Allspice is a megaspice which can be used as an alternative to cinnamon, nutmeg, pepper and other spices.It is derived from the dried berries of the evergreen shrub, “Pimenta dioica”.
Its unique flavor is a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, pepper, juniper, and ginger. It was first cultivated in Southern Mexico, and Central America, but are now grown in many regions of the world. They are known by various other names such as Jamaican pimento, myrtle pepper, and kababchini.
For making allspice, green and ripe allspice fruits are picked and sundried till they turn brown and starts looking like large peppercorn kernels.
# Strengthens Bones And Improves Bone Mineral DensityTo some extent, allspice also helps with bone health.Calcium in allspice is an essential mineral for the growth and development of bones, and lack of it may cause bone disorders like osteoporosis.Potassium neutralizes acid load, reduces calcium loss from bones, and improves bone density.
Manganese in allspice improves calcium absorption and improves the bone density of the spinal column.
# Improves MetabolismVitamins, minerals, and other healthy compounds in allspice improves our metabolism and accelerates the rate at which our body burns calories.This helps with weight loss.
# Improves Neurological HealthAllspice improves our neurological health as vitamin C, quercetin, tannin, Eugenol, and other antioxidantal compounds hem protect our brain cells aka neurons from free radical damage. It reduces the risk of several neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, and amnesia, etc.
Iron, potassium, zinc, and magnesium, etc in allspice improves our neurological health as they provide many cognitive benefits like a sharper memory, better focus, improved concentration, and reduced mental confusion, etc.
# Keeps Premature Ageing At BayVitamin C, and other antioxidant compounds like quercetin, etc in allspice protect the skin from free radical damage.It reduces various signs of premature aging like fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, dark spots, and skin blemishes, etc at bay.
Free radicals are unstabilized ions that stabilize by stealing electrons from neighboring molecules, and doing so causes oxidative damage to them.
# Regulates Blood Sugar LevelBecause of its low glycemic index of 15, allspice slows down the rate at which sugar is released into the bloodstream.This prevents a sudden spike in blood sugar level, and aids in managing diabetes.Dietary fibers in allspice slow down the rate at which sugar gets absorbed by the bloodstream and regulates blood sugar levels.
If you are on diabetic medication, consult your doctor before adding allspice to your meals.Ensure that there is no food-drug interference.
# Maintains Healthy Blood Cell CountTrace minerals like iron and copper in allspice promote healthy blood cell count and reduces the risk of anemia, fatigue, and muscle weakness.