We’ve already discussed some of the many healthy spices that our green and blue planet provides, but how about herbs? The words “herbs” and “spices” are frequently used in the same sentences, so let’s take an introductory look into some of the best options out there and what makes them so powerful and amazing for your health!
Lavender: The Most Amazing Purple Plant You’ll Ever Find
Ah, lavender, is there anything you can’t do? If marooned on a desert island with a lifetime supply of the purple plant, death would hardly be imminent! A natural antiseptic and one of the only herbs you can apply directly to the skin, lavender features anti-inflammatory properties and is useful in the treatment of a variety of health issues. Perhaps its most famous use is as a sleep aid, as inhaling the plant’s oh-so fragrant scent relieves anxiety and calms agitated nerves. It will also help you pass out super-quick. Use it in the treatment of acne and minor cuts, add it to salads, use it in the bath, or inhale its scent when you feel a cold coming on. And these are just some of lavender’s many, many uses!
Rosemary: Many Uses Other Than Garnish
Rosemary is frequently used in cooking (rosemary potatoes, anyone?) however its uses extend far beyond the culinary realm. Studies have shown inhaling mist from the rosemary plant helps with memory and alertness! In terms of cooking, the plant helps fight food-borne bacteria thanks to its acid and antioxidant compounds. It’s also delish when used to make mushroom and cheese appetizers.
Calendula: Great When You Feel Like You’re Going to Spew
Calendula is a flowering plant related to the marigold and features petals chock full of flavonoids, a type of antioxidant. Flavonoids are helpful in fighting inflammation and germs, which is why calendula makes an ideal topical remedy for cuts, burns and bruises. It’s also commonly used to fight stomach issues, and its anti-inflammatory properties also make it ideal in the treatment of sore throats.
Parsley: Helps Keep Breasts Cancer-Free?
Like rosemary, parsley is commonly used as a garnish, but oh, it does so much more. University of Missouri scientists found parsley to inhibit not-nice cells that cause breast cancer, as its compound apigenin has shown to boost the body’s resistance to cancerous cells. Nifty!
Basil: Full Of Vitamins, Including the Elusive Vitamin K
If you frequently use basil in cooking, you’re giving yourself a big dose of vitamins, including vitamin K, which is all kinds of essential for blood clotting. The herb numerous other vitamins as well as minerals, including vitamins C and A, magnesium, potassium and managnese.
Sage: Ideal When It Hurts to Swallow
Nasty sore throat got you down? The sage herb is a big help. Frequently used as a tea to combat sore throats and upset tummies, sage also may improve the symptoms of early Alzheimer’s disease! Studies have found the herb prevents a bodily enzyme from destroying acetylcholine, a brain chemical linked to learning and memory. Neat-o.
These are only a few of the many amazing herbs in the world! Most feature topical and internal uses, and can be found in a variety of forms, including capsules, teas, infusions, poultices, tinctures, essential oils and more. Add them to your pantry or medicine cabinet today!
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