Believe it or not I don’t drink coffee. Its not because I don’t agree with having a little java to start your day, its just because I don’t really enjoy the taste. I can’t say that I haven’t been tempted lately though, as I catch the smell of pumpkin spiced EVERYTHING wafting through the air! What is this pumpkin spice? Have you ever wondered where it came from? Why we love it? What’s it made from? I was curious, so I did a little investigating. It turns out there are a plethora of health benefits (especially for your gut!!) from pumpkin spice. I can not speak for all the blends you might consume or imitation flavors but it’s SO easy to mix up a batch of your own that can boost your health this season that I highly recommend you try!! There's nothing to it! Just mix the following ingredients together and add to your favorite warm drinks, soups, okay...even pies!!

Use it!  Your Gut Will Thank You!

Let’s break it down by ingredients. First there is cinnamon. Studies have shown that cinnamon has properties that can help with blood sugar balance. Do you get "hangry" if you eat late or miss a meal? Adding a little cinnamon to your food can help keep your moods more stable by helping to keep blood sugar more stable. Cinnamon also has benefits for your heart, lungs and kidneys and has been used for centuries to help relieve gastrointestinal issues.

Ginger, which is the root of the ginger plant, is also known to help with digestive issues such as nausea, indigestion, upset stomach and bloating. My grandma used to give me ginger tea when I was a small child and complained of an upset stomach! Ginger may help some people with inflammation and is said to help ease the symptoms of the common cold! One study revealed that ginger also has properties that can help lower cholesterol!!

Nutmeg is the pit or seed of the fruit of the Nutmeg tree, a tropical evergreen.  Nutmeg has been known to relieve gas, ease nausea and can help with digestive micro-flora imbalances!   

Allspice, which I always thought was just a mixture of all kinds of different spices, is the dried, unripe berry of a Caribbean evergreen tree.  Its flavor is like a combination of cinnamon, pepper, juniper and cloves, hence my mistake!  Allspice has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and may promote digestive enzyme activity!! 

And finally, cloves. Cloves are the petals of the flowers of the clove plant that have been picked and dried. They are a digestive aid, can help rid the intestinal system of pathogens and will help with all sorts of digestive issues! Again, remember, what benefits your gut and what improves digestion can help you feel better overall! 

So, there you have it!  Pumpkin Spice is GOOD FOR YOU!!  Go out today and find some good quality spices to mix up a batch and create a delicious elixir!  I mix it all into some steamed coconut or almond milk with a teaspoon of honey then enjoy. I would LOVE to hear how you enjoy your Pumpkin Spice!!  Leave a comment below!!