Since this is the time of the year when, even those who try to avoid the kitchen as much as possible still end up preparing at least one homemade dish, I thought it would be cool to inspire you to pick up some extra spices to add to your collection (especially if your spice rack is pretty minimal).
No, not so you’ll find yourself making ginger loaf cake or Christmas cookies for what will feel like the rest of your life — more like so that, after the holiday hype has subsided a bit, you can create some unique ways to use those same cooking spices as beauty treatments for your skin and hair.
Below, I’ve got 12 spices for you that can totally make that happen. So, if all-natural is always what you prefer as far as your beauty regimen goes, I’ve got some proven ways to apply spices that just might surprise you.
1. Cinnamon
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Cinnamon is a spice that comes with all sorts of health benefits. Thanks to its potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s able to do everything from strengthening your immunity and fighting against infections to helping control your blood sugar levels, lowering your blood pressure, and even keeping your oral health where it needs to be.
The reason why it tops my personal list of bomb beauty hacks is that you can use it as a main ingredient in a DIY bronzer (recipe here), put a teaspoon of it into some lukewarm distilled water and instantly have a homemade mouthwash, or you can sprinkle some of it into a carrier oil like coconut or sweet almond and create a lip gloss that comes with a bit of shimmer. Pretty cool, right?
2. Juniper Berries
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Juniper berries grow on a particular kind of evergreen shrub here in America as well as in Asia and Europe. And although you don’t hear about it a ton, a lot of people like to add them to their potato dishes. Health-wise, they’re good for you because the potent plant compounds in them are also great for your immune system. Plus, they’ve been known to naturally treat diabetes, keep your heart strong, and if you’re looking for a natural way to heal a yeast infection, their antifungal properties are pretty solid, too.
On the beauty tip, some use it as a deeply penetrating and detoxing face mask (recipe here), others like it as a face toner (recipe here), and still, some infuse their own oil so that the astringent properties can help to soothe and heal breakouts (recipe here). Bottom line, if you’re looking for a chemical-free way to clear up your complexion, juniper berries are well worth trying out.
3. Arrowroot
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A veggie that is oftentimes processed as flour and used as a spice is arrowroot. It is packed with fiber, protein, and folate (like a totally off-the-charts amount), and it also has some iron, phosphorus, and potassium in it. If you want to boost your immune system or shed a few pounds, the assistance of arrowroot can make that happen.
It’s the way that arrowroot is used as a beauty source is why I like it so much, though. Some people use it in their all-natural bronzer (recipe here). Others use it as the base for a deodorant paste (recipe here). Some like it as a setting powder (video here). And in extract form, it can be a great spot treatment for pimples. Oh, and if you’d prefer an alternative to skin powder (like if you’ve got big breasts like I do and you want to keep moisture at bay), arrowroot is a wonderful alternative. Yeah, out of all of the spices mentioned, definitely prioritize having this one on tap.
4. Ginger
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I think it’s probably common knowledge at this point that if you’re looking for a spice that makes nausea (which is something that is the absolute worst) easier to deal with, ginger has that covered. However, did you also know that it can bring relief to sore muscles after a workout, lessen the discomfort of menstrual cramps, relieve indigestion, lower your cholesterol levels, help with indigestion, and even improve your brain function?
And what can ginger do for you, beauty-wise? Some folks use it to lighten acne marks, while others find it to be an effective way to treat hair loss or to bring moisture back to their locks. Also, if you add fresh ginger to some coconut oil, its antiseptic properties can treat dandruff or an itchy scalp (you can read more about all of this here).
5. Bay Leaves
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Bay leaves are pretty popular when it comes to making stews and stuffings. Since they’ve got anti-diarrheal, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diabetic properties, as well as vitamins C and E in them, they’re good to use when it comes to all kinds of things from aiding in digestion and strengthening your immune system to potentially preventing kidney stones and improving your memory.
And just why did it make the cut as far as all-natural beauty hacks go? I peeped an article (and recipe here) about it being a pretty good anti-aging ingredient in a face cream. Also, if you brew the leaves, the solution (once it cools, of course) can help to heal acne.
6. Tarragon
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Tarragon is a green herb that’s a great complement to dishes you want to add a hint of citrus to. As far as your health goes, the properties in it help to reduce inflammation, fight off fungal infections, help relieve depression-related symptoms, and even slow down the rate of cancer cells.
