A variety of herbs used in cooking and healing
Herbs have been used for thousands of years for healing uses, as referenced in writings by ancient Egyptians and Chinese. According to "Herbs of Egypt," ancient Egyptians used more than 700 herbs for their healing benefits. You can use herbs to treat infections of the body and skin, aid in the maintenance of a healthy diet and enhance your recipes. Some side effects can occur as a result of using herbs, though, such as allergic reactions that effect the skin, stomach and sleep patterns.
Health Benefits
Herbs have natural healing properties such as antibacterial, antiviral and antioxidant properties that when used topically or ingested can heal physical ailments. A few common herbs with antibacterial properties are mint, basil, garlic and ginger. With these, the growth of bacteria is interrupted or reduced, lessening the chance of infection. Several herbs with antiviral properties are oregano, echinacea, green tea and elderberry. Herbs work naturally with your body to increase the healing time and can also reduce the symptoms related to the virus. Commonly known herbs used to maintain a healthy weight are green tea, cayenne, seaweed and dandelion. These herbs aid the digestive tract, help to increase your metabolism and work to suppress your appetite.
Cooking Benefits
Many gardeners enjoy growing herbs because of the wonderful scents they provide and flavors for cooking. A stock of mint, basil, oregano, sage, thyme and parsley will give you the basic supply needed for most dishes. Using herbs in your cooking can lessen the amount of salt used while greatly enhancing the taste of the dish. You can add fresh herbs to your dishes towards the end of the cooking process for the best results or dried herbs at the beginning of the process as they are stronger since they have been dried.
Side Effects
Herbs can have certain side effects that can prohibit you from using them as alternative medicine or in your cooking. According to the University of Maryland, some herb side effects can be nausea, dizziness, headaches, irritability and insomnia. Before you begin using herbs to supplement your healthy diet or to aid in your weight loss, consult your physician or a licensed herbalist.
Tags: Herbs have, ancient Egyptians, have been, healthy diet, herbs used, herbs with, herbs your