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Chilies
Although most
associated with Thai cuisine, chilies are not native to Thailand.
Portuguese traders introduced them to Thailand in the 16th century.
Chilies contain essential oils that, taken in moderation, help to
stimulate blood circulation and can help prevent heart disease or
cancer. Garlic
This well known seasoning used the world over is also used
extensively in Thai cuisine, where its called 'gra-thiem.' Garlic has
been medically proven to contain allicin, which can reduce the level of
cholesterol in the blood.
Kaffir Lime
The kaffir lime (ma-krut) is somewhat unusual in that its skin is often
very lumpy, unlike other citrus fruits. Some Thais wash their hair with
a herbal shampoo mode from the juice because it is supposed to prevent
dandruff. Some people even believe that the kaffir lime wards off evil
spirits (like garlic to vampires) and hang it outside their house.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass - The English name for this herb comes easily from the
lemony aroma it gives off, especially when cooked. In Thai it is called
'ta-krai.' The oil that gives the plant its aroma is a good cure for
upset stomach and indigestion. Lemongrass juice, or tea, is a popular
herbal drink in Thai traditional medicine. The tea also makes for a
natural insect repellent that can be used to water houseplants to
discourage bugs.
Mint
Thai mint (sa-ra-nae) is very similar to varieties found elsewhere.
The aroma of mint is a good pick-me-up. Mint can be taken to relieve
headaches.
Onion
Onion is a popular folk remedy, being applied to tumors, made into a
syrup for relieving coughs, or prepared in a tincture (using gin) to
relieve "dropsy". It is considered a weaker version of garlic by many
herbal practitioners. Like garlic, onion has a longstanding but
unsubstantiated reputation as an aphrodisiac.
Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds (Nga-Dum) are a nutritional goldmine-not only are they
high in mineral content but they contain two proteins that ore not
normally found in other vegetable proteins. According to Chinese
beliefs, consumption of black sesame seeds helps to beautify the scalp
and the hair and also provides benefits to the skin.
Sweet Basil
Sweet Basil (ho-ra-pa) is similar to the variety used in Italian
cooking. The oil of sweet basil can be used to make a curative drink to
treat indigestion caused by eating too much meat. The oil helps to kill
germs, induce sweating and clear phlegm. Fresh sweet basil makes a great
natural breath freshener. Just pop a few leaves in your mouth and give
them a chew. Sweet basil also contains the known cancer-fighting
substance beta-carotene.
Holy Basil
Also called Holy Basil, in Thai it's ka-prow, which aptly describes
the impact this highly aromatic leaf con have on your senses of smell
and taste. Basil can help combat indigestion. It contains beta-carotene,
which prevents cancer and blood disorders; and also phosphorous and
calcium, which strengthen the bones.
Peppercorns
Thai cooking makes extensive use of both fresh green peppercorns (prik-thai-on)
and ground, dried pepper (prik-thai-pohn).
Lime
Thai limes are smaller and almost spherical when compared to the
limes found in most western supermarkets. Their juice is also sweeter.
The juice is used in cooking, and a fresh lime segment is usually served
with many fried rice dishes.
Ginger
Ginger (king) adds flavor to Thai cooking. Ginger juice can help
cure light fevers, a runny nose or indigestion.
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