#253 Sensational Spices and Healing Herbs and with Simon Mills
Jun 26, 2024
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Simon Mills discusses the benefits of spices beyond antioxidants, impact on gut health, brain health benefits of rosemary and sage, traditional use of bitters for digestion, innovative wound remedies using plants and fish skin, and managing coughs and headaches with natural remedies.
Spices contribute to gut health and immune function through unique interactions with the microbiome.
Rosemary enhances brain health by improving blood circulation and cognitive functions.
Turmeric and rosemary support the blood-brain barrier, reducing inflammation and promoting brain health.
Herbs like dandelion root and oak bark have historical wound healing properties, forming protective layers for faster recovery.
Deep dives
The Benefits of Spices on Digestion and Immune System
Spices, such as ginger and cinnamon, play a significant role in enhancing digestion and supporting the immune system. Asian spices are particularly important due to their impact on gut health and immune function. Spices like ginger and cinnamon promote improved circulation, which helps in flushing out toxins and delivering nutrients throughout the body. Additionally, spices interact uniquely with the microbiome, offering prebiotic properties that support overall gut health.
Spices for Cold Prevention and Immune Support
Spices and herbs, including ginger and cinnamon, are effective in preventing colds and supporting the immune system. These ingredients contribute to metabolic processes, improve blood sugar control, and help in managing fat levels. Traditional remedies like ginger and cinnamon can be used to boost immunity, prevent colds, and provide immediate relief for various ailments like headaches or joint pains.
Rosemary: Benefits for Brain Health and Cognitive Function
Rosemary stands out as a powerful herb for brain health, memory, and cognitive function. Its aromatic components have a direct impact on the brain, enhancing cognitive functions. Rosemary aids in improving blood circulation to the brain, supporting vascular health, and potentially reducing inflammation in the brain. Studies suggest that rosemary can enhance cognitive performance, making it a valuable herb for memory and brain function.
The Science Behind Spices and the Blood-Brain Barrier
Spices like turmeric and rosemary play a crucial role in supporting the blood-brain barrier and reducing inflammation in the brain. Turmeric, in particular, helps in fortifying the gut wall defenses, reducing inflammatory agents' absorption, and promoting brain health by influencing the microbiome. The complex interactions between spices and the gut-brain axis showcase their potential in maintaining brain health and preventing neurological disorders like dementia.
Herbs, Spices, and Their Therapeutic Benefits
Using herbs and spices as remedies has historical significance and a modern impact. The podcast explores their diverse roles, from medicinal properties to culinary uses. For instance, hops in beer have hormonal effects, while dandelion root is a popular bitter tea with health benefits like aiding in digestion and acting as a prebiotic.
Traditional Wound Remedies
Traditional wound treatments using tannins are highlighted for their effectiveness in healing and protecting wounds. The episode discusses the use of tannin-rich plants like dandelion root and oak bark for wound care. By applying these plants directly to wounds, they form a protective layer, aiding in the healing process.
Herbs and Spices for Health
The discussion delves into the potential benefits of herbs and spices in various health contexts. It touches upon their roles in reducing cancer risks and managing conditions like high cholesterol. Additionally, the use of garlic for coughs and migraines and the impact of remedies like feverfew and bitter herbs on headaches and cold symptoms are explored.
I love chatting with Simon Mills, he has a wonderful breadth of knowledge across the huge spectrum of different herbs and spices. And he can talk eloquently and sensitively about them, in a manner respectful of both the traditional beliefs and uses of them, as well as the science that may or may not support their claims.
Today we talk about the use of spices and what extra benefits they may be adding to our diets beyond simply “antioxidants”.
We talk about bitters and tonics and why they may work.
We explore how spices may impact our gut microbiota and potentially influence their health benefits.
Rosemary and sage on the brain, ginger for colds and how traditional antiseptics worked.
Simon Mills is a University of Cambridge graduate in medical sciences who has been a herbal practitioner in Exeter UK since 1977. He has been a complementary health pioneer from the inception of the term in 1979, and later in the fields of integrated health, selfcare and social prescription. He is now focusing on education through the public websites herbalreality.com and for professionals working with co-author Prof Kerry Bone at millsandboneacademy.com
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