The health benefits of of including herbs in your diet

Herbs are a rich source of nutrients and phytochemicals that promote many health benefits. For centuries they have been used for their medicinal properties and in many cases are still the basic ingredient for modern medicines. 

When cooking with herbs, fresh is better than dried, as some of the antioxidant properties are lost during the drying process. Most supermarkets contain a decent variety of fresh herbs and if stored correctly in the refrigerator, will stay fresh for around five days. (Tip: wrap the herbs in a paper towel and seal in a plastic bag.)

There are a wide variety of herbs used for a diverse range of purposes. Here are a list of some of the more common ones with known health benefits:

Chamomile: A popular herbal tea, Chamomile is know for it's relaxing, calming properties and can aid menstrual cramps.

Clove: An effective remedy for asthma, chewing on a clove can also relieve irritation in the throat and can stop coughs as a result of an inflamed pharynx.

Coriander: Can regulate sugar in the body and is known as a powerful depression-beater.

Echinacea: Stimulates the immune system by increasing white blood cell production and antibody production. Helps to fight coughs, colds and viral infections.

Garlic: Already a staple in the kitchen, garlic adds a number of benefits to your health if included in the diet regularly. This includes aiding the body in fighting infection, reducing blood pressure, and the prevention of heart disease and cancer.

Green Tea: The green tea leaf is potent and bioflavonoid-rich. It works as an antioxidant and also protects against digestive and respiratory infections.

Ginseng: A well known traditional Chinese medicine, said to promote long life, Ginseng is thought to increase energy, vitality, and overall health. As a tea it reduces stress and it can elevate the mood. Strengthens the central nervous system.

Grape Seed Extract: A powerful antioxidant.

Licorice: Used in traditional medicine for years, Licorice has fantastic anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties.

Oregano: Another herb rich in it's antioxidant content. Also said to promote the healing of fungus ailments.

Parsley: Rich in ascorbic acid, Parsley is a good blood cleanser. It aids the body in digestion and helps prevent the formation of gas within the stomach and intestines. A popular remedy for indigestion. Parsley is also rich in iron.

Rosemary: Rich in antioxidants, Rosemary is fantastic for the immune system.&n bsp; It is also known as a 'brain booster' and can assist in memory problems. It is also one of the easiest herbs to grow and therefore readily adapted into our diet.

Pepper: A good home remedy for digestive disorders, Pepper has a stimulating effect on the digestive organs. It is also useful in the treatment of colds and fevers.

Saw Palmetto Berry: Mostly used to treat an enlarged prostrate, it also acts as an anti-inflammatory agent and provides fatty acids and phytosterols.

St. John's Wort: Works as anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory agent and also mimics the action of antidepressant drugs. Can be used as a muscle relaxer or to treat menstrual cramps.

published 3 years ago

schmeidi

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