Aromatic Herbs Benefits

We use them in many recipes, often as a simple ornament, yet aromatic herbs benefits are many and are also foods rich in nutrients that should not be underestimated.

Let’s see what are the main aromatic herbs, and what benefits they can give to our body.

Basil

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is one of the most widespread aromatic herbs, which belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is native to Iran, India and other tropical areas of Asia. The basil harvest period runs from April to October, but it is possible to buy it all year round. Basil has various nutritional properties for our body, and is rich in minerals and nutrients, such as vitamin K and manganese. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, calcium, iron, potassium and copper. It is also a source of beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin and lutein / zeaxanthin, flavonoids and an essential oil rich in various compounds, including eugenol. Basil has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. In particular, eugenol is useful against inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases. Among the microbes counteracted by basil are Staphylococcus, Enterococci, Shigella and Pseudomonas. Basil infusion, which can help relieve nausea, also has mild antiseptic functions. Parsley Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) is an aromatic herb native to the Mediterranean area, it belongs to the Apiaceae family. From a nutritional point of view, parsley is a source of antioxidants, molecules allied to metabolism and nutrients useful for the health of bones and teeth. It is a source of beta-carotene and lutein / zeaxanthin, of flavonoids such as luteolin and eugenol. Like rosemary, parsley also has antiseptic properties, but also diuretic properties. That’s also why eating pesto sauce from Genoa is very good for the health, it’s a great way to incorporate this herb in your daily life.

Rosemary

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is a shrub with aromatic properties, belonging to the Lamiaceae family and to the Magnoliopsida class, widespread in Mediterranean countries. Rosemary is rich in beneficial substances, such as calcium, which promotes the health of teeth and bones; potassium, which helps keep blood pressure under control, but also vitamin C, which has antioxidant properties and helps strengthen the immune system, and folate. The rosemary plant, then, is rich in fiber, and in magnesium, necessary for the production of energy and for the synthesis of proteins.

Sage

Sage (Salvia officinalis) is an evergreen belonging to the Lamiaceae family, widespread throughout the Mediterranean area and in the Balkan regions. From a nutritional point of view, sage is a good source of antioxidants, vitamins allied to the functioning of the metabolism and minerals allied to the heart, bones, teeth and brain. It is also a source of beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, lutein / zeaxanthin, volatile essential oils and numerous compounds such as cineole, chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid. Taken in “cooking” doses, sage has no particular contraindications. However, in large quantities it can be dangerous if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, diabetes, hormone-sensitive diseases, pressure problems, seizures and surgery.

Laurel

Laurel is an aromatic herb of which the leaves are mainly used. Laurus nobilis is a member of the Lauraceae family, widespread in the Mediterranean regions and other parts of Asia. Bay leaves and berries have astringent, diuretic and appetite-stimulating properties. Infusions of the green parts of the plant can be used to relieve the symptoms of gastric ulcer and associated pains or colic and flatulence. Finally, the essential oil is used to treat arthritis, muscle pain, bronchitis and flu-like symptoms. From a nutritional point of view, bay leaves are a source of vitamin C, folic acid, vitamin A and vitamins of group B. Among the minerals, laurel provides potassium, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium useful for health. of bones and teeth and iron and copper required for the production of red blood cells. Laurel is a source of lauric acid, a molecule with a repellent action against insects.

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