Abby Moore is an editorial operations manager at mindbodygreen. She earned a B.A. in Journalism from The University of Texas at Austin and has previously written for Tribeza magazine.
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August 17, 2025
According to nutritional psychiatrist Uma Naidoo, M.D., utilizing spices and herbs is a surprisingly easy way to increase the nutritional value of a dish.
According to nutritional psychiatrist Uma Naidoo, M.D., utilizing spices and herbs is a surprisingly easy way to increase the nutritional value of a dish.
“In the U.S., we rarely think about these ingredients in terms of nutrition,” Naidoo says. “Salt and pepper have been widely used as a main seasoning, but the benefits packed in herbs and spices are mind-blowing.”
The health benefits of 4 herbs and spices
These sometimes overlooked kitchen staples are “powerful in nutritional psychiatry,” Naidoo tells mbg, as they have been proved to support both mental and physical health. Here are a few of her favorite herbs and spices, plus their potent benefits.
Turmeric
Benefits:Turmeric, a golden Ayurvedic spice made from the root of Curcuma zedoaria, “is highly anti-inflammatory and may improve anxiety,” Naidoo says.
Saffron
Rosemary
Uses: Seasoning olive oil with rosemary makes for an even more flavorful and nutrient-dense cooking fat. It’s a lovely garnish for hearty dishes, like vegan pot roast or Italian veggie stews. You may also find it in supplements.
Ginger
Benefits: “Ginger helps with digestion,” Naidoo says. In doing so, it’s also been shown to help soothe nausea and support overall gut health. It also contains anti-inflammatory properties.
Bottom line
Flavorless meals are not synonymous with health—they’re actually quite the opposite. Adding herbs and spices to food and drinks is a super-simple way to elevate their benefits. If you’re not doing so already, it’s time to crack into that spice cabinet.
