Ground pimento berries are small round spices which look like black peppercorns. In fact, they are known by many names including Allspice, Pimento berries, Jamaican Allspice & Myrtle pepper. They have a distinctive aroma and are an aromatic spice, alike that of cinnamon and cloves.
The unripe berries and leaves of the plant are used to make medicine. Thus, Allspice is used for several ailments, notably indigestion (dyspepsia) and intestinal gas. Moreover, It is also favoured for abdominal pain, heavy menstrual periods, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, colds, high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity.
Some people apply allspice directly to the affected area for muscle pain and toothache, or put it on the skin to kill germs. Whilst, some dentists use eugenol, a chemical contained in allspice, to kill germs on teeth and gums.
How to make Allspice using ground pimento berries:
- 4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons ground cloves
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Measure the cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves into a small bowl. Stir these ingredients well, to combine, breaking down any lumps.
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Pour the allspice mixture into an airtight jar. Label the container and store in pantry. Can use as an alternative in recipes that call for ground allspice. Should hold full flavour for up to 6 months.
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