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, indeed, and that is what has landed me on this week’s blog. Herbs. What are a few of the “best” ones out there and what should I use them for? In two weeks I will be returning to talk about buying organic verses non organic foods. For now, let’s take some time to look at a few herbs.
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 and even vegetables. Turmeric is good for reducing inflammation and easing swelling. It’s been claimed as a “wonder spice” and has been mentioned in prevention of Alzheimer’s and colon cancer.
Cinnamon. This spice reminds me of the smell 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 bake. Just add some on top or use the herb with a marinade and enjoy.
Ginger. This herb is well known 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!
Holy 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. Holy basil has been tied to reducing stress, reducing indigestion and relieving headaches. And it smells and tastes great.
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.
At Carlos and Parnell, M.D., P.A. our professional and caring staff makes the difference with patient care. – See more at: http://www.dev.carlosparnellmd.com/thermometers-and-babies/#sthash.MFvVROkI.dpuf
