Besides providing taste, color, and aroma, certain seasonings can also add health to your meals. Herbs and spices contain phytochemicals which are natural health promoting substances and have been found to protect us against diseases such as cancer and heart disease. So here’s to spicing up your meal and health!

Here are 4 herbs you can add for flavor and health.

Turmeric- is also called curcumin and may help protect against cancers including prostate, colon, skin, and oral cavity. It also may provide protection from heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and cataracts.

Rosemary- contains a compound called carnosol, which provides antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, as well as anti-carcinogenic agents. This can provide protection from heart disease, cancer, and may be helpful with decreasing painful inflammation with arthritis.

Oregano- contains Quercetin and may help protect against breast, ovarian, and endometrial cancers. It also provides antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that oregano offers the most antioxidant activities of all herbs examined.

Ginger- Substances in ginger are believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and also can be used for treatment of nausea and motion sickness.

Herbs are delicate so it is important to store them properly to retain their nutritional value. Here are some tips on storage.

Fresh herbs- use as soon as possible! Store in perforated bags in the crisper for up to 4 days.

Dried herbs- should be used within a year of purchase. Keep them in airtight containers away from light and heat.

Use herbs generously in cooking to add both flavor and health to your meals!

© Meri Raffetto, 2004