Adding herbs to your cooking is an excellent way to enhance the flavor and aroma of your dishes. But it’s not just about taste.

Some herbs also have thermal properties that can help raise your body temperature, which in turn can benefit your health in colder months. Here are the top five thermal herbs every home cook needs.

1. Ginger

Ginger is a popular spice that has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties, but it’s also a thermal herb.

Ginger has warming properties that can improve blood circulation and promote healthy sweating, thus helping to raise your body temperature. You can use fresh ginger root in teas, soups, stir-fries, or ground ginger in baking.

2. Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a delicious spice that’s used in a variety of dishes, from sweet to savory. It’s also a thermal herb that has warming properties.

Cinnamon can help boost your metabolism and increase your body temperature, which can promote weight loss and energy. You can use cinnamon in your baked goods, oatmeal, smoothies, or hot drinks.

3. Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper is a fiery spice that can add heat to any dish. It’s also a thermal herb that can boost your metabolism and increase blood flow. Cayenne pepper can increase your heart rate and promote sweating, which can help raise your body temperature.

You can add cayenne pepper to your soups, stews, dips, or sprinkle it over your roasted vegetables.

4. Garlic

Garlic is a pungent herb that’s widely used in cooking for its flavor and health benefits. It’s known for its antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties, but it’s also a thermal herb.

Garlic can help increase your body temperature and promote blood circulation. You can use fresh or dried garlic in your savory dishes, soups, or roasted vegetables.

5. Turmeric

Turmeric is a flavorful spice that’s commonly used in Indian cuisine. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, but it’s also a thermal herb. Turmeric can help increase your body temperature and improve blood flow.

You can use fresh turmeric root or ground turmeric in your curries, rice dishes, soups, or smoothies.

Conclusion

Adding thermal herbs to your cooking is a great way to not only add flavor but also improve your health in colder months. Ginger, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, garlic, and turmeric are the top five thermal herbs every home cook needs in their pantry.

Start experimenting with these herbs in your dishes and enjoy the benefits they bring.