Organic Amaranth ( Amaranthus)
Amaranth is used in various cultures in some very interesting ways. In Mexico it is popped and mixed with a sugar solution to make a confection called "alegria" and milled and roasted amaranth seed is used to create a traditional Mexican drink called "atole. In both Mexico and Peru the amaranth leaves are gathered then used as a vegetable either boiled or fried. In India amaranth is known as "rajeera" (the King's grain) and is popped then used in confections called "laddoos,". Amaranth can be cooked as a cereal, ground into flour, popped like popcorn, sprouted, or toasted. The seeds can be cooked with other whole grains, added to stir-fry or to soups and stews as a nutrient dense thickening agent. Amaranth flour is used in making pastas and baked goods. It must be mixed with other flours for baking yeast breads, as it contains no gluten. One part amaranth flour to 3-4 parts wheat or other grain flours may be used. In the preparation of flatbreads, pancakes and pastas, 100% amaranth flour can be used.
Organic Ajwain Seeds ( Trachyspermum ammi L. Sprague )
Ajwain is a popular spice throughout India . It used in savory snacks like Farsan. Ajwain seeds are found in most Indian households due to their medicinal properties. Ajwain is considered to be an effective medicine for treating indigestion. Ajwain goes well with fish and curries. It has a strong aroma when crushed. Otherwise, the seeds have little aroma. It has hot taste and burning feeling on the tongue. I n India , where vegetables are popular since they provide a source of protein to the many vegetarians, they are commonly flavoured with a perfumed butter frequently containing ajwain. This seemingly simple preparation is much more sophisticated than sheer heat treatment, since most aroma compounds in spices are lipophilic and dissolve much better in fat than in water. Thus, frying in butter not only enhances the fragrance because of the high temperature, but also extracts the flavour to the fat, whence it can be dispersed throughout the food efficiently.
Organic Cassia ( Cinnamomum cassia )
Cassia bark (both powdered and in whole, or "stick" form) is used as a flavouring agent, for candies, desserts, baked goods, and meat; it is specified in many curry recipes, where cinnamon is less suitable. Cassia is sometimes added to true cinnamon but is a much thicker, coarser product. Cassia is sometimes added to true cinnamon but is a much thicker, coarser product.
Organic Chillies ( Capsicum annuum L, Capsicum frutescens L)
It is also known as " Red Pepper " , is an important cash crop in India and is grown for its pungent fruits, which are both green and ripe ( the latter form is dried form ) to impart pungency to the food. As a condiment, it has become indispensable in every Indian home. It is also used medicinally in chutnies and pickles. The pungency is due to the active principle ' capsicin ' contained in the skin and the septa of the fruit. Introduced from tropical South America in the seventeenth century , it is now grown in all parts of India covering about 7,33,800 Hectares. Different chilli varieties are grown for Spices, Condiments, Vegetables, Sauces, and Pickles. Chillies used as spice are picked at full ripe stage and used after drying and grinding. Their sauces are made by pickling the pulp in strong brine or vinegar. Its extracts are used in the pulp in strong brine or vinegar. Its extracts are used in the production of ginger beer and other beverages. Chillies are rich in Vitamin A & C.
Organic Coriander ( Coriandrum Sativum L.)
It is a herbaceous plant extensively grown in India in almost all states as a Spice Crop. It is an important subsidiary crop in the black cotton soils of South India and the rich silt loams of Northern India . The stem, leaves and fruits have a aromatic flavour. The entire plant when young is used is preparing chutneys and sauces and the leaves are used for flavouring curries and soups. The roasted seeds are generally chewed to correct foul
breath. The roasted seeds are useful in dyspepsia. Their paste is applied to relieve pain in cephalagia. Coriander water is useful
in indigestion and other bowel complaints.
Organic Cumin ( Cuminum Cyminum L.)
Cumin is cultivated in Rajasthan and Gujarat which holds important position in terms of area and production and contributes 56 per cent of the total country's production. The quality is based on aroma & brown coloured seed with luster having at least 3 - 4 per cent volatile oil content which are free from weeds like zeeri are better for consumtionor use. It is used as powder medicinal , beverages, cumin sips, organic cumin, oil and oleoresin, besides manifold medicinal uses.
