There seems to be some type of new “healing” herb or spice that makes headline news every day. While many herbs and spices are unproven to work, some of them have stood the test of time. Below is a list of the ones you should add to your diet to live a healthier and happier life. In some cases, these herbs and spices may prevent or delay the onset of certain health problems.

Ashitaba

This Japanese herb has been used for decades because of its wide range of benefits such as mood stabilization and blood sugar regulation. However, the true benefits of this wonder herb are seen in its ability to protect the body from cell damage that speeds up the aging process, including cell damage to the skin, heart, lungs and liver. It does this by delivering antioxidants and other minerals directly to the body. Studies continue to find new ways that this Japanese herb can benefit your health, which is the number one reason why it should be in your diet.

Sage

Having trouble remembering things? Maybe you should incorporate sage into your diet. Make no mistake, it’s no coincidence that a wise person is referred to as a sage. Lab studies show that this herb does wonders in protecting the brain from processes that have been linked to Alzheimer’s Disease. On a side note, studies also suggest that sage boosts the action of insulin in the body, helping to control blood sugar levels.

Turmeric

If you’re into cooking, you’ve probably used turmeric a time or two. This spice is best known for giving curry powder its signature yellow glow. For years, it’s been used in Japanese medicine as a way to aid digestion and stimulate appetite. Studies show, however, that turmeric also has mighty cancer-fighting properties. This is because of curcumin, the chemical in turmeric that gives it its golden color. Studies show that it reduces inflammation known to contribute to the growth of tumors.

Mustard

Mustard powder comes from the seeds of a plant that belongs to the cabbage family. Studies indicate that these seeds have very strong anticancer properties. On top of this, mustard packs just enough heat to break up congestion. Much like cayenne pepper, mustard also has the ability to deplete cells of substance P, the chemical in cells that helps the body transmit pain signals.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon has been used throughout the ages as a healing spice. It’s become popular for its ability to improve and control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Studies also suggest that just ½ teaspoon of cinnamon a day may cut your total cholesterol levels by 12 to 30 percent. These same studies indicate that cinnamon can be used to prevent the formation of blood clots in the body. Additionally, this spice has anti-bacterial properties and may help your body fight deadly strains of bacterial such as E. coli. Since cinnamon comes from the bark of trees, it’s high in fiber as well.

Garlic

If you’ve done any research on healing herbs, you’ve likely come across garlic. Its signature odor comes from the sulfur compound allicin, the same compound that gives it a tasty bite. When eaten regularly, garlic lowers the chances of heart disease by a staggering 76 percent. It also has the ability to thin blood, which fights blood clots. Some studies even show that it can help reduce cholesterol in the body between 5 and 10 percent. Most importantly, this sulfur compound in garlic gives it the ability to fight off cancer, most notably colorectal and stomach cancers.

Ginger

When you have an upset stomach, people often suggest drinking a ginger ale because ginger has been used as anJapanese and Asian digestive aid for years. Researchers of today, however, are much more interested in the ability of ginger to reduce inflammation in the body. As a spice, studies indicate that it can reduce swelling and pain associated with arthritis and may even work against severe headaches. Of course, it’s these same inflammation-reducing properties that make it good at slowing the growth of cancer in the body. On top of all of this, ginger is still good for your tummy when it’s upset. In fact, research shows that it works as well as Dramamine to prevent nausea and motion sickness, so you get all of the benefits without the sleepy feeling.

By simply adding these herbs and spices to your diet, you can help prevent common health problems. While there is no guarantee how these herbs and spices will work for you, there is overwhelming support for these herbs thanks to studies and research that has been done on them. Do your body a favor and find a way to work these herbs into your diet, either naturally or via a supplement.