets the taste buds… Don’t walk past our herbs and spices too fast when looking for a natural remedy. These dried seasonings can be a natural and cost-effective way to support your health, and they may already be sitting in your store cupboard! 🌿🫚
You most likely have already heard about the key herbs and spices known for their health benefits (here’s a quick reminder):
Ginger — supports digestion & may help with nausea
Turmeric — rich in curcumin, known for its antioxidant & anti-inflammatory properties.
Cinnamon — antioxidant-rich and may support healthy blood sugar levels.
Garlic — contains compounds that support heart & immune health.
Cloves — rich in antioxidants and traditionally used to support digestion and oral health.
However, here are a couple that might have gone under your radar 👀
Most of us will know of juniper berries, notably as the main flavour agent in gin. Therefore, it might come as a surprise that these small, pungent seeds can actually be used as an antibacterial diuretic, making them a go-to remedy for urinary tract infections.
With a peppery and citrus punch, juniper berries can make a delicious tea. (Crush 1–2 tsp and add to a teapot of boiling water. Allow to steep for 15 minutes, or overnight if you fancy a chilled iced drink.)
Black mustard seeds, with their spicy, sharp flavour, are often a staple in curries and chutneys. However, they have long been favoured in traditional Ayurveda, where they are used to stimulate digestion and relieve pain. These seeds are packed with glucosinolates, which are sulphur-containing compounds found in other cruciferous plants such as broccoli and kale. When crushed, these compounds boast not only anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties, but may also aid the liver in flushing excess oestrogen — potentially easing symptoms of PMS, perimenopause, and endometriosis.
Fenugreek seeds are another core member of curry spice blends. However, did you know they are also a type of galactagogue — a substance that helps initiate, maintain, or increase breast milk production? An important one to remember for breastfeeding mums!
They are also anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic, meaning they can be a useful tool in combating painful menstrual cramps.
Make a simple tea by adding 1 tsp of seeds to 2 cups of water and boiling for 5–10 minutes.
The list is endless, and we would love to hear your favourites in the comments or the next time you’re in store!🙏
