Frankie Paz

Spices and Accents

Appears in
Plant Feasts: Recipes for slow living in a fast-paced world
Plant Feasts

By Frankie Paz

Published 2024

  • About

  • Allspice – mood lifter, digestive aid Helps to improve circulation and mood. It also helps to increase brain stamina and is great for digestion. It is said that it also stimulates healing and assists in prayers for good luck.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar – energizer and body balancer This versatile vinegar is alkalizing, cleansing and energizing. It can be used for all sorts of things from sauces to potions. It was used to treat war wounds, as well as counter mushroom poisoning. I sometimes take it in a little water in the morning, as it helps to balance my body’s pH level and maintain my gut health.
  • Black Pepper – digestive aid, immune booster This warming spice boosts the immune system, nourishes the kidneys and activates the digestion. I use it in milky potions and meals as it brings an earthiness and complements other herbs. Used for medicine and spells back in the day. It was called the king of spices. We used to offer it to the gods.
  • Ground Cardamom and Pods – joy enhancer, digestive aid This anti-inflammatory and antibacterial spice is rich in flavour, lifts the mood and is considered an aphrodisiac. It goes well with earthy meals.
  • Cayenne Pepper – detoxifier, digestive aid, metabolism booster Assists in detoxing and is a circulation activator. Its rich spice increases the pulse of the lymphatic and digestive rhythms. It can heat the body and inspire cleansing and radiance. They say this spice makes you smile and can ignite passion.
  • Cinnamon – body balancer This fragrant spice balances blood sugar, tames inflammation and soothes the spirit. Its cozy and fragrant warming energy was said to be connected to the sun and it was often used in love spells.
  • Cumin Seeds/Ground Cumin – digestive aid, immune booster This spice is my favourite because it elevates everything. It helps digestion and has antioxidant properties. This rich, warm, earthy spice enhances the savoury flavour of plants. It is also said to symbolize love and commitment. In the past, it was placed in the pockets of couples before the wedding.
  • Garlic Powder/Garlic – immune booster and detoxifier A great antibacterial that assists in balancing the blood. This is perfect for winter colds as it protects the immune system. Used in ancient times to ward off evil. A great all-rounder for adding a bit of spice to your dish, and protecting your immune system.
  • Ginger – digestive aid, detoxifier They say this powerful anti-inflammatory root can speed inner creative fire and add passion to an existing relationship. It also helps to strengthen your immune system and combat nausea. Perfect for potions and to give that earthy, spicy fire to a dish.
  • Mustard Seeds – immune booster These tiny aromatic seeds are rich in selenium and are great for maintaining bone strength. They can be used to relieve toothache and pain in the gums. Their mild, nutty flavour carries the essence of horseradish. These seeds are also known as the seed of faith.
  • Nori – detoxifier and alkalizer These beautiful leaves from sea forests boost metabolism, balance hormones and soothe the thyroid. They are a good source of iron and are full of flavour. Perfect for making wraps with raw veggies when in a rush.
  • Nutmeg – immune booster, digestive aid An ancient pain reliever, and good for the blood. It was used for incense and is said to possess magical qualities to ward off evil. Perfect for potions and sweet and savoury dishes.
  • Nutritional Yeast Gives a nutty and cheesy flavour to dishes and is a good source of vitamin B12.
  • Paprika – inflammation tamer, immune booster Paprika is made from ground peppers. It helps prevent inflammation and improves blood sugar levels. Rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants. You can buy sweet, smoked or spicy.
  • Rose Petals – joy activator and heart soother These have been consumed for centuries to sooth the heart and mind during stressful situations. They are also an aphrodisiac and support metabolism. Have them on hand to add to a potion or to decorate a dish and invoke some love and passion.
  • Salt – balancer This universal spice is an electrolyte. Good salt is important. It brings balance to the body and brings out flavours with food. I use sea salt from Cornwall or pink Himalayan salt. Salt has always been used to protect: from preserving foods, to warding off evil spirits.
  • Vanilla Extract – aphrodisiac, stress reliever This potent, aromatic antioxidant soothes the nervous system, relieving stress, and is an ancient aphrodisiac.