3 Cold-Fighting Spices Your Body Wants Now

Reader s Digest Magazine

1. Turmeric
Its yellow tint makes your food look enticing, but turmeric's biggest selling point is that it contains curcumin, which may ease headaches, act as a decongestant, help reduce allergy symptoms, and ward off colds. "It seems to be as effective as some drugs for certain conditions," said Bharat Aggarwal, PhD, professor of experimental therapeutics at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.

2. Cumin
Ground or whole, this seed is rich in vitamins A and C and is thought to help fight off sinus infections and colds, says Aggarwal, author of the new book Healing Spices. Plus, find out why you need to include these 10 healing herbs and spices in your diet.

3. Peppermint
It's a powerful anti-inflammatory, Aggarwal says, and may soothe a sore throat and reduce coughs and congestion. Use it for tea, or mix it into yogurt and chutney.

FACTOID:
Turmeric and cumin are both used in curry powder, which is synonymous with Indian cuisine. Learn about 6 healthy foods you can find at an Indian restaurant.

Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Twitter

Plus:
20 Secrets Your Waiter Won't Tell You
15 Foods You Should Never Buy Again
11 Biggest Red Flag Words on Packaged Foods
13 Things Your Barista Won't Tell You
13 Things Your Dentist Wants You to Know
13 Things a Movie Theater Employee Won't Tell You
13 Hotel Secrets You Should Know
13 Things the Pizza Guy Won't Tell You
19 Weight Loss Secrets From Around the World