7 Fabulous Herbs for Your Health

We grow them in our gardens, buy them at farmers markets, add to food and drinks, and

enjoy their scents in soaps and perfumes – they are herbs. From powerful disease fighting antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and antibacterial properties, herbs offer a number of health benefits and many are used medicinally. So, let us all throw our hands up to the superpowers of these seven fabulous herbs, then season away!

1.  Rosemary

• Since inflammation is a trigger and possible risk factor for many chronic diseases, it is good news that the compounds in rosemary appear to help reduce inflammation in the body.
• Ingesting rosemary may also increase circulation and improve digestion, and is also being studied for its role in heart health.
• Contains fiber, iron, and calcium.
• Has a high concentration of the antioxidant carnosol which may have benefits in cancer treatment and healthy digestion.
• Fights aging! Its oils are used in soap making and helps to fight aging by rejuvenating the small blood vessels under the skin.
• * Bonus * Use as an antiseptic. Boil rosemary sprigs in water and use the solution to clean the kitchen and bathroom.

2.  Oregano

• Oregano is among the highest in antioxidants of the dried herbs.
• Has demonstrated antimicrobial properties to protect against food-borne pathogens.
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano has as much antioxidant power as 3 cups of chopped up broccoli!
• Oregano has antiviral, antibacterial, antibiotic, and cancer fighting properties.
• Its oil and leaves are used medicinally to treat congestion, coughs, fevers, body aches, and illness.
• To create an antiviral, anti bacterial, antimicrobial and cancer fighting herb blend, combine oregano with basil, marjoram, thyme, rosemary, and garlic.

3.  Dill

• Contains iron, calcium, manganese, vitamin A, and vitamin C.
• Its oils may help neutralize carcinogens.
• Has antibacterial properties.
• It contains a variety of nutrients, but most are lost when heated to high temperatures. To keep dill nutritious, use it in raw recipes or add to foods cooked at low temperatures.
• Dill is known for its ability to settle the stomach and, therefore, can be used as a digestive aid. Its dietary fiber is believed to assist in calming an upset stomach, reduce acid reflux, and can prevent diarrhea.
• Is a great plant-based source of calcium which promotes healthy bones and teeth.
• The seeds and essential oils have been used as a calming aid and a possible cure for insomnia.

4.  Basil

• Has awesome disease fighting and health promoting potential.
• Contains anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties.
• Basil is an excellent and rich source of magnesium; improves blood flow and promotes cardiovascular health, and keeps bones strong to help prevent osteoarthritis.
• It has been used in treating digestive disorders, and is being studied for its anti-cancer properties.
• Heart healthy! – rich in beta-carotene and other carotenoids with powerful antioxidants that protect cells from free radical damage and cholesterol.

5.  Thyme

• Contains a good source of vitamins and minerals like vitamin K, iron, manganese, fiber, and calcium.
• Two teaspoons contains more than half of your daily dietary intake of vitamin K, and it protects cell membranes.
• The flowers, leaves, and oil are used as medicine.
• Has been found to relieve such conditions as muscle pain, chromic fatigue, depression, anxiety, stress, and skin problems.
• It’s a member of the mint family and contains thymol, a potent antioxidant, which is also the potent ingredient in many mouthwash brands.
• Thyme water can be swished around in the mouth to treat gum infections or to heal wounds after teeth removal surgery.
• Teas made with thyme can lead to speedy recovery from illness.
• * Bonus * Water boiled with thyme can be used as homemade spray cleaners. The solution can also be added to bathwater for treatment of wounds on the body.

6.  Lavender

• A good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron.
• Lavender is a very calming herb.
• The scent of fresh or dried lavender can put you in a relaxed state by lowering your heart rate and blood pressure.
• The flower and the oil of lavender are used to make medicine.
• It is one of the most powerful remedies from the plant world – offers both physical and emotional relief for a variety of issues such as burns, insect bites, migraines, insomnia, infections, skin problems, stress, and tension.
• Used for a variety of digestive problems like bloating.

7.  Parsley

• A vitamin rich diuretic herb packed with healthful vitamins and powerful nutrients.
• Rich in many vital vitamins including vitamin C,  vitamin B 12, vitamin K, vitamin A, and hearty-healthy folate.
• It keeps your immune system strong, tones your bones, and heals the nervous system.
• Regular use of parsley can help control your blood pressure.
• Get relief from joint pain due to the herb’s anti-inflammatory properties.
• Has antibacterial properties and helps to stop the growth of bad bacteria.
• It acts as a diuretic that stimulates the bladder, kidneys, liver, digestive system, thyroid, and stomach to work properly.
• Parsley is packed with chlorophyll which cleanses and oxygenates your blood.

https://www.onegreenplanet.org/natural-health/7-fabulous-herbs-for-your-health/