Organic Cardommon ( Elettaria cardamomum )
Cardamom is one of the world's very ancient spices. The pods can be used whole or split when cooked in Indian substantial meals - such as pulses. Otherwise, the seeds can be bruised and fried before adding main ingredients to the pan, or pounded with other spices as required. Keep the pods whole until use. The pod itself is neutral in flavour and not generally used, imparting an unpleasant bitter flavour when left in dishes. Its commonest Western manifestation is in Dutch 'windmill' biscuits and Scandinavian-style cakes and pastries, and in akvavit. It features in curries, is essential in pilaus (rice dishes) and gives character to pulse dishes. Cardamom is often included in Indian sweet dishes and drinks. At least partially because of its high price, it is seen as a 'festive' spice. Other uses are; in pickles, especially pickled herring; in punches and mulled wines; occasionally with meat, poultry and shellfish. It flavours custards, and some Russian liqueurs.
Organic Cinnamon ( Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume)
Is an ancient spice mentioned several times in the Old Testament. Possibly most the common baking spice, Cinnamon is used in cakes, cookies, and desserts throughout the world. Cinnamon is also used in savory chicken and lamb dishes from the Middle East . In American cooking, Cinnamon is often paired with apples and used in other fruit and cereal dishes. Stick Cinnamon is used in pickling and for flavoring hot beverages. Cinnamon has a sweet, woody fragrance in both ground and stick forms. Cinnamon has a sweet, woody fragrance in both ground and stick forms.
Organic Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum [L.])
Cloves are used in spice cookies and cakes. Much of the world crop is used in Indonesia for Clove cigarettes, called "kreteks". Cloves are strong, pungent, and sweet. Ground Cloves add spicy depth to gingerbread, cookies, applesauce, muffins, cakes, and other sweets. It's a secret ingredient in barbecue and cocktail sauces. Blend Ground Cloves with maple syrup and drizzle over cooked sweet potatos and winter squash.
Organic Fenugreek ( Trigonella foenum graecum L. )
Fenugreek known as Methi is cultivated throughout India . Fenugreek is rich minerals, protein, Vitamin A and C. The nutritive value may differ in different cultivar. In industries, seeds are used as dye and for extraction of alkaloids or steroids. The dried leaves and flowers are used for flavoring.
Organic Fennel ( Foeniculum Vulgare )
Fennel is widely cultivated throughout the temperate and sub-tropical regions of the world for its aromatic fruits used as culinary spice. In India fennel is cultivated mostly as a garden or home yard crop at all altitudes. Fennel plant is pleasantly aromatic and is used as a pot herb. The leaves are used in fish sauce and for garnishing, leaf stalks are used in salad. It is used for flavouring soups, meat dishes and sauces, bread rolls, pasteries and confectionery. They are also used for flavouring liquors and in manufacture of pickles.
Organic Garlic (Allium sativum )
Garlic has a powerful pungent or "hot" flavor when raw, which mellows considerably when it is cooked. Raw or cooked, garlic is noted for its strong characteristic odor, and for giving those who eat it a distinctive breath odor as well. Garlic is most often used as a seasoning or a condiment. When crushed or finely chopped it yields allicin , a powerful antibiotic and anti-fungal compound ( phytoncide ). It also contains alliin , ajoene , enzymes , vitamin B , minerals , and flavonoids . Garlic cloves continue to be used by aficionados as a remedy for infections (especially chest problems), digestive disorders, and fungal infections such as thrush . They are claimed to be an effective long-term remedy for cardiovascular problems reducing excessive blood cholesterol levels, atherosclerosis , the risk of thrombosis , and hypertension. Garlic is also alleged to help regulate blood sugar levels, and so can be helpful in late-onset diabetes .
