Did you know that some common everyday spices double as antioxidants?  It’s true!  A sprinkle of this, a pinch of that, and you could turn a tasty dish or drink into a healthier one. Here’s how.  

First, What Are Antioxidants, And Why Do We Need Them? 

Antioxidants play a key role in disease prevention by ridding the body of harmful free radicals. An excess of cell-damaging free radicals compromises our immune function. 

Dark chocolate, berries, sweet potatoes, pecans, tomatoes, carrots, and broccoli are great sources of antioxidants. Yet eating antioxidant-rich foods may not be enough.

In Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-to-Z Guide to Supplements, Phyllis A. Blanch, CNC states that while many antioxidants can be obtained from food sources, it’s difficult to get enough from these sources to hold back the free radicals constantly being generated in our polluted environment. “Antioxidants work synergistically to give protection against free radical damage, so it’s better to take small doses of several different antioxidants than a large amount of only one.” 

Antioxidants in Herbs and Spices

So, where could you look for additional antioxidants?  Think spices and herbs! Certain herbs and spices have been found to be richer, more concentrated sources of antioxidants than the foods mentioned above. 

Read: Heal With Turmeric

It’s easy to incorporate spices into your meals and beverages throughout the day. A little goes a long way to up your intake.  

Top 12 Antioxidant Herbs & Spices (By ORAC Value*), Ground or Dried 

High ORAC spices (and foods) may help contribute to lowering your risk of disease.

What are your favorite spices to add to foods? Tell us in the comments below!

  • Deborah Tukua
  • #molongui-disabled-link
  • January 25, 2023
  • How To Have A Pollinator Party Pre-Game!
  • Deborah Tukua
  • #molongui-disabled-link
  • December 6, 2022
  • Heat Therapy: How And When To Treat Pain With Heat
  • Deborah Tukua
  • #molongui-disabled-link
  • September 27, 2022
  • Learn More About Hummingbird moths
  • Deborah Tukua
  • #molongui-disabled-link
  • August 19, 2022
  • How to Avoid A Skin Rash In The Garden