4 benefits of Mexican plants

• May 14, 2024

Our country is recognized, worldwide, for the unique flavor of its gastronomy; But what makes it so special? The answer lies in the great diversity of Mexican plants that exist throughout the national territory.

However, its properties go beyond the aroma or flavor that impregnate each dish they are part of.

Mexican plants are rich in polyphenolic compounds, which have great effects on the control of chronic degenerative diseases, also have antioxidant capabilities.

Among the most commonly used Mexican plants are: parsley, pepper, rosemary, linden, coriander, anise, clove, epazote and oregano, ginger, cinnamon. But, what are your benefits on your health?

According to an investigation of the Department of Biological Chemistry and the Department of Health Sciences of the Autonomous University of Ciudad Juárez, you must consume them more for the following reasons:

1. Cardiovascular diseases. Its beneficial effect is mainly due to the reduction in the levels of triglycerides, cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol in plasma and the inhibition of platelet aggregation.

Also, the consumption of these plants reduces not only plasma lipid levels, but also inhibits the oxidation of LDL-cholesterol present therein. In one study it was observed that the supply of a diet based on red pepper, curry and ginger can reduce plasma lipid levels, due to its capsaicin content.

2. Anti-inflammatory activity. Extracts of spicy plants such as curcumin, eugenol and capsaicin have anti-inflammatory activity. The administration of a single dose of these reduces inflammation by up to 52%. Currently these compounds are used commercially in the formulation of creams and tablets for the treatment of arthritis, muscle pain and as dental analgesics.

3. Obesity and metabolic syndrome . These plants stimulate the digestive system, increasing the salivation and secretion of gastric juice and the secretion of bile, which favors the digestion and absorption of food. At the same time, spices and their components can also activate the sympathetic nervous system and thereby increase energy expenditure and sense of satiety, so they could be useful to prevent the development of obesity.

The main active compounds of spices that present these properties are curcumin, capasaicin and others chemically related.

4. Cancer It is believed that they have anticancer effects due to the action of the extracts of spices in different mechanisms associated with cancer: by the antioxidant action that neutralizes the reactive oxygen species; by a deactivation of the carcinogenic agent or by an activation of the enzymes responsible for the endogenous protection mechanisms of the organism. Although more research is still needed on this field.

These Mexican plants not only season your food but also your health. Integrate them to your diet in moderation.

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