Organic Ginger ( Zingiber Officnale Roscue )
It is one of the important spices all over the world and India is the largest producer, consumer and exporter in the world. Ginger of commerce is dried rhizome. It is marked in different forms such as raw ginger, ginger powder , ginger oil, ginger oleoresin, gingerale, ginger candy, ginger beer, ginger wine, ginger squash, ginger flakes. It is used in food , beverages, confectionery and medicine. It is one of the most popular flavouring agents known and used in confectionery . It is also used as preserved ginger, ginger candy, and as a caraminative and digestic stimulant. As a condiment , it is extensively used in culinary preparations.
Organic Kalonji Seeds (Nigella sativa )
Now a days, it is cultivated throughout India , whereas it is wildly grown too. Seeds are triangular in shape, black in colour and possess a severe pungent smell, contain a considerable amount of oil. kalonji removes the obstruction of any part of the body, expels the gases and strengthens the stomach. It is Emmenagogue, Lactogogue and Diuretic. It is an Anti-Helminthic, if taken with vinegar. It is useful in chronic cold. Inhalation of its smell is useful in common cold. The oil of Kalonji is effective in Alopecia. Half teaspoonful, if boiled in water and taken, is helpful in Asthma and diffuses the toxic effects of Bee and Wasps. Continuous use of kalonji is effective in mad dog bites. Fumigation of kalonji is useful in Respiratory Diseases. It is useful in Paralysis, Facial Palsy, Migraine, Amnesia and Palpitation. It is also an Expectorant and Antipyretic. It normalizes the secretions of stomach and pancreas. This phenomenon is very much effective and significant in the treatment of Diabetes Mellitus. It expels the Kidney and Urinary Bladder stones, if taken with the syrup of honey. It is effective in Jaundice if taken with milk. Its powder if taken with water is effective in treating Haemorrhoids. If Kalonji seeds are boiled in vinegar and this solution is applied on Gums and Teeth, it removes the Inflammation of the gums and relieves the pain also.It is also reported that its fine powder is effective if applied in early stages of Cataract. Kalonji is also used in Skin disorders. The oil of the seeds is also effective in Earache. If it is taken with Qust Sheering after breakfast and dinner, it is effective in chronic Dysentery and Asthma
Organic Nutmeg ( Myristica fragrans )
It produces two spices - mace and nutmeg. Nutmeg is the seed kernel inside the fruit and mace is the lacy covering (aril) on the kernel. Nutmeg is usually associated with sweet, spicy dishes - pies, puddings, custards, cookies and spice cakes. It combines well with many cheeses, and is included in soufflés and cheese sauces. In soups it works with tomatoes, slit pea, chicken or black beans. It complements egg dishes and vegetables like cabbage, spinach, broccoli, beans onions and eggplant. It flavours Italian mortadella sausages, Scottish haggis and Middle Eastern lamb dishes. It is often included as part of the Moroccan spice blend ras el hanout . It is indispensable to eggnog and numerous mulled wines and punches.
One whole nutmeg grated equals 2 to 3 teaspoons of ground nutmeg. Used in small dosages nutmeg can reduce flatulence, aid digestion, improve the appetite and treat diarrhea, vomiting and nausea.
Organic Onion (Allium )
Onions are available in fresh, frozen, canned, and dehydrated forms. Onions can be used, usually chopped or sliced, in almost every type of food, including cooked foods and fresh salads, and as a spicy garnish; they are rarely eaten on their own but usually act as accompaniment to the main course. Depending on the variety, an onion can be sharp and pungent or mild and even sweet. They appear to be at least somewhat effective against colds, heart disease, diabetes , osteoporosis , and other diseases and contain anti-inflammatory , anticholesterol, anticancer, and antioxidant components such as quercetin .
Organic Oregano (Origanum vulgare)
Oregano is an important culinary herb. It is particularly widely used in Greek and Italian cuisines . It is the leaves that are used in cooking, and the dried herb is often more flavourful than the fresh. It is a conditio sine qua non in Italian cuisine. It is used in tomato sauces, fried vegetables and grilled meat. Oregano combine nicely with pickled olives, capers and lovage leaves. Unlike most Italian herbs, oregano works with hot and spicy food. Oregano adds flavour to the Greek salad and is usually used separately or added to the lemon-olive oil sauce that accompanies almost every fish or meat barbecues and some casseroles. Oregano is high in antioxidant activity, paticularly due to a high content of phenolic acids and flavonoids .
