In addition to being incredibly easy to grow, herbs are really good for you. Cilantro, for example, is a powerful, natural chelation agent. Meaning, it helps remove heavy metals (and other toxic agents) from the body. Additionally, the oils in cilantro aid our digestive system in its production of digestive enzymes, and protect against bacterial infections such as salmonella. Cilantro can increase insulin secretion while lowering blood sugar. The cineole and linoleic acid in cilantro have anti-rheumatic and anti-arthritic properties.

The unique array of active constituents called flavonoids found in basil provide protection at the cellular level. Orientin and vicenin (two water-soluble flavonoids) protect cell structures as well as chromosomes from radiation and oxygen based damage. The oils found in basil leaves has demonstrated the ability to inhibit several species of pathogenic bacteria that have become resistant to commonly used antibiotic drugs. In a study published in the July 2003 issue of the Journal of Microbiology Methods, essential oil of basil was found to inhibit strains of bacteria from the genera Staphylococcus, Enterococcus and Pseudomonas, all of which are not only widespread, but now pose serious treatment difficulties because they have developed a high level of resistance to treatment with antibiotic drugs.

Dill’s unique health benefits come from two types of healing components: monoterpenes, (carvone, limonene, and anethofuran) and flavonoids, (kaempferol and vicenin). Monoterpenes in dill activate secretion of an enzyme called glutathione-S-transferase, which is extremely effective in neutralizing carcinogens.

Rich in potassium and full of vitamins, Tarragon can also be a star player in your healthy diet. Traditionally used in French cooking, Tarragon is unique and delicious, not to mention a terrific free radical scavenger. The major essential oils in Tarragon are estragole, cineol, ocimene and phellandrene. It is beneficial in reducing symptoms of arthritis because it contains elements that assist in keeping blood platelets and other compounds from adhering and accumulating. It also appears to be beneficial to overall digestive health and especially handy for keeping female organs running smoothly. *Though, as with any herb, check with healthcare provider before consuming if you are pregnant or nursing.

Sage contains numerous beneficial compounds that are know to have counter-irritant, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-fungal, and anti-septic properties. One of the compounds found in Sage is Thujone. Thujone is a GABA and Seratonin receptor antagonist. Meaning, Thujone helps enhance concentration, attention span and quickens the senses. This compound also helps alleviate symptoms of grief and depression.

Sage is also a rich source of several B-complex vitamins, vitamin A, beta carotene, and Vitamin C.

These are just a few of the everyday, backyard herbs we can add to our favorite foods such as pasta, sandwiches, salads, scrambled eggs, marinades, etc.

***Please note, I’m suggesting the addition of fresh, frozen or dehydrated herbs. I am not referring to consuming herbs in supplement form, or consuming the harvested essential oils of herbs.

I recommend working with your healthcare provider or licensed nutritionist before consuming herbs in concentrated form.

Additional resources:

Houdret, J. and Farrow, J. (2006). The Practical Guide to Using Herbs. London: Anness Publishing Ltd.

Duke, J. A. (2002). Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, Second Edition. Boca Raton: CRC Press LLC

globalhealingcenter.com

whfoods.com

nutrition-and-you.com

herbcompanion.com

herbwisdom.com