Khaberni - Dr. Irina Popkova, a nutrition expert, indicates that spices have a thermal effect in winter, as they gently stimulate metabolism and improve microcirculation, providing the body with natural warmth.
And she says: "The essential oils and plant components of spices act as natural disinfectants and help boost immunity".
According to her, cinnamon is considered the queen of winter spices, as it improves blood circulation, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and has strong anti-inflammatory properties. Cinnamon is ideal for adding to morning oatmeal, baked apples, pumpkin soup, and hot wine.
Star anise is beneficial in soothing coughs, warming the body, and improving digestion, and adds a wonderful flavor to meat, poached pears, and tea.
Cloves contain a high amount of eugenol, a substance with antibacterial properties and pain relief capabilities. Cloves have a warming and stimulating effect, so it's advisable to add them to carrot soup, biscuits, and hot drinks.
As for allspice, it features a complex aroma that combines hints of cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon. It stimulates digestion and has a warming effect and is indispensable in broth, marinades, and meat dishes.
The doctor recommends adding two sticks of cinnamon, three star anise pods, five cloves, and some allspice berries to one liter of orange juice (preferably fresh with pulp). The mixture should be heated over low heat until the first bubbles appear without boiling, then left covered for 10 minutes and served hot.
The expert advises adding these spices to daily dishes, such as: cinnamon in morning coffee or juice, star anise in tea, and cloves and allspice in vegetable or bean soup. These spices will transform eating into a ritual of self-care and self-attention.
