10 Healthy Herbs You Should Have in Your Kitchen
Stacking the right herbs in your kitchen shelf not only makes it incredibly easy to add flavor to your food, but it also boosts the health quotient of your meals. So here’s a list of 10 herbs that should always be in your kitchen and indoor garden.
1. Turmeric
This herb has been used for several years to treat health conditions like joint pain, body ache, digestive problems, arthritis, stomach pain, diabetes, and even cancer. Turmeric contains curcumin which is said to have anti-inflammatory properties. Simply add a dash of turmeric to your grain meals, smoothies, curries and sauces to boost the health quotient. It’ll keep you healthy and also increase your immunity.
2. Chile peppers
Chile peppers add the much needed heat to chilly winter meals. But at the same time, they also boost your metabolism. Studies show that these peppers contain capsaicin, which is a compound that increases the metabolic rate of our body. Likewise, it stimulates the brain chemicals that further aids in controlling our appetite. Capsaicin is also said to lower the risk of ulcers by increasing the capacity of our stomach cells to resist the inflammation from the bacteria that causes ulcer.
3. Black pepper
Black pepper plays a vital role in stimulating the digestive enzymes of our pancreas. This in turn leads to better absorption of food. Black pepper also comes with antioxidant, anti-mutagenic and anti-tumor elements, thereby protecting us from the oxidative damage of the free radicals. Simply grind black pepper and use it in salads, meat preparations, soups and other grain dishes to pep up the health quotient.
4. Rosemary
This is a fragrant, versatile spice that is closely associated with mint. It is easy to grow indoors and is widely used in both fresh and dried forms. Rosemary oil is also widely sought for. This is primarily because the extract of rosemary contains polyphenols that are said to have anti-carcinogenic effects. The herb can be easily grown in your home garden and it also contains rosmarinic acid that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Add it in soups and pasta to boost both the taste and health quotient of your meals.
5. Thyme
Thyme is not only popular for its aromatic fragrance but is also widely used as a herbal remedy for various respiratory ailments like bronchitis. Additionally, it is likely to have antiseptic and anti inflammatory elements. Thymol, one of the main compounds of thyme, is a major ingredient in Listerine. Thyme is free from calories and it adds a delicious flavor to your soups, salads, meals and virtually any possible recipe.
6. Basil
This is probably one of the healthiest herbs that you’ll ever come across. Widely known as calm nerves, basil is an excellent source of fiber. It also has a great detoxifying effect on your liver. Basil oil helps in getting rid of skin blemishes and it can also be used to treat cuts and wounds. This is primarily because of the anti-inflammatory properties of this herb. Basil can be easily grown in your home garden and it also helps in digesting your meals. So you can always add a dash of this ingredient to your late brunch.
7. Cinnamon
Whether it is digestive issues or diabetes and infection- cinnamon is a remedy for all of it. Recent research has also revealed that cinnamon has the ability of managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels. It has anti-microbial properties and it also helps in weight loss. You can always sprinkle cinnamon in your toast, coffee, oatmeal or yogurt to increase the health quotient.
8.Parsley
Loaded with nutrients, parsley is a ‘must have’ herb for your kitchen. It is rich in Vitamin A and Vitamin C and simply one tablespoon of parsley renders two times more than your recommended intake of Vitamin K. This herb is also extremely important for healthy blood. Grow this herb in your indoor garden to pep up the health quotient of your meals.
9. Chives
Chives are a part of the onion family. They are a delectable herb is also likely to boost our immune systems. Multiple researches have suggested that chives are a group of allium vegetables that lowers the risk of developing breast, stomach and prostate cancer.
10. Dills
This is probably one of the best herbs that should always be in your kitchen. This flavorful ingredient isn’t merely for pickles. It is rich in antioxidants and contains beta carotene that is said to cure hiccups. Likewise, it also boosts your immunity and keeps you fit and healthy all way round. Also, next time you get a bad hiccup, simply mix a teaspoon of these dill spice to a cup of warm water. Drink the liquid to cure your hiccup and improve your sore throat.
So why wait? Grow these amazing herbs in your indoor garden and stack them in your kitchen to make sure you never compromise on health, while cooking sumptuous meals.