Something that tarragon is also known for is being able to significantly speed up the healing process of skin when it comes to issues like dermatitis or surface wounds. There’s also been research around the fact that it can help to improve your quality of sleep. And since sleep deprivation can lead to dark eye circles, fine lines, and even droops at the corner of your mouth — yeah, tarragon deserved to get on this list too, chile.
7. White Pepper
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Something that I personally enjoy cooking with is white pepper. It’s a fave of mine because it provides a “peppery” taste without being as strong as black pepper. If you’re curious about its health benefits, white pepper promotes digestion, lowers your blood pressure, and has quite a few antioxidants in it. Some research says that it can also help to tame a stubborn cough, reduce the pain of a headache, or clear up congestion in your nose as well.
Consider adding it to your beauty regimen if you want to remove unwanted hair (I know, right?), get rid of dandruff, and/or soften the appearance of wrinkles. If you want to read more about all or any of this, StyleCraze has your back right here.
8. Vanilla
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The active ingredient in pure vanilla extract is a plant compound known as vanillin. It’s got antioxidants in it. Not only that, it’s also loaded with anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Something else that it’s known for is being “neuroprotective;” this means that it helps to protect your brain. So, if you’re looking for a spice that will boost your brain function, lower your blood sugar, relieve anxiety, improve your mood, or, in some cases, even lower your fever — look no further than this sweet lil’ treat.
Since vanilla also has anti-aging properties, you can also use it as an ingredient in a DIY face mask. Or, if you want softer and/or longer hair, you can add it to a carrier oil and create a pampering hair treatment for your tresses, too. You can read more about how to do both of these here.
9. Paprika
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If y’all don’t already know about influencer Christiana’s TikTok page, you betta ask somebody! Lawd, she’s stunning, and I personally think that she represents femininity in such an excellent way. Anyway, whenever I share some of her videos with some of my male friends, it’s hilarious that one of the things they salivate over is her spice collection. In fact, one of my favorite people says that no one is a real cook without one — and paprika is one of the first spices that he looks for.
Anyway, paprika is a healthy spice because it’s a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamin E. It’s got some health benefits, including the fact that it helps to boost your eye health, lower your cholesterol levels, keep your blood healthy, and reduce inflammation. Some health experts also say that paprika can protect your skin from damaging UV rays and help to reduce pain levels as well.
Along with the vitamin E, paprika also contains a good amount of antioxidants. That’s why some combine it with honey in order to give themselves a glowing complexion. I’ve even read that if you want to add a hint of red to your hair without actually applying a brand-name dye, paprika can get the job done (recipe here). The more you know.
10. Horseradish
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Technically, horseradish is considered to be a cruciferous vegetable; however, due to its pretty strong and distinctive flavor, it’s often used as a spice. Since it contains antibacterial properties, horseradish has been hailed as something that can help fight cancer, clear up sinuses, and even help heal chronic nail infections.
And just what can it do for your beauty-wise? A blog that I think is pretty solid is One Good Thing. Jillee shouts it out as a way to soften the appearance of age spots (recipe here). Also, since horseradish is so spicy, Food even published an article (and recipe here) about how applying some of it to your hair (in the form of a mask) can help to increase blood circulation to your scalp, which can ultimately lead to hair growth.
11. Nutmeg
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Looking for a spice that can help to reduce oxidative stress? Nutmeg is able to do that; plus, it can help to fight gum disease, put you in a better mood, help to intensify your libido, and if you add it to some milk (or your favorite milk alternative), it can support you get a good night’s rest too.
Since nutmeg is strong in the anti-inflammatory properties department, many like it when it comes to reducing hyperpigmentation and sebum production (recipe here). It’s also a gentle yet effective skin exfoliant (recipe here). And some nutritionists even believe that its antimicrobial properties can help to cleanse your scalp, reduce dandruff, and increase hair growth over time.
12. Celery Seeds
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It’s kinda wild, just how many nutrients are in tiny little celery seeds. Beta-carotene? It has that. Vitamin C? It has that. Manganese (which helps your body to create bone tissue and strengthen your sex hormones)? It’s got that too. And all of this, along with other things, celery seeds help your system as far as lowering your blood pressure, improving your libido, and even increasing fertility.
