Increasingly present in the kitchens, herbs and spices can give a special flavor to the simplest recipe, besides having excellent properties that can contribute significantly to your health. And the best: they have low calorie and most are relatively inexpensive.

Among the benefits is the amount of antioxidants present in these plants, substances that fight free radicals that contribute to premature aging and development of chronic degenerative diseases such as cancer, which can be a good alternative for those who eat few vegetables, although is not a substitute for these foods. In general, the use of natural spices reduces the need for the use of salt, thus contributing to the prevention and reduction of hypertension. And some spices also have specific properties in the prevention of certain diseases, such as cinnamon, which has the power to control the levels of blood sugar and prevent diabetes. And do not stop there. Some of these plants have excellent digestive and anti-inflammatory properties, such as ginger and pepper, diuretic, in the case of parsley and celery, and antibacterial, present in garlic and mint.

Despite all these benefits, like any other plant, these seasonings are subject to the use of pesticides that may be harmful to our health. In addition, the flavor can be reduced by the transport and storage before arriving at your home. Therefore, to avoid the intake of chemicals and make the most of the flavor of herbs, plant a small amount at home is a great option. And do not need much: a little empty with a few trees near the window is enough!

Learn more about ways to use and the medicinal properties of some spices:

GARLIC

Use: Poultry, meat, sauces in general, stews, soups, stuffings, salads and seafood.

Properties: antibacterial, digestive and improves blood pressure.

CINNAMON

Use: in coffee, tea, fruit (raw or cooked), in yogurt, vitamin or juice.

Properties: Stimulant, digestive, antispasmodic, used to treat fever, colds and flu and control of blood glucose.

GINGER

Use: Birds, soups, squeezed into the salad dressing in the form of tea or hit with fruit juice

Properties: Improves sickness and nausea, anti-inflammatory, and diget antiflatulent. Your tea is used to combat migraines.

BASIL

Use: Combines with preparations that take garlic, tomatoes, tomato sauce, eggplant, zucchini and red pepper pizza. Main ingredient of pesto sauce.

Properties: Digestive, indicated for the treatment of respiratory problems and headaches associated with poor digestion.

PEPPER

Use: in sauteed vegetables, meat and fish stews, sauces or sprinkled on salads. It can also be used in soups and broths as seasoning. Add the pepper always at the end of the preparation.

Properties: lowers cholesterol, has anti-inflammatory property, improves blood circulation and poor digestion, besides being a potent antioxidant, fighting free radicals.