We all add herbs and spices to our recipes to enhance the flavors, but most of us are not aware of the major role they are playing in improving the overall health. The use of herbs in drugs dates back to thousands of years. Natural plants are used to treat a number of health concerns throughout the human history. Millions of dollars have been invested in researching and creating pharmaceutical products. Today, herbs are used to eliminate nutritional deficiencies and restore the correct functioning of the body. There are countless herbs grown across the globe. We have listed some of the most important herbs and their benefits below:
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a spice that is made from the inner bark of trees called Cinnamomum. In earlier times, it was rare and valuable, however, these days it is easily available in every supermarket. There are two types of cinnamon, ceylon, and cassia. It is a great addition to savory foods.
Benefits:
- It is a high source of antioxidant
- It helps in reducing inflammation
- It regularizes blood sugar and triglyceride levels
- It alleviates nausea
- Aids in fat burning
- It has antimicrobial properties
Basil
Basic leaves are probably one of the most ancient herbs used for medicinal purposes. It is a versatile herb that can be added to practically anything. It is available in fresh as well as dried versions in local markets. These leaves are rich in protein, riboflavin, folate, niacin, calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, phosphorus, copper, and zinc.
Benefits:
- It has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties
- It can prevent osteoarthritis
- It helps in eliminating digestive disorders
- Studies show it has anti-cancer properties
- It helps in curing colds, coughs, and sore throats
Turmeric
Turmeric is used for nearly 4000 years. Modern medicine has begun to recognize its importance. It is used to add flavors and yellow color to any food. It contains Curcumin, which makes turmeric fight many diseases. turmeric extracts can scavenge free radicals, increase antioxidant enzymes and inhibit lipid peroxidation.
Benefits:
- It has the ability to reduce inflammation and improve joints
- It prevents blood clotting
- It helps in fighting depression
- It eases osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis symptoms
- It helps in regulating cholesterol
- Curcumin is known for fighting cancer
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a stemless plant with thick, fleshy and green leaves. It is a popular medicinal herb that grows in arid climates. Aloe Vera is used in cosmetics, pharmaceutical and food industries due to its amazing qualities. It is available in different forms in most of the health stores these days. 75 potentially active components have been identified in this plant, including vitamins, minerals, saccharides, amino acids, enzymes, and salicylic acids.
Benefits:
- It efficiently heals wounds and burns
- Aloe Vera juice is good for eliminating diabetes
- It soothes rashes and skin irritations
- It treats burns and cold sores
- It moisturizes the skin
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It helps in reducing inflammation
Cayenne
Cayenne Pepper is one of the good sources of niacin, riboflavin, magnesium, iron, potassium, manganese, vitamin C, A, E, K, and vitamin B6, and dietary fiber. It can be added to practically any dish, meat, vegetable, or sauce. However, using it in large amount can cause burn in the mouth.
Benefits:
- It has beneficial properties for the human circulatory system
- It increases circulation and reduces the risk of heart problems
- It works effectively for weight reduction
- This herb helps in alleviating allergies and muscle cramps
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It equalizes the blood pressure in the venous and arterial system
Fenugreek
Fenugreek is an herb with light green leaves and small white flowers. The seedpods contain 10-20 small, flat, yellow-brown seeds. It is also known as Greek hay. They are rich in protein, copper, magnesium, manganese, iron, and dietary fiber. The seeds, as well as the other parts of the fenugreek plant, have medicinal values.
Benefits:
- It helps in soothing gastrointestinal inflammation
- It balances cholesterol levels
- It treats diabetes
- It lowers blood sugar
- It is a home remedy for boils, abscesses, eczema, burns, and gout
If you are cooking your meals with salt and pepper, then it is time to experiment with these amazing herbs and spices. You can buy herbs or you can try growing your own. There are many benefits of these amazing herbs, which makes them worth trying.
Obviously, there are lots more out there. If you know of another herb with great health benefits, share it below!
