Turmeric, dill, basil, rosemary, and parsley – the incredible benefits of these herbs.

According to Andrej Pometkas, marketing manager for the Iki retail chain, Lithuanian baskets generally contain herbs that are already familiar to them.

“With the start of the summer season, sales of pickling and canning herbs have nearly quadrupled. These include well-known spices such as bay leaf or fresh dill. During the hot season, our buyers often choose herbs as well. for a variety of meats, fish, vegetables and cheese, such as basil. Well, turmeric, the queen of spices, is still the most popular year-round, “says A. Pometko.

Herbs can become a lost accent on a plate, but that’s not its only benefit. According to food expert Vilma Juodkazienė, herbs supplement our bodies with useful substances and even help protect against various diseases.

Turmeric has been known for its health benefits because it contains the active ingredient curcumin. It has an anti-inflammatory effect and therefore helps the body fight harmful bacteria. In addition, it improves brain function, helps to combat stress, anxiety and even depression.

“Turmeric is great for breakfast, like an omelette, porridge, or green cocktails. Not only does it give the dish a distinctive flavor and aroma, it also gives it a bright yellow color. It is true that this herb should not multiply, as it can cause digestive disorders, “says food expert V. Juodkazienė.

Dill is one of the most widely used herbs in Lithuania, which is often grown in the garden. This spice, in addition to its aromatic and flavor properties, also has health benefits. Dill dilates blood vessels, lowers blood pressure, improves heart function, and strengthens the body’s immune system.

“The unique aroma of dill is associated with summer for many. In the hot season, I would suggest replacing dry dill with fresh one and enjoying it in vegetable salads. Also, they go well with meat and fish dishes, ”says V. Juodkazienė.

Basil is an extremely popular spice that is known for its flavor and healing properties. Basil leaves are rich in vitamin K, which supports normal blood clotting and promotes wound healing. In addition, basil has antibacterial properties: the essential oils it contains, along with other substances, inhibit the growth of bacteria and microbes.

“Whenever possible, always choose fresh basil leaves instead of dried spices. The possibilities of using basil are simply limitless: they are used in various sauces, pastries, pastas or meat dishes. However, these herbs can also be used to make tea that saves when you feel heavy in your stomach or when digestion stops. Pour fresh leaves in hot water and drink tea 3 times a day between meals, ”advises V. Juodkazienė.

Rosemary contains carnosic acid, which acts as an antioxidant and helps fight cancer cells. Additionally, rosemary leaves help regulate the intestinal microflora, improve the absorption of beneficial nutrients, and help flush out toxins.

“Rosemary is perfect for baked dishes. They flavor pizzas, cheese crackers, homemade bread, potatoes and their baked goods. Furthermore, its twigs can be used to decorate various lamb or beef steaks, ”says V. Juodkazienė.

Although parsley is often used to decorate food, it is also excellent for food production as it enriches dishes with a brilliant flavor and aroma. The folic acid in parsley is one of the most important B vitamins that is good for cardiovascular health. Furthermore, it acts as an effective means of preventing heart, diabetes and even cancer.

“Parsley differs from other herbs in that drying weakens its bright flavor. Therefore, depending on the dish being prepared, choose which parsley you want to season. If the dish does not require a bright herbaceous flavor, you can choose dried parsley, but if you want a brighter flavor and aroma, use fresh herbs, “advises V. Juodkazienė.