Longevity expert Dr. Michael Aziz may have been born 60 years ago – but he claims his biological age is almost a decade younger.

The New York City-based physician attributes much of his good health to a clean diet, good sleep, and regular exercise that focuses on cardio and resistance training.

But he also credits eight ‘superstar’ spices with helping him turn back the clock, though others in the medical community say there isn’t enough scientific evidence to back these claims. 

The doctor came up with the list after studying the diets of people who live in Blue Zones, areas around the world where people live longer than average – often into their hundreds.

He claims the spices provide a wealth of benefits – such as lowering inflammation and slashing the risk of diseases like Alzheimer’s – though experts are torn on the topic.

Dr. Aziz’s personal aim is to consume all eight every week. While he takes three of them – turmeric, saffron, and garlic – as pills every day, you should consult your doctor before taking any new supplements. 

Speaking to DailyMail.com, Dr. Aziz said: ‘Of course, you can’t just have the spices – you have to eat the greens and avoid the chemicals and all the ultra-processed foods too. 

‘But spices are the anti-aging add-ons. They are like the superstars, the supernovas, for combatting aging.’ 

Below, DailyMail.com details Dr. Aziz’s favorite supplements.  

Dr. Michael Aziz reveals how to reset the biological clock and improve your health

Turmeric: Boost muscles

Famous for its earthy flavor and orange-yellow color, turmeric is a staple in many Southeastern Asian dishes.

The rhizome (a root-like underground stem) contains the compound curcumin, which scientists say can help slash levels of inflammation. 

Several reviews have also suggested curcumin ‘improves muscular performance’ and helps them to recover after vigorous exercise – linking this to its anti-inflammatory effects. 

The above image shows a variety of turmeric spices, which are said to contain anti-inflammatory properties 

One 2017 research study from, which administered turmeric oil to mice, also concluded the spice has anti-inflammatory effects.

The papers suggest people consume one to four grams of curcumin – at least 33 grams of turmeric or 11 teaspoons worth – per day to achieve these benefits. Or, you can take curcumin supplements.

Turmeric has previously been held up as a possible treatment for the 53 million adults in the US who suffer from arthritis.

But the Arthritis Foundation pushed back against the claims, saying it ‘only contains about two to six percent curcumin, so you’re not getting much [of the anti-inflammatory effect].’

The group explained that simply adding turmeric to your favorite meal would do little as the curcumin levels would be so low. 

Still, it is a must-have in Aziz’s longevity kitchen. He consumes it daily either in pill form or as a shot or small juice drink.

Garlic: Wrinkle eradicator

Garlic is one of eight spices Dr. Michael Aziz claims can help you live longer

Garlic is considered to be a superfood worldwide, with many experts suggesting it can lower inflammation, blood pressure and boost the immune system.

Dr. Aziz suggests the allium can be used to help prevent wrinkles, though Brooklyn-based Dr. Mert Erogul and others remain skeptical about the claim. 

He says that garlic contains a compound called allicin, which contains sulfur. Sulfur plays a key role in creating and maintaining collagen, which keeps the skin elastic and firm. 

Erogul told DailyMail.com, ‘It is a significant leap to assert that garlic can prevent wrinkles … even if there’s some theoretical justification for the claim. Although, to be clear, I am not sure that there is in this case.

‘Ultimately, the only way we can know whether these claims are true is by putting them to the test – definitive proof that a substance has a specific health effect typically requires costly and extensive controlled trials.’

Dr. Aziz takes a garlic pill every day.

Dr Aziz also recommended cinnamon

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a favorite spice used for flavoring food and drinks, but it’s also been revered by many communities for centuries because of its medicinal properties. 

Scientists believe cinnamaldehyde – a compound found in the oils of the dried plant – is responsible for much of the spice’s health benefits.

Cinnamon is high in antioxidants, and has also been linked to reducing triglycerides, cholesterol, and blood sugar, according to studies reviewed by Healthline.

While Dr. Aziz believes it may reduce the risk of someone developing Alzheimer’s disease – he pointed to a few lab studies showing cinnamon could prevent the formation of tau proteins, which form clumps in the brain – there is no evidence to support it.

