When you’re cooking with herbs, you might not realize the powerful medicinal effects these herbs have on the body. Some of them help boost the immune system while others relieve gas and alleviate stomach aches. All of them are tasty!
Basil
This is an herb that you have probably used in soups or with various meats, such as chicken or pork. Basil often helps with gas and upset stomachs. It also helps break fevers and treat colds and flus. Basil is excellent for clearing respiratory pathways if you’re suffering from a cough.
Cinnamon
You’ve probably used cinnamon while making desserts and other sweet treats. It contains oils that can kill various types of bacteria, such as E. coli and salmonella. Cinnamon can help to ease cramps during the menstrual cycle. It also helps to stabilize blood sugar and help the body detoxify from the harmful effects of sugar.
Clove
Often used when making pumpkin pies, clove can also be used to help with tooth pain. All you need to do is dab a bit of clove essential oil on the affected tooth to relieve the aching.
Dill
If you have an upset stomach or suffer from heartburn, use a bit of dill in some of the foods that you prepare. Dill can also help in treating bad breath if used as a paste with baking soda. The essential oils in dill also help alleviate gas pain and bloating after meals.
Garlic
Not only does garlic add savory goodness to almost any dish, it can also help to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Garlic is excellent medicine for the immune system. It helps fight off infections and prevent them from setting in. Garlic promotes healthy circulation and a healthy heart.
Ginger
Ginger is one of the best digestive aids you can find. It boosts digestion and absorption of nutrients. If you’re feeling nauseated, try some ginger tea. It also helps to increase the flow of saliva, which can relieve an upset stomach.
Mint
Mint is ideal for relieving an upset stomach and vomiting. It is also used to help treat muscle spasms and to open the sinuses and airways to make breathing easier. Mint also helps ward off colds and decrease recovery time.
Oregano
Oregano is an antimicrobial herb particularly useful for sinusitis. This is an herb that can help to relieve coughing and break fevers. It is a digestive aid as well, helping to relieve gas, bloating, and indigestion. Some have found that the herb can lower blood pressure.
Sage
Sage has sometimes been called “internal deodorant”. Taking Sage internally cools the body and inhibits perspiration. Sage is a great boon to menopausal women who suffer from hot flashes. It also makes an excellent anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial mouthwash. Sage’s high essential oil content also makes it helpful for gas, indigestion, and for fighting off unfriendly pathogens.
Parsley
Not just a garnish! Parsley is one of the most powerful cleansing herbs, specifically helping to flush heavy metals out of the body. Parsley is sometimes used to prevent kidney stones and to keep the urinary system functioning normally.