If you’re looking for a deep skin cleanser that won’t strip away your natural oils, celery seed in the form of an essential oil can help to hook you up. Also, if you put “celery seed extract” into your TikTok search field, you’ll see that lots of people use it to keep their nail cuticles in good condition.
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See…I told you that spices can have a multi-purpose. So, the next time you head out to the grocery store, pull this article up on your phone and get a few or all of these (remember, the fresher, the better, by the way)! As you just read, they all are good to your taste buds, great for your health, and wonderful when it comes to your appearance. A big win, all the way around…wouldn’t you say? #samehere
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Whether you're planning to meet a certain financial or fitness goal, or you're simply trying to maintain and build on the progress you made this year, having something to look forward to is always a good look. Setting actual goals, according to research, actually leads to more success than just playing things by ear. So here are a few to get you started, sis:
(Disclaimer: Not everything is for everyone, so do like my Granny always says: "Eat the meat. Spit out the bone." Take on five out of the 40 and focus on that for the remainder of the year, or do them all. Either way, this is just to get you started.)
40 Ways To End The Year Strong and Inspired
Money Moves
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1. Increase your retirement (or other savings/investment) contributions by 1%.
Experts have found that you could be leaving money on the table by not upping your contributions when you can.
2. Cancel two to five subscriptions.
You could be missing hundreds, even thousands, of dollars a year due to sneaky price hikes and "updates."
3. Create a "fun" in a high-yield savings account.
This is especially important if you struggle with the dreaded b-word (budget) and will make next year's efforts a lot less intimidating. Even if it's $10 a month, do it.
4. Put on your big-girl panties, and set up automatic transfers and payments for at least one bill.
It reduces the stress of managing bills, lessens the chance of a missed payment---and the fees that come with that---and there can be cost savings for doing so.
5. Invest in a cleaner or housekeeping service.
Bosses who value their time (and mental health) invest their dollars into areas where the time they'd spend doing those tasks themselves could be better used to focus on other money-making projects. (And yes, rest is part of that.) Get a housekeeper, sis, or drop off that laundry, even if it's once per month.
6. Donate to a charity.
Beyond the tax benefits, it's a win-win for the greater good of communities you care about.
7. Review your insurance policies and negotiate a better rate (or move on) before their end dates.
Experts often agree this is a small but mighty step to take each year, especially since insurance rates are competitive, you could be spending more money than you need to (or not enough) and your insurance rates can affect your mortgage payments.
8. Call your loan provider and refinance.
As interest rates fall, “millions of borrowers may be able to refinance and get more affordable payments. As interest rates eased down to 6.5%, about 2.5 million borrowers could already refinance and save at least 75 basis points (0.75%) on their interest rate,” the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau reports. You can also refinance student and other types of loans.
9. Stop buying individual items and stock up via going bulk.
Research has found that, among 30 common products, buying in bulk could save you 27% compared with buying in lower quantities. Water, paper products, and baby products like diapers, toiletries, and garbage bags are the top items where people see the most cost-effectiveness. (This has been a lifesaver for me—children, large family, or not—especially when it comes to toothpaste, deodorant, toilet paper, and feminine hygiene products, saving stress, time, and money.)
10. Go cash-only for the holidays.
If you set smart goals and stick to limits on things like gifts, going out to eat, or groceries, you'll see the benefits of this. Cash-stuffing is one method recommended, but something as simple as taking a $10 bill out for lunch, disabling that card for an hour, and leaving your card in a safe place at the office can give you that mindset jump start to see how far you can take your money without the need to splurge.
Love And Romance
11. Say "no."
There are clear mental and physical health benefits to saying no including the setting of healthy boundaries, creating time and energy for other self-care activities, and protecting yourself from physically harmful situations (i.e. unprotected sex or abuse). Just say it, clearly and simply, when you need to.
12. Set a fun, free, adults-only date night for once a week or twice a month with your spouse.
If busy, high-profile folk have touted the success of this, even you can make the time for quality time with your partner. And it's even better when it costs nothing. The best connections are made doing something chill, challenging, or outside the usual dinner-and-a-movie date. Play a game that allows you to reconnect, take a walk in your neighborhood to chat and laugh, or try a little erotic chocolate/edible liquid/paint episode a la Mea Culpa.
13. Go out with Mr. or Ms. "Not My Type."
I love my man, but if I were waiting out for my "type" at the time, we wouldn't be celebrating seven (going on eight) years together. Sometimes having strict, unrealistic expectations for a spouse (especially related to things like height, physical features, or career path) is what's keeping you alone and lonely.
