As a health conscious consumer and a mom, I always try to eat organic and give my kids (and husband) organic and healthy food but sometimes I get lost in the advertisements. Which fruits and veggies are the best to buy organic, which vitamins should I give my family, which herbal remedies should I give my family daily verses when they are sick? There are so many options out there and all seem to be the “miracle remedy” that I have been searching for. Problem is if I were to pick the best ONE – which one would I pick?
Great question. What are a few of the “best” herbs out there along with how to use them or take them. In two weeks I will be talking about buying organic verses non organic foods.
Turmeric. This is a spice always found in curry that has a potent smell and taste. Luckily it tastes good in my opinion so you can easily add it to main dishes and sprinkle it on foods as well as vegetables. A side note is that turmeric is good for reducing inflammation and swelling. It’s been claimed as a “wonder spice” and has been mentioned in prevention of Alzheimer’s and colon cancer. Next time you make a meal or have a side of steamed veggies, sprinkle some turmeric on them!
Cinnamon. This spice reminds me of the holidays but it is beneficial year round. Cinnamon is known for reducing blood sugar and often helps people that have diabetes to ease their symptoms. Cinnamon can easily be added to your morning coffee or sprinkled over some fruit to add a little kick. Kids love it on toast as well.
Rosemary is next on our list. This herb can be grown outside easily (it’s a woody type bush, actually) and it smells delicious! Rosemary is tied to reducing carcinogens (things that cause cancers). This herb is great with meats, when you grill or when you bake. Just add some on top of your meal or use the herb as a marinade and enjoy.
Ginger. This herb is well known especially if you have ever had sushi. It’s the “stuff” that is next to the wasabi that is yellow to white in color. It has a smell that is often common in holiday candles but this herb can do many more things besides making a room smell good! It is known to help decrease blood pressure, arthritis pain, cancer risk, and it helps reduce nausea. Ginger is a great herb for women who are pregnant to take and to help ease any symptoms of morning sickness as well!
Basil is the last herb on our list. This herb is often paired with tomatoes and mozzarella cheese for an appetizer (which is delicious if you haven’t tried it) but it’s also made in to teas and used in pesto sauces. Basil has been tied to reducing stress, reducing indigestion and relieving headaches. It smells and tastes great and is usually sold next to tomatoes in the produce section of any grocery store.
Hopefully this overview has provided you with a quick and easy list of some great herbs to purchase and to try next time you are getting groceries. Herbs have been around for thousands of years and continually prove to be beneficial for many health aspects. If you have any questions about additional herbs to try or if you are interested in talking with our staff about general health and wellness, please contact us today.
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