It’s been a long week you guys.
I mean REALLY long.
The best part of my week has been coming home and seeing my beautiful Douglas Fir tree, smelling its piney goodness and then inhaling all the yumminess of our Christmas potpourri bowl. As a side note…and I know this isn’t correct…but I pronounce it pot-pour-ie instead of po-pour-ie. I have been saying it like this since I was a child. Not going to change now!
anyways.
Since it is Christmas time I thought it would be fun to do a special CHRISTMAS edition of “Health Benefits Of.” Usually I highlight a spice and all of its wonderful benefits to our bodies.
Today I am going to switch it up a little bit and highlight a few spices that just smell and feel like the holidays. You know, those spices that make you feel like you got a big hug!
I had to kickoff this list with peppermint
I have yet to have a candy cane this season, but you can bet your sweet ass there will be a plethora in the up and coming weeks.
P E P P E R M I N T…
Is one of my favorite Christmas spices/herbs. I love the way the menthol tickles my nose and leaves that cooling feel on the back of my throat. The mint brightens up chocolate and adds depth to confectionery delights like tree bark! It delivers a vitamin-packed punch, thanks to high levels of beta-carotene, vitamin A, and vitamin C. What’s more, research shows that the flavor may help prevent tension headaches, improve concentration, curb appetite and even reduce cold symptoms.
You’re going to need to stock up on candy canes if too much family causes you headaches. Don’t worry, no judgement here.
M Y R R H…
I know what you are thinking. Didn’t the wise men bring this to baby Jesus?
Yes, yes they did. For good reason too!
Myrrh has a wonderful musky, earth scent …almost like black licorice. It comes from the resin of a tree and is often used as an oral antiseptic. It is an immune booster and helps increase circulation.
If it’s good enough for the baby miracle, then it’s good enough for me!
L A V E N D E R…
Is one of my favorite scents ever. There is something so light and feminine about this.
The holidays can be hectic and lavender is anything but that! It has calming effects and symbolizes purity.
Lavender relieves tension, disinfects the scalp and skin and treats respiratory problems.
C I N N A M O N…
Is a Christmas fave for a lot of people! I have talked about cinnamon quite a bit on this blog like here and here!
The benefits are endless and the smell is divine! Cinnamon has a warming nature that is simultaneously sinful and alluring. It is known for boosting the libido and combating PMS. Pretty good combo if I do say so myself.
What are some of your favorite Christmas spices/herbs/smells?
