You might cook with them every day but did you know spices have numerous health benefits, too?

Cinnamon
It has numerous beneficial compounds which give it, painkilling, sedative, anti-inflammatory and circulation- boosting properties.

Good for: Recent studies have shown that cinnamon may help to lower blood sugar levels and so may be useful in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes, according to research conducted by the US Department of Agriculture.

Ginger
Contains anti-inflammatory compounds and has both antiviral and painkilling properties – working a bit like an aspirin in the body.

Good for: Travel sickness, fighting colds and viruses, curing hangovers. May also soothe a weak digestive system, boost circulation, ease pain, relieve arthritis and protect against colon cancer.

Star anise
Has stimulative and diuretic properties. Contains shikimic acid, which is used to create the Tamiflu anti-flu drug.

Good for: Treating skin diseases, digestive problems and to prevent colic in babies. It can also be used as a diuretic, helps to cure stomach aches caused by the accumulation of intestinal gas. Also good for preventing headaches and promoting
good health.

Chilli
Contains capsaicin and beta-carotene and works as a natural painkiller in the body, releasing feel-good endorphins.

Good for: A general boost to the immune system, chilli potentially increases your pain threshold and is used to manage arthritis pain. May also help to reduce blood cholesterol, clear a stuffed nose and relieve colds and headaches.

Turmeric
A source of antioxidants and iron, it has an anti-inflammatory effect and helps to boost the immune system. And it may also have cancer-fighting properties.

Good for: Potentially reducing inflammation and pain in conditions such as arthritis. Can also help lower cholesterol, relieve an irritable bowel, regulate blood sugar and improve liver function.

Coriander
It is packed with a wide range of antioxidants, including quercetin, which is known to help combat the destructive free radicals that play a part in the development of cancers and heart disease.

Good for: All-round protection against bacterial infections. Can ease flatulence and diarrhoea, control blood sugar and lower cholesterol levels.

Saffron
Helps to oxygenate the blood which can help reduce the risk of plaque build-up in arteries. Also contains B vitamins.

Good for: Improving moods and combating depression. May also alleviate insomnia and can reduce asthma symptoms. Recent studies have also demonstrated its memory-enhancing, anti-cancer and antioxidant properties.

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