Autumn, with its crisp air and vibrant colors, has a special way of inviting us to cozy up with warming dishes and beverages. The tradition of using herbs and spices to stave off the chill is ancient and continues to be a rich area of study. Maryland University of Integrative Health (MUIH) offers in-depth knowledge in this arena through its Nutrition and Herbal Medicine programs. Let’s explore some of the heartwarming herbs, spices, and recipes inspired by this wisdom.
- Cinnamon
A favorite spice in many fall recipes, cinnamon is known not just for its aromatic qualities but also for its warming and circulatory properties. Try a cinnamon-infused tea or add it to your favorite apple dishes.
- Ginger
Another star of autumn, ginger can warm the body and soothe digestive discomforts. Ginger tea or a ginger stir-fry can be both therapeutic and delicious.
- Turmeric
Closely related to ginger, turmeric provides a warm, earthy flavor, and a golden hue to dishes. It’s renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties. Warm up with a turmeric latte or golden milk.
- Cardamom
Often used in chai blends, cardamom provides a unique aromatic warmth. Its sweet and spicy nature makes it perfect for autumn baked goods.
- Clove
Cloves, with their intense and spicy aroma, are perfect for simmering stews and warm beverages. They possess antiseptic properties and can even be chewed to freshen breath.
- Star Anise
With its star-shaped pods and licorice-like flavor, star anise brings both beauty and warmth to autumn recipes. Commonly used in broths and mulled beverages, it’s a seasonal favorite that adds depth and a subtle sweet-spicy note to dishes.
Recipe: Cozy Autumn Herbal Tea
Ingredients:
1 tsp dried ginger root
1 cinnamon stick
2 cardamom pods, crushed
1 clove
1 star anise
1 tsp honey (optional)
Method:
Combine all the herbs in a teapot.
Pour boiling water over the herbs and steep for 5-7 minutes.
Strain, add honey if desired, and savor the warmth.
As the leaves change and the temperature drops, there’s no better time to delve into the wonders of nutrition and herbal medicine. MUIH’s Master of Science in Herbal Product Design and Manufacture offers a comprehensive understanding of herbs, from extraction to therapeutic applications.
If you’ve ever been fascinated by the natural powers of herbs and spices or have a passion for nutrition, MUIH is the place to turn that interest into expertise. Warm up this autumn with the knowledge and skills acquired from world-class educators and become a part of the next generation of holistic health professionals. For more information on MUIH’s graduate programs in Nutrition and Herbal Medicine, visit MUIH’s website.