Roots and Bark - Cinnamon, Ginger, Horseradish.

These are all circulatory stimulants, creating an inner warmth and vigour that can be very useful in colder climates. By speeding up the metabolism, blood moves arounf the body better and keeps our energy levels higher. In the digestive system, the transient heat that is created helps both with digestion and in reducing trapped wind. Generally the increased circulation helps the immune system to work better, and these herbs can be used in foods over the cold months of the year to increase the body's natural resistance to colds.

Horseradish has a pungent flavour that leads itself to savoury dishes, the clasic combination being with roast beef. It is a stimulant and a weak diuretic. Ginger is much more versatile, and will go well with savoury rice dishes and apple pies for instance. Cinnamon is often used in both savoury and sweet dishes, its own has a less hot effect than the other two, gently warming the whole system.

Ginger

Ginger speeds metabolic rate, plus it inhibits nausea and vomiting often caused by morning sickness or motion sickness. Ginger has a slightly biting and hot note. Its aroma is rich, sweet, warm, and woody.

Horseradish

Horseradish is a relative of the mustard family that acts as a digestive stimulant. Hot and pungent.

Few Tips:

Mix Spice Islands Horseradish into whipped cream or sour cream for a classic roast beef topping. Add Horseradish to dressings, mayonnaise, and other condiments for zippier salads, sandwiches, and dips.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is often used as an antidote for diarrhea and stomach upset as well as a metabolism booster. Cinnamon in the ground form is used in baked dishes, with fruits, and in confections. Cinnamon has a sweet, woody fragrance in both ground and stick forms.

FewTips:

The sweetspicy flavor of Cinnamon enhances the taste of vegetables and fruits. Cinnamon is a perfect partner for chocolate; use it in any chocolate dessert or drink. It is used to mellow the tartness of apple pie.