Spices can not only improve the taste of the food, but also have certain medical value. Following we will introduce some spices which are commonly used in our daily diets.

First, laurel
The beautiful laurel is planted in the Mediterranean area. Since the ancient time, laurel has been widely used as a seasoning added in cooked food, fish soup, seafood and so on. It is very effective to treat some diseases such as cold, bronchitis, headache, flatulence, as well as indigestion.

Second, mint
In Athens, mint is used to make the corolla for the girls, or for the decoration of the bridal veil. The Arabians use it as a seasoning. It can also be added in ice cream, tablet, wine and sweets. Mint has a good purifying effect, because it can resist decaying and has a sterilization function. What's more, mint is beneficial to the nervous system, and can be used as a sedative, which is easily digested.

Third, mustard
There are many types of mustard, about more than 40. Because of its special flavor, it can be used as a seasoning in pickles, salted meat or salad. Mustard can be used to treat rheumatic diseases, and regulate menstruation. In the ancient time, people always put some mustard in their bath water, so as to cure measles. When it is mixed with flour and made into paste, mustard can be used to treat cough or bronchitis. What's more, it can also stimulate the activities of the stomach and pancreas.

Fourth,
Nutmeg was first discovered by the Egyptians, and it was brought to Europe by the Arabs. It was very expensive at that time. You needed three goats and half a cow to exchange one pound of nutmeg. Although nutmeg is difficult to digest for some people, however, people still could not imagine how the food would taste without nutmeg. What's more, nutmeg can aid digestion, prevent asthma, and is beneficial to the heart.

Fifth, parsley
Parsley can improve the flavor of the food. It can promote urination, and has the effects of stimulation, blood enrichment and purification. Parsley leaves contain plenty of vitamin C, Bl, B2 and carotene. In rural areas, parsley is used for the treatment of bee sting.

Other commonly used spices include pepper, chili powder, rosemary, vanilla and so on. These spices can make the food more delicious, and at the same time, they can also bring good medical effects to our body, making us free from the trouble of certain diseases.