Kitchen Spices and Ayurveda

Through the lens of Ayurveda, herbs and spices are used to balance our doshas (energy) along with the foundation of a healthy diet and  lifestyle. These ingredients can be used in larger amounts and combinations for traditional medicines, as well as in smaller amounts for culinary use.

 Each spice does have a unique set of qualities and can be used in different combinations to balance specific doshas (of course in combination with foods and lifestyle :)

Here are some combinations you can create in your kitchen:

Tridoshic spice blend: balancing all 3 doshas, these spices are great for general use together.turmeric, saffron, fresh ginger, fennel, coriander, cumin, and cardamom 

Tip: Fresh ginger is less heated than dried.

Vata balancing spice blend: Helpful in cold, dry weather or in times of stress 

Vata balancing spices are warming - dried ginger, cinnamon, black pepper, nutmeg and cumin

Tip: Keep these ground spices in a jar and add to warm milk or other beverages, porridge, grains and more.

Pitta balancing spice blend: Helpful in summer if feeling overheated, or to balance spicy foods

Coriander, fennel, turmeric,

Tip: Try a cold water infusion of 1 tsp coriander seeds in room temperature water, left to sit overnight. In the morning, strain and drink.

Kapha balancing spice blend: Helpful in spring or cool, rainy weather

Chili pepper, Cayenne pepper, cumin, garlic and ginger

Tip: A very delicious condiment can be made of a paste of these ingredients, make a small jar to keep on hand

No matter what type of cuisine you like, understanding the qualities of spices can help you create balanced meals to support a balanced life.

Image by Margo Lipa from Pixabay