Spices that Heal Us Class 6 Summary

Spices that Heal Us Class 6 Summary

Spices have played a vital role in the lifestyle of people from certain parts of the world. Herbs and spices have been used for more than 4000 years by humans to treat ailments. The author presents this chapter in the form of a letter, as advice to the readers to use different spices as remedies to cure several minor ailments at home, addressing her two grandchildren, Vikram and Vaibhavi. She expresses happiness that the natural remedies she shares will help them in healing. She suggests that the readers share their knowledge of the benefits of spices commonly found in kitchens with others as well.

In the letter mentioned, the grandmother has conveyed the importance of spices along with the cures that they can perform. Turmeric, commonly known as 'haldi' in our kitchen, can increase our energy level, reduce pain, and improve digestion. Fenugreek or 'methi' can reduce sugar levels and control body weight. Cumin seeds (jeera) help in digestion and sleeplessness. Asafoetida (Hing) controls cough, cold, and stomach pain. Cinnamon (Dalchini) with Clove (Laung) can reduce toothache. Adarak (ginger) reduces cough, cold, and pain. Kali mirch (black pepper) improves digestion and body pain. Fennel seeds (sauf) and carom seeds (ajwain) are good for digestion. Elaichi (cardamom) helps to get rid of respiratory and digestive problems.

The chapter tells us about the benefits of spices that we generally use in our homes. Spices have healing properties and are being used as a home remedy by our ancestors, which we fondly call 'Daadi/Nani ke nuskhe'. Even a small piece of spice has so many benefits that we can use it to cure us. For example, turmeric has some anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, and antibacterial benefits. Cumin is beneficial for weight loss, cholesterol, stress management, and more.

Word-Meanings

1. Cures - treatments
2. Remedies - medicines or treatments for a disease or injury
3. Soak - to thoroughly wet by immersing something in water overnight.
4. Sleeplessness - inability to sleep
5. Dentist - a person whose job is to look after people's teeth
6. Respiratory - connected with breathing
7. Message - information
8. Natural - which comes on its own
9. Shared - to use with others
10. Remember - to recall
11. Weather-related - change of climate
12. Benefits - profits
13. Digestion - to a simple soluble form
14. Surprised - to feel astonished
15. Relief - reduction of pain
16. Served - to lay
17. Extensively - on a large scale