Herbs have many healthy benefits - Richmond Times Dispatch

Herbs contain unique antioxidants (antioxidants act as scavengers to clean up the free radicals of metabolism and other environmental toxins such as smoke and pesticides in the body), essential oils, vitamins, phytosterols and many other plant-derived nutrient substances.

These nutritional substances help equip the body to fight against germs, toxins and to boost immunity levels. Let's look at some of the health benefits of common herbs.

• Basil: Basil leaves contain beneficial essential oils that are known to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Basil is very low in calories. It is a rich source of many essential nutrients, minerals and vitamins. Basil contains exceptionally high levels of beta-carotene (vitamin A). It also has Zeaxanthin, a yellow flavonoid carotenoid compound that is absorbed into the retina, where it can filter harmful UV rays from reaching the retina. Basil, an excellent source of iron, also contains good amount of minerals such as potassium, manganese, copper and magnesium.

• Parsley: This herb contains no cholesterol and is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber, which helps control cholesterol and prevents constipation. It is also rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E and lutein. Parsley leaves are rich in pantothenic acid (vitamin B-5) Riboflavin (vitamin B-12) niacin (vitamin B-3) pyridoxine (Vitamin B-6) and thiamin (vitamin B-1). It is a rich source of vitamin K, which plays a role in bone health and in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease by limiting neuronal damage.

• Sage: Sage has many medicinal properties. It is a stimulant, a diuretic and an expectorant. It boosts memory and has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial as well as anxiolytic (reduces anxiety) properties, according to HolisticHerbalist.com. In addition, it provides antibacterial, antifungal and antiseptic effects. Because of these characteristics of sage, sage tea provides many health benefits; it may also help with menopausal symptoms.

• Thyme: Thyme contains an essential oil that is rich in thymol, a powerful antiseptic, antibacterial and a strong antioxidant. The oil of thyme is used in mouthwashes to treat inflammations of the mouth and throat infections. It is a common component of cough drops.