“Many herbs used for flavouring in the kitchen also have medicinal benefits,” says medical doctor Sarah Brewer. “But it’s better to take them in supplement form, as this helps to provide a consistent dose.”
Here’s what to try:
Rosemary for clarity
“As well as jazzing up roast potatoes, rosemary is uplifting,” says medical herbalist Hannah Charman. “It aids memory, concentration and even mathematical ability.”Love it with lamb? Rosemary is also very high in antioxidants, and studies suggest that it may prevent carcinogenic compounds (which are potentially cancer-causing) in meat that has been cooked on a high heat.
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Sage for hot flushes
Delicious with onion in stuffing, sage has antibacterial, anti-sweating and muscle-relaxant properties. “It’s great for menopausal flushes,” says Hannah. “Sage is also linked to wisdom, so I often give it to my female patients caught in a dilemma.” Studies in the US have even found it could be useful against Alzheimer’s disease.
Marjoram for balance
Not just for giving carrots extra flavour, marjoram can be used to “aid digestion, coughs and colds, and headaches,” says medical herbalist Dr Chris Etheridge. “Marjoram oil is available to treat gut infections and imbalances.” A preliminary study in Egypt even found it may help with asthma. Close relative oregano is more readily available in pill form.
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Parsley for bladder health
No, it’s not just a garnish! “Parsley seeds contain an oil that is diuretic, antimicrobial, digestive and anti- rheumatic,” says Dr Etheridge. “It can help bladder disorders and menopausal symptoms.” Scientists in Tehran found apigenin, a flavonoid in parsley, may help reduce tumour size in breast cancer patients.
Thyme for coughs and colds
Perfect to add flavour to turkey, thyme is packed with vitamins C and A. “Thyme can treat colds, coughs, catarrh, sore throats, asthma, indigestion, diarrhoea and stomach irritation,” says Dr Etheridge. “It can be used as a gargle for tonsillitis, sore throats, gum disease and bad breath.”
Dill for stomach issues
Delicious with salmon gravadlax, dill leaf is high in calcium, and vitamins A and C, and can relieve stomach cramps or flatulence. ‘Dill contains a relaxing essential oil that can be used as a safe muscle relaxant,’ says Dr Etheridge.
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