Studies on herbs show they have promising health benefits. Herbs like rosemary, sage, and oregano can prevent diseases like cancer, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and digestive problems. Research shows they are packed with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that support all the systems in your body.
Herbs contain unique compounds that fight free radicals (the reactive chemicals that damage your cells), reduce oxidative stress (the damage caused by free radicals), lower inflammation, prevent the formation of tumours, protect your DNA, balance your blood sugar, and enhance digestion. Culinary herbs protect your health in the long term and reduce the risk of cardiovascular, cerebral, metabolic, and digestive disorders.
Here are just a few of the proven health benefits of herbs:
1. Herbs are anti-microbial
This means herbs help fight bacteria and harmful germs. Herbs have high concentrations of polyphenols, a class of organic chemical micronutrients found in a variety of plants. We’ll hear about some of polyphenols’ other nutritional benefits later, but one of their well-known properties is their ability to fight bacteria. Oregano and dill are two herbs that are particularly full of anti-microbial polyphenol.
2. They help you eat better
Whenever we flavour our dishes with delicious and fragrant herbs, we make them more flavorful and appealing, encouraging us to eat healthy, whole foods. We are also able to reduce the amount of salt we add to our foods because we are adding so much flavour in the form of herbs. While salt isn’t necessarily a bad thing in moderation, herbs serve as welcome substitute.
3. They are full of anti-oxidants
Herbs provide a stunning number of antioxidants, making them a super nutritious addition to your dishes. Antioxidants bind to free radicals in the body, helping to fight their presence and potentially decreasing your risk of certain cancers and chronic diseases.
4. They have low calorie
Just like vegetables and other leafy plants, herbs are extremely low in calories. Calories aren’t the only important thing to consider when you’re trying to eat healthy, of course, but the fact that using these plants as seasonings won’t impact the caloric count of your dish makes them far superior to dressings, sauces and rubs. If you’re watching your waistline or trying to balance your diet, herbs will be your best bet in terms of flavour additions.
5. They are anti-inflammatory
Finally, just like many spices, herbs are anti-inflammatory. Chronic inflammation is harmful to the body. The anti-inflammatory properties of herbs are attributed to polyphenols. Add some herbs to whole food dishes such as vegetables and fresh meats and you’ll be on your way toward reducing inflammation in your body.