At Prinos Farm& Deli, we love helping you to get the most out of the high quality food products we have in stock. Whether through sharing recipes or doing deep dives into the nutritional benefits behind certain foods, we are passionate about food literacy in our communities. And one of the things that we are best known for in Cyprus, is our exceptional fresh produce, such as leafy greens and herbs, as well as an extensive range of spices from around the world. Much more then just flavour enhancers for your meals, these ingredients also bring a whole range of powerful health benefits. Which is what we’ll be exploring in this month’s blog post.

Have you been asking are herbs and spices nutritious? Or what are the nutritional properties of spices, and what is the main nutrient in herbs? If so, this blog will provide some answers. We’ll be sharing some of the key nutritional values of some of your favourite herbs and spices available at Prinos Farm&Deli. Now, let’s get started.

The Health Benefits of Herbs and Spices

We often overlook the transformative power of herbs and spices beyond enhancing flavour. But these tiny treasures pack a punch in both taste and nutrition, and in every pinch of seasoning lies a wealth of nutrients waiting to be unlocked. From antioxidant-rich herbs to inflammation-fighting spices, incorporating these culinary wonders into your daily meals can pave the way to a healthier lifestyle.

Here are the key health properties of herbs and spices found in the Prinos stores across Cyprus:

• Rosemary: Known for its robust flavour, rosemary also contains an active ingredient called rosmarinic acid. This compound has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and can suppress allergy symptoms. Add a sprinkle of rosemary to your roasted vegetables or grilled meats for a flavourful and nutritious boost.
• Basil: This aromatic herb is not just a staple in the kitchen but also a source of essential nutrients like vitamin K. Whip up a batch of homemade pesto with fresh basil leaves to reap its nutritional benefits while tantalizing your taste buds.
• Mint: Beyond its refreshing taste, mint offers digestive support and may help alleviate symptoms of indigestion and nausea. Enjoy a cup of soothing mint tea or add fresh mint leaves to salads and smoothies for a refreshing twist.
• Turmeric: Renowned for its vibrant colour and earthy flavour, turmeric contains curcumin, a potent compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Incorporate turmeric into curries, soups, and golden lattes to reap its numerous health benefits.
• Cinnamon: Sweet and aromatic, cinnamon is not only a delicious addition to baked goods but is also in regulating and lowering blood sugar. This spice also has potent antioxidant properties and can fight inflammation and lower cholesterol. Sprinkle cinnamon on oatmeal or yogurt for a nutritious and flavourful breakfast option.
• Cayenne Pepper: Spice up your dishes with cayenne pepper, a type of chili pepper known for reducing appetite and boosting fat burning. Add a pinch of cayenne to marinades, sauces, or stir-fries for an extra kick of flavour and heat.
• Sage: As its name suggests, this green leaf can help improve brain function and memory function.

Herbs and spices are not just culinary staples but also valuable sources of essential nutrients and health-promoting compounds. By incorporating these ingredients into your daily cooking, you can unlock their full nutrient potential while enhancing the taste and nutritional value of your meals. These ingredients also contribute to improved health by providing an alternative flavour boost to salt and sugar.  And at Prinos, we invite you to explore the endless possibilities of herbs and spices and embark on a journey towards a healthier lifestyle.

Renowned in Cyprus for our premium selection of fresh leafy green herbs and extensive spice rack, Prinos Farm&Deli is fully stocked to help you experiment with these potent ingredients. So pop down to our stores in Larnaca and Nicosia, or do an online delivery order from our eshop and elevate your herb and spice game today!