Spice for Life

Thai cuisine is distinctly flavoured by the mixture of herbs and spices used in preparing the food. Traditional Thai cooking does not involve the use of electronic equipment for the kitchen. Rather, it relies on the skilled hands and expert taste buds of the Thais as they carefully mix the numerous ingredients that produce one superb dish. How the food is prepared and what it is made of are the two basic reasons why these dishes are so healthy.

Some of the most common herbs and spices used in Thai cuisine are chilli peppers, cilantro, galangal, lemongrass, kaffir lime, basil, tamarind, and ginger. Each has a medicinal benefit which also adds a tinge of exciting flavour to the dish. Take the galangal, for example; it is a member of the ginger family with a delicate, lemony taste. A few of its healing wonders are relaxing the muscles and acting as a natural expectorant. Another herbal ingredient is lemongrass which is commonly used in curries, soups, and salads. This herb helps with detoxification, gas problems, stress relief, and insomnia.

Also, if you have tried several Thai dishes, then you know they are usually hot. That is because a basic component of the nation's cuisine is chilli peppers. These come as fresh, dried, powdered, or flakes, and help in blood circulation, good digestion, and immunity against the flu and colds. Chilli is also believed to contribute to weight loss, and if you look at the slim locals of Thailand, you would be convinced.

There are so many more health benefits you can get from Thai herbs and spices. You can read more about their advantages and how to incorporate them into your own diet. It is about time you start to spice up your life!