Organic Pepper - Black / White ( Piper Nigrum L.)
Black Pepper is known as the " King Of Spices " is one of the oldest and most important of all spices. It has extensive culinary use. Black Pepper constitute an important component of culinary seasonings of universal use and an essential ingredient of numerous commercial food stuffs. It is an important constituent of whole pickling spice, ketchups and many ground spice formulae of seasonings, etc. for poultry dressings, sausages, hamburger and frankfurter seasonings. It is a pungent, aromatic, digestive stimulant and nervine tonic. It produces an increased flow of salts and gastric juices and have stimulating action on the digestive organs. It is also beneficial to cough, cold, helps in improving the impotence and muscular pain.
White pepper starts out the same as the black, but are allowed to ripen more fully on the vine. The outer shell is then removed by soaking the berries in water until the shell falls off, or are held under flowing spring water, yielding a whiter, cleaner pepper.
Organic Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis )
The fresh and dried leaves are used frequently in traditional Mediterranean cuisine as a herb ; a tisane can also be made from them. They are extensively used in cooking , and when burned gives off a distinct mustard smell. Rosemary has been found to be a stimulant and mild analgesic , and has been used to treat headaches , epilepsy , poor circulation , and many ailments for which stimulants are prescribed. Can be used as a disinfectant, as a mouth wash and to treat fever or rheumatism. it can be used in hair lotions a few drops of Rosemary oil massaged into the scalp then rinsed with an infusion of nettles can revitalise the hair. Used in this manner it supposed to prevent premature baldness. Rosemary is also reported to stop dandruff. it can be used in hair lotions a few drops of Rosemary oil massaged into the scalp then rinsed with an infusion of nettles can revitalise the hair. Used in this manner it supposed to prevent premature baldness. Rosemary is also reported to stop dandruff.
Organic Saffron ( Crocus sativus )
Saffron's aroma is often described by connoisseurs as reminiscent of metallic honey with grassy or hay -like notes, while its taste has been noted also as hay-like and yet somewhat bitter. Saffron also contributes a luminous yellow-orange colouring to foods. saffron has a long history as part of traditional healing; modern medicine has also discovered saffron as having anticarcinogenic (cancer-suppressing), anti-mutagenic (mutation-preventing), immunomodula-ting, and antioxidant -like properties. Saffron has also been used as a fabric dye -particularly in China and India -and in perfumery.
Organic Senna Leaves ( Cassia angustifolia )
Senna is a powerful cathartic used in the treatment of constipation , working through a stimulation of intestinal peristalsis. It is vital to recognize, however, that the constipation is a result of something else and not the initial cause and that this has to be sought and dealt with. Senna is mainly for severe constipation, the constipation following a fever or for clearing Pitta from the small intestines.
It is also used in hypertension and obesity.
Senna leaf is a strong anthraquinone- containing purgative that is used only in acute constipation.
Though senna is a laxative, which theoretically should be good for vata, it is a peristalsis enhancer that will provoke vata in the long run through its bitter taste and cold energy.
Because of its substantial squeezing action, senna is usually used along with carminative herbs, such as ginger and fennel.
Organic Star Anise ( Glycine max )
Beans are classed as pulses whereas soybeans are classed as oilseeds . The word soy is derived from the Japanese word shoyu . Soybeans can be broadly classified as "vegetable" (garden) or field (oil) types. Vegetable types cook more easily, have a mild nutty flavor, better texture, are larger in size, higher in protein, and lower in oil than field types. Tofu and soymilk producers prefer the higher protein cultivars bred from vegetable soybeans originally. The bulk of the soybean crop is grown for oil production, with the high-protein defatted and "toasted" soy meal used as livestock feed. Soybeans are also the primary ingredient involved in the production of soy sauce . In processing soybeans for oil extraction and subsequent soy flour production, selection of high quality, sound, clean, dehulled yellow soybeans is very important. Soybeans are a source of complete protein . A complete protein is one that contains significant amounts of all the essential amino acids that must be provided to the human body because of the body's inability to synthesize them. Infant formulas based on soy are used by lactose-intolerant babies; and for babies that are allergic to human milk proteins and cow milk proteins. The formulas are sold in powdered, ready to feed, or concentrated liquid forms.