Take the pressure off and explore all your options. I'm not telling you to stop popping the balloon on the guy who earns $20,000 less than you if that's a hard no that Jesus himself told you to skip. I'm asking you to explore other options and see what else God might have out there for your love journey.
14. Immediately apologize and pray together.
I've learned that always being "right" isn't always ideal when you truly care about someone and you're in a relationship for the long haul. Defaulting to an apology when necessary, even when things aren't 100% resolved, is a good way to prioritize peace and save your energy for more worthwhile battles. Research has even supported the benefits of apologies in relationships, and how couples married for five or more years do it often.
15. Get a Rose and discover true self-love.
Do I really have to explain this? You've gotta know what satisfies you, and how better to figure that out than to practice self-love in the bed by yourself? You can also try this with a partner, but as a woman who got on this train very much later in my sexual activity journey. I have a lot more learning to do on my own, and even in a satisfying relationship, I like to find out new things about myself, by myself.
Figure out what you're into, watch what you want to watch, and read what you want to read to define pleasure for yourself. There's a freedom and empowering element there especially if you're used to prioritizing pleasing your partner.
16. Be direct and have the "money talk" with bae.
Money issues are one of the leading causes of divorce, so you need to have those conversations before you even think about marrying someone. And true, nobody can predict the future so you won't be able to avoid some challenges altogether, however, talking with your potential spouse about how they view money, their spending habits, and the pain points in terms of their approach to money management can at least give you a glimpse into what's in store if you do walk down the aisle, move in with them, or decide to share a bank account/business/child with them.
17. Invest in the "paid" version of that dating app.
I know plenty of successful, married folk who did this and met "the one" as a result. Let's be honest: The free version is for playing around. I had a lot of fun with my "free" profile back in the day, trust me. Upgrade that photo, profile, and package, and see if the quality of your dating adventures changes when you're serious about finding a true partner. Dating coaches and matchmakers cosign this.
18. Solo travel to meet that long-distance connection.
Sometimes, your perfect match isn't within 100 miles of you, and that's okay. Make it an adventure, enjoy the memories, and book that ticket. I met my man this way and it's been a whirlwind escape ever since. If you're not comfortable traveling solo, travel or (network to plan travel) with a group via Facebook.
Career And Business
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19. Schedule coffee or virtual meetups with smart people from your graduating class, previous employer, or current employer.
I have gotten many freelance opportunities by doing this. It's as simple as connecting and offering value (or simply learning how you can better equip yourself to do so.) It's also a great way to expand your network, spark new friendships, or find out about new job opportunities.
20. Invest in a well-made suit.
I don't care what industry you're in, a suit says "power," and it's not as old-school or out-of-style as you'd think. Plus the whole experience of looking for a new one (or getting one tailored) is fun and affirming. Try these options. I swear, anytime I wear a blazer, I'm treated like a celebrity or boss, especially when traveling. I was once upgraded to first-class wearing a yellow blazer outfit, and the airline professional literally said, "You look like somebody important. Here you go."
21. Volunteer for a worthwhile project or cause that's important to your company.
If you're overworked and underappreciated, skip this one, but if you truly have the time, love what you do, and want to advance, this move is clutch. Volunteering for extra projects got me where I am today in media because I had foresight, and knew that was the only way at the time to leverage relationships, and I was able to challenge myself to learn skills that 20 years later are still bankable. That VP you can't get a meeting with will be at that gala your company is planning, so join that committee, sis.
22. Write down why you deserve a raise and ask for it in your next one-on-one.
Gather those receipts (ie sales increase numbers, KPIs met, deals closed, people acquired via recruitment, the impact of systems updates, or other tangible success metrics) and ask for that raise before the first or second-quarter budgets are being finalized.
23. Instead of quitting, write down your exit plan.
While revenge quitting is set to be a thing next year (and maybe you're among those who will be leading the trend), try the better boss move and quit with a real plan.
24. Start automatically separating that estimated self-employed quarterly tax estimate.
If you have side hustles (or you're collecting 1099 income,) baby, you do not want to neglect those quarter tax payments. Talk to a professional, do your research, and set up automatic transfers to an account specifically for paying these at the appropriate due dates.
