Wednesday, May 9, 2012


A Basket of Herbs

Fragrant.  Flavorful.  Healthy.

Herbs are the good cook’s favorite sidekicks.  They pretty up the prepared dish, add some tasty crunch and keep the cook running better too.

Basil

All about Basil:
  • Colorful, fragrant basil is an excellent source of iron, calcium, and Vitamin A, protecting blood vessels and cells from free radical damage.
  • Good source of potassium, Vitamin C and magnesium which promotes cardiovascular health.
  • Its beta-carotene properties lessen the progression of asthma, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

All about Parsley:
  • Excellent source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A and folic acid for a healthy heart.
  • Parsley oil extracts have been used in animal studies to increase the antioxidant capacity of the blood.
  • Considered a “chemoprotective” food that can help neutralize some carcinogens.

All about Thyme:

Lemon Thyme
  • Tangy thyme’s essential oil is used in aromatherapy to relieve pain and elevate mood
  • Thyme baths help relieve aches and joint pains
  • Expectorant and bronchial antispasmodic properties are helpful in treating inflammation of the upper respiratory tract.

All about Dill:
  • Wispy, fernlike dill has monoterpene components that activate enzymes, which prevent oxidized molecules from doing bodily damage.
  • Its volatile oils help prevent bacterial overgrowth
  • A very good source of calcium, dill helps prevent bone loss.

Source: World’s Healthiest Foods