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Herbs are often ignored, which is a shame- because they are a brilliant way to add flavor to your food, not to mention the incredibly varied healthy benefits they bestow. Make every meal a herby one with our handy guide!
Rosemary
- Rosemary is rich in calcium and vitamin B6- the latter of which can be difficult for vegetarians to come by so load up on it.
- The herb also enhances memory and concentration.
Green Queen Foodie Tip: Rosemary pairs perfectly with lamb, no matter which way your cook your meat.
Basil
- Basil is full of potassium- a much needed essential mineral for optimal health.
- It is also super high in antioxidants- great to help stave off cancer.
Green Queen Foodie Tip: This sweet herb is the main ingredient in Italian pesto- just add pine nuts, garlic, olive oil and some Parmigiano-Reggiano if you eat dairy!
Cilantro/Coriander/Chinese Parsley
- The potassium in cilantro helps control your heart rate and blood pressure.
- The herb contains citronelol, a compound that promotes fresh breath.
Green Queen Foodie Tip: Add to homemade salsa- just mix with chopped tomatoes, chiles and red onion.
Tarragon
- It is packed with iron, which is great for your red blood cell count as well as those who suffer from anemia.
- Tarragon is an appetite stimulant- useful for those who need to increase their food intake.
Green Queen Foodie Tip: Make a tarragon and mustard marinade for roast chicken- the herb comes on strong so is best used for blander dishes.
Flat Leaf Parsley/ Italian Parsley
- Contains folic acid that helps to speed up metabolism and is vital to pregnant women.
- High in vitamin A which soothes tired and dry eyes-great for all of us screen addicts.
Green Queen Foodie Tip: Chopped parsley with cooked lentils, green beans and olive oil make a lovely Mediterranean salad.
Sage
- Sage consumption can lower blood sugar levels- great for diabetics and those with insulin resistance.
- As an anti-inflammatory, it can be helpful with arthritis.
Green Queen Foodie Tip: Try sautéing mushrooms with sage and olive oil for a delicious accompaniment to any meal.
Dill
- Dill essential oil alleviates insomnia and helps to ensure a restful sleep.
- The herb is also anti-bacterial.
Green Queen Foodie Tip: Dill is a great addition to potato salad or poached fish dishes.
Thyme
- Its vitamin A gives you good skin quality and improves vision.
- Rich in vitamin C, which keeps your immune system strong.
Green Queen Foodie Tip: Stuff bunches in a chicken cavity along with garlic and lemon wedges for the perfect roast.
Oregano
- Oregano is anti-fungal and anti-bacterial, the essential oil can be used topically against microbes.
- The herb helps relieve respiratory tract conditions like sore throats and bronchitis.
Green Queen Foodie Tip: Make a classic and refreshing Greek salad with oregano, tomatoes, cucumbers and feta cheese.
Mint
- Inhale fresh mint leaves or mint essential oil for quick headache relief.
- Great for digestive issues- helps with nausea, indigestion and bloating.
Green Queen Foodie Tip: Add mint to filtered water with a touch of lemon to jazz up your eight glasses a day.
Photo credit: 100, 000 views!!! THANK YOU! Rita via photopin cc.
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