Herbs And Spices That Start With A (Uses, Health Benefits, And Where To Buy Them)

The general idea of using herbs, spices, and seasonings is that they add aroma, color, and taste to food. However, aside from that, they are rich in nutrients, which include vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are very necessary for the health of humans. Most of these herbs are even traced back to ancient traditional and medicinal uses.

Once you have started using them in preparing your meals, I don’t think you will still cook any plain food. Let’s go through the journey of learning new herbs and spices together.

Have you ever thought of labeling and arranging the condiments in your cabinet alphabetically? I have a great idea! Let’s start with the herbs and spices, starting with the letter ” A.” Keep reading to find out.

Herbs that start with A (uses, health benefits, and where to buy them)

I’m pretty sure you know about herbaceous plants, but just in case it slipped your mind, herbs are plants basically characterized by their great fragrance and aroma. These herbs have several uses as they may either be used as flavoring for our meals, they may also be added to fragrances, and they even have medicinal uses.

Herbs are basically the leafy part or other green part of a plant. Some spices include Aconite, American cranesbill, American ginseng, Angelica, Anise, Asthma weed, anica, Amlica, Anthemis, Autumn crocus, Astragalus, and many more.

Let’s take a deeper look at the following herbs: their uses, health benefits, and where to buy them.

1. Aconite (Aconitum napellus (LINN.)

This is a herbaceous plant, belonging to the Ranunculaceae family. The Aconite is a perennial plant and has a fleshy root which grows to about 1 m in height, has round leaves, and has a purple or bluish purple color. This herb is poisonous. It is available on Amazon.

Uses of aconite

1. This herb has several medicinal uses, both positive and negative.
2. In homeopathy, it may be used for the treatment of fear, anxiety, and restlessness.
3. It may also be utilized as a disinfectant for the treatment of wounds.

Health benefits of aconites

1. Consuming the supplements or herbal remedies of this plant may reduce internal and external pain throughout the body. This particular property has popularized Aconite as a remedy for people suffering from chronic conditions and long-term pains.
2. In traditional medicine, aconitum has been beneficial for the treatment of colds, pneumonia, inflammation, high blood pressure, laryngitis, etc.

2. Anise (Pimpinella anisum)

This plant is an annual herb, belonging to the Apiaceae family, like parsley, carrots, and celery. The plant is grown majorly for its fruit, the aniseed, which has a similar flavor as licorice.

Uses of anise

1. The seeds of this herbaceous plant are mostly used to add flavor to pastries and are one of the major ingredients in anisbrod, a German bread.
2. In the Asian and Mediterranean regions, it is most commonly used for meat and vegetable dishes, as well as a soothing herbal tea.

Health benefits of anise.

Anise is also popular for its powerful benefits in promoting health and acting as a natural remedy for several different ailments. Some of these benefits include:

1. Anise contains a good number of different plant minerals like iron, manganese, and calcium.
2. Studies carried out on both humans and animals have shown that anise seed may be as potent as some antidepressants.
3. Anise seed and its compounds may help reduce hot flashes and also prevent bone loss.
4. The roots of this plant may prevent certain bacterial and fungal growth.
5. Though more research is needed, the seed may also aid ulcer prevention.

3. Angelica

This belongs to the genus of both plants and herbs, predominantly used by Asians for traditional medicine. Their roots are specific to the angelica archangelica, although it may also be termed the angelica sinensis. Although both species are related, only A. sinensis is used in herbal medicine.

The roots of the A. sinensis have a potent and differentiating aroma, due to their composition compounds. This smell is often described as musky, herbaceous, or earthy. They are available on Amazon, at the Botanic Universe, Wild Terra, and Dragon Herbarium.

Uses of angelica.

1. Angelica roots have several uses, some of which include the production of traditional medicine and culinary purposes.
2. It may also be used for gins and spirit production, and the leaves, when candied, can be used for garnish and decorative purposes .

Health benefits of angelica.

