Asians have long been including herbs and spices in their regular diet. And now the rest of the world too seems to be acknowledging its benefits.
A research at the University of Michigan’s Department of Family Medicine says that adding herbs and spices to meals while reducing salt, sugar and fatty products can boost heart health and help with weight control.
One caution is that exposure to sunlight and heat can decrease the healthful qualities of herbs and spices, therefore they need to be bought as fresh as possible, and replaced regularly.
Here are a few herbs and spices and their potential health benefits:
Fresh garlic: Lowers blood pressure and cholesterol
Rosemary: Antioxidant
Thyme: Fights coughs
Curry powder (turmeric): Anti-inflammatory
Ginger: Fights nausea, Anti-inflammatory
Use these quick tips for adding herbs and spices to your western dishes to add flavour and health:
Basil: Pasta, tomato sauces, chicken, fish
Curry powder: Indian and Southeast Asian dishes, meat-based dishes and soups
Ginger: Fruits, especially apples and pears, marinades, rice
Nutmeg: Baked goods, fruit dishes, vegetables such as spinach and squash
Oregano: Italian and Greek cuisine, beef and lamb, vegetables such as corn and mushrooms
Rosemary: Grilled beef and chicken, vegetables such as potatoes and broccoli, pasta
Thyme: Chicken, turkey and fish, vegetables such as eggplant and carrots, soups and stews
Via : Kansas City Star
