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Uses of Herbs and Spices as Medicine

When used topically it has both astringent and anti-bacterial qualities. It may be used to cleanse minor scrapes and grazes. First wash the affected part and apply a light dusting of cinnamon powder over the wound, bandage and ensure the wound is kept clean.
It is also claimed that cinnamon aids concentration, relieves mental torpor and fatigue. To relieve nervous tension and to improve memory, every night mix some dried cinnamon with honey and take. It has breath freshening qualities too and is an essential oil much used in therapeutic massage.

Clove

Clove has long been used in incense and in potpourri. Not only is it an effective and refreshing room deodoriser it also cleanses the breath. Cloves have a long history of use as a cure for toothache and to fight tooth decay.
Cloves sautéed in sesame oil is an effective ease for earache, just instill two to three drops in the infected ear. Make sure the oil has cooled sufficiently before application.
Cloves, combined with dried orange, are an effective insect repellent. And an application of warm clove oil to insect bites removes and neutralises irritation.

Cardamom

Many herbalists claim that cardamom mixed with coffee neutralises caffeine and aids digestion of fats and starches. They further claim that the spice will soothe an upset stomach and act as an anti-emetic.
Further attributes ascribed to cardamom are relief of hiccups; just boil with four or five leaves of mint. Allow to cool and then drink. Cardamom freshens breath too.

Ginger

Ginger may be used raw and dried. Besides being a refreshing infusion itself ginger is a throat gargle in cases of sore throat; just add two drops of ginger oil to 5 ml of vodka and dilute with warm water - when cool gargle.
Ginger is a natural expectorant and is effective in colds; it is also a good anti-emetic and an ease for indigestion.

Turmeric

Like ginger turmeric is a rhizome; it is used as a basic ingredient of curries. For centuries it is also a natural dye.
In Ayurvedic medicine turmeric is used as an ointment to ease skin problems from pimples and carbuncles. Mixed with curd and butter it has been used as a beauty application for centuries – clearing the complexion and brightening the skin.
To clear worm infestations mix twenty drops of turmeric with a teaspoon of salt and it works wonders. Turmeric is also a good source of iron.

Garlic

Garlic is one of the oldest of medicinal plants. It has been claimed to stimulate the production of gastric juices and therefore act as a digestive. It has anti-bacterial properties and has proven effects on lowering blood pressure and cholesterol.