The A. sinensis has been linked with several potential benefits, some of which include

1. Extract from A. sinensis is responsible for the killing of glioblastoma cells, which is a very rugged form of brain cancer. Many more studies are needed.
2. They support the birth of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), which is essential for wound healing.
3. One of its major uses in Chinese medicine is for the management of menopausal symptoms and other women-related hormonal issues.
4. Decrease inflammation, prevention of further joint damage, and the promotion of cartilage repair in osteoarthritis are some of the benefits of supplementing with A. sinensis.
5. Other benefits include tackling antimicrobial and anti-anxiety effects. This is particularly true for the Archangelica.

4. American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius)

This perennial herbaceous plant belongs to the ivy family. Its growth is predominant in the North American part of the world and it has become an endangered species due to high demand.

The American ginseng is mostly used for herbal medicine, as it is believed that the root is good for the treatment of fatigue, diabetes, colds, and flu. More studies are required to medically ascertain this claim.

Health benefits of american ginseng

1. American ginseng is a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
2. Ginseng helps improve brain functionality, feelings of calmness, and mood in healthy people and those with Alzheimer’s disease.
3. They may improve erectile dysfunction by improving blood flow into the penile muscles while also decreasing oxidative stress in the tissue.
4. Ginseng tends to improve vaccination effects and strengthen the human immune system.

5. Arnica

This is a moderately toxic flowering plant, native to Europe, belonging to the daisy family Asteraceae. It is characterized by a vibrant yellow coloration with a similar appearance to the daisy flower. Arnica is a perennial herb grown in Canada.

Other names by which it is known include wolfsbane, mountain arnica, mountain tobacco, and leopard’s bane. They can be ordered on Amazon or you can visit a Walmart supercenter, doctorhoys etc.

Uses of arnica

1. This herb is considered to be poisonous and unsafe; hence, professionals strongly advise against it due to its unknown effects.
2. Although homeopathic arnica, in its diluted form, has been used for the treatment of hair loss, muscle and joint pain, arthritis, etc.

Health benefits of arnica.

Some of the known benefits of this mild poisonous herb are: improvement of bruised skin; treatment for osteoarthritis; reducing inflammation and pain; muscle soreness; etc.

6. Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus)

This perennial plant is found in the northern and eastern parts of China, Korea, and Mongolia. It is a member of the fabaceae family and is one of the fundamental herbs used in Mongolian traditional medicine; it is also a key immunomodulatory herb in Chinese medicine. Amazon’s online store and crackaging, sell these herbs.

This herb is widely used as a lung tonic to support the immune system and prevent colds and upper respiratory infections.

Health benefits of astragalus

1. One of the most important benefits of this herb is boosting the immune system and energy levels. It is also valuable for the treatment of colds, diabetes, arthritis, asthma, and high blood pressure. They also aid in the treatment of bacterial infections and improve heart functioning in patients with heart failure.
2. One of the most widely accepted reasons for the popularity of this herb is that it is an adaptogen. It is able to change function depending on the specific needs of the body.

7. Asthma plant (E. hirta)

Sometimes known as the Euphorbia hirta, it is native to the tropical American regions. This herb has a hairy root that produces white latex and is often grown in exposed grassland, roadside or along pathways. You can order them online from the Amazon store.

The plant is mostly used for traditional medicinal purposes across the world for the treatment of asthma, skin ailments, and hypertension. It may also be used in herbal tea form as a folk medicine for fever.

Health benefits of asthma plants.

1. While there is not enough research, it is believed that this plant is an anti-asthma, meaning it may help relieve asthma.
2. It may help relieve gastrointestinal difficulties. This is the second most popular benefit of this plant, apart from its anti-asthma properties.
3. Extracts from the herbs like the salves may be applied directly to the skin on boils, wounds, burns, and other marks.
4. They also have antimalarial functions.

