Spices That Heal Us – CBSE NCERT Study Resources
All Question Types with Solutions – CBSE Exam Pattern
Explore a complete set of CBSE-style questions with detailed solutions, categorized by marks and question types. Ideal for exam preparation, revision and practice.
Very Short Answer (1 Mark) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)
These are 1-mark questions requiring direct, concise answers. Ideal for quick recall and concept clarity.
Turmeric helps reduce inflammation.
Ginger aids digestion.
Clove relieves pain.
Cinnamon controls blood sugar.
Cardamom freshens breath.
Black pepper eases cold.
Fennel seeds reduce bloating.
Garlic strengthens immunity.
Cumin reduces stomach ache.
Honey with turmeric helps.
Mustard seeds relieve congestion.
Cloves are antioxidants.
Ginger soothes upset stomach.
Turmeric supports heart health.
Turmeric is the spice known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It contains curcumin, which helps reduce swelling and pain.
Fennel seeds are commonly used to relieve digestive issues like bloating. They help in relaxing the digestive tract.
The primary healing property of ginger is its ability to reduce nausea and aid digestion. It also has anti-inflammatory effects.
Cinnamon is often used as a natural remedy for sore throat. It has antimicrobial properties that help fight infections.
Black pepper contains piperine, which enhances the absorption of curcumin in turmeric, making it more effective.
Cinnamon helps in lowering blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity.
The main benefit of consuming cardamom is its ability to improve breath freshness and aid digestion. It also has antioxidant properties.
Cloves are known for their warming effect in cold weather. They also have pain-relieving properties.
Peppermint can be used to relieve headaches. Its cooling effect soothes tension and pain.
Fenugreek helps manage diabetes by slowing sugar absorption and improving insulin function.
Turmeric is used to boost immunity during seasonal changes due to its antiviral and antibacterial properties.
Very Short Answer (2 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)
These 2-mark questions test key concepts in a brief format. Answers are expected to be accurate and slightly descriptive.
The two spices with antibacterial properties are turmeric and cloves.
Turmeric contains curcumin, which fights bacteria, while cloves have eugenol, a natural antiseptic.
Ginger contains gingerol, which stimulates saliva and digestive juices.
It also relaxes the intestinal muscles, reducing bloating and discomfort.
Cinnamon improves insulin sensitivity, helping cells absorb glucose better.
It also slows down the breakdown of carbohydrates in the digestive tract.
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties due to curcumin.
It helps in wound healing, reducing joint pain, and boosting immunity.
Pepper (black pepper) can relieve a sore throat.
Its piperine content reduces inflammation and acts as a natural pain reliever when mixed with honey.
Cardamom contains cineole, a natural antiseptic that kills bad breath-causing bacteria.
It also has a pleasant aroma that masks odors.
Fenugreek seeds are rich in proteins and nicotinic acid, which strengthen hair follicles.
They also prevent dandruff and promote hair growth.
Cardamom is called the 'queen of spices' due to its rich aroma and multiple health benefits.
It aids digestion, freshens breath, and is used in both sweet and savory dishes.
Cumin is rich in iron and antioxidants, which strengthen the immune system.
It also has antimicrobial properties that fight infections.
Cloves contain eugenol, a natural anesthetic and antiseptic.
They relieve toothaches, reduce gum inflammation, and fight oral bacteria.
Fennel seeds act as a natural digestive aid.
They reduce gas, bloating, and acidity while freshening breath due to their sweet, aromatic flavor.
Short Answer (3 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)
These 3-mark questions require brief explanations and help assess understanding and application of concepts.
Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. When applied to wounds, it helps reduce swelling and prevents infection.
It also speeds up the healing process by promoting tissue repair.
Additionally, it acts as a natural pain reliever.
Ginger stimulates the production of digestive enzymes, which help break down food efficiently.
It also soothes the stomach and reduces bloating and indigestion.
Its anti-nausea properties make it useful for treating upset stomachs.
Cinnamon improves insulin sensitivity, helping the body use glucose effectively.
