GOODNESS
Cardamom: This is a delicious spice with a citrus-like aroma that adds a wonderful flavor to Indian foods, among others. It is also know to be good for your liver, which in turn is good for entire body, since your liver helps you detoxify your blood. It is also good for your digestion, and is known to help with gas and the cramps that causes. The only caveat is that you might want to hold off on the cardamom if you are worried about gallstones. Otherwise, it can be a great addition to your recipes.

Cloves: The dried buds of a tropical evergreen, cloves are a wonderful blast of fragrance and flavor. They were the first known breath fresheners, but have a long, rich history in the spice trades. These sweet but pungent buds can overwhelm a recipe, so beware!

Ginger: This spicy root is known as the universal remedy. Although it's well-known as a stomach soother, it also improves circulation, fights tumors, reduces inflammation and boosts the immune system. Oh, and it's good for pain and a fever. The only possible drawbacks are for people with gallstones or those on blood thinners.
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Recipe

Ginger-Spiced Tea

serves
prep time: 10
cook time: 377

ingredients

  • 1 1/2 quarts water
  • 6 whole cardamom pods
  • 4 fresh or crystallized ginger slices
  • 2 1.5 each 3 inch orange peel strips (orange part only)
  • 6 whole cloves
  • 2 cups low-fat milk
  • 2 tablespoons tea leaves (preferably Darjeeling or Assam)
  • 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar

directions

Combine first 5 ingredients in heavy large saucepan. Cover and simmer 10 minutes. Add milk and tea, bring to boil and simmer 2 minutes. Turn off heat and steep 5 minutes, according to desired strength. Mix in sugar. Strain tea. (Can be prepared 6 hours ahead. Cover and chill. Rewarm before serving.)