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Almost free health products…

I just found out about a new feature on iherb called “Trial Pricing” today that I thought I should share with you. On their trial page they offer a handful of things (there are 57 at the time of writing this) at a hugely discounted rate, limited to one per customer. Some of the trial products are only available if you haven't ordered it before (I guess they're hoping you'll love the product and go back and order more!)

The cheapest thing I found was a $0.12 (yep, 12 cents!) packet of Omega 3 supplements! They seem to have lots of vitamins, supplements, minerals, lip balms, tea infusers – and all sorts. The trial products change regularly, so it’s definitely work checking it out regularly. Of course, it isn't all Paleo, but I do manage to find most of my paleo staples online at iherb.

My discount code still applies to these products, so make sure you enter the code duv741 when you check out to get a $5 (if you spend under $40) or $10 discount (on purchases over $40). Sounds like a pretty good deal to me!

Shipping is free within America on orders over $20 and shipping to other countries is very cheap indeed (I regularly have things sent from iherb to both Australia and the UK and have found it far cheaper than buying locally)

Other specials currently available:

Other specials you might be interested in (but they do appear to be limited – so don't blame me if they're sold out!):

Iherb are offering you the chance to try Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil for just $1 (but only to people who haven’t ordered it before)

Try Vitamin D3 capsules for $0.50 (for 110 capsules!)

Healthy Origins Extra Virgin Coconut Oil reduced to $23.95 (47% discount) huge 54 oz (1,530 g) container

$1.95 (85% discount) on a travel coffee mug

Pink Himalayan sea salt for $2.64

The specials change every day, so if you find any particularly good/ paleo bargains, please share in the comments below so we can all benefit!

How to Make the Most of iHerb’s Trial Pricing

If you're anything like me, you probably get a small thrill when you discover a quality product at a fraction of its usual price — especially when it's something you're already using, or have been meaning to try. That’s where iHerb’s Trial Pricing section shines. It's a treasure trove of steeply discounted wellness products, often just a few cents, and many of which can complement a Paleo lifestyle when chosen carefully.

What’s clever about Trial Pricing is that it’s not just a generic sale — it’s intentionally structured to introduce you to new products, offering them at a near giveaway price to get you hooked on the quality. And frankly, it works. Once you've tried that high-quality omega supplement or natural lip balm, you'll likely want it in your regular rotation — and with the full-size version usually still far cheaper than what you’d pay in an Australian health store, it’s a win-win.

My Top Tips for Snagging the Best Deals

Since the stock changes regularly, it pays to visit the Trial Pricing page often. Here are a few tips I’ve learnt from making the most of the specials:

Use the search bar wisely: Try keywords like “organic”, “grass-fed”, or “non-GMO” to filter out less Paleo-friendly options.
Check expiry dates: Occasionally, discounted products are close to their best-before dates — not a problem for things you'll use quickly, but worth checking.
Look at serving sizes: A 30-tablet bottle for $0.50 is great, but not if you need to take six a day.
Combine with other deals: Some items may qualify for additional discounts (like the “brands of the week”), stacking savings even further.

Watch Out for Hidden Gems

Beyond supplements, iHerb often includes discounted kitchen gear, pantry staples and natural cosmetics in its Trial section. One week I found a non-toxic tea infuser for under a dollar, and another time I scored organic herbal teas for just 40 cents a box. These items sell out fast, so if you see something useful — especially a reusable item — it’s worth adding to your cart immediately.

Is It Paleo-Friendly?

While not everything on iHerb is Paleo-approved, there are many products that align with a real food lifestyle. I often find:

Coconut oil and coconut products — great for cooking or baking, and a pantry staple.
Herbs and spices — especially in grinder format, like the pink Himalayan salt mentioned earlier.
Natural personal care items — from fluoride-free toothpaste to deodorants without aluminium or parabens.
Supplements with minimal fillers — like magnesium, zinc, or fish oils derived from wild sources.