25. Sign up for a free one- to 11-week course related to your industry—or the industry you want to be in next year.
Institutions like Harvard University and platforms like Coursera offer free courses that can enhance your skills. You can also invest in certificate courses with accredited colleges as well as tech training.
26. Hit "Easy Apply" for 10 dream jobs listed on LinkedIn.
While you shouldn't solely rely on this when actively job-seeking, using this convenient LinkedIn option is a great way to get into the habit of applying for positions. And if you're already employed, you should still be "dating" other employers if you're looking to make a move in the next six months. Keep your interview skills sharp, practice toughening up for the "nos," and get a bit of an ego boost in the process.
Self-Care And Wellness
27. Pre-schedule three month's worth of massages.
Oftentimes this is cost-effective since some spas offer deals for multiple bookings. Also, it makes an act of self-care deliberate and important, not an option. When you get that reminder call, you'll know it's real.
28. Fire that therapist and try another one.
Cultural competency in mental health support is one major problem that can hinder Black women from even bothering with therapy. And who wants the added stress of spending multiple, paid sessions explaining why something is a microaggression? Cut the cord and move on to try someone else, either via a Black women therapists channel or recommendations from others.
29. Join a small group at church.
Bedside service ain't gonna cut it and neither is going to the usual Sunday service. Join a smaller group and upgrade your efforts to connect, network, and elevate spiritually. Even if virtually, take a step to dig a bit deeper with more targeted Bible study and discussions.
30. Say no, even to loved ones.
This is on here twice, for a reason. Saying no is the simplest, most powerful micro-action you can take today to make 2025 better. No explanations. No guilt. Say no.
31. Choose one "luxury" beauty product for skincare and stick to it.
This was trending big on social, especially for millennials hitting their 40s. There's just something so freeing about not giving in to every trend and sticking to the basics that work, especially when there are quality, healthy ingredients involved. Put those orders on auto-renew.
32. Sign up for a new sport or fitness class just for fun, not for results.
It's great to be on a weight-loss or weight-lifting journey, but try something just for the fun of it. Switch things up with a couple of these fitness activities.
33. Book a staycation.
Leave the passport at home and explore a nearby community or another town in your state. There's so much enrichment in your own backyard right here in the U.S., and you don't even have to break the bank.
34. Pre-schedule your mammograms, Pap smear, and peri-menopause checkups for next year.
Take control of your health by pre-scheduling essential appointments like mammograms, Pap smears, and peri-menopause check-ups for 2025. Prioritizing these screenings early ensures you stay on top of your wellness and make time for self-care in the new year.
35. Cut off support of beauty and wellness professionals whose customer service is below standard.
This is another one that many Black women have been vocal about—from unrealistic pre-appointment requirements, to booking fees, to long waits, to unsavory in-salon experiences. Spot the red flags early, and just stop accommodating foolishness. Support salons or experienced stylists who are kind, have proper systems in place and value your time.
36. Schedule five to 10-minute moments of silence on your calendar.
Again, wellness is not optional, and if it's not on my calendar, it's not official. Sit quietly. Pray. Meditate. Or do nothing. The benefits of silent moments are almost endless.
37. Download a meditation app.
If you've found that meditation is difficult to schedule or to even start, an app can help. Try this, this, or this one, and take that step to embrace something new to enhance your wellness routine. If you're tired of downloading apps, create a playlist for meditation via Amazon Music or Spotify and schedule a reminder to do it once a day or week.
38. Invest in a healthy meal prep or delivery service.
Time is emotionally expensive, so save as much of it as possible. Getting into meal prep to keep to your goals is a great way to save time, stress, and effort. The health benefits of meal prepping have also been proven via research.
39. Create a positive playlist on Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube, or other streaming platform.
It can be podcasts, music, affirmations, or somatic sounds. It's a game-changer. You can even set an alarm to wake you up to start your day with the positive playlist. Not into creating your own? There are plenty to choose from with a quick search.
40. Set up reminders for Alexa (Siri or other AI) to remind you, "You are loved," and "You are okay."
This simple effort can boost your endorphins and remind you that you're indeed, not alone, and you will be okay, regardless. To set mine up, I simply commanded, "Alexa, remind me everyday 'Jesus loves me,'" and like clockwork she does. She almost scared the ish out of me one day when I'd forgotten the reminder was active, but it was the reminder I needed when anxiety had gotten the best of me that week.
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