These spices belong in every fitness kitchen

They improve blood circulation, increase metabolism, support regeneration and stabilize blood vessels. So spices are much more than just delicious. They also have a proven beneficial effect on the body. Every athlete can benefit from them. The best about spices for the fitness kitchen.

Spices in the most different variations

Used sensibly in cooking, some spices have an amazing effect. They are available fresh, dried, or shock froze. No matter which variant you choose, they all contain health-promoting ingredients. But you should keep the following in mind:

• Freshly cut herbs should have an intense, but not musty smell when purchased. Many spices can be bought in pots today. If you know your way around, you can also collect herbs in the wild.

• Dried herbs should not be exposed to direct sunlight, otherwise, they lose their valuable essential oils.

• When spices lose their smell, they are worthless.

• Frozen spices are a good alternative because they retain their healthy ingredients.

Spices can work as well as medicine

Those who cook with spices can do a lot for their health and well-being. This is especially true for the fitness kitchen. But some are also ideal for therapeutic recipes that are easy to make yourself. These can be teas, baths, and tinctures. Here is an overview:

• Fenugreek. It contains much iron and copper. Both promote the production of red blood cells, thus improving the body’s oxygen supply and making us fitter. The secondary plant substances coumarins and saponins also stabilize the blood vessels, which also has a positive effect on fitness. Important: Fenugreek must always be roasted a little, as it is inedible raw.

• Garlic. It contains allicin an active substance that is highly interesting for every athlete. According to a study, it reduces the so-called biochemical stress within the muscle. In other words: garlic makes you more resilient and ensures that the muscles recover more quickly after a hard workout. In addition, garlic has an anti-inflammatory effect and strengthens the immune system.

• Caraway seeds. A real insider tip for every athlete. The herb-aromatic spice contains a combination of valuable amino acids. They stimulate muscle growth and release hormones that are important for rapid recovery. The essential oils carvone, carveol and limonene contained in it also have an antioxidant effect. Caraway also has an antispasmodic and antibacterial effect. If you want to drink the spice as tea, you should crush the caraway shortly before use. Then pour a cup of boiling water over it, let it steep covered for ten minutes, strain it and then drink it.

• Lovage. Originally from Persia, it is very suitable for removing waste products from the muscles after a hard fitness program. It also has a blood-purifying and antispasmodic effect. Lovage has a very intensive taste, therefore it should be used sparingly as a spice.

• Paprika. Even the Aztecs crushed the fruit and applied it to aching muscles. Paprika promotes blood circulation and stimulates circulation. It has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant and digestive properties. The most valuable ingredient is capsaicin. It is used today in many medicines to treat the pain of the musculoskeletal system.

• Rosemary. The ideal spice to support regeneration after a strenuous workout. It stimulates metabolism and circulation. In addition, Rosemary has a relaxing and pain-relieving effect. A rosemary bath is also good.

• Juniper. Contain the essential oils terpineol, borneol, and geraminol. They not only stimulate appetite and diuretic but also relax the muscles. Juniper also promotes blood circulation.