Herbs are currently on the spotlight in the gardening scene. Home-cooks find growing herbs and veggies at home to be very practical and convenient. Herbs do not need a lot of room or horticultural skill t grow them. Many of them even are low maintenance yet perennial and last many years.
They may seem tiny, but herbs are actually nutrient giants loaded with compounds, antioxidants and essential minerals. To help you find the perfect tiny taste-enhancers that are perfect for your favourite and beloved dishes, Yahoo Health came up with a list of very helpful herbs that not only add taste to your dish but upgrade it to a whole new healthier level.
Thyme
No kitchen should be without thyme. This wonder herb is usually used to add fragrance to everyday dishes and is available throughout the year. It is one of the most widely used medicinal helbs for killing germs and curing colds. Packed with iron and manganese, two teaspoons of thyme provides 20 percent of the iron daily requirement and aids in brain function and bone formation.
Parsley
Parsley may play aid in blood clotting, liver function and proper bone formation. Two tablespoons of it provide more than 150 percent of Vitamin K daily requirement. It is also used to freshen breath and as an aphrodisiac.
Lemongrass
This citrusy grass is commonly found in Southeast Asia. It has the same compound found in lemon zest which explains its flavour and scent. It is also used to cure fever, muscle cramps, upset stomachs and headaches. It is packed with antioxidants that can help prevent heart diseases and cancer. Studies also found that it contains antimicrobial properties that destroy E. Coli.
Oregano
This wonder herb has 20 times more cancer-fighting antioxidants than other herbs. As a matter of fact, according to USDA researchers discovered that 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano has the same antioxidant power as a whole apple.
Rosemary
There is a healthy and scientific reason why rosemary usually spices up grilled steaks-according to a study, rosemary lowers the levels of carcinogenic heterocyclic amines (HCAs) found in barbecued or grilled meat by 60 to 80 percent.
Cilantro
A University of California research found that a compound in cilantro called dodecenal is twice as effective at eliminating salmonella bacteria as commercial antibiotics.
Sage
Just like oregano, sage is a powerhouse of antioxidants that boosts memory and brain power.
Lavender
FYI, it is not just for scented candles and incense. Yes, lavender has relaxing and stress alleviating effects but it is also a rich source of calcium, vitamin A, iron and vitamin C.
Peppermint
Like sage and oregano, peppermint has high levels of antioxidant levels and helps in reducing weight as its smell reduces cravings.
