6 Herbs That Pack a Healthy Punch
Herbs are part of just about any flavorful dish you eat, whether you realize it or not. Fresh herbs are used to season steaks, chicken, fresh salads, and more. But while herbs are the perfect addition to a culinary creation, they have more than taste to offer. Along with the flavor enhancements these herbs bring to the meal come many health benefits.
“Like other greens, leafy foods, herbs are very nutritious and a good component of a healthy diet,” says Greg McCammond, executive chef at Mountain View Care Center. “Using herbs is an excellent way to enhance the flavor of a meal without compromising nutrition.”
Many herbs are packed with vitamins and minerals that help the body function. These leafy greens may also help fight illnesses like Alzheimer’s and heart disease. Here are six herbs you can add to your meals that can improve your health.
Basil
Fresh basil adds a delicious touch to a variety of dishes, including pesto and tomato soup. The basil leaf is full of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins A and K, manganese, and magnesium. The herb is best used fresh, so chop some up and throw them in the dish at the end of cooking.
Spearmint
Spearmint can be a bit of an acquired taste, as it has a very strong smell and flavor. But if you enjoy a minty taste, spearmint can provide benefits beyond deliciousness. It contains vitamins A and C, which are antioxidants, and its smell can also be relaxing. Spearmint can also help relieve digestive discomfort. The leaf can be added to drinks, sauces, and other dishes. It is a common component of popular drinks like sweet tea, mint julep, and mojito.
Parsley
Parsley is a frequent flyer in the garnish category, used with meats, potatoes, rice, and many other meals. Like basil, parsley is rich in vitamins A and K, which protect eye health and help the blood to clot. The herb can provide a big flavor punch with nutritional benefits to boot.
Sage
Sage is an aromatic herb in the mint family that shows up on many American dinner tables in turkey stuffing on Thanksgiving. Researchers have found sage can be beneficial in treating a variety of conditions due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It could even help treat diabetes and Alzheimer’s.
Rosemary
This fragrant herb is often used to flavor various meats, such as chicken or pork. It is commonly paired and roasted with meats and vegetables. Rosemary has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and has been shown to have beneficial effects for people with Parkinson’s disease. Researchers believe it could help Alzheimer’s patients as well.
Thyme
Adding thyme to your diet could help lower your blood pressure and cholesterol. Studies involving rats showed thyme significantly decreased the heart rate in rats with both normal and high blood pressure. It also increased good HDL cholesterol and decreased bad LDL cholesterol. Throw some thyme in a stew or use it with your favorite lean meat.
Fresh herbs can help add flavor to your homemade pizza, soup, pasta, and much more while adding nutrition as well. Pick some up from the grocery store or cultivate your own herb garden and reap the rewards from these nutritional powerhouses.
