8 Cancer-Fighting Spices you’ve Always Had in Your Kitchen

Lisa Franchi July 14, 2015

You may think that the most effective medicinal herbs and spices are hard to find. But actually, they are not. In fact, you probably see them every day without knowing that they can actually protect you from the big C.

Turmeric

Known for its bright yellow colour and earthly flavour, turmeric is one of the best medicinal spices is the world. Studies show that it contains an active compound called curcumin which destroys almost every type of cancer cell that exists! And you know what the best thing about turmeric is? It targets cancer cells while leaving normal cells alone.

Cinnamon

There’s more reason to continue loving cinnamon. And it’s its ability to reduce your risk of cancer! In several studies, cinnamon has been found to contain high levels of iron and calcium. Even just a little as single half-teaspoon of cinnamon daily, you can already protect yourself against certain forms of cancer.

Ginger

You probably have ginger in your kitchen every day. Apart from its strong anti-inflammatory properties, fresh ginger has potent antioxidant properties that make it a powerful weapon against cancer.

Saffron

It may be expensive, but saffron offers great health benefits along with its culinary properties. This spice contains active components, including carotenoids like zeaxanthin, lycopene and carotenes which have anti-tumour, anticancer and therapeutic benefits

Oregano

We love oregano in pasta sauces. This popular spice contains anti-microbial compounds, which has powerful benefits against prostate cancer. Oregano also contains a phytochemical called quercetin which is also present in apples, that restricts the growth of malignant cells in the body.

Cayenne

Capsaicin – the active ingredient found in cayenne and all its peppery cousins, is thought to act as anti-inflammation and antioxidant agent. For the past years, researchers have been studying its potential as a cancer treatment, as well as its ability to help manage diabetes for its role in curbing blood sugar levels.

Cloves

The combination of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties spells heaps of health benefits, from boosting protection from heart disease to helping stave off cancer. And like cinnamon and cayenne, cloves may also be helpful in improving insulin function.

Garlic

Who doesn’t have garlic in their kitchen? The by-product of allicin – the sulphur compound in garlic, is believed to be responsible for the popular spice’s medicinal benefits. Furthermore, when eaten daily, garlic also helps reduces cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease by up to 76%.

See? You probably have heard that some of the best drugs in the world is found in nature. And sometimes, they are sitting there in your kitchen too!