By Katie Jenson-Hull  /  The Radiant Nutritionist

Fresh herbs are always a good idea! Not only are they delicious, but they also offer a range of benefits for our health and culinary experiences. Spring summer sees a vibrant mix of fresh and vibrant herbs in the kitchen garden. This provides a welcome additional flourish to our dishes and plates.   

Herbs are classed as one of our recommended 30 plants to enjoy a week. I personally add a sprinkle of different herbs to most of my meals. They are a wonderful way of getting a nutritional boost. Here are a few of my favourite herbs to cook with: 

PARSLEY 

An anti-inflammatory and detoxifying herb. I literally use this herb daily it is so versatile. It can help support hormonal balance and liver and kidney health. Parsley is a source of iron and vitamin K. I like to add to my green juices for some added green herb goodness. 

BASIL 

Full of antioxidants, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Fresh is best, grow your own on your window sill and top your salads or make a smoothie with it. The best combination in a smoothie when things heat up is strawberries and fresh basil, so refