Flip through the latest issue of Gulf Weekly.
I REALISED something amazing this week, the Middle East offers fascinating herbs and spices that can be used for everything from healing, to cooking, and even personal hygiene!
A few days ago, I interviewed Donna Evans - the co-author of a book I bought a few years ago called 'Natural Remedies of Arabia'. She is a master herbalist who specialises in historical herbalism. She spent ten years in the Middle East and has conducted research on herbs, spices, and natural remedies of the Arabian Peninsula.
The reason I wanted to talk to her is because I feel that we often take things for granted here in the Middle East. We have these amazing natural resources which are part of our everyday lives, but we seldom stop to appreciate their magic.
That's why I jumped at the opportunity to talk to someone who specialises in this field. I wanted to ask her about the crystal non-toxic deodorant that I've been using for years. It has been hyped in the West, but it was only after I bought it that I realised it is what our ancestors have been using for decades and is often referred to as 'shabba'.
I also learned that jarjir (the Arabic name for Rocket leaves which are so common in Bahrain), is one of the best things for our health. Apparently it can also be used for hair loss and healing wounds.
I find it fascinating how nature provides us with exactly what we need to heal ourselves. We often go to great lengths to find a cure for an illness, when the cure could be right in our garden or spice cupboard. I've always loved how our ancestors got creative with what they had and used it to heal their illnesses and add 'spice' to their lives.
A lot of foods have been researched and marketed as 'superfoods' such as goji berries and cacao beans, but I feel there hasn't been enough research done on the benefits of dates, for example, or all the other magical spices and herbs that we have in this part of the world.
The powerful effects of some local plants cannot be overlooked. For example, using the 'black seed' (habba souda) for healing lung disorders, or using different parts of the Neem tree for purifying the air and healing gum problems. Cardamom, anise, cinnamon, coriander, cumin, fennel, and mint are some other examples of useful items.
The aloe vera plant is also abundant in this region and its uses are endless. I use aloe vera gel to heal wounds, burns, and even insect bites. And a lot of people benefit from drinking aloe vera juice for digestive problems.
A lot of these herbs and spices are also used to make essential healing oils. These are concentrated oils and you'd only need a few drops of to reap their benefits.
Lavender oil for example can be used to induce sleep and relaxation; peppermint oil is great for rejuvenation; cinnamon oil works for mental alertness; eucalyptus oil for coughs and lung problems.
I also found an amazing option for naturally cleaning fruits and vegetables using citrus essential oils. Apparently, you just add a few drops of lemon oil to the water and soak your fruits in it to make sure it has been cleaned, as citrus oils work as a natural antiseptic. You can also use citrus oils in water to mop your floors at home; a great alternative to toxic house-cleaning items.
I suggest you hurry to your nearest local spice market and discover the magic for yourself. A lot of the local vendors are very familiar with the benefits and uses of the different herbs and spices so don't be afraid to ask!
As you can see, this subject is very close to my heart (and home)! To hear the whole interview about this topic, go to www.AliaAlmoayedRadio.com
TUNE in to Alia Almoayed's weekly live internet radio show - Dare To Be Healthy. The show airs live every Monday night. Go to www.AliaAlmoayedRadio.com