If you're ever unsure, check the ingredients list — or do a quick search to verify how Paleo-aligned it is. You might be surprised by how many great options you’ll uncover.

Shipping Hacks for Australians

Shipping to Australia is one of the reasons iHerb continues to be so popular with Paleo followers here. Even though it's based in the US, iHerb has affordable international shipping options, and delivery is often surprisingly quick. I usually get my parcels in under two weeks, and the tracking is reliable.

Keep in mind:

Orders over a certain value may qualify for reduced shipping fees — though there is a weight cap, so it's worth watching your cart’s combined weight.
You can choose from several carriers — I’ve had the best results with DHL Global Mail.
Be mindful of Australian customs regulations if ordering items like honey or large quantities of supplements.

Make the Discount Code Work for You

Don’t forget to use the code duv741 at checkout — it still applies even when you're purchasing trial-priced items. This is a great way to maximise your total savings, particularly when you're placing a larger order. Whether you're just after a few samples or stocking up on your monthly supplements, the code can shave a few extra dollars off — and who doesn’t love that?

Why I Keep Coming Back

What keeps me returning to iHerb, aside from the bargains, is the sheer convenience. The search filters, customer reviews, and product Q&A sections help you make informed decisions. Plus, there’s a strong sense of community among users — I’ve discovered some of my favourite products from reading others’ honest reviews.

And because I’m always looking for new ways to support my wellness journey — whether it’s Paleo-friendly snacks, toxin-free household cleaners or adaptogens for energy — iHerb is one of the few places where I can get almost everything in one go, at a much better price than anywhere locally.

What Have You Found?

If you stumble across an absolute bargain in the Trial Pricing section — especially something aligned with Paleo, low-tox or wholefood living — please pop it in the comments. Let’s help each other discover the good stuff before it disappears! The best deals often only last a day or two, so sharing your finds can really benefit the community.

In a world where health food stores are charging $18 for almond butter and $40 for collagen, being savvy online is a game changer. With tools like iHerb's trial pricing and regular promotions, nourishing your body doesn't need to cost the earth.

Why you need to eat more salt not less paleo diet-min

Why You Need to Eat More Salt on Paleo

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The title of this article may come as a bit of a shock to some, especially with the range of ailments an increased salt intake has been linked to. Salt is vilified by conventional wisdom; but then again, so is saturated fat. We know that the ‘experts’ don’t always get it right, and it seems that this is true once again when it comes to salt.

Sodium, the mineral that makes up approximately 40% of table salt, is an essential nutrient for human health. It regulates your fluid balance, improves muscles function, and allows your nerves to send impulses throughout your body. Sodium maintains the balance of other minerals, such as calcium and potassium, in the bloodstream. It also helps to maintain sugar levels in the bloodstream, thus reducing the need for insulin.

Salt itself is also an important part of the process of digestion. In the mouth, salt activates the enzyme salivary amylase, which provides signals to the brain that digestion is due to take place. In the stomach, it assists in the creation of hydrochloric acid, which helps break down your food.

Studies show that people with a higher sodium intake are at greater risk of developing heart and blood problems and suffering from strokes. However, this correlation is not a fair one. The majority of people in Western society who consume a higher level of salt are generally doing so through a higher intake of processed foods. There have been no studies that directly show the link between the sodium itself and the problems it is said to cause; so could this in fact be the processed food that is the root of the problem? It’s highly likely.

When choosing your salt, look for a salt rich in trace minerals such as Pink Himalayan Crystal Salt or Celtic Sea Salt. As with everything, the key is moderation. Too much salt is likely to put excess pressure on your kidneys; however, anything up to 1tsp of high quality salt each day and you’re definitely in health promoting territory. As processed foods are not on the menu in any Paleo household, you can afford to be a little more liberal with your seasonings.

