Spices

Fenugreek Seeds

Indian names

Hindi - Methi
Malayalam - Uluva
Tamil - Venthayam
Kannada - Menthe

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Fenugreek leaves and seeds help in digestion, relieve

constipation and overcome flatulence.

Soak fenugreek seeds overnight in little water, then make a paste of it with soaked water and taken the next day morning, helps in relieveing digestive disorders.When taken daily, it lowers blood sugar level.

Cumin Seeds


Indian names

Hindi - Jeera
Malayalam - Jeerakam
Tamil - Jeerakam
Kannada - Jeerage

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Cumin is a essential part of indian kitchen. Its a good source of iron, that strengthens immunity and help boost the power of the liver. Cumin helps relieve symptoms of common cold, since its got antiseptc properties. Useful for digestive disorders, diarrhea, nausea and morning sickness.In our household we boil water to drink, in which a little of cumin is added. Cumin increases the heat in the body and thus makes metabolism more efficient. Its antiseptic properties cure sore throat.

Nutmeg


Indian names

Hindi - Jaiphal
Malayalam - Jathika
Tamil - Jathikkai
Kannada - Jaji Kayi

Bay Leaf

Indian names

Hindi - Tej Patta
Tamil - Birinji ilai
Kannada - Masala Yeli

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Bay leaves have medicinal properties that help cure external infections, skin disease, are used to treat migraines, stress and anxiety. Helps improve digestion and detoxify the system. A regular intake of these leaves in your diet, cures cold and urinary infections. With strong distinctive fragrance, this leaves can help keep bugs away from grains. The essential oil made from bay leaves has antibacterial and antifungal properties, that can cure dandruff.

As noted to me by a reader - Indian Bay Leaf (Tej Petta) is not the same as the European Bay Leaf. The former is actually Cinnamom leaf and has quite a different flavour to European Bay.

Fennel Seeds

Indian names

Hindi - Sauf
Malayalam - Perumjeerakam
Tamil - Perunjeeragam
Kannada - Dodda jeera

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Fennel contains anethole, which stimulates secretion of digestive and gastric juices. Fennel contains aspartic acid, which acts as an anti - flatulent. Chewing on fennel seeds after meals acts as a popular " after mint ".

Dry Ginger

Indian names

Hindi - Saunth
Malayalam - chukku
Tamil - Sukku
Kannada - Sonti

Kodampuli

Kodampuli is a type of tamarind, used in kerala.Mostly used

to cook Fish curry/dishes.