Sumac

Sumac leaves and berries are classified as astringent and cooling. Certain native american and canadian indian tribes used sumac to treat bladder, digestive, reproductive, and respiratory ailments; infections; injuries; stomachaches; arrow wounds; and more. The chippewa indians of north america made a decoction of sumac flowers to treat gas, indigestion, and other digestive upsets.

The iroquois used sumac as a laxative, diuretic, expectorant, liver aid, and in countless other applications.

The powdered bark and dried berries were allegedly combined with tobacco and smoked during peace pipe ceremonies.

The inner bark was also used to treat hemorrhoids.

Sumac helps to dry out the sinuses in colds, sinus infections and allergies.

It is a very safe herb and can be used for the treatment of childhood fevers such as chicken pox and measles.

Sumac is an excellent herb for the treatment of cardiovascular conditions.

It improves circulation, helps lower blood pressure and is a mild heart tonic.

It reduces inflammation of the blood vessels in conditions like varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and even more serious conditions such as arteriosclerosis.

Sumac is rich in gallic acid, which research suggests has anti-fungal, anti-viral, and cancer-fighting properties, and quercetin, which also seems to an anti-inflammatory agent effective against cancer and is beneficial in the treatment of rheumatic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout.

Traditionally sumac powder has been used therapeutically to cure many ailments.

It is known to have anti-microbial and antioxidant properties.

Researchers are currently exploring the role of this spice as a hypoglycemic agent (reduces blood glucose levels) to prevent chronic health conditions like hyperglycemia, diabetes, and obesity.

Work carried out on animal module also suggests that when animals drank water supplemented with sumac, it was found that there was less oxidized dna bases in their colons, livers, lungs and lymphocytes indicating its role as a valuable antioxidant (scavenges mutagenic free radicals).

It is also a natural diuretic.

The concentration of omega-3 fatty acids and docosahexaenoic acid in heart, kidney and brain cell tissue was increased with supplementation of thyme.

Other studies looking at effects of thyme on the brain cells found that it had significant changes in brain development of rats under study.

However, research is still undergoing to determine if sumac has positive effects on the brain.

Sumac herb can also help in the treatment of common digestive disorders, including stomach upset, acid reflux, constipation, feverish symptoms, and irregular bowel movements.

It is believed to contain both anti-microbial and antioxidant effects.

The herb has anti-inflammation effects and can help alleviate problems such as rheumatoid arthritis and skin diseases.

However, it is advisable to consult a doctor if you are on medication in order to avert potential side effects.

Sumac berries are full of vitamin c and itas also a good anti-microbial agent.

Sumac is anti-inflammatory too.. And works great for arthritis and skin inflammation.

Also sumac is wonderful for respiratory problems such as bronchitis, colds, and flues.

Sumac is a great antioxidant that scavenges away free radicals and sumac lowers blood sugar and also helps regulate blood sugar levels.

And studies show that sumac rids the colon, liver, and other parts of the body of oxidized free radicals.

Sumac sooths the gi tract (stomach and intestines) and helps when you have eaten too much.

Also sumac is a good diuretic.. And can reduce fevers from colds and flues.

Culinary uses.

Adding sumac to pureed roasted cauliflower is a brilliant way to highlight sumacas lemon flavor.

Make this middle eastern inspired salad for a light summer supper.

This chicken gets a double dose of citrus with halved lemons and sumac.

Take this classic potato side dish to the next level and spice up your french fries with sumac.

Sumac blends wonderfully with ginger for this asian tofu dish.

Sumac spice is also a perfect match for seafood and here it coats grilled shrimp in a lemon-like sauce.

Potatoes coated in sumac and olive oil are roasted to perfection than paired with a mixed herb salad.

Sumac may cause inflammation, redness and itching of the skin. Therefore, make sure you use caution when handling it.