11 herbs that will help you drop salt.

Here at Healing Holidays we have all been trying to cut down our salt intake to be healthier and happier! Did you know salt has been linked to hypertension and increased blood pressure? Too much salt has also been known to contribute to diabetes, cataracts, kidney disease, osteoporosis and stomach cancer. Salt also promotes swelling and water retention. So when we saw this helpful post on http://skinnyms.com we thought we needed to share it with you.

“Lose the salt! Enhance flavour and your health with these 11 incredibly powerful herbs instead.

Basil

Basil is so versatile and tastes great in so many dishes, particularly anything with tomatoes.
Its health benefits are as numerous as the dishes it can be used in. It is easy to grow in containers and in the garden.

Health Benefits:
anti-inflammatory
anti-bacterial
nutrient dense – excellent source of magnesium, calcium, potassium, iron, and vitamins A & C
fights free radical damage and protects the heart and lungs

Chives

Chives are simple to grow and give a great “oniony” flavour to your favourite dishes. Chop them up and use them fresh to give an added zip to soups, salads, and entrees.

Health Benefits:
improves digestion
anti-bacterial
anti-oxidants that prevent cancer
nutrient dense with beta-carotene, vitamin k, folic acid, potassium and calcium

Cilantro

The distinctive flavour of Cilantro is a favourite in Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine. It grows very well in warmer climates and both the leaves and seeds (called coriander) can be used to flavour a variety of dishes.

Health Benefits:
Rich in anti-oxidants and fibre that reduce LDL cholesterol
good source of potassium, calcium, magnesium, manganese, and iron.
Excellent source of folic acid, niacin, riboflavin, beta carotene, and vitamins A , C and K.
maintains healthy mucous membranes
protects eyesight

Dill

The distinctive flavour of dill isn’t just for pickles! It is an easy to grow annual herb and a favourite for many beginning gardeners. Dill is used often in dressings and fish dishes. It is an aromatic, somewhat bittersweet herb that is loaded with health benefits.

Health Benefits:
anti-inflammatory
anti-viral
shown in studies to reduce cholesterol
regulates insulin
eases digestion
good source of fiber, calcium, manganese, iron, and magnesium

Mint

Mint is by far the easiest herb to grow, thriving in nearly any condition. It’s best to keep it in a container or it will quickly take over the garden. Fresh mint can be used for tea, salads and as a garnish. It has a variety of health benefits.

Health Benefits:
aids digestion
contains phytochemicals that prevent many cancers
relieves congestion
stimulates and enhances mood
anti-microbial
excellent source of vitamins A and C

Oregano

Oregano has been used for thousands of years both as a culinary herb and for its health benefits. Like Basil, it is often used to enhance the flavour of tomato based and Italian dishes. When you see how many health benefits it has, you may want to sprinkle a bit extra into your next meal.

Health Benefits:
good source of fiber
nutrient dense: good source of vitamins K & E, manganese, iron, calcium and tryptophan
anti-bacterial
contains powerful anti-oxidants to prevent cancer

Parsley

You see it used a lot as garnish, but parsley is a very flavourful, easy to grow biennial plant. It can be used in salads, soups and other dishes. Don’t dismiss parsley as a simple decoration, it possesses a powerful array of health benefits.

Health Benefits:
inhibits tumor formation
high folic acid content protects against heart disease
protects against Rheumatoid Arthritis
prevents and helps treat bladder infections
anti-inflammatory
anti-bacterial

Rosemary

This highly useful, aromatic and easy to grow herb is a favorite not only in foods but also in natural beauty products like soaps and shampoos. Rosemary has a rich, distinctive flavour that complements numerous dishes. It also has many health benefits.

Health Benefits:
stimulates mood
improves memory
boosts immunity
increases circulation
soothes asthma
anti-inflammatory
improves digestion

Sage

Another easy to grow herb with a distinctive flavour and numerous health benefits. Sage grows well in the garden or in containers. It serves as a natural repellant for some insects making it a great companion plant.

Health Benefits:
improves brain function and enhances memory
anti-inflammatory
anti-fungal
antiseptic
stabilises oxygen metabolism to the cells
reduces anxiety
stimulant
diuretic
expectorant

Tarragon

Tarragon is a perennial herb used in a lot of traditional French cuisine. It is widely available, easy to grow and can flavor a variety of dishes. It has some amazing health benefits as well.

Health Benefits:
lowers blood glucose levels
protects against heart attack and stroke
excellent source of the minerals calcium, manganese, magnesium, potassium, copper, iron and zinc
aids insomnia

Thyme

Thyme is a staple in Middle Eastern cooking. It is widely available and versatile. It has a warm, woody flavour and is often used with roasted vegetables or grilled foods. It can be easily grown in pots.

Health Benefits:
rich in potassium, calcium, manganese, magnesium, selenium and iron
rich in vitamins A, K, E, C and folic acid
reduces stress
reduces inflammation
improves vision
boosts immunity

Reposted from http://skinnyms.com