7 must-have spices to stockpile for survival

(NaturalNews) When the SHTF, you'll need to have an adequate food stockpile to sustain you through an indefinite period. If you've been able to store enough food to last several months or years, chances are that much of it will be rather bland in taste or, at the very least, will become somewhat monotonous after a while, especially if you're eating the same things repeatedly.

That's one good reason to also make sure that you have an assortment of spices on hand as well, so that you can add some flavor and variety to canned or freeze-dried rations.

But there's another reason to have a wide selection of spices on hand. Many of the spices we use to make food taste better also have medicinal properties and other health benefits. With the right spices on hand, not only will you get more enjoyment out of your meals but you'll also be healthier overall.

Grumpy G of Prepography.com has prepared a list of "must-have" spices which will add flavor to your post-apocalyptic mealtimes while also providing health benefits that will keep you in top condition during a prolonged crisis.

Here is the list of Grumpy G's "7 Spices for Preppers" and a short description of their medicinal and health-inducing properties:

Cinnamon - Used to add flavor to everything from drinks to desserts, cinnamon also provides a number of powerful health benefits. This popular and distinctive-tasting spice has nutritional value and can also aid in curing yeast infections. Cinnamon has anti-blood-clotting properties and helps relieve arthritis symptoms. Added to food, it retards spoilage and bacterial growth, making it an excellent natural preservative.

Oregano - In addition to being a key flavor in Italian and Mexican-style dishes, this versatile spice also has an extremely strong antioxidant effect on the body. Oregano also has antifungal, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as beneficial effects on the respiratory system. Additionally, studies have suggested that oregano has anticancer properties and may help in treating several different types of cancers.

Rosemary - Commonly used along with oregano to add flavor to Italian food and other cuisines, rosemary has many health benefits to offer as well. Rosemary is a natural immune system booster, has analgesic properties and also works as an anti-inflammatory agent. This spice helps with digestion, has a diuretic effect and has long been known for its beneficial effects on the liver. Rosemary helps with respiratory ailments and can even be used as a natural breath freshener.

Turmeric - Aside from its distinctive flavor, turmeric also has powerful antiseptic and antibacterial properties. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it useful as a pain reliever and a treatment for arthritis. Turmeric is also reported to have a beneficial effect on Alzheimer's sufferers and has even been used as a natural antidepressant. Skin conditions such as psoriasis may be treated effectively with turmeric as well.

Thyme - Another versatile spice with a unique flavor that can be used in a variety of dishes. Thyme also offers many health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. It's a good source of iron, promotes healthy bones and can be used to treat respiratory ailments.

Ginger - Ginger provides a wide range of beneficial effects for the human body. It's a powerful digestive aid and can be used to treat menstrual cramps, morning sickness and motion sickness. Ginger is a natural preventative for colds and flu, and can also be used for treating both. It also offers pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties.

Dried Red Peppers - Peppers are a great source of vitamin C and have many other beneficial properties, including their use in the treatment of anxiety and PMS. Dried red peppers also strengthen eyesight -- particularly night vision -- and can help with metabolism. They also add excitement to bland foods.

Sources:

http://prepography.com

http://science.naturalnews.com