It is a rhizomatous plant native to Southeast Asia. Its underground stem produces, after drying and grinding, a golden yellow powder with multiple uses.   

It is one of the most powerful antioxidants thanks to curcumin, one of its active ingredients, which also has extraordinary digestive powers (stimulation of liver activity) which makes turmeric a key ingredient in detox cures .

In addition to its rejuvenating action, it is also very popular for relieving skin inflamed by redness, itching, acne or eczema and for promoting the healing of wounds.  

It is also effective in purifying the skin, regulating excess sebum, brightening and reviving dull complexions.  

So before taking advantage of these benefits by incorporating it into all your meal preparations, know that if you want to fill up on curcumin, it would be good to consume it in rhizome or in juice. If you only have it in powder, combine it with freshly ground black pepper to help the body absorb curcumin.

Another rhizomatous plant native to Southeast Asia that is part of the same family - Zingiberaceae - as ginger and turmeric. The spice used in cooking is the powder of the dried fruit. It has a lemony and delicately peppery flavor. Cardamom boosts the appetite and promotes digestion by stimulating the secretion of saliva. 

Thanks to its two main active ingredients - alpha-terpenyl acetate and terpene oxide - cardamom has a toning and firming action that is very beneficial for our skin. It also has an interesting content of zinc and vitamin B6 which are key players in preserving the youthfulness and purity of your skin. It is therefore the ally of mature skin and oily skin.  

It also has a very beneficial effect on the digestive system. By crunching a few seeds at the end of the meal, you will limit acid reflux and neutralize strong odors such as garlic. 

Its taste is very strong, so it is better to use it in powder form to be able to dose more easily when you want to flavor your dishes, desserts or hot drinks.

Very rich in antioxidant compounds (carotenes, flavonoids, etc.), ginger root is distinguished by an antioxidant activity that resists or even increases in heat, making its use even more varied! 

Raw ginger is an important source of vitamin C, E, A, amino acids, minerals and zinc and copper. These trace elements are necessary for the formation of collagen and the defense against free radicals. It allows us to have firm, plumped and energetic skin.

It goes very well with savory or sweet, hot or cold, cooked or raw dishes. To get the most benefit from it, consume it fresh. Jamaican ginger is most valued for its delicate aroma. 

This spice is not a root, it is the dehydrated red stigmas of the flower of Crocus sativus L.; a fall-flowering perennial. Its picking takes place at dawn before it opens in a very short period of time. It takes about 1 kilo of flowers to obtain 12 grams of spices... 

This “red gold” gets its yellow-gold color from crocin, a very powerful antioxidant. It contains nearly a hundred compounds, most of which are derived from carotenoids (zeaxanthin, lycopene, β-carotenes, etc.). It is therefore the “rejuvenating” spice par excellence for your skin! It is also an excellent antiseptic that helps treat pimples, acne and other skin diseases. 

Dried saffron is very sensitive to light and oxidation in general, so it should be stored in an airtight and light-tight container.  

Several countries cultivate it but Iran remains the largest producer in the world with several varieties of cultivars. Saffron from L'Aquila in Italy is renowned for its high concentration of crocin providing a particularly intense aroma. 

Synonymous with childhood and sweetness, vanilla contains in its heart small black grains with a sweet scent, which help fight against aging and restore beautiful and luminous skin.  

Obtaining it is a long process that can last up to 12 months. The harvested vanilla pods are green and do not yet give off any aroma. Gathered in wicker baskets, they are first washed in hot water to allow the aroma to develop, then dried to stabilize the pods and prevent mold and finally refined.  

First of all, vanilla allows, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and regenerating action, to purify and soothe the skin by reducing pimples and acne and to promote healing. It is rich in group B vitamins essential for cell regeneration. Its moisturizing and antioxidant power completes the palette and thus offers a global action on all signs of skin aging.

Once used, do not throw it away but place it in your sugar jar, it will continue to flavor it. Bourbon vanilla from Madagascar or Reunion Island remains the reference vanilla. 

It's up to you, treat your taste buds and your little cells. If these spices all help fight against aging, you will still have to ensure the quality and storage in an airtight jar to preserve their benefits. 

Happy Spicy Holidays!