Understanding the Difference: Natural Salts vs. Processed Salt

When it comes to salt, not all varieties are created equal. The type of salt you choose plays a crucial role in whether it supports your health or contributes to imbalances. Highly refined table salt, often used in processed foods, is stripped of beneficial minerals and typically contains anti-caking agents and additives such as aluminium. In contrast, natural salts like Pink Himalayan Salt, Celtic Sea Salt, and Redmond Real Salt are minimally processed and retain valuable trace minerals such as magnesium, zinc, and iodine in their natural forms.

These natural salts not only enhance the flavour of your meals but also offer genuine health benefits that are synergistic with a Paleo lifestyle. Many advocates of ancestral diets report improved hydration, better digestion, and fewer muscle cramps when they replace refined salt with mineral-rich alternatives. That’s because our bodies evolved alongside a natural intake of whole, unrefined salts — not the bleached and engineered table salt you find in most supermarket aisles.

Signs You Might Be Salt Deficient

While much of the mainstream advice focuses on reducing salt intake, some people may actually be consuming too little — particularly those who are physically active, following low-carb diets, or sweating heavily in hot Australian climates. Here are a few signs your body may be craving more salt:

Persistent fatigue, even after a good night’s sleep
Frequent headaches or migraines
Light-headedness when standing up quickly (low blood pressure)
Muscle cramps, especially during or after exercise
Increased salt cravings

These symptoms can often be relieved by increasing your intake of high-quality, mineral-rich salt and ensuring you remain well-hydrated with filtered water throughout the day.

Salt, Electrolytes, and the Paleo Diet

The Paleo diet is naturally low in processed foods — which means it’s also low in sodium by default. This can be beneficial, especially when coming from a standard Western diet, but it also means that intentional sodium consumption becomes more important, particularly for those who engage in intermittent fasting, regular exercise, or ketogenic-style eating.

Electrolytes like sodium, magnesium, and potassium work together to maintain fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions. When you sweat, urinate frequently, or reduce carbohydrates significantly, you also lose electrolytes. Many people following a clean Paleo lifestyle benefit from consciously adding salt to their meals — whether through sprinkling over roasted vegetables, adding to bone broth, or blending into post-workout hydration drinks with lemon and water.

Creative Ways to Use Natural Salt in a Paleo Kitchen

If you’ve only ever used salt to season a steak, there are countless other ways to enhance your dishes with it. Here are some ideas to help you make the most of quality natural salts:

Salt-Crusted Vegetables: Coat whole vegetables like beetroots or sweet potatoes in a salt crust before roasting to intensify their flavour and sweetness.
Fermented Foods: Salt is an essential ingredient in homemade sauerkraut, kimchi, and pickled vegetables. It supports the fermentation process and boosts gut health.
Finishing Touch: Add a pinch of flaky sea salt just before serving dishes like avocado salad, seared meat, or dark chocolate Paleo treats to enhance taste and texture.
Salted Bone Broth: Don’t forget to season your homemade bone broth with a pinch of sea salt to bring out the umami flavour and provide electrolyte support.

Salt and Blood Pressure: Re-examining the Evidence

One of the key concerns about salt consumption in mainstream nutrition is its supposed link to high blood pressure. However, current research paints a far more nuanced picture. For individuals with normal kidney function who are eating a nutrient-dense, whole food diet, moderate salt consumption does not typically result in harmful elevations in blood pressure.

In fact, some studies have shown that people with the lowest salt intakes had higher rates of cardiovascular events. This may be because sodium helps maintain volume and pressure in the circulatory system. When sodium is too low, your body may increase adrenaline and renin levels to compensate, creating a more stressed state overall. As with cholesterol and saturated fat, the salt-heart disease link seems to have been based more on early correlations than robust long-term studies.

