Haldi (Turmeric)(01 of09)
Open Image ModalLong (Clove)(02 of09)
Open Image ModalCloves are known for their heating, anti-fungal and expectorant properties. "Kahdha, the grandmother’s recipe to cure cold & cough is herbal mix of spices including cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, ginger, desi ghee and basil," says Delhi-based nutritionist Ishi Khosla, author of 'Is Wheat Killing You?' and 'The Diet Doctor'.While clove oil remains a popular remedy to relieve toothache, this strong spice itself has other benefits when taken in limited quantities: (credit:Ion-Bogdan DUMITRESCU via Getty Images)
Elaichi (Cardamon)(03 of09)
Open Image ModalCardamom seeds have aromatic and warming properties, stimulate the appetite and enhance digestion. "In a hot infusion they help relieve colic, distension, gas, nausea, vomiting, indigestion and an acid stomach," says Ishi. A popular addition to spiced Indian tea, this fragrant spice is often prescribed for digestion problems such as constipation, irritable bowel syndrome and intestinal gas. "Commonly chewed after a meal, it is also used to eradicate bad breath," says Dev, based on research from theweightmonitor.com. (credit:Yelena Yemchuk via Getty Images)
Dalchini (Cinnamon)(04 of09)
Open Image ModalCinnamon is known for its role in the reduction of total and bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase in good cholesterol (HDL). "It also helps improve insulin resistance, thereby making it useful in diabetes management." says Dev. (credit:moodboard via Getty Images)
Ajwain (Carom)(05 of09)
Open Image ModalThese little seeds are excellent indigestion relievers. "They have been used over generations in Indian households to help colicky babies, ward off pregnancy constipation, and even cure hiccups," says Ishi. Carom seeds are also claimed to work well as a natural aphrodisiac. Traditional spice mix, the saunf paani including fennel, cumin, carom seeds help to ease digestion (credit:bdspn via Getty Images)
Hing (Asafoetida)(06 of09)
Open Image ModalIts infamous lingering odour has given it many names including devil’s dung, and stinking gum. "Asafoetida, warming in nature helps to increase digestive enzymes and boost the assimilation of nutrients," says Dev. It is a popular addition to Indian cuisine as imparts a pleasant flavour and helps in curing acne, relieving menstrual pain as well as soothing bee stings. (credit:Dave King via Getty Images)
Tej patta (Bay Leaf)(07 of09)
Open Image ModalUsed commonly to prepare biryani and korma, Bay leaves are also added to the quintessential Indian spice mix - Garam Masala.Bay leaves help strengthen immunity, and ward off urinary tract infections," says Ishi adding that an infusion of tej patta also makes a great dandruff antidote. Aside from this, bay leaves are an excellent and non-poisonous method to protect packed clothes from hungry bugs. (credit:The Washington Post via Getty Images)
Amchur (Dried mango powder)(08 of09)
Open Image ModalMostly used in chutneys and curries, Amchur or dried mango powder boasts high Vitamin A and Vitamin C content, says Dev. He adds that it is popularly recommended to pregnant women due to its high iron content and also reduces acidity. (credit:Dave King via Getty Images)
Kaali Mirch (Black Peppercorns)(09 of09)
Open Image ModalSeveral scientific studies, according to Dev provide evidence that black pepper has cholesterol lowering properties and may help in cardiac function recovery after heart attacks. A word of caution adds Ishi: "piperine, a major active component in both black and white pepper, can strengthen or modify the effects of numerous other medicines, particularly blood thinning agents. Therefore, it is important to seek advice from a qualified professional before using it in therapeutic doses." (credit:Brian Yarvin via Getty Images)