July 6, 2022

Aztec Berry Salad with Lemon Chia Dressing

The Aztecs recorded using chia seeds as far back as 1540. This colorful and refreshing salad is perfect for summer afternoons and evenings. Serve this salad as a starter, side dish, or light summer meal. Benefits: Chia seeds provide energy in the form of healthy fats (including anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids) and plant-based protein. Fresh, seasonal berries provide a concentrated source of beneficial antioxidants such as vitamin C and anthocyanins, which improve capillary function in the brain, eyes, and skin. SERVES 4 Ingredients For the salad 2 cups (packed) roughly chopped baby spinach 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced 1 cup […]
July 6, 2022

Top 10 Medicinal Herbs Growing in your Garden

Summer is a great time for gardening and boosting anti-inflammatory foods that you grow on your own. Get strategic about which plants you want in your garden this year by including some beautiful aromatic culinary herbs. The top 10 medicinal herbs below can help you add more flavor to your cooking and also offer many health benefits. Some of the top health benefits you can gain by using more herbs include: reduce salt in your cooking while still including lots of flavor blood pressure control benefits (herbs are often high in potassium) boost potent antioxidants that can help calm inflammation […]
October 20, 2020

The Incredibly Bountiful Benefits of Basil

Basil is a common, fragrant herb that may be growing in your garden or windowsill right now but did you know that it has also been used medicinally since ancient times? Used in Asian, Indian, African and Mediterranean cuisine as a spice to enhance the flavor of savory and sweet dishes alike, basil is commonly used in the U.S. now as well. When discussing the use of basil there are two conversations: the culinary uses and the medicinal benefits. Read on to learn more about both including the pros and potential dangers of using basil in cooking and for medicine. […]
April 21, 2020

Relax With Holy Basil

Anxiety is the most common mental illness in the United States. Roughly 18% of Americans have this condition and many go untreated. It’s actually estimated that about two thirds of those suffering forgo medical treatment. Many are concerned about the side effects associated with anxiety medications, and rightfully so. They’re not exactly risk-free. Luckily, there are a number of safe herbs that not only alleviate anxiety, but offer additional health benefits as well. Below, we’ll explore the anti-anxiety effects of holy basil, one of nature’s best stress-relieving herbs. Holy Basil Offers Multiple Health Benefits Holy basil has been used traditionally in Asia for thousands of years. […]
December 10, 2019

Add Life To the Menu With Spice Mixes

As you probably know from history, North America was discovered by Columbus’ expedition in the 15th century because Europe wanted to find a shortcut to India, with whom they had been trading in valuable spices. Back then, spices were mostly used to help preserve food in the days before refrigeration and to mask the off flavor of food starting to spoil. In general, herbs are the fresh leaves of a plant, such as sage, oregano and basil. Spices are usually considered the seed, berry, bark, root or rhizome (creeping root) of a plant. In common practice, once fresh herbs are […]
May 21, 2017

Crunch It! Lemon Tahini Kale Chips

Try these Lemon Tahini Kale Chips next time you’re in search of a crunchy snack that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Fresh flavors and crunchy textures combine to create a delicious transportable snack that will help you feel energized and satisfied until your next meal. You can enjoy an extra serving of nutritious disease-preventing cruciferous vegetables by packing these kale chips along in your lunchbox, purse, or backpack. Because the kale stays raw, its detoxifying chlorophyll is preserved. SERVES 2-3 Ingredients 1 bunch (about 8 leaves) kale, ribs removed and torn into large, chip-sized pieces 2 Tbs. tahini 1 lemon, zest […]
December 30, 2015

Herbed Spinach-Artichoke Dip

The winter months are full of rich foods and parties. This time of year is for celebrating with friends and family, but does it have to lead to yearly weight gain? Support the health of the ones you love with a lighter, healthier holiday classic dip that retains all of its flavor. Artichokes are packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants; they are also a source of probiotics, which support gut health by feeding the good bacteria that live there. This simple high-fiber dip can be made in minutes with one simple step: blend until smooth! Serve this savory dip alongside […]
May 13, 2014

SuperFoods: Basil

Derived from the Greek word meaning royal, basil is a versatile herb that has lived up to its pedigree. With its wealth of nutrients, from hefty amounts of vitamin K and calcium, to its high antioxidant oils, basil offers an array of health-enhancing benefits ranging from protection against DNA damage to combating stress. In addition, the peppermint-like leaves of basil are loaded with beta-caryophyllene, an anti-inflammatory compound that may treat conditions such as arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. An abundance of evidence is emerging to support basil’s reputation as an herbal remedy for thousands of years, making this undervalued herb a formidable opponent against some […]