While you indulge in some of your favourite things, remember to stay heal thing using these common kitchen herbs!
These everyday pantry items range from herbs and spices to fruit and nuts — all packed with healing components that nourish and prevent holiday discomfort. Stock up today so you are ready for anything you might encounter over the holiday season.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a household spice that you are sure to have on hand already. Derived from the inner bark of the trees, this spice is a powerful antioxidant with and has been shown to lower cholesterol and cleanse blood. It can also be used as a digestive aid and helps reduce sugar cravings. On a cold winter day, cinnamon is also warming to cold hands and feet by improving circulation.
Cloves
Aromatic cloves are often used as a spice in curries and dessert, but it can be used as a herbal remedy. Have you come down with a toothache? Cloves can help relieve pain associated with toothaches. This pantry item also has anti-fungal properties which can help alleviate athlete’s foot. Take some cloves to prevent bad breath too – especially after eating those garlic mashed potatoes!
Coffee
For some households, coffee is a must have in the kitchen. As a stimulant to temporarily relieves brain fog and lethargy, coffee can wake up your mind to prepare you for an active and full day. The pleasant scent of coffee in all forms – whole, freshly ground, or brewed – can support the grounding a busy mind. Plus, if you need a little bit of assistance, coffee is an excellent digestive aid to keep your bowels moving.
Bay Leaves
The medicinal benefits of bay leaves have been known for thousands of years. The ancient Greeks once used this herb to treat infectious diseases. They can be used as an expectorant which will helps loosen mucus when you have congestion due to a cold. Bay leaves are known for their detoxifying components and can decrease aches and pains.
Lemons
Another excellent kitchen remedy for those who might have caught a cold is lemon. Lemon is an excellent source of vitamin C which fights minor throat infections. As a digestive aid, fresh lemon in the pantry is a must-have.
Honey
Pair with lemon tea (or any tea, for that matter), honey will do wonders to soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing. With a powerful antibacterial and antioxidant punch, honey will help you kick the cold sooner. Topically, high-quality honey is a great treatment for minor burns.
Almonds
The first and only nut on this list is almonds. With a concentrated source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, raw almonds are not only a fantastic high protein snack, but it can also reduce cholesterol, regular blood sugar, and help you avoid stomach troubles. Please remember that it is important to chew almonds well or chop into small pieces.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Are you experiencing a funny gut? Stimulate your digestion and rebalance your stomach acid with a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Use with caution when certain medications because this kitchen remedy also thins blood. Used topically, apple cider vinegar is cooling and can help relieve itchy skin.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a beautiful herb to keep in the pantry at all times. If you are feeling stressed or have lingering brain fog, rosemary can increase cognitive function, improve your memory, and decrease your stress responses by lowering your cortisol levels. Amazing, right? Rosemary is also a great digestive aid and a liver tonic that is why it is often served on top of prime rib.
Mint
Have you ever wondered why there are mints at restaurants? Mint is a tremendous digestive aid that can decrease nausea and bloating while stimulating the gastric membrane. Try drinking mint tea after a large meal to feel more yourself again. If you have mint essential oil available, a small amount on your temples can relieve headaches.
Cranberries
As a holiday staple around the dinner table, cranberries tout herbal benefits as well. Cranberries are high in flavonoids and antioxidants to boost your immunity. This delicious berry can also lower your blood sugar levels, stimulate digestion, and help relieve cramps. Perfect for when you get your fill of delicious meals and treats.
Garlic
Raw or cooked, garlic is a herb used in a variety of common meals. But did you know that garlic can actually fight bacteria, viruses, and parasites? Also great as an antidiarrheal if you find you are in a bind over the holidays.
Cardamom
Cardamom is a seed that comes from India and Indonesia. Absolutely delicious in tea and curries, can boost your appetite while decreasing any nausea. This spice is great for preventing and relieving gas if you happen to succumb to that discomfort.
Thyme
Thyme is a natural preservative with antimicrobial properties. It can be used to help aid in the reduction of blood pressure or as an antifungal. Its powerful components are also known to decrease blemishes.
Ginger
Similar to cinnamon, ginger is a stimulating herb that can warm you up from the inside out. Relieve any cramping or soothe nausea by adding some ginger slices to tea. A delightful panty item to keep on hand during the holidays (and year-round).
It’s possible you might already have the majority of this list in your pantry already, but hopefully, you will find some new ways to bring herbal remedies into your life. Over the holidays when everything is closed up and the air is chilly, you might just find that these come in handier than you ever would have thought. There are many ways to get started using herbs into your everyday life.