Salt and Hormonal Health

Salt can also impact hormonal health, particularly when it comes to adrenal function. The adrenal glands regulate stress hormones such as cortisol and aldosterone, and they also help control sodium retention. If your adrenals are overworked — perhaps due to chronic stress or poor sleep — your sodium balance can be disrupted. Cravings for salty foods might be your body’s way of signalling that it needs support.

Incorporating a balanced amount of salt in your diet may help reduce symptoms of adrenal fatigue, including fatigue, dizziness, and blood pressure swings. It’s another example of how natural salt, when consumed mindfully, supports overall resilience and vitality.

Rethinking the Salt Shaker

For years, we were taught to fear salt — lumping it in with fats and red meat as dietary villains. But with increasing awareness around ancestral health, we’re beginning to understand that salt in its natural form is not only safe but essential. As long as it’s not accompanied by refined oils, artificial preservatives, or sugar (as it so often is in processed foods), it can be a powerful health ally.

So if you’ve banished the salt shaker from your table, it might be time to welcome it back — filled with a beautiful, mineral-rich sea salt that your great-great-grandparents would have recognised. Like so many other Paleo principles, it’s not about going overboard, but returning to balance and real, whole ingredients.

What’s your favourite type of salt — and how do you use it in your meals? Have you noticed any benefits since switching from refined salt to natural varieties? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below.

Salt & Vinegar Kale Chips

7 Comments

Paleo Iodine Wraps

11 Comments

Since my new supply of himalayan salt arrived with a big warning on the outside “this does not contain iodine”, I've been craving salty foods. I'm sure this is psychosomatic, but it has lead to quite a lot of reading about iodine deficiency in the last week.

It does appear to be quite possible to become deficient in iodine when eliminating regular iodised salt and conventionally raised animal products. Apparently they started adding iodine to salt many years ago – and to animal feed, as many people were deficient in the mineral. Iodine plays a crucial role in thyroid function and is an essential mineral. I had quite extensive blood work a couple of months ago but for some reason, despite my thyroid function being tested, iodine levels were not part of the tests. I will get my levels checked out, but in the meantime, I need to make sure I get enough iodine, be it from my diet, or supplements. Kelp Supplements seem to be quite popular, so perhaps they will be a good choice?

Wild caught fish is a good source of iodine, but I don't incorporate this in my diet regularly – this is probably something I need to change. Seaweed is supposed to be an excellent source of iodine, so to that end, I created “Paleo Iodine Wraps” for dinner this evening, using Nori sheets.

The wraps were going to contain beef, but I actually found some fresh turkey today – and it was on sale, so I had to buy it (I've got no idea why it's so hard to find turkey in Australia – it's got such a fantastic nutritional profile!). As you might have noticed I'm quite keen on putting fruit in with savoury dishes, so thought I'd experiment with some apricot to go with the turkey and seaweed flavours. I'm really enjoying coconut aminos at the moment, so I used it to marinate the turkey and beef in.

Ingredients

Fresh Turkey
Thinly Sliced Beef
Onion
Capsicum (bell pepper)
Zucchini
Mushrooms
Tomato
Lettuce
Avocado
Nori Sheets
Coconut Oil
Coconut Aminos
Coriander (Cilanto)
Himalayan Sea Salt

Method

I cut the turkey and beef into thin strips and let them marinate in the coconut aminos for a few minutes, whilst I prepared the rest of the ingredients.

I cut the onion, capsicum, zucchini, mushrooms and apricots into strips and then stir fried the meat in the coconut aminos and a spoonful of coconut oil.

Once the meat browned off I set it aside, and stir fried the vegetables and apricots in the same oil. I added the salt and some coriander to this and kept the vegetables on the heat for a few minutes.

Whilst the vegetables finished cooking, I cut the lettuce, tomatoes and avocados into strips, since these did not require cooking.

When the vegetables were ready, I assembled all of the ingredients on one edge of the nori sheets, and rolled them until they resembled (paleo!) sushi rolls.