It slows down the breakdown of carbohydrates in the digestive tract, preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar.
Regular consumption can support better blood sugar control.
Cloves contain eugenol, a natural anesthetic and antibacterial compound.
When applied to a painful tooth, it numbs the area and reduces pain.
It also fights bacteria that cause infections, providing relief from toothache.
Black pepper contains piperine, which increases the bioavailability of nutrients like vitamins and minerals.
It stimulates digestive enzymes, improving the body's ability to absorb nutrients from food.
This makes meals more nutritious and beneficial.
Cardamom acts as a natural expectorant, helping to clear mucus from the lungs.
Its anti-inflammatory properties soothe throat irritation and reduce coughing.
It also improves airflow, making breathing easier for those with respiratory issues.
Cumin and fennel are two spices that aid digestion.
Cumin stimulates the production of digestive enzymes, helping break down food.
Fennel relaxes the digestive tract and reduces bloating.
Ginger has antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.
It soothes the throat, reduces mucus, and boosts immunity.
Drinking ginger tea with honey is a common home remedy for cold relief.
Cinnamon improves insulin sensitivity, helping the body use glucose effectively.
It slows down the breakdown of carbohydrates in the digestive system.
This helps maintain steady blood sugar levels, especially beneficial for diabetics.
Black pepper contains piperine, which increases the absorption of curcumin from turmeric.
Without black pepper, the body absorbs very little curcumin.
This combination makes turmeric much more effective as a healing spice.
Cloves contain eugenol, a natural anesthetic and antiseptic.
Chewing a clove or applying clove oil numbs the pain and kills bacteria.
It has been used for centuries as a quick remedy for toothaches.
Long Answer (5 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)
These 5-mark questions are descriptive and require detailed, structured answers with proper explanation and examples.
We studied that spices like turmeric and ginger have medicinal properties. They are used in cooking and home remedies.
Argument 1
- Turmeric contains curcumin, which helps heal wounds and reduce inflammation.
- Our textbook shows it is used in milk for cold relief.
Argument 2
- Ginger aids digestion and soothes sore throats.
- We learned it is added to tea for nausea relief.
Conclusion
Both spices are natural healers and easily available at home.
Cinnamon and cloves are common spices with health benefits. We use them in food and medicines.
Argument 1
- Cinnamon controls blood sugar and adds flavor to dishes.
- Our textbook mentions it in chai for warmth.
Argument 2
- Cloves relieve toothaches and fight infections.
- They are used in mouth fresheners like mukhwas.
Conclusion
Both spices are useful for health and taste.
Black pepper is a spice that improves digestion. We add it to meals for flavor and health.
Argument 1
- It stimulates digestive juices, helping break down food.
- Our textbook shows it is used in soups for colds.
Argument 2
- It reduces gas and bloating when mixed with honey.
- We learned it is added to kadha for immunity.
Conclusion
Black pepper is a simple remedy for stomach issues.
Cardamom and fennel are known to help digestion. We often consume them after meals.
Argument 1
- Cardamom freshens breath and eases stomach pain.
- Our textbook mentions it in sweets like halwa.
Argument 2
- Fennel seeds reduce acidity and bloating.
- We studied they are chewed as saunf after eating.
Conclusion
Both spices are natural solutions for digestive problems.
Cumin and coriander are healing spices used in Indian kitchens. They have many health benefits.
Argument 1
- Cumin water relieves stomach aches and boosts immunity.
- Our textbook shows it is drunk with jaggery.
Argument 2
- Coriander leaves cool the body and aid digestion.
- We learned they are used in chutneys and curries.
Conclusion
These spices are easy-to-use remedies at home.
We studied that spices like turmeric and ginger have healing properties. Our textbook shows they are used in home remedies.
Argument 1
- Turmeric has curcumin, which reduces inflammation. For example, it is applied on wounds to heal faster.
- It is also mixed in milk to cure colds.
Argument 2
- Ginger helps in digestion. We drink ginger tea when we have stomach aches.
- It also relieves sore throats, as shown in our NCERT book.