8. American cranesbill (Geranium maculatum)

This is a perennial herb originally from the woods of eastern and central North America, belonging to the Geraniaceae family. It is characterized by sticky aromatic leaves, deeply cleft, hairy, toothed, pink-purple colored flowers with prolonged styles; and beak-shaped fruits. This herb can be found at Amazon.com, Walmart, and any spice store near you.

This herb has several medicinal and folk benefits and uses. Medicinally, it is used as an astringent, anti-hemorrhagic, anti-inflammatory, and vulnerable herb.

Some of the folk uses by tribes in native America include treatment of sore throats, canker sores as mouth rinse, infected gums, and oral sores.

9. Aloe vera

Well, I’m sure you would have come across this popular plant or at least heard the name in one form or the other. This is a thick, short-stemmed plant that often stores water in its leaves.

The plant is popularly used for the treatment of skin injuries, although it has several other uses, like adding it to creams and soaps for several functions. You can get healthy aloe vera almost everywhere in the US, from Walmart, Amazon, US Mart ventures, etc.

Health benefits of aloe vera.

1. They contain a powerful antioxidant called polyphenol, which, along with other compounds, helps to suppress the growth of bacteria that cause infection in humans. It is known for its antibacterial, antiviral, and antiseptic properties.
2. It may enhance insulin activity, thereby improving blood sugar management.
3. The plant reduces constipation and helps treat canker sores.
4. They also reduce dental plaque and accelerate wound healing.

10. Alkanet (Alkanna tinctoria)

Alkanet originates from the Mediterranean region. It takes the shape of a minute nut and has an astringent, bitter taste. It is commonly known as dyers’ bullous, hoary puccoon, and anchusa. Anchusa was derived from Anchousa, a Greek word. The dye is very soluble in alcohol and oil but insoluble in water.

Uses of alkanet

1. It is used in the production of natural cloth dyes.
2. It serves as a treatment for injuries and skin wounds.
3. Alkanet was used many years ago to treat gastric ulcers and diarrhea.
4. It is used as a food and wine coloring agent.

The health benefits of alkanet

1. The oil extracted from alkanet can be massaged into the skin to relieve itchiness and dryness.
2. Traditionally, it is used to flush out poison in the body.
3. It is recommended for insomnia, headaches, cardiovascular problems, etc.

Where can you buy alkanet?

You can purchase alkanet from Walmart supercenter, Target, Burlap and Barrel, Thrive Market, and Costco.

11. Artemisia (Artemisia spp.)

Artemisia is native to North Africa and the Middle East. It is a short plant whose leaves are used as herbs for medicinal purposes.

Health benefits of Artemisia

1. This herb cures coughs, common colds, muscle weakness, measles and cardiovascular issues.
2. Artemisia is used to treat infections caused by parasites in the body like roundworms, hookworms, flukes, etc.
3. It is very effective for reducing the sugar level in the blood.

12. Asafoetida (Ferula assafoetida)

Asafoetida is an herb derived from the ferula plant. It is usually dried and ground into powder form and used for medicinal or culinary purposes. It was first cultivated in Iran and Afghanistan but was used mostly by the Indians. It has a relatively high sulfur concentration, which causes its pungent smell. However, you can never go wrong with asafoetida in your meals.

The health benefits of asafoetida

1. Phenolic compounds like flavonoids are strong antioxidants that protect the body against diseases, inflammation, and cancer.
2. It hastens the secretion of bile from the liver, which is needed for fat digestion.
3. Asafoetida defends the body against streptococcus bacteria.

Spices that start with A (uses, health benefits, and where to buy them)

1. Allspice ( Pimenta dioica )

Allspice is also called Jamaican pepper. This is because the best quality is produced in Jamaica. It has a peppery and warm taste, which is very similar to the taste of nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon when combined together.

Uses of allspice

1. It is one of the main ingredients used in preparing Caribbean cuisine. It is very important to give the chicken a taste after marinating.

Health benefits of allspice

1. Most of the compounds that Allspices contain, which include vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals, are good cures for nausea, cancer, and inflammation.
2. It contains antiseptic, antifungal, and antibacterial properties that fight infections.
3. Ericifolin, quercetin, gallic acid, and eugenol are properties in allspices that fight and slow down the growth of cancerous cells.

