Food as medicine is a major aspect of my health philosophy and there is no better place to start then in your pantry or garden. Herbs and spices have the ability to transform beautiful ingredients into a delicious therapeutic meal. They are available in many forms: fresh, dried, powdered or as a paste. It is always best to choose organic and Australian- grown herbs as this guarantees there are irradiation free and guarantees there are no chemicals added. It is time to embrace edible medicine and heal thyself naturally. Below are some of my favourite herbs to include.
Basil
The essential oils in basil are rich in antioxidant, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds. Basil is best combined fresh in salad, added near the end of cooking or also often enjoyed in tea form.
Black pepper
Warming black pepper is traditionally used as digestive aid and circulatory stimulant. In Ayurveda, they recommend to chew on black pepper to stimulate digestion and clear the sinus.
Chili
Chili enjoyed as culinary delights offer systemic uses as well as sensory stimulation. It is primarily used as a stimulant for the digestive, metabolic and circulatory system but also has anti-septic, analgesic and diaphoretic actions.
Cardamom
Cardamom is well known in Indian cooking as a healing digestive herb. The active ingredients in cardamom soothe the stomach, indigestion and heartburn. Chewing on the cardamom seed is also used to treat bad breath.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is another warming spice that does wonders for the digestive system. Cinnamon can help treat nausea, loss of appetite and also has blood sugar regulating properties.
Clove
Clove has an intense flavour due to its eugenol chemical component. Clove works as a carminative (relaxes smooth muscles) and anthelmintic (expels worms/parasites) when eaten, and the essential oil works as an analgesic for gum/tooth pain.
Caraway
Caraway seeds are traditionally used for their digestive, carminative and anti-flatulence properties. Add some seeds to hot water and enjoy as a tea.
Fennel
Fennel seeds therapeutically act as digestive tonic and soothe the tummy. It also encourages breast-feeding mothers and is indicated for respiratory issues.
Ginger
Ginger adds warmth, spice and sweetness. It is therapeutically indicated for nausea and digestive upsets, warms a cold constitution and stimulates the metabolism.
Garlic
Garlic is an essential herb to incorporate into your cooking. Containing alliin (allicin) garlic is systemically antiviral, antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiseptic to the digestive system. It also can reduce cholesterol levels and support vascular health.
Mint
Mint is an aromatic, carminative and cooling herb that is great for settling an upset stomach. Therapeutically cools the constitution and soothes the digestive system.
Oregano
Oregano is another super herb to have in your pantry. It’s active constituents of carvacrol and thymol have anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. It is also used to boost the immune system and treat respiratory infections.
Paprika
Besides being a great source of colour and flavour for your cooking paprika has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties and is a great source of vitamin A and C.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a woody aromatic herb that works as an antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-spasmodic (relieves spasms), carminative (relaxes smooth muscles), mild analgesic (pain-relieving), and circulatory stimulant. It can be used externally to promote circulation, hair loss, and wound healing.
Sage
Sage is an antiseptic herb therapeutically indicated for gingivitis, sore throats and tonsillitis. Boiled in water, and cooled it makes an excellent mouth wash.
Star anise
Star anise is a strong anti-fungal, anti-bacterial herb often used to treat respiratory and digestive infections.
Stevia
Stevia is a naturally sweet herb that doesn’t raise blood sugar levels and has no calorie yield.
Turmeric
Widely used throughout India and Asia in cooking, this herb provides vibrant colour to cooking. It has incredible anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and liver protecting properties.
Thyme
Thyme is commonly used to treat respiratory infections and sore throats. The essential oils in thyme have antiseptic, antispasmodic, and antimicrobial actions.
Vanilla
Vanilla bean has been used for centuries in cooking; sweet, rich and unmistakable. The essential oil of vanilla has incredible health benefits including its antioxidant, aphrodisiac and anti-depressant therapeutic actions.
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