Recent research indicates that many herbs used in Pakistani cuisine have a host of health benefits. So add some spices to your life by making the following five healthy Herbs a regular part of your diet.
1.Cinnamon. Cinnamon(daar cheeni) sticks are used in dishes that include biryani, qeema and Kabuli chana, while ground cinnamon used in deserts and even coffee. This fragrant herb contains manganese and alderhyde (a chemical compound) which aids bone, muscle and tissue development. Cinnamon is also prescribed to people suffering from arthritis. Studies have shown that cinnamon helps regulate sugar levels and has anti-bacterial properties.
2.Fenugreek. Pungent fenugreek (methi) seeds are used as powder in curries an to garnish lentils. Regular intake decreases bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglyceride (harmful fat) levels and reduces blood sugar levels in cardiac and Type 2 diabetes patients. Soaking a gram of methi in water overnight and drinking it early morning is believed to aid weight loss.
3.Fennel. Aromatic and sweet flavoured fennel (saunf) is usually sprinkled on breads and cakes before baking, added to sauteed vegetables and used to make pulao. Fennel contains trans- anethole, a compound that prevents retinopathy (vision loss among diabetics) and glaucoma. Fennel tea is believed to improve cognitive function, alleviate depression and delay that onset of dementia due to high potassium content.
4.Cumin. Yellow brown cumin seeds (zeera) spice up curries, while roasted zeera is used in tarkas for daal. Cumin reduce free radicals (compounds that attack healthy cells) in the blood, while daily consumption promotes liver function essential for detoxification. A teaspoon of zeera in a glass of hot water relives heartbeat, aids digestion and eases Stomach cramps.
5.Turmeric. Mildly fragrant, turmeric powder (haldi) is traditionally used to add zing to soups and salads, marinate fish, beef and mutton, and used in most varies as well as daal. Turmeric is rich in vitamin C (which boosts immunity), and has anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties. Turmeric juice has gained popularity globally due to its high anti- oxidation content that helps prevent cardiovascular disease.
By Saba Gul Hasan . The writer is a nutritionist and a wellness coach.
my nam is syed ali abbas my age 21 years old my fon nmbar 03429992704 my qualifcation matric