Scientists say more research is needed, and Dr. Erogul described the claim as another ‘significant leap.’

Ginger 

Ginger is packed with nutrients that Dr. Aziz claims can reduce inflammation in the brain 

Ginger is popular for its anti-nausea effects and has also been used medicinally for centuries. 

While some people may experience side effects after consuming either fresh or dried ginger, its compounds are generally known to have positive effects on digestion and the ability to settle an upset stomach. 

Healthline reports there are certain groups of people (those with gallbladder disease, people who are pregnant and have a history of miscarriage, anyone taking blood thinners, and more) who should be cautious and consult with their doctors when deciding whether to consume ginger.

Dr. Aziz says he always orders a ginger shot whenever he visits his local juice bar, but does not consume it every day. 

He suggests it can help prevent mental decline, but experts say more research is needed, and that its mental health benefits have not yet been proven.

Ginseng

Scientists found that the Ginseng plant (pictured) contains 50 types of ginsenosides – the compound linked to boosted health

Ginseng has been used in Chinese medicine for more than 100 years, and is credited with a wide range of health benefits.

Made from the roots of the ginseng plant, scientists found it contains 50 types of ginsenosides – compounds linked to boosted health.

Mount Sinai in New York compiled a long list of ailments the root may be able to help alleviate.

The healthcare organization also said there is ‘some evidence’ Asian ginseng can help boost the immune system, reduce the risk of cancer, and improve mental performance.

American ginseng contains the same components but in different amounts.

A 2024 review found older adults taking American ginseng had improved cognition, especially when it was taken alongside early Alzheimer’s drugs.

And a 2006 study found that COLD-FX, a dietary supplement that contains extract of North American ginseng, could reduce the risk of catching a cold.

But scientists cautioned these were only preliminary findings and that more research is needed. 

Dr. Aziz believes the root ‘can help lower [blood] sugar levels, lower cholesterol, promote relaxation, improves sexual dysfunction in men, and is used to treat a wide range of medical conditions.’

Cardamom

Antioxidants found in cardamom (pictured) could help to lower blood pressure, Dr. Aziz said

Another ancient spice believed to have healing properties, cardamom is often added to curries, cookies, sweets, coffee, and spiced cakes.

Dr. Aziz says it may be able to act as a blood pressure reducer, though Dr. Erogul said he wanted to see larger scale trials take place.

A 2023 review found patients who took cardamom had significantly lower inflammation and blood pressure compared to those who did not. 

The review included more than 500 patients, who were mostly overweight or obese. Many had type 2 diabetes.

Saffron

Saffron is extremely highly regarded in many cultures and has a huge presence in Persian and Middle Eastern foods. It’s also expensive to buy, compared to the rest of the grocery store’s spice rack.

The above shows saffron, which is from a crocus flower

While it does not directly combat aging, Dr. Aziz said there is an established link between taking the spice and a better mood.

A meta-analysis of five studies previously found saffron supplements were more effective than placebos at easing mild to moderate depression.

One paper claimed the spice is as effective as common antidepressants like fluoxetine – sold under the brand name Prozac.

A 2019 study included nearly 200 people who took saffron for six to 12 weeks.

In its conclusion, researchers said: ‘The findings of this study showed that saffron administration was well comparable with Fluoxetine and placebo.’

Scientists said it may have these effects because the spice contains the compound crocin, which a 2022 review suggested can boost nerves in the brain. 

They added this could boost levels of the feel-good hormone serotonin, improving someone’s mood.

Dr. Aziz takes a saffron supplement every day. 

Za’atar

Za’atar has been linked to anti-aging properties

This Middle Eastern spice blend varies by region, but often includes oregano, thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac.

With its antioxidant levels, za’atar has been linked to a range of anti-aging properties.

Oregano contains polyphenols like flavonoids, which can help to reduce inflammation.

Thyme also contains substances that reduce inflammation – as does sumac, which is extremely high in antioxidants.

A 2022 study found compounds in za’atar regulate the gut microbiome, oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and obesity. 

It is a ‘blend of anti-aging weapons from all over the world,’ Dr. Aziz says.