LIVING with fresh herbs

Fresh herbs don’t just smell and taste good, they have long been used in traditional medicine and beauty treatments, containing many properties that are beneficial to our health. Here’s a quick guide to some of the benefits of fresh herbs outside of the kitchen:

Research has shown that basil can help relieve congestion, soothe coughs, help combat depression, aid diabetes, soothe insect bites and repel insects. It is also effective in relieving muscular tension, nausea and vomiting, and can help with stress and anxiety.

It’s been proven that chives are an effective aid for digestion and can help stimulate the appetite.

Whilst the distinctive flavour of coriander may not be to everyone’s taste in the kitchen, there is a lot more to this herb than you might think. Medical findings have shown that coriander aids digestion and is an effective treatment for urinary tract infections.

If prepared as an herbal tea, infused with hot water, coriander helps to relieve headaches, particularly those that are caused by a cold and, as if that’s not enough, the herb also promotes sleep.

Mint contains menthol which is used in the relief of nasal congestion and breathing difficulties.

Oregano has potent antioxidant abilities (up to 20 times the antioxidants of other herbs - ounce for ounce it beats apples and oranges) and is also a potent anti-inflammatory agent.

Medical experts say that parsley is good for the circulation and, as a natural diuretic, it is good for our kidneys, helping remove excess water from the body. For this reason, many think of it as the ‘slimming herb’.

Rosemary is one of nature’s most powerful antioxidants and has been linked with fighting the signs of ageing. It also stimulates the immune system and increases circulation. Historically, rosemary is believed to sharpen the memory and improve concentration.

Medical research shows that sage aids the digestion of fatty and oily foods and is soothing for sore throats.

Thyme can help relieve congestion, help with the effects of bronchitis by soothing throats and its antiseptic qualities even soothe cuts.

What better way to enjoy and benefit from the healing properties of fresh herbs than in a relaxing warm bath? Make an infusion by placing the fresh leaves in a bowl of boiling water. Once the water has had time to infuse, strain and add directly to your bath. Try lavender to sooth aching muscles, rosemary to rejuvenate, sage to relieve stress or basil to stimulate.