When Christopher Columbus arrived in Jamaica in 1494 and «discovered» this spice, he was enthusiastic, believing that it was his lucky day and that it was peppercorns, considering that pepper was an extremely valuable object that could even be used as a bargaining chip. at that time.
This was an understandable mistake (and certainly disappointing for him), since allspice berries look similar to peppercorns, although they are slightly larger and a rich reddish-brown hue.
It is important to note, then, that allspice is the only spice native to the Western Hemisphere.
Although it comes from Jamaica, this small evergreen tree also grows in the jungles of Central and South America; however, most of these trees were felled to obtain their berries and reforestation is complicated.
The production of this spice constitutes the main industry of Jamaica and its berries are They are considered to be of higher quality than those of Guatemala or other American countries.
If you’ve ever been to Jamaica, you’ll surely know the best expression of this spice: the secret spice (jerk) that makes Jamaican cooking so unique. Allspice is the ingredient that adds zing to Jamaican-style chicken or pork. (The extremely hot Jamaican chiles—Scotch Bon-net—are responsible for its intensity.)
No home-cooked dish can match the taste of Jamaican jerk, as jerk cooking at roadside stands all over the country is done over a fire fueled by the wood and leaves of the allspice tree.
healing properties
Regarding its medicinal properties, this spice has antiviral and antibacterial activity, which is why it is a good remedy against infections. infections. It also has analgesic and anesthetic properties and offers moderate pain relief.
It is a traditional Jamaican remedy to alleviate coldssoothe stomach pain, regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce indigestion, flatulence and other digestive disorders.
Russian soldiers took advantage of its calorific (stimulant) qualities during the Napoleonic invasion of 1812, spreading it on their boots to improve circulation and keep your feet warmer.
A powerful antioxidant Allspice is packed with antioxidants. In a study in Japan, researchers found that these tiny berries contained 25 active phenols, a category of antioxidants that includes ellagic acid, eugenol, and quercetin, which fight cellular oxidative damage that can lead to cancerheart diseases, Alzheimer’s and other chronic health problems. Furthermore, this spice likely possesses additional therapeutic properties.
Scientists in Costa Rica found in three separate studies that allspice lowered blood pressure in laboratory animals. According to these researchers, this spice relaxes the central nervous system and increases blood flow in the arteries.
Other research has recently confirmed a fact that Costa Rican herbalists have known for centuries: allspice helps to alleviate symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes.
The researchers analyzed this spice along with sixteen other plants used in phytotherapy as a possible alternative to hormone replacement therapy, which increases the risk of heart problems and certain types of cancer. Although this is preliminary research, scientists believe that allspice could be a viable natural option for the treatment of menopause and osteoporosis.
folk remedies
Allspice remedy for athlete’s foot: Sprinkle allspice powder between affected fingers 2 times a day until athlete’s foot has disappeared. This remedy has antifungal properties
Remedy with allspice for muscle pain: Mix 1 tablespoon of olive oil with 5 drops of allspice essential oil and rub on the area that presents the pain. Perform this remedy several times a day. Due to its anti-inflammatory action, it can also be used to relieve pain. Muscle pain and joints in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Remedy with allspice to lose weight: Put in a mortar 1 clove, 1 slice of fresh root of ginger and 5 or 6 allspice grains and 2 cinnamon sticks and crush lightly. Boil 1 liter of water and bring it to the boil until it reaches the boiling point. Pour in all the ingredients, cover the container and leave to infuse for 10 minutes. Filter and drink throughout the day. Take at least for 1 month to see the first results. This remedy activates the metabolism which helps burn calories.
recommendations
To obtain all its flavor it is advisable to buy it whole and grind it in small quantities. If you are fond of confectionery you will notice the difference.
Whole berries keep very well and can last several years if stored in a dark, dry place.
Once ground, they gradually lose their flavor intensity; so, it is best to grind an amount that you will spend in a few months.
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