I was pleased with this impromptu dinner and will add it to my list of good foods to make for on the go! I think these would store fine in the fridge overnight, so would be another good option for work lunches – or even as a grab and go breakfast. I really liked the contrast of the seaweed taste with the sweetness of the apricot. I think next time I'll use fish instead of turkey and beef to full embrace a sea theme for this dish – and to get in a bit more iodine!

I've not checked yet, but hopefully if I incorporate Nori a few times a week, I won't have to worry about iodine deficiency.

I'd be very interested to hear your thoughts on Iodine intake and deficiency, is this something you actively address in your diet?

Another key benefit of zinc that deserves attention is its essential role in wound healing and tissue repair. This is especially important for anyone engaged in physical activity or recovering from illness or injury. Zinc supports collagen synthesis and inflammatory response modulation, both crucial elements in the healing process. People following a Paleo lifestyle who include zinc-rich foods regularly may notice faster recovery times from minor cuts, bruises, or more intense muscular strains.

It's also worth exploring zinc’s influence on hormonal balance. Zinc plays a part in testosterone production, which is not only important for men’s health but also for muscle development, metabolism, and overall energy in both men and women. Some studies have linked zinc deficiency with reduced testosterone levels, and restoring adequate intake can lead to noticeable improvements in vitality, stamina, and strength. This is especially relevant for those following a fitness-focused Paleo regime.

In the context of mental health and cognition, zinc contributes to neuroplasticity and brain function. Low levels of zinc have been associated with mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. Zinc helps regulate neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which influence mood, memory, and focus. For those who often experience mental fog or lack of motivation, ensuring proper zinc intake through Paleo-friendly whole foods might yield surprising cognitive benefits.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women have higher zinc requirements, as it plays a vital role in fetal development and immune support for both mother and baby. Including zinc-rich foods such as grass-fed beef, lamb, oysters, and eggs can help meet these increased nutritional demands without relying on supplements. As always, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalised guidance, especially during pregnancy.

Bioavailability is another essential factor to consider. As mentioned, the Paleo diet avoids grains and legumes, which contain phytic acid – a compound that binds to minerals like zinc and inhibits absorption. This makes Paleo naturally more supportive of zinc uptake. Additionally, preparing vegetables properly (e.g., soaking, fermenting, or sprouting) can further reduce antinutrients and enhance overall mineral absorption.

When looking to boost your zinc intake, here are some of the top Paleo-approved sources to incorporate regularly:

Oysters: Among the richest sources of zinc available. A single serving can offer over 300% of the daily recommended intake.
Grass-fed beef: A practical and widely available source, with excellent zinc content in cuts like chuck and sirloin.
Lamb: Another red meat option that provides a healthy dose of zinc along with iron and B vitamins.
Chicken thighs and drumsticks: Dark meat tends to have higher zinc levels than breast meat, making it a solid choice.
Pumpkin seeds: Great as a snack or salad topper; just a small handful contributes a significant amount of zinc.
Cashews: While slightly lower in zinc than pumpkin seeds, they still provide a helpful contribution and are a great Paleo-friendly snack.
Egg yolks: Not only a good source of zinc but also rich in choline and other vital nutrients.
Sardines: These small oily fish offer zinc, calcium, and omega-3s, making them an all-round powerhouse food.

Understanding Iodine Deficiency on a Paleo Diet

When transitioning to a whole foods lifestyle like Paleo, it's easy to unknowingly eliminate key nutrients — and iodine is a prime example. Since iodised salt and processed foods are no longer part of the menu, many people find themselves at risk of iodine deficiency without realising it. And because iodine is not often discussed in mainstream nutrition circles, it can easily fall through the cracks.

Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone production, which regulates metabolism, energy levels, and temperature control. A deficiency can lead to fatigue, brain fog, weight gain, dry skin, and in more serious cases, goitre or hypothyroidism. This makes it critical for those following a Paleo lifestyle to identify rich sources of iodine that fit within the framework of ancestral eating.

