Attention, pumpkin spice latte fans: Your favorite spice combination might be doing more than earning you a few social media likes (and eye-rolls). True pumpkin spice — not the synthetic version — has several potential health benefits that will make you feel a little better about how much you consume when the weather turns cool. Here are a few more reasons to indulge in fall’s favorite flavor.
BREAKING DOWN PUMPKIN SPICE
First things first: What’s actually in pumpkin spice? (Spoiler alert: There’s not any pumpkin.) While recipes may vary a little, the typical components are cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice and cloves. Together they apparently hold the power to dominate every food craving in the fall. But individually they give you something to cheer about, too.
Cinnamon
Studies on cinnamon have come back with mixed results, but some research has shown it “to have antioxidant, antidiabetic, and antibacterial properties,” according to Harvard Health Blog. Studies also have found cinnamon “reduced inflammation, improved memory, increased attention, and enhanced cognitive processing.”
The benefits vary based on the type of cinnamon you have and the quantity you ingest. (Don’t go overboard because it can cause negative side effects.) But given its benefits, you should feel good about enjoying some of this popular spice.
Ginger
Many of us have likely used ginger as an upset stomach remedy, and researchers consider it a safe treatment for nausea and vomiting. And there’s even more this powerhouse spice can do. It also has been shown to reduce inflammation, combat free radicals and act as a blood thinner, according to Harvard Health Blog. One study even found it helped to improve memory and attention.
Nutmeg
Nutmeg provides a distinctive layer of flavor in many seasonal favorites, often teaming up with the other components of pumpkin spice. But it’s pretty special on its own, too. “The spice contains various compounds that boost mood, help relieve pain, and relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure,” according to Harvard Health Blog. And it might be able to slow cognitive decline and assist in brain recovery after a stroke.
Allspice
If you ever thought allspice was a mixture of spices, you’re definitely not alone. It’s actually the dried fruit of the tropical tree, pimenta dioica. The spice gets its name because it tastes like a mixture of cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. Populations where these trees are native long have used allspice berries to treat ailments, including colds, menstrual cramps, indigestion and muscle aches. It also may help combat chronic diseases and cancer, according to a University of Miami study. Needless to say, this little berry-turned-spice packs a punch.
Cloves
Nothing says sweater weather and pumpkin spice lattes like the warm, spicy scent of cloves. And this aromatic spice is loaded with health benefits. According to Healthline, cloves are high in antioxidants, and they have antimicrobial properties. Studies also suggest they may help prevent cancer, promote liver health, regulate blood sugar and preserve bone mass. Plus, you can’t beat simmering some in a pot to make your house smell like fall.
COOKING WITH PUMPKIN SPICE
It should go without saying that pumpkin spice isn’t meant to treat any medical condition besides those intense cravings for a pumpkin spice latte that start as soon as the air gets crisp. Any benefits you gain from the spice are just a bonus to the deliciousness of your food or beverage.
“If you want to reap the benefits of pumpkin and pumpkin spice, be careful what you choose to eat or drink,” Cleveland Clinic’s Healthy Brains advises. “Lattes and processed foods flavored with pumpkin spice can contain artificial flavors, added sugars and fats and may actually be devoid of nutrients.”
But the good news is there are plenty
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