Health Benefits of Herbs and Spices (2024)

At McCormick, we know that spices and herbs can make good food taste great. And while we're dedicated to creating the flavors you know and love, we're also on a mission to improve the wellbeing of people and communities through food, flavor, and shared meals. McCormick is dedicated to unearthing the health benefits of culinary herbs and spices. In addition to monitoring the latest advancements in science, McCormick has invested in cutting-edge research with respected institutions to discover the positive potential of these herbs and spices—beyond their flavor and aroma. And the science is clear: herbs and spices have tremendous measurable health benefits.
Below, find research-driven ways about how garlic, cinnamon, and red pepper could help improve your wellbeing.

1. Garlic can help maintain normal blood pressure and normal cholesterol levels. Consuming garlic has been shown to promote healthy systolic blood pressure and to support cholesterol concentrations within a normal range. To see the full potential, add about 1/3 tsp (or 900 mg) of garlic powder to one meal every day.
How to use it: Forego the salt in your savory dishes and use garlic powder instead. It brings smooth, balanced warmth and complexity to recipes like soups, stews, stir-fries, rubs, sauces, and marinades. Top it on sweet potatoes, rub it on steaks, or simmer it in pasta sauce for maximum flavor.

2. Cinnamon can help maintain normal blood sugar levels. Clinical studies support the notion that consuming cinnamon (cassia) long-term can help promote healthy blood sugar levels in adults. For best results, consume at least 2/3 tsp of ground cinnamon (about 1.5 g) every day.

How to use it: Try cinnamon as a replacement for sugar in your sweet treats. Toss cinnamon on granola and yogurt, sprinkle it on hot beverages, and shake it on apple slices.

3. Red Pepper can help you burn more body fat. Adding red pepper to your diet has been shown to increase energy expenditure; therefore helping to burn more fat calories. Give this tip a try by adding ½ tsp (about 1 g) of red pepper to meals 2 -3 times per day.

How to use it: Red pepper adds fiery fresh heat and a zesty flavor boost to any dish. Sprinkle it on shrimp, top it on pasta, or toss it in dips and spreads.