How Common Is Iodine Deficiency?

Despite public health measures like iodised salt, iodine deficiency is still surprisingly common — especially in Australia and New Zealand, where the soil is naturally low in iodine. In fact, studies have shown that women of reproductive age, pregnant women, and those avoiding processed foods are at greatest risk. If you're eating clean, avoiding bread, dairy, and table salt, you're likely in this at-risk category.

Natural Iodine Sources for Paleo Eaters

Here are some iodine-rich whole food options that align with a Paleo approach:

Seaweed: Nori, wakame, and kelp are top sources of dietary iodine. Just a few sheets a week can make a difference.
Wild-caught fish: Sardines, cod, and haddock contain varying levels of iodine and provide quality protein and omega-3s.
Shellfish: Prawns, oysters, and mussels are excellent mineral-rich seafood options.
Pasture-raised eggs: While not extremely high in iodine, they contribute to overall intake when consumed regularly.
Cranberries and strawberries: These fruits contain small amounts of iodine and can offer a sweet boost.

If you're not a fan of seafood, or it's difficult to source high-quality options where you live, consider supplementing with kelp tablets or liquid iodine drops. As always, speak to a healthcare practitioner before adding any new supplement to your routine.

Balancing Iodine Intake

More is not always better when it comes to iodine. Excessive intake can cause its own thyroid issues, particularly for those with autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s. The goal is to consume sufficient iodine regularly from natural sources — not to overdose with supplements. In Australia, the recommended dietary intake (RDI) for adults is 150 micrograms per day, increasing to 220–270 micrograms for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Signs You Might Be Iodine Deficient

If you've eliminated processed food and conventional dairy, and you’re not consuming seafood or seaweed regularly, watch for these signs:

Fatigue and low energy
Difficulty losing weight
Cold sensitivity
Dry skin and thinning hair
Brain fog and memory issues
Enlarged thyroid (goitre)

Blood tests for thyroid function don’t always indicate iodine deficiency. If you suspect an issue, ask your GP to test your urinary iodine levels or refer you to an integrative practitioner familiar with nutritional deficiency testing.

Why Paleo Eaters Should Care About Iodine

The Paleo diet offers many benefits — nutrient density, satiety, stable energy — but it also eliminates a lot of fortified and processed foods that people unknowingly rely on for micronutrients. Being intentional about iodine (as well as magnesium, selenium, and vitamin D) is key to avoiding nutritional gaps.

Unlike fortified cereals or iodised table salt, Paleo-friendly iodine sources come with additional benefits — omega-3s, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds. When you build your meals with iodine in mind, you're also investing in overall wellbeing.

Incorporating Iodine-Rich Meals into Your Routine

Looking to get more iodine in your weekly meals? Try these ideas:

Make nori wraps like the ones above — they’re versatile and portable.
Add wakame to brothy soups, bone broth, or Asian-style salads.
Use dulse flakes as a seasoning — they’re salty, umami-rich, and can be sprinkled on eggs or vegetables.
Include seafood twice a week — even tinned sardines or salmon in olive oil are great options.

Your Iodine Action Plan

To ensure you're covering your iodine needs while eating Paleo, follow this simple checklist:

Review your current iodine intake — are you regularly eating seafood or seaweed?
Get tested if you're unsure about your iodine status.
Start incorporating seaweed into snacks, meals, or homemade condiments.
Explore soy sauce alternatives like coconut aminos that pair well with iodine-rich recipes.
Track how you feel — improved energy and mood are great signs you're on the right track.

Let’s Talk About It

Have you ever tested your iodine levels? Do you include seaweed or seafood regularly in your Paleo meals? I’d love to hear how you make sure you’re getting enough iodine. Share your favourite iodine-rich Paleo recipes in the comments!

Remember: small tweaks like these can help you stay vibrant, balanced, and truly nourished on your Paleo journey.

