H Herbs and Spices: Phytonutrients, Nature’s Gifts from Plants

Apr 9, 2025 | 2025 A to Z Challenge, Live Younger Longer Blog, Living Younger by Changing Aging, Nutrition

“Season your food like your life depends on it— a pinch can pack a punch”

Herbs and spices do more than flavour your food—they fuel your health. These plant powerhouses are loaded with phytonutrients, natural compounds that protect plants from harm—and do the same for us. They fight inflammation, support detoxification, and help protect against chronic diseases linked to aging. Take turmeric, for example. Its active compound, curcumin, has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Rosemary boosts memory. Garlic supports heart health. Cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar. And the list goes on. The beauty is, you don’t need massive doses—just regular use in everyday meals. What makes herbs and spices special is their concentration of benefits in small amounts. Unlike some superfoods that require eating a wheelbarrow’s worth to make a dent, just a teaspoon here and there can have real effects over time.

3 Easy Action Steps:

  1. Spice up your cooking. Use fresh or dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil in sauces, soups, and marinades.
  2. Add turmeric and black pepper to your meals. They work better together—pepper boosts the absorption of curcumin.
  3. Swap salt for spices. Reduce sodium while packing in flavor and nutrients.

Herbs and spices aren’t just seasoning—they’re small doses of daily medicine hiding in your kitchen cabinet. Use them generously and often.

Here is a link to an informative book on spices https://www.reviewfromthehouse.com/review-studio/cookbook-review-spice-health-heroes

Talk to me about the ways I have found to add these phytonutrients to my diet

email Dr. Gillian at askdrgill@gmail.com or leave a comment and your blog link in the comments

2 Comments

  1. I’m a big believer in cure for my ails through diet. Thanks for these thoughts. @samanthabwriter from
    Balancing Act

    Reply
  2. Thanks Samantha. I adhere to the belief of food as medicine but of course it can equally do harm. It’s not always easy to navigate and find the best choices for oneself, so my mantra is unprocessed, whole foods – proteins, fats, very low carb

    Reply

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