
Many herbs we use in cooking have known therapeutic actions. Peppermint is a gut antispasmodic reducing indigestion and bloating. It improves liver function and is cooling and anaesthetic when applied to the skin. Thyme is antimicrobial and used to treat sore throats, coughs and catarrh as well as a digestive tonic for indigestion and flatulence. Spices such as turmeric, chilli and cinnamon reduce inflammation, relieve joint pain and balance blood sugar, respectively.
We can increase the intake of herbs and spices by adding more to our food and by regularly drinking tea made with dried or fresh herbs.
Living Medicine is an award-winning charity which develops hands-on skills and knowledge on how to use foods and herbs to promote our own health and wellbeing. Medical Herbalists run workshop based courses on how to use foods and herbs for daily healthcare and how to turn plants into safe and effective remedies. Visit www.livingmedicine.org to find out more information.