Herbs and Spices With Real Health Benefits
Not only do herbs and spices give a blast of flavor to bland foods, they can also provide many health benefits as well. Try adding one (or more) to your recipes:
- Black pepper can boost immune health. Almost any dish will benefit from a sprinkle of pepper.
- Cinnamon may help lower your blood sugar. Try adding to tea, fruit or sweet potatoes.
- Ginger can help soothe the stomach, reduce cholesterol, diminish blood clots, and reduce inflammation, among other things. Fresh ginger is best – add to stir-fries or chicken for a punch of flavor.
- Oregano features 42 times more antioxidants than apples and is easy to add to most Italian dishes.
- Parsley is often overlooked as a garnish, but it can help with fresh breath, as well as protect the prostate. It can be added to rice, salads or main dishes.
- Rosemary may help boost immunity. Add it to meats, sweet drinks or steamed vegetables.
- Saffron features compounds than may decrease depression and anxiety, and also might help you snack less. Soup and seafood are delicious with added saffron.
- Thyme has been used as an antiseptic, but can also have anti-inflammatory compounds. Savory dishes are best with a little thyme added.
- Turmeric has curcumin which can help your cardiovascular, mental and muscle health. Yellow mustard or curry with turmeric are good ways to add a little extra.
