For centuries, herbs have been used all over the world to add flavour to cooking, but did you realize that some of them have amazing health benefits as well?

Sage

Sage is a beautiful plant that is really easy to cultivate at home, especially with a grow room. Apart from adding wonderful flavor to a meal, it has anti-inflammatory properties, is good for the memory, helps with sugar levels in the blood, can relieve some of the symptoms of the menopause and can assist with the lowering of cholesterol.  All this from a herb that is sometimes overlooked by chefs, but one that if it was used in more meals could help everyone that eats it.

Parsley

Generally, anything green and leafy is good for you and parsley is no exception. It is classed as a super food because of its concentration of nutrients and antioxidants, among other things. It also has vitamin, A, B, C and K, some of them is such high quantities that just half a cupful is 500% of the recommended daily amount. Like most herbs, it has anti-inflammatory properties and it is antibacterial and antifungal.

Rosemary

As one of the prettiest and most aromatic of all the herbs, rosemary is considered sacred in some cultures, such as Egyptian, and Greek. It has several vitamins in it, is high in fiber and combine these with its anti-inflammatory properties for a great way to improver your digestion. Research has also shown that it can help to boost your brain power with just one deep intake of its aroma.

Oil made from rosemary is very good for skin and hair, and will help to heal any sore spots.

Thyme

Thyme is second to sage for the amount of antioxidants it contains, and has the ability to help your body fight off disease causing free radicals. It is also a good source of vitamins A and C as well as iron and dietary fiber. Sprinkled over a salad, it will add a lovely flavor, and make the meal even healthier for all who have some.

Tarragon

Tarragon is said to be one of the most underused herbs, yet it adds amazing flavor and contains iron, zinc and magnesium. Overcooking will reduce the amount of these, so it is best added at for just the last few minutes are used as fresh leaves. It makes a wonderful garnish for a dish such as mushroom and white bean pasta.

Basil

Basil is said to be the most popular and most used of all fresh herbs, especially for Mediterranean cuisine. It has a peppery flavor that can, is aromatic and is though to fight off several chronic diseases.  It works well with meals and desserts, and is ideal for something like a spring strawberry salad.

The health benefits are often overlooked in the western world, although the ancient Chinese and Indians used them often for health purposes. Whatever reason you use them for, there is no getting away from the fact that they are good for us, and should be used even more.