Allspice ground into powder, Pimenta officinalis

Spice powder for flavoring dishes

As a spice, allspice adds depth and distinctive flavor to many dishes, both savory and sweet. It is added to soups, curries, pickles, fish, game and beef dishes, various marinades, sausages.

Origin and composition of the spice

Allspice is the dried fruit of a tree called Pimenta dioica. For this reason, you can most often meet it under the names Jamaica pepper, myrtle pepper, pimento or pimento. Allspice is native to Central America, as well as parts of the Caribbean and Mexico.

It is called allspice because the dried fruits of allspice are brown in color and have a specific aroma that is a mixture of cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg. When the fruits of the tree are ripe, they are picked and left in the sun to dry. When dried, they can be made into a spice or allspice essential oil can be extracted from them.

Allspice fruits are rich in potassium, manganese, iron, copper, selenium and magnesium. The spice also contains vitamin A, vitamin C and other essential antioxidants.

Allspice contains a number of compounds that are responsible for the beneficial properties:
Eugenol – This compound can also be found in clove oil. It has antioxidant properties and helps with pain;

Quercetin - This is a flavonoid that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps reduce inflammation, has the power to kill cancer cells and helps prevent cardiovascular disease;

Gallic Acid - This is a type of phenolic acid with cancer and virus fighting properties. This acid has been widely studied as a possible treatment for neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease.

Health benefits of allspice

1. Increases immune defense

Allspice has antifungal and antibacterial properties. It boosts the body's natural defenses against bacterial attacks.

2. Supports blood circulation

Allspice contains significant levels of copper and iron, which are vital minerals needed to make your red blood cells. It also acts as a stimulant, increasing blood flow around your body, giving you a feeling of warmth. With this increased blood flow, you would also experience a boost in energy levels.

3. Aids digestion

A chemical called eugenol in allspice soothes stomach upsets such as upset stomach, nausea and bloating, and also relieves symptoms of constipation.

4. Supports heart health

Allspice contains a large amount of potassium, which is useful for maintaining a healthy heart. It maintains normal heart contractions, reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases, strokes and atherosclerosis.

How to use Allspice ground

Culinary purpose: To flavor soups and fish, beef dishes. It is used in pickles and mulled red wine.

Contraindications
The use of any part of the plant for medicinal purposes is not recommended for children, pregnant and lactating women, persons with individual intolerance. The use of dried allspice fruits is contraindicated in people with gastritis, stomach and duodenal ulcers.