9 Healing Herbs to Cook With

Here are some of nature’s most healthy herbs. They make us feel good from the inside out from calming our nerves to settling our stomachs. If you’re not sure how to cook with them, we’ve got that covered too, with delicious recipes and techniques for putting your favorite herbs to good use.

9 Healing Herbs (Recipes Included)

1. Basil

Chefs the world over love basil and nutritionists agree. Basil is rich in flavonoids which prevent cell damage from both radiation and oxygen. Two of the main flavonoids are orientin and vicenin. Basil also provides vitamin K, iron, calcium, vitamin A, manganese, magnesium, vitamin C, and potassium.

2. Ginger

Historically, ginger is known for being very effective for an upset stomach as well as nausea. Its antiviral components make it good for prevention and treatment of the common cold.

3. Garlic

Studies have shown that garlic’s powerful antioxidants are great for preventing damaging free radicals as well as protecting against heart disease. It’s known to powerfully reduce high blood pressure as well.

4. Flat Leaf Parsley

Parsley is rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. These components are good for controlling blood cholesterol levels and preventing constipation. It’s also rich in antioxidants, specifically apiin, apigenin, crisoeriol, and luteolin. In fact, it’s known for having some of the highest levels of antioxidants.

5. Cilantro

Cilantro is known for its ability to pull toxins from the body. Often times when you’re doing a fast, you use cilantro atop your kitchari to remove pesticides and insectides from your system consumed from the non-organic foods that you eat.

6. Turmeric

A study reported on the BBC found that turmeric kills cancer cells. Tests released by a team at the Cork Cancer Research Centre show turmeric can destroy gullet cancer cells in the lab within 24 hours. That’s no small deal. Now the question is, are you getting your fill?

7. Mint

The strong aroma of mint is very effective at providing relief in respiratory disorders resulting from asthma and colds. Mint is also good for promoting digestion so it’s ideal to eat before a meal.

8. Fenugreek

Fenugreek is an herb that is commonly used in the Mediterranean region of the world. It’s a good herb to reduce menstrual cramps, cholesterol, menopause symptoms, and help control diabetes.

9. Lavender

Lavender can calm your nerves and help with insomnia. It’s effective on bruises, insect bites, and is a disinfectant. The scent relaxes the body and mind so it’s great to enjoy if your nerves are frazzled or you’re having trouble getting to sleep.