_edited.jpg)
Judy Masters, Instructor at Trinity School of Natural Health, specializing in herbalism and bach flowers
~
trinityschool.org
Stress can be overwhelming, and we may be at risk of getting a cold... or worse. Do yourself a favor and boost your immune system while treating yourself to delicious, healthy meals. Simply sprinkle a few extra herbs onto your favorite dishes and let the recovery begin! Here is a quick list of herbs that will not only help to ward off colds, but will also taste great in your meals.
Parsley
Not only can parsley be used as a garnish, when used in savory dishes and soups, it tends to help blend other flavors. The benefits of parsley include:
• Fights fatigue
• Supports digestion after a big meal
• Aids in urinary tract and kidney health
• Provides excellent source of many nutrients, including vitamin K, beta-carotene, vitamins A, C and E
• Supports happy joints
Rosemary
Nothing enhances flavor better than rosemary. Just a fresh sprig and the flavorpalooza begins! Did you know that in addition to waking up your taste buds, rosemary also:
• Reduces pain and inflammation
• Detoxifies your body
• Boosts your memory
• Improves your mood
• Helps your skin be happier and healthier
Sage
Who can have a savory meal without sage? Ever wonder why people who are considered wise are referred to as “sage” or “sagacious”? That is because this amazing herb:
• Supports healthy brain function (studies have concluded that it slows cognitive impairment)
• Treats systemic pain and inflammation
• Improves digestive and skin support
Cinnamon
Present, most likely, in all things pumpkin or apple, cinnamon is loaded with antioxidants. Specifically, look for Ceylon cinnamon. The splurge will be worth it! Plenty of evidence shows that this powerful spice:
• Lowers and balances blood sugar
• Lowers inflammation
• Cuts the risk of heart disease
• Reduces insulin sensitivity
Ginger
Hanging out with its good buddy cinnamon, ginger is one of the ingredients in most pumpkin spices. Don’t let the plethora of pumpkin-spiced everything turn you off, though. Ginger has a place in your pies, puddings and strudels, as well as several other creative uses in cornbread, dinner rolls, soups and marinades. The list of ginger’s health benefits is miles long, but here are some high points:
• Improves stomach and digestive support
• Treats pain and inflammation
• Wards off muscle soreness and leg cramps
• Works with its partner, cinnamon, to help with healthy blood sugar balance
