There’s a herb for everything: for your immune system, for a boost of flavor and for more nutrients in your food. Aromatic herbs are not just a great way to pimp up your meals – they have an astounding number of health benefits.
Pimp it up with parsley
If only it was easy to sprinkle something healthy over your food… It is! A handful of freshly chopped herbs looks decorative, smells tempting and is a real nutrient booster providing a variety of minerals, vitamins and secondary plant substances. Even in parsley, the nutrients that are important for your immune system run wild: parsley just teems with vitamin C, beta carotene and folic acid.
Natural green immunity boosters
The list of natural immune boosters from the window ledge or garden bed is endless. All types of cress have vitamin C, beta carotene and folic acid in spades. Watercress has more cell-protecting beta carotene as lamb’s lettuce and provides at least twice as much vitamin C. However, when it comes to immunity-boosting iron, oregano, savory and basil top the hitlist and even provide some calcium.
Cooking with herbs: better to play it cool
For full flavor and nutritional power, it’s best to eat the tender green leaves cold. Many lose their flavor and effectiveness when cooked. That’s why they’re best added to your meal after it’s been cooked. Only tougher herbs such as thyme, oregano, sage and savory should be cooked with your food. If you wish to conserve their fresh, green power, you can freeze herbs in ice cube trays; thus you’ll always have the right portion of the right taste and immunity booster to sprinkle over your meal.
Note: Since everyone’s health history and nutritional needs are so different, please make sure that you talk with your doctor and a registered dietitian to get advice about the diet and exercise plan that‘s right for you.