Conclusion
Both spices are natural healers and are easily available at home.
Cinnamon and cloves are common spices with health benefits, as we learned in class.
Argument 1
- Cinnamon controls blood sugar. For example, we add it to tea for sweetness without sugar.
- It also warms the body in winters.
Argument 2
- Cloves relieve toothaches. Our textbook shows clove oil is used for dental pain.
- They are also chewed to freshen breath.
Conclusion
Both spices are useful in small quantities for healing and flavor.
We learned that pepper and honey are effective against cough and cold.
Argument 1
- Pepper clears nasal congestion. For example, pepper powder in warm water helps in sneezing out mucus.
- It also boosts immunity.
Argument 2
- Honey soothes throat irritation. Our NCERT book shows honey with ginger is a common remedy.
- It also reduces coughing at night.
Conclusion
Together, they provide quick relief from cold symptoms.
Cumin and fennel are digestive aids, as mentioned in our lessons.
Argument 1
- Cumin reduces bloating. For example, cumin water is drunk after meals for better digestion.
- It also prevents stomach cramps.
Argument 2
- Fennel seeds are chewed after food to avoid gas, as shown in our textbook.
- They also freshen the mouth naturally.
Conclusion
Both spices are essential for healthy digestion in Indian diets.
Cardamom and basil help in breathing problems, as we studied.
Argument 1
- Cardamom opens blocked airways. For example, cardamom tea relieves asthma symptoms.
- It also fights bad breath.
Argument 2
- Basil leaves reduce cough. Our NCERT book shows basil juice with honey is a remedy.
- They also purify the air when kept at home.
Conclusion
Both are natural solutions for respiratory wellness.
Turmeric, a bright yellow spice, is known for its powerful healing properties due to the presence of curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory compound.
1. Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant: It helps reduce swelling and fights harmful free radicals in the body, protecting cells from damage. For example, applying a paste of turmeric and honey can soothe skin irritations.
2. Boosts Immunity: Drinking turmeric milk (haldi doodh) strengthens the immune system, especially during cold seasons.
3. Wound Healing: Its antibacterial properties help heal cuts and burns faster when applied topically.
4. Digestive Aid: Adding turmeric to food improves digestion and reduces bloating.
Turmeric is also used in traditional dishes like curry and pickles, making it a versatile healer in our daily diet.
Cinnamon is a fragrant spice with multiple health benefits, primarily due to its antimicrobial and blood sugar-regulating properties.
Key Benefits:
1. Controls Diabetes: It helps lower blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity.
2. Fights Infections: Its antimicrobial nature helps in treating colds and sore throats.
3. Aids Digestion: Cinnamon tea relieves indigestion and nausea.
Step-by-Step Use for Sore Throat Relief:
1. Boil a cup of water.
2. Add half a teaspoon of cinnamon powder and a small piece of ginger.
3. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture and add honey for taste.
5. Drink it warm twice a day to soothe throat irritation.
Cinnamon can also be sprinkled on oatmeal or toast for daily health benefits.
Turmeric is a golden-yellow spice known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It contains curcumin, which helps in healing wounds, reducing pain, and fighting infections.
Some common uses and benefits of turmeric include:
- Healing wounds: Applying turmeric paste on cuts helps prevent infections and speeds up recovery.
- Digestive aid: Drinking turmeric milk improves digestion and reduces stomach issues.
- Immunity booster: Regular consumption strengthens the immune system.
Turmeric is also used in traditional medicine to treat colds, coughs, and skin problems, making it a versatile healing spice.
Ginger is a powerful spice with anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. It contains gingerol, which helps in treating various health issues.
Ginger aids in:
- Relieving nausea: Chewing raw ginger or drinking ginger tea reduces motion sickness and morning sickness.
- Reducing cold symptoms: Ginger tea with honey soothes sore throat and clears congestion.
- Improving digestion: It stimulates digestive enzymes, reducing bloating and indigestion.
Ginger is also known to reduce muscle pain and lower blood sugar levels, making it a valuable spice for overall health.
