ditions. All these benefits come from the healthy oils, antioxidants
and phytonutrients. Here are some examples:
- Oregano, thyme and bay leaf can protect against poten-
tially harmful infectious agents such as Candida, E. coli,
Salmonella and Staph, and even the potentially deadly
Klebsiella pneumoniae. - Turmeric contains the antioxidant curcumin and has
powerful anti-inflammatory (and cancer preventive)
properties, as does rosemary. - Ginger has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, and
can inhibit the rhinovirus — one of the viruses responsi-
ble for the common cold. Hot ginger tea, made from fresh
ginger and a small amount of honey, is one of the best
remedies when those around you are getting a cold or
you feel it coming on. Ginger’s antioxidant properties are
at least as effective as those of vitamin C, can be very use-
ful for nausea and motion sickness, and help protect the
intestine from ulcers. In addition, ginger may have prop-
erties that promote fat-burning. - Capsaicin, found in hot red chili peppers, also has anti-
inflammatory properties, and can stimulate increased
oxygen uptake, which is one reason it may also increase
fat-burning capability. - Wasabi, a hot root used with Japanese foods, also protects
against potential food poisoning by bacteria and fungus.
It also contains anti-cancer properties, including power-
ful antioxidants. - Parsley and cilantro not only add a visual pleasure to a
plate of food but are full of therapeutic phytonutrients. - Fenugreek (the seed) contains high levels of flavanoids,
which are important antioxidants, and has been shown to
have cholesterol-lowering capabilities. This spice can also
reduce platelet aggregation (important for proper blood
flow) and reduce blood sugar in diabetics.
172 • IN FITNESS AND IN HEALTH