Top 7 Healthiest Spices in Nigeria (And How to Spot Fakes)

Many Nigerians ask us: "What is the healthiest spice to eat?" or "Are store-bought spices actually healthy?"

The answer might shock you. While spices like Turmeric and Ginger are powerful superfoods, the loose versions you buy in the open market are often mixed with corn flour, food coloring, and even yellow chalk to increase profit.

At Finnah's Spices, our Food Scientists in Gombe have identified the 7 Super Spices every Nigerian family needs to boost immunity and digestion—without the hidden fillers.

1. Turmeric (The Anti-Inflammatory King) If you ask "Which spice has the most benefits?", Turmeric is the answer. It contains Curcumin, a compound that fights inflammation in the body.

• The Problem: Market turmeric is often diluted.

• The Finnah’s Test: Pure Turmeric should stain your spoon bright orange and have a heavy, earthy scent. If it smells like chalk, it's fake.

2. Ginger (The Digestion Healer) Ginger is essential for gut health. It warms the stomach and aids digestion after heavy meals like Pounded Yam or Beans.

• Best used: As a fresh powder in tea or pap (akamu).

3. Garlic (The Heart Protector) Garlic is known to help lower blood pressure and fight infections.

• Warning: Avoid "Garlic Seasoning" salts. Look for Pure Garlic Powder that is 100% garlic cloves, dried and ground.

4. Cloves (Kanumfari) Known locally as Kanumfari, cloves have one of the highest antioxidant levels of any spice. A tiny pinch in your Zobo or Pepper Soup fights bacteria.

5. Cayenne Pepper (The Metabolism Booster) It’s not just for heat; it’s for health. Pure Cayenne pepper (not the one mixed with red dye) helps burn calories and clear blocked sinuses during Harmattan.

6. Thyme (The Respiratory Aid) Thyme is packed with Vitamin C and is excellent for respiratory health. It’s more than just a Jollof ingredient; it’s a breathing aid.

7. Black Pepper (The Key) Critical Fact: Your body cannot absorb Turmeric without Black Pepper. Black pepper contains Piperine, which unlocks the benefits of Turmeric by 2000%. Always cook them together.

Are Store-Bought Spices Healthy? Not always. If you buy loose spices in the open market, they are often exposed to:

• Dust & Exhaust Fumes (Lead poisoning risk)

• Moisture (Aflatoxin/Mold risk)

• Adulteration (Mixed with flour)

The healthiest spices to buy in Nigeria are those that are sealed in airtight jars immediately after blending.

Where to Buy Original Spices 

You don't need to risk your health to get flavor. Finnah's Spices delivers fresh, science-backed super spices nationwide.