Turmeric is a powerful natural healer due to its active compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These properties help in reducing pain, swelling, and fighting infections.
Common uses of turmeric include:
- Healing wounds and cuts when applied as a paste with honey.
- Boosting immunity when consumed with warm milk (golden milk).
- Improving digestion and reducing stomach issues.
Additionally, turmeric is used in cooking to add flavor and color to dishes while also keeping the body healthy. Its regular use can prevent diseases like colds and arthritis.
Ginger is a versatile spice with strong medicinal benefits due to its anti-inflammatory, digestive, and immune-boosting properties. It contains gingerol, which helps fight infections and reduce nausea.
Different forms of ginger and their uses:
- Fresh ginger: Chewing a small piece relieves sore throat and aids digestion.
- Ginger tea: Drinking warm ginger tea helps with colds, coughs, and improves blood circulation.
- Ginger powder: Mixed with honey, it soothes stomach aches and reduces inflammation.
Ginger is also used in cooking to enhance flavor while providing health benefits. It is a natural remedy for motion sickness and menstrual pain, making it a must-have in every household.
Turmeric, a bright yellow spice, is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties due to the presence of curcumin. It helps in healing wounds, reducing joint pain, and boosting immunity.
In daily life, turmeric is used in multiple ways:
- Adding it to warm milk (haldi doodh) to fight colds and coughs.
- Applying turmeric paste on cuts or burns to prevent infections.
- Using it in cooking to enhance digestion and detoxify the body.
Additionally, studies suggest it may help in managing conditions like arthritis and improving heart health. Its natural healing properties make it a staple in Indian households.
Cinnamon is a fragrant spice with antimicrobial and blood sugar-regulating properties. It helps in fighting infections, improving digestion, and controlling diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels.
Here are some ways to include cinnamon in our diet:
- Sprinkling powdered cinnamon on oatmeal or fruits for added flavor and health benefits.
- Brewing cinnamon tea by boiling a stick in water, which aids in digestion and warmth during winters.
- Adding it to desserts or smoothies for a natural sweetness without extra sugar.
Cinnamon also supports heart health by reducing bad cholesterol. Its warm, sweet taste makes it a favorite in both food and traditional medicine.
Turmeric, a bright yellow spice, is known for its powerful healing properties due to the presence of curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and cooking.
Benefits of Turmeric:
- Anti-inflammatory: Helps reduce swelling and pain in conditions like arthritis.
- Antioxidant: Protects cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Boosts Immunity: Strengthens the body's defense against infections.
- Aids Digestion: Helps in relieving bloating and indigestion.
Uses in Daily Life:
- Adding a pinch of turmeric to warm milk (golden milk) helps soothe a sore throat.
- Applying a paste of turmeric and honey on wounds speeds up healing.
- It is used in cooking to enhance flavor and preserve food naturally.
For example, in Indian households, turmeric is a staple in dishes like dal and curries, showcasing its dual role as a spice and a healer.
Ginger is a widely used spice with strong medicinal properties due to its active compound, gingerol, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Medicinal Properties:
- Relieves Nausea: Effective against motion sickness and morning sickness in pregnancy.
- Reduces Cold and Cough: Acts as a natural decongestant and soothes throat irritation.
- Improves Digestion: Stimulates digestive enzymes, reducing bloating and discomfort.
- Pain Relief: Helps in reducing muscle pain and menstrual cramps.
Real-Life Applications:
- Drinking ginger tea with honey relieves sore throat and cold symptoms.
- Chewing a small piece of raw ginger helps reduce nausea during travel.
- Adding ginger to meals like soups and stir-fries enhances flavor and aids digestion.
For instance, ginger is often used in home remedies, such as kadha (a herbal drink), to boost immunity during seasonal changes.
Case-based Questions (4 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)
These 4-mark case-based questions assess analytical skills through real-life scenarios. Answers must be based on the case study provided.
Priya’s grandmother uses turmeric in milk for colds. Our textbook mentions spices like ginger and clove also heal. How do these spices help us? Give two examples.
