5+ reasons to enjoy more pumpkin spice [slideshow]

Allspice

Allspice is the dried fruit of the pimento tree, but don’t think of pimento cheese when you think of this savory spice… it’s aroma resembles those fall spices it’s most often paired with — cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg.

Allspice also contains pain-relieving eugenol oil, and is sometimes used medicinally in a poultice to relieve arthritis and sore muscles. It’s also an excellent source of minerals and vitamins including vitamin A, vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine), riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin C — a super strong antioxidant in its own right.

If you have a little trouble “going” regularly, allspice might help. The active ingredients in allspice increase the motility (keeps things moving) in the gastrointestinal tract.

Simple recipe for pumpkin spice

• 3 Tablespoons ground Cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons ground Ginger
• 2 teaspoons ground Nutmeg
• 1-1/2 teaspoon ground Allspice
• 1-1/2 teaspoon Ground Cloves

Whisk together and store in container of your choice. Use abundantly in coffees, teas, yogurt and baking recipes. Remember take it easy on the sugar so you can reap the most health benefits from your pumpkin spice!

For a special treat, try pumpkin spice butter!