Organic Tamarind ( Tamarindus Indica L. )
The tender, immature, very sour pods are cooked as seasoning with rice, fish and meats in India . The fully ripe, fresh fruit is relished out-of-hand by children and adults. The dehydrated fruits are easily recognized when picking by their comparatively light weight, hollow sound when tapped and the cracking of the shell under gentle pressure. The shell lifts readily from the pulp and the lengthwise fibers are removed by holding the stem with one hand and slipping the pulp downward with the other. It is an important ingredient in chutneys, curries and sauces, including some brands of Worcestershire and barbecue sauce, and in a special Indian seafood pickle called "tamarind fish". Tamarind preparations are universally recognized as refrigerants in fevers and as laxatives and carminatives. Alone, or in combination with lime juice, honey, milk, dates, spices or camphor, the pulp is considered effective as a digestive, In native practice, the pulp is applied on inflammations, is used in a gargle for sore throat and, mixed with salt, as a liniment for rheumatism. It is, further, administered to alleviate sunstroke, Datura poisoning, and alcoholic intoxication. Tamarind leaves and flowers, dried or boiled, are used as poultices for swollen joints, sprains and boils. Lotions and extracts made from them are used in treating conjunctivitis, as antiseptics, as vermifuges, treatments for dysentery, jaundice, erysipelas and hemorrhoids and various other ailments
Organic Turmeric ( Curcuma Longa L. )
The spice 'turmeric' or 'Haldi' constitutes boiled, dried, cleaned and polished rhizomes of Curcuma Longa Linn. It is one of the most important and ancient spices of India . It is used daily extensively by all classes of people in the preparation of tasty curried dishes. Turmeric is used as a dying agent in cotton textile industries. It is regarded very high by the Hindus and is used in ceremonial and religious functions. Turmeric is commonly used in houses as a medicine for curing and is also used by the medicinal industries.
Turmeric powder boiled in milk along with a dash of black pepper powder, may be taken two - three times a day for sore throat, cough, cold, pharyngitis, larynigitis and other acute upper respiratory infections.
A hot poultice made of Haldi powder applied three or four times a day alleviates the pain of abscesses, and often makes them subside without the necessity of incision.
Charred and powder haldi mixed with salt makes a good denitrifice. It prevents halitosis pyorrhea and dental decay.
For curing cracks on the soles of the feet, mix half an ounce of castor oil with a teaspoonful of turmeric powder. Apply twice a day. Wash off after 15 to 20 minutes. The unsightly cracks will heal up.
It is applied to the cuts and wounds as an antiseptic and for healing the external and when taken with Desi Ghee and Milk it heals the internal injuries.
Clean white cloth dyed in turmeric and dried in sun can be used for wiping sore eyes thus cures eye infections.
Sores or in between the toes due to any reason can be cured if turmeric powder is applied at bed time.
Many skin aliments can be cured by the regular application of oil mixed with turmeric powder. This also helps in beatifying the skin.
Organic Vanilla (Vanilla fragrans )
Vanilla is the worlds next most expensive spice. Vanilla was used by the Aztecs for flavouring their royal drink xocolatl - a mixture of cocoa beans, vanilla and honey. Vanilla's mellow fragrance enhances a variety of sweet dishes: puddings, cakes, custards, creams, soufflés and, of course, ice cream. Classic examples include crème caramel, peach Melba and apple Charlotte . Vanilla flavour is detectable in many chocolate and confectionery items and several liqueurs such as Crème de Cacao and Galliano. Vanilla was considered an aphrodisiac. Also once believed that vanilla was a febrifuge, used to reduce fevers, though it is rarely used for any medicinal purposes other than as a pharmaceutical flavouring.
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