John Hopkins singles out 2 of the fresh spices- (Ceylon) cinnamon and ginger- as having health benefits. According to a Singaporean study, the cloves in the recipe contributes high antioxidant capacities (AOCs) which can help prevent or reduce cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. However, szechuan pepper, fennel, star anise and cinnamon mainly add to the flavour (and not the AOCs.)