Using Herbs for Health

Herbs pack health benefits into home-cooked meals, from aiding digestion to strengthening bones.

While you can grow an outdoor herb garden, some plants are well-suited to indoor windowsills. Most herbs need around six hours of sunlight daily to grow indoors and be grown in plastic pots. Buy full-spectrum fluorescent lights if your herbs need an extra boost of light therapy.

Basil – You've probably tasted this herb in Italian dishes like pesto and tomato-based dishes. However, other varieties are common in Thai, Southeast Asian and Mexican meals. Basil contains vitamin A, vitamin K, calcium, iron and manganese. This herb is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, but studies show it has many other potential health improving properties. The sweet variety you most often see in grocery stores can reduce memory loss associated with aging, depression, stress, blood pressure, cholesterol and bacteria-caused dental decay. It can also reduce stroke damage, Improve blood sugar, and help prevent breast, colon and pancreatic cancers. Growing tip: The Farmer's Almanac advises you to keep basil warm, ensure proper drainage, maintain moist soil and fertilize indoor herbs every four to six weeks.

Parsley – Thank the gardeners at monasteries and palaces because though the herb probably originated in the eastern Mediterranean, it became popular in Europe during the Middle Ages. You might think of it as just a pretty garnish, but parsley is used to treat high blood pressure, allergies and inflammation. The USDA reports that one-half cup of parsley provides protein, fiber, folate, potassium, and vitamins A, C and K. Those nutrients support blood clotting, strengthen bones, stave off cancers, improve eye health and boost heart health. Growing tip: BBC Gardeners' World says to use a mix of garden and soil-based compost when moving the plants to a bigger pot.

Thyme – This herb is from the Mediterranean or Eurasia and was used for embalming ancient Egyptians, while ancient Greeks used it for incense in their temples. These days, thyme flavors poultry, beans, stuffing, meats, sauces, soups and pasta. Studies have shown thyme is good for fighting acne, pests, bacterial infections, yeast infections, cancer, pests, cough and high blood pressure. It contains vitamins A and C, copper, fiber, iron and manganese and is a great way to boost mood and immunity. Growing tip: The Farmer's Almanac states thyme loves heat, so keep it near a window with full sun if you're growing indoors.

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