Use Herbs to Add Flavor and
Antioxidants to Your Meals
Did you know that many common herbs are loaded with antioxidants?
These chemicals shield cells from the effects of free radicals, which are corrosive molecules produced during normal metabolic processes that have been implicated in the development of many aging-related diseases.
Recent research by the U.S. Department of Agriculture attempted to identify potential new sources of natural antioxidants by measuring and comparing the antioxidant properties of various culinary and medicinal herbs.
This study revealed that many herbs are indeed an effective source of natural antioxidants, and that supplementing a balanced diet with herbs may benefit our health.
Which Herbs Are Highest In Antioxidants?
Oregano scored highest in antioxidant activity, with 3 to 20 times higher antioxidant activity than the other herbs studied.
In comparison to the antioxidant activities of a few select fruits and vegetables, the potency of oregano ranks supreme: Oregano has 42 times more antioxidant activity than apples, 30 times more than potatoes, 12 times more than oranges and 4 times more than blueberries.
Incredibly, one Tbsp of fresh oregano contains the same antioxidant activity as one medium apple!
Other antioxidant - rich herbs include, amaranth, coriander, dill, sweet bay, rosemary, peppermint, thyme, and winter savory.
These herbs contain high amounts of a phenol component caleed rosmarinic acid, a strong antioxidant.
Researchers say that some herbs actually have higher antioxidant activity than fruits, vegetables, and berries, and that people can benefit from using more herbs as flavoring instead of salt and artificial chemicals.
How to Add Herbs to Your Diet?
Here are some ways to add the health benefits of herbs to your diet...
~ Daily Herbal Infusions. of nourishing herbs such as nettle, raspberry leaf, oatstraw, peppermint and lemon balm are a wonderful way to add extra nutrients to your diet.
~ Some antioxidant-rich herbs, such as Oregano are available as a concentrated herbal oil, taken by drops throughout the day.
~ Shake your herbs onto your favorite foods with Healthy Herbal Sprinkles.
If it's antioxidants you're after then keep in mind that generally, fresh herbs contain higher antioxidant levels compared to their processed counterparts.
So...
~ Eat Your Weeds! Wild greens have long been valued for their ability to restore vitality, detoxify and nourish. Being one of the most alkalinizing foods they also help regulate proper body pH.
Sources: Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry
Rutgers University
Check out our Recipes Page for more ideas.
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