Thai cuisine is a delightful journey through a landscape of bold flavours and aromatic herbs. Beyond their taste, Thai spices and herbs are celebrated for their medicinal properties, offering numerous health benefits. Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular Thai herbs and spices, their health benefits, and how they are used in Thai dishes.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and shouldn’t be considered medical advice. It’s always best to consult a healthcare professional before using herbs or spices for medicinal purposes.

1. Lemongrass (Takrai)

Lemongrass is a staple in Thai cooking, known for its citrusy flavour and numerous health benefits. It has anti-inflammatory properties, helps in digestion, and can relieve stress. Lemongrass is commonly used in soups like Tom Yum Goong and curries such as Gaeng Daeng. It’s also a key ingredient in herbal teas used to soothe colds and coughs​​.

2. Galangal (Kha)

Often confused with ginger, galangal has a sharp, citrusy flavour and is rich in antioxidants. It aids in digestion, reduces inflammation, and has antibacterial properties. Galangal is a primary ingredient in Tom Kha Gai (chicken coconut soup) and is also used in various curry pastes. Thais often consume soups with galangal when they are feeling under the weather to help boost their immune system​​.

3. Kaffir Lime Leaves (Bai Makrut)

Kaffir lime leaves add a unique, fragrant flavour to Thai dishes and are known for their detoxifying properties. They support digestive health and improve oral hygiene. These leaves are essential in dishes like Tom Yum Goong and various stir-fries. They are also used in traditional herbal remedies to treat colds and skin conditions​​.

4. Turmeric (Khamin)

Turmeric is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It helps in managing pain, improving liver function, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Turmeric is used in Thai curries like Gaeng Kari (yellow curry) and in marinades. The herb is also a traditional remedy for digestive issues and skin ailments​​.

5. Thai Basil (Bai Horapha)

With its sweet and spicy note, Thai basil is not only a culinary delight but also offers numerous health benefits. It has antioxidants that can help fight free radicals and reduce inflammation. It may also help lower blood sugar and cholesterol. Thai basil is commonly used in dishes like Red and Green Curries. Thais often drink Thai basil tea to alleviate cold symptoms and improve digestion​​.

6. Chillies (Prik)

Chillies, a cornerstone of Thai cuisine, bring more than just fiery heat to the table. Packed with vitamin C for immunity and capsaicin for a potential metabolic boost, they may also lessen inflammation. Traditionally, Thais use them to aid digestion, ease nausea, and even treat aches and pains. Chillies are used in almost every Thai dish, including Som Tum (papaya salad) and various curries.

7. Garlic (Kratiam)

Garlic is known for its powerful antibacterial and antiviral properties. It supports immune function, reduces blood pressure, and has anti-inflammatory effects. Garlic is a common ingredient in Thai stir-fries, soups, and sauces, such as Nam Jim (dipping sauce). It is often used in herbal remedies to combat infections and improve respiratory health​​.

8. Coriander (Pak Chee)

Coriander, both in seed and leaf form, is rich in antioxidants and supports digestive health. It has anti-inflammatory properties and helps detoxify the body. Fresh coriander leaves are used as a garnish in many Thai dishes, including soups and salads. Coriander seeds are used in curry pastes and marinades, making them a versatile ingredient in Thai cooking​​.

9. Ginger (Khing)

Ginger is widely used in Thai cuisine for its spicy, warming flavour and medicinal properties. It aids in digestion, reduces nausea, and has anti-inflammatory effects. Ginger is used in dishes like Ginger Chicken and various soups. Ginger tea is a popular home remedy for colds and digestive issues in Thailand​​.

10. Holy Basil (Bai Kra Pao)

Holy basil, also known as Tulsi, is revered for its medicinal properties. It helps reduce stress, supports respiratory health, and has anti-inflammatory effects. Holy basil is a key ingredient in Pad Kra Pao (stir-fried holy basil with meat). It is also used in traditional Thai medicine to treat respiratory conditions and stress-related ailments​​.

Unlock the Health Benefits of Thai Herbs and Spices: Elevate Your Cooking and Well-Being

Thai herbs and spices are not just flavour enhancers but are packed with health benefits that contribute to overall wellness. Incorporating these ingredients into your cooking can enhance your meals and provide therapeutic benefits. Embrace the art of Thai cooking and discover the healing power of these incredible herbs and spices.

Similar read:

• A Taste of Thailand: 7 Essential Spices for Your Kitchen
• From Market to Plate: 10 Iconic Ingredients Essential to Thai Cuisine

Sources: The Spruce Eats, Thai Herb Kitchen, MedThai, Nutrilite