Where can you buy allspices?

Purchase Allspices from Olam Spices, Diaspora Co., Sahadi’s, Penn’s, Kalustyans, Walmart Supercenter, Savory Spice Shop, Spicewalla, Burlap and Barrel, Thrive Market, Costco.

2. Ajwain, carom seeds (Trachyspermum ammi)

Ajawin is mostly used by the Indians to prepare different dishes. The aroma is almost like thyme. Ajawin has a bitter, pungent taste. They are basically dried or roasted fruit seeds used mainly for combining spices. In siddha and ayurvedic, it is used for its medicinal purposes.

Uses of ajawin

1. The oil is extracted for its thymol and used in the pharmaceutical industry for antifungal treatments.

Benefits of ajawin

1. The Ajawin plant may cure peptic ulcers, gut, intestinal and stomach sores.
2. Two properties known as carvacrol and thymol found in ajawin will extensively cure bacterial infections caused by E. coli and salmonella bacteria.
3. It provides relief for asthma, cough, and some other respiratory problems.
4. Ajawin should not be used by breastfeeding or pregnant women. It should not be given to new-born babies either. It has shown the potential to cause miscarriage and birth issues.

Where can you buy allspices?

You can buy the ajawin seed or oil from Walmart supercenter, Costco, grocery outlet, or any other preferred spice store.

3. Alligator pepper (Aframomum danielli, A. citratum, A. exscapum)

Alligator spice may sound new to people living beyond West Africa. It is also called ataare by the Yorubas in Nigeria. It is one of the main spices used in local cuisines. It is a brown spice with a bitter and peppery taste. Many chew it raw, while others prefer to use it for cooking.

Uses of alligator pepper

1. Traditionally, the juice is extracted and used to stop bleeding.
2. It is recommended for people suffering from skin infections like acne, chicken pox, and measles.
3. The Asians use alligator pepper to treat snake bites and cure asthma.

Health benefits of alligator pepper

1. This spice is a good source of dietary fiber. This dietary fiber aids digestion and bowel movements.
2. The tannin contained in it heals wounds, burns and relieves pain caused by inflamed membranes.
3. Amino acids in alligator pepper regulate the blood sugar level.
4. It is recommended for men who want to have slow ejaculation and longer penis erections.
5. The dietary fiber it contains is good for a weight loss journey.

Where can you buy alligator pepper?

You can purchase fresh ground alligator from any grocery store, Walmart supercenter, or any African market.

4. Annatto (Bixa orellana)

Annatto seeds are grown on an achiote tree. It is a colorful, healthy, and nutritious spice. They are mainly cultivated in Central and South America. Carotenoids are responsible for the bright red color it emulates.

Uses of annatto

1. It is used in many cuisines around the world (especially in Spain) as a natural food preservative and for coloring.

Health benefits of annatto

1. It is a good source of tocotrienol ( Vitamin E).
2. The antioxidants in annatto fight free radicals that cause cancer.
3. Consumption of Annatto provides the body with essential nutrients like sodium, iron, and calcium. They are necessary for protecting the cells in the body.
4. 4 It aids digestion, gives density to the bones and slows down aging.

Where can you buy annatto?

Purchase Annatto from Walmart supercenter, Amazon, Burlap and Barrel, Thrive Market, or Costco.

Others include Avens (Geum urbanum) and Avocado leaf (Persea americana).

In conclusion

I’m certain you enjoyed learning about these beautiful herbs and spices listed. Don’t forget to get your own ” A” herbs and spices. Improve your meal game while also providing care and love to those condiments via your preservation method.

Always store herbs and spices in glass jars that are not exposed to air, light, or heat. If possible, purchase them in bits or small quantities to avoid spoilage. If you must use the herbs listed, make sure you do not have any chronic health challenges. This is because many of them have very potent allergens and may prolong your problem.