My top 10 herbs and spices paleo primal cooking recipes-min

My Top Ten Herbs & Spices

15 Comments

Since I’ve been Paleo my cooking has got more and more inventive, and I find I’m using a lot of different Herbs & Spices.

This does start out quite expensive if you don’t have any, but I really recommend going out and buying a basic selection to get started with. Just by changing the herbs you can completely transform a meal.

When I went strict Paleo, I already had a lot of Herbs & Spices, but I went through all of my Paleo recipe books and bought all of the herbs and spices that came up in the ingredients list. I’ve noticed I tend to use a few very frequently, and some are barely used, so thought I’d share my top ten herbs and spices, and what I use them for.

Onion Powder. Although I use onions too, this is great to add to lots of dishes for extra onion flavour.
Garlic Powder. I use this similarly to onion powder, to gives an almost sweet garlic taste.
Turmeric. I’m trying to add this to more and more of my cooking, as it is has so many great attributes – including having anti inflammatory properties. Turmeric gives a yellow colour and a slight bitter, mustard flavour. I always add Turmeric to curries.
Cayenne Pepper. This is a hot spicy chilli pepper, with hot being the word! I only add a very small amount, but often add it to dishes like chilli, where I want a bit of heat.
Paprika. This is from dried capsicum and quite a sweet flavour. It gives food a red colour and I’ll use it in sauces and dips.
Oregano. I seem to use a lot of this, almost anytime I cook with tomatoes, I add some oregano. It has a slightly lemony flavour.
Thyme. I often add this near the end of cooking to ensure the heat doesn’t damage it. I add it to lots of different things such as stews, vegetable dishes and stocks.
Cinnamon. This is my current favourite – I use it in almost everything. Although it isn’t sweet, it’s great as a sweet substitute in tea and NoOatmeal. I commonly use it in meat dishes as it gives such a great flavour.
Ginger. This is another favourite which I have to regularly replenish. I often add this to curries.
Salt. This is another must have which brings out the flavour in dishes. I naturally have quite low blood pressure, and as I don’t eat anything processed think it’s quite a good addition to my cooking. I use Pink Himalayan salt as it is very pure with a great mineral content. I also have Celtic Sea Salt, which also has a great mineral content. I would go without rather than having table salt!

Are my most commonly used Herbs & Spices completely different to yours? Which are your favourite Herbs & Spices and what do you use them for?

Exploring the Power of Herbs and Spices in Paleo Cooking

Herbs and spices are a cornerstone of flavour in any Paleo kitchen—and more than just adding a punch of taste, they offer a wide range of health benefits. From boosting digestion to reducing inflammation, herbs and spices are some of the most nutrient-dense items in your pantry. Once you’ve built a solid spice rack, the possibilities for enhancing meals without relying on processed sauces or additives are endless.

Why Herbs and Spices Matter on the Paleo Diet

When you eliminate processed foods, grains, sugar, and industrial seed oils, you rely more on whole foods—meat, vegetables, fruit, and healthy fats—for nutrition and enjoyment. Herbs and spices allow you to diversify your meals, change the profile of your favourite dishes, and explore global cuisine while keeping everything 100% Paleo.

Beyond flavour, many herbs and spices offer antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. They help improve digestion, support detoxification, and even offer immune benefits—all with zero calories or carbs.

Honourable Mentions: Spices You Might Want to Add

In addition to your top ten, here are a few other pantry favourites that deserve a spot on your Paleo spice shelf:

Smoked Paprika: Adds a deep, smoky flavour to rubs and roasted meats. Excellent in chorizo-inspired dishes or Paleo BBQ sauces.
Cumin: A staple in Mexican, Middle Eastern, and Indian cooking. Earthy and warming, it pairs beautifully with beef and lamb.
Coriander: The seed of the cilantro plant, it adds a light, citrusy note to curries and marinades.
Basil: Sweet and fragrant, basil is perfect in Italian-style dishes or for blending into Paleo pesto.
Bay Leaves: Often used in slow-cooked meals like stews or soups, bay leaves lend a subtle depth of flavour when simmered for long periods.

