Fresh herbs can make the plainest meal appear gourmet instantly, but fresh herbs do more than enhance appearance. Fresh herbs are a fantastic tool to make your eating both more flavorful and healthier. Because of herbs’ hearty nature, even gardeners with the brownest thumbs can tackle an herb garden. Whether you have acres of land or just a small windowsill, you can successfully plant your own thriving herb garden. All you need is a little time and some potting soil!
Begin by choosing a variety of herbs you like, and perhaps some new ones. As a rule herbs are some of the easiest, most effortless plants to grow. Good choices include basil, cilantro, thyme, rosemary, and mint. You can plant your herbs either outdoors or in containers in your home. Read on to find out why creating your own herb garden can help you eat healthier at any meal!
How an Herb Garden Can Help You with Healthier Eating
- Adds Antioxidants and Phytochemicals. Herbs are a terrific source of antioxidants that help your body fight the damages brought on by harmful free radicals and phytochemicals that keep your cells healthy. Each herb offers slightly different antioxidants and phytochemicals so the more herbs you add to your diet the better.
- Encourages More Adventuresome Eating. If you or a member of your family tend to stick with plain dishes, growing your own herbs can be just the ticket to trying a greater variety of dishes. Children especially are more likely to try something new if they’ve had a hand in growing it. Make it a project to look for new recipes that feature some of the herbs you’ve grown. Looking for an idea? Try a caprese salad featuring homegrown basil!
- Infuses Healthy Flavor. One problem many people face today is a diet that is too high in sodium. Herbs provide a perfect way to infuse delicious flavor into any dish, without adding the excess sodium and artificial preservatives that fill so many commercial spice blends.
- Makes Organic Living Less Expensive. Keeping chemicals off our foods is always a positive health step to take, but it is not always the most economical option. Growing your own herbs typically only requires water and sunshine, leaving you with a fresh supply of chemical free herbs at the ready. Anyone who has looked to buy organic herbs at the grocery store knows the money this can save you!
The Bottom Line: There are no drawbacks to this tool for healthier eating. It’s simple, cost efficient, antioxidant packed, and delicious! Get to growing!