Herbs have been used world wide to treat medical ailments and as preventive care for centuries. Sage, rosemary, garlic, mint and thyme are some of the easiest to use and locate for the purpose of home remedies. Many of the herbs used can be grown at home in a window sill or in the garden.
Using them in food, stepping them in teas or purchasing them as tinctures are three ways that popular herbs can be prepared and their health benefits enjoyed.
Rosemary and Garlic
Herbs like rosemary and garlic can help with fall seasonal aliments like colds and soar throats, but don’t wait till the symptoms hit before using them. Including fresh rosemary in your food will help build your immunities and add a wonderful flavor to dishes you prepare at home. By adding them to dishes that contain your traditional fall vegetables such as squashes, flavors not only blend in a wondrous manner, but also boost your immunity. Adding fresh garlic to your diet also keeps colds and sore throats at bay.
Fennel and Digestion
Have you ever wondered why Indian Restaurants offer candy coated fennel seeds after your meal. Fennel has long been known for its ability to aid in digestion. All parts of the fennel plant can improve your digestion. Add it to teas for a subtle licorice flavor or chop up a fennel bulb and mix it into a salad.
Cilantro and Coriander
Cilantro and coriander also aid in digestion and build your immune system. Probably another reason for its inclusion in spicy foods. When growing cilantro at home it can be difficult to prevent from bolting, or going to seed, to early in the season. No worries though. When cilantro bolts it seeds are what is called coriander and produces the same health benefits as cilantro. Coriander can be used in teas and is also is a wonderful herb for cooking. Mix it with cumin and heat them both on low heat in a little oil to bring out the flavor and medicinal goodness.
The Wonders of the Mint Family
The mint family, which includes peppermint, spearmint and chocolate mint, has a long history of being used in China for various medicinal purposes. Mint is known to promote healthy digestion by relaxing the intestine, alleviate heartburn and is high in antioxidants that can help clean the liver. The mint family also makes a delicious tea just by itself.
Sage
Sage is another herb that has been used in China for centuries. Sage is known for improving concentration and is easy on the stomach. Sage pairs well with many foods like poultry, pork, a variety of vegetables and pastas.
These herbs and more can be used in cooking or steeped to make teas. They can also be grown at home indoors or outdoors. Mint and sage will tend to come back ever year in moist climates and can even survive frost.
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