How to Build a Paleo Spice Pantry Without Breaking the Bank

Herbs and spices can seem expensive at first, but there are ways to build your collection affordably:

Buy in bulk from health food stores or spice markets.
Store herbs and spices in airtight containers away from heat and light to preserve potency.
Start with a small set of the most-used spices for your favourite cuisines, then expand as needed.

It’s also a good idea to label the date of purchase—over time, spices lose their aroma and effectiveness. Try to refresh them every 12–18 months if possible.

Health Benefits of Common Paleo Herbs & Spices

Let’s take a closer look at what some of your favourites offer from a health perspective:

Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory effects thanks to curcumin, turmeric is great for joint health and immune function. Best absorbed with a little black pepper and fat.
Cinnamon: Helps balance blood sugar and has powerful antioxidant properties. Great in both savoury and sweet dishes.
Garlic Powder: Supports heart health, acts as a natural antimicrobial, and may help reduce blood pressure.
Ginger: A digestive aid and anti-nausea powerhouse, also effective in reducing muscle pain and soreness.
Oregano: Contains compounds like carvacrol and thymol, both of which are known to fight off harmful bacteria.

Using a variety of herbs and spices not only enhances taste but adds therapeutic properties to your meals. It’s an effortless way to increase the nutritional density of everything you eat.

Spice Combinations to Mix It Up

If you’ve got your ten core favourites, try combining them into easy blends to speed up your cooking and introduce new flavour profiles:

Paleo Taco Seasoning: Cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, chilli powder, salt.
Indian-Inspired Curry Powder: Turmeric, coriander, cumin, cinnamon, cayenne, ginger, cardamom.
Italian Herb Blend: Oregano, thyme, basil, rosemary, garlic powder, onion powder.
Moroccan Spice Mix: Cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, cumin, allspice, paprika.

Make a big batch of your favourite blend and store it in a small jar for quick access. It’s especially helpful for meal prep days or when cooking in bulk.

Fresh vs. Dried: Which Should You Use?

Fresh herbs can be fantastic, especially for garnishes or last-minute flavour boosts. Basil, parsley, and coriander are wonderful fresh. Dried herbs, on the other hand, are often more concentrated and ideal for slow-cooked dishes.

If a recipe calls for fresh herbs but you only have dried, use about one-third of the amount (e.g., 1 tsp dried in place of 1 tbsp fresh). Some herbs like rosemary and thyme retain their flavour very well when dried, while others like chives and parsley are best used fresh.

Keeping Paleo Interesting with Global Flavours

Spices are your ticket to world cuisine without leaving your Paleo template. Craving something different? Here are a few global suggestions you can easily replicate:

Middle Eastern: Use za’atar, sumac, cumin, and coriander with lamb or roasted vegetables.
Thai: Combine ginger, garlic, chilli, lime, and fresh coriander for a Paleo curry or salad dressing.
Mexican: Use cumin, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, and a pinch of cayenne with beef or pork.
North African: Try a Ras el Hanout blend for a tagine-style stew or spiced chicken.

This approach keeps your food exciting while still relying on real ingredients and healthy fats.

Final Thoughts

Herbs and spices are the unsung heroes of Paleo cooking. They’re inexpensive, versatile, and incredibly powerful from a health perspective. Building a well-stocked spice rack not only enhances flavour but empowers you to enjoy a wide variety of meals while sticking to your goals.

Experiment with new herbs and spices, create your own blends, and try global recipes that push you beyond your comfort zone. You’ll be surprised at how much more fun—and delicious—your Paleo kitchen becomes.

What’s one spice you couldn’t live without? Share your must-haves in the comments and inspire others to explore their spice cupboards with fresh eyes!

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