We studied how spices like turmeric, ginger, and clove have healing properties.
Analysis- Turmeric reduces inflammation and fights colds.
- Ginger helps with digestion and nausea.
Our textbook shows clove relieves toothache. These spices are natural remedies.
Tulsi leaves are used in tea for fever relief.
Analysis- Tulsi boosts immunity and reduces fever.
- Pepper is also added to tea for colds.
Our textbook shows these spices have medicinal benefits.
Cinnamon helps manage blood sugar levels.
Analysis- Cinnamon slows sugar absorption in blood.
- Fenugreek seeds also lower sugar levels.
We studied how both spices are useful for health.
Ajwain is used for stomach pain relief.
Analysis- Ajwain aids digestion and reduces gas.
- Fennel seeds also improve digestion.
Our textbook shows these spices are home remedies.
Turmeric is a common spice in Indian kitchens. Our textbook shows it has medicinal properties. Explain how turmeric helps in healing wounds and give two examples of its uses.
Turmeric has antiseptic properties that help heal wounds faster.
Analysis- It reduces inflammation when applied as a paste.
- Our textbook shows it fights infections due to curcumin.
Examples: 1) Used in traditional cuts treatment. 2) Added to milk for cold relief.
Ginger contains gingerol which boosts immunity.
Analysis- It relieves sore throat when consumed with honey.
- Our textbook shows it reduces nausea during travel.
Examples: 1) Ginger tea for cough. 2) Chewing raw ginger for digestion.
Cinnamon increases body heat and regulates insulin.
Analysis- It slows sugar absorption in blood.
- Our textbook shows it improves metabolism.
Examples: 1) Added to oatmeal for diabetics. 2) Used in herbal teas.
Clove has eugenol, a natural anesthetic.
Analysis- It numbs pain when applied to gums.
- Our textbook shows it kills oral bacteria.
Examples: 1) Relieves stomach ache. 2) Used in spice blends for flavor.
Turmeric is a common spice in Indian kitchens. Our textbook shows it has healing properties. Grandmothers often use it for cuts and colds.
Q: How does turmeric help us, and what are two ways it can be used at home?
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. We studied that it helps heal wounds and boosts immunity.
Analysis
- For cuts: Mix with water to make a paste and apply.
- For colds: Add to warm milk (haldi doodh).
Conclusion
Our textbook shows turmeric is a natural remedy. These uses are easy to follow at home.
Cinnamon is a sweet-smelling spice. Our textbook mentions it helps control blood sugar. Many people add it to tea or oatmeal.
Q: Why is cinnamon beneficial, and name two foods it can be added to?
Cinnamon regulates blood sugar and adds flavor. We studied it is rich in antioxidants.
Analysis
- Tea: A pinch improves taste and health.
- Oatmeal: Sprinkled on top for sweetness.
Conclusion
Our textbook shows cinnamon is both tasty and healthy. These are simple ways to use it daily.
Ginger is used in chai and pickles. Our textbook says it aids digestion and reduces nausea. Travelers often chew raw ginger.
Q: How does ginger help the body, and give two examples of its use?
Ginger soothes digestion and prevents nausea. We studied it has warming properties.
Analysis
- Chai: Boiled with tea for stomach relief.
- Raw: Chewed to avoid motion sickness.
Conclusion
Our textbook shows ginger is versatile. These uses are common in Indian households.
Cloves are tiny flower buds with strong flavor. Our textbook states they relieve toothache and freshen breath. Dentists sometimes recommend clove oil.
Q: What are the benefits of cloves, and how can they be used for dental care?
Cloves have pain-relieving and antibacterial effects. We studied they help in dental issues.
Analysis
- Toothache: Place a clove near the painful area.
- Mouthwash: Boil in water for fresh breath.
Conclusion
Our textbook shows cloves are effective. These methods are natural and easy to try.
Riya's grandmother always adds a pinch of turmeric to warm milk when someone in the family has a sore throat. Based on the chapter Spices That Heal Us, explain why this remedy works and name two other spices with similar healing properties.
Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. These help reduce throat irritation and fight infections.
Two other healing spices are:
- Ginger - Soothes digestion and relieves cold symptoms.
- Clove - Acts as a natural painkiller for toothaches.
Grandmother's remedy is a traditional practice that uses the natural healing power of spices.
During a school project, Aarav learns that cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar levels. Describe how this spice benefits the body and suggest one way to include it in daily meals.
Cinnamon improves insulin sensitivity, helping the body manage blood sugar levels more effectively. It also has antioxidants that reduce inflammation.
One simple way to add cinnamon to meals:
- Sprinkle a pinch on oatmeal or fruit for a healthy breakfast.
Regular consumption in small amounts can support overall health, as mentioned in our chapter.
Riya's grandmother always adds a pinch of turmeric to warm milk when someone in the family has a sore throat. Based on the chapter Spices That Heal Us, explain why this remedy works and name two other spices with similar healing properties.
Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. These help reduce throat irritation and fight infections.
Two other healing spices are:
- Ginger: Helps with digestion and relieves cold symptoms.
- Clove: Acts as a natural pain reliever, especially for toothaches.
During a school project, Aman learned that cinnamon is not just a flavoring agent but also has health benefits. Referring to the chapter Spices That Heal Us, describe how cinnamon helps the body and suggest one creative way to include it in daily meals.
Cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar levels and improves heart health due to its antioxidant properties. It also has anti-inflammatory effects.
A creative way to include cinnamon is by sprinkling it on oatmeal or adding it to smoothies for a warm, sweet flavor.
Moreover, cinnamon can be used in savory dishes like soups to enhance taste while boosting immunity.
Riya's grandmother often uses turmeric in cooking and also applies it on cuts. She says it has healing properties. Based on the chapter Spices That Heal Us, explain:
- Why does turmeric help in healing wounds?
- Name one other spice mentioned in the chapter with medicinal benefits and its use.
Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. These properties help in reducing swelling and preventing infections in wounds, aiding faster healing.
Another spice with medicinal benefits is ginger. It is known to relieve digestive issues and reduce nausea. Ginger can be consumed as tea or added to food for its health benefits.
During a school project, Aman learned that cinnamon is not just a flavoring agent but also has health benefits. Referring to the chapter Spices That Heal Us, answer:
- How does cinnamon help in controlling blood sugar levels?
- Describe one traditional use of cinnamon in home remedies.
Cinnamon helps in controlling blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity, which allows cells to use glucose more effectively. This makes it beneficial for people with diabetes or those at risk.
Traditionally, cinnamon is used in home remedies to treat cold and cough. A mixture of cinnamon powder with honey is often consumed to soothe throat irritation and boost immunity.
Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. These help in fighting infections and boosting immunity, making it effective for colds.
Two other spices with healing properties are:
- Ginger - Helps with digestion and reduces nausea.
- Cinnamon - Regulates blood sugar and has antioxidant effects.
These spices are not just for flavor but also act as natural healers in traditional practices.
Cloves contain eugenol, a natural anesthetic and antiseptic compound. This helps numb pain, especially toothaches, and fights bacteria in the mouth.
Another spice good for oral health is peppermint. Its menthol content freshens breath and soothes gum irritation.
Both spices showcase how nature provides simple yet effective solutions for common health issues.
Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These help reduce joint pain and promote better sleep by calming the body. Additionally, turmeric boosts immunity and aids digestion.
Two other spices with healing properties are:
- Ginger: Helps with nausea, colds, and digestion.
- Cinnamon: Regulates blood sugar and has antibacterial effects.
Using these spices in daily life can improve overall health naturally.
Cloves contain a natural chemical called eugenol, which acts as a pain reliever and antiseptic. This is why they were used for toothaches—they numb the pain and fight bacteria in the mouth.
A modern application of cloves is in dentistry, where eugenol is used in temporary fillings and gels to soothe gum pain. Clove oil is also used in mouthwashes for its antibacterial properties.
This shows how traditional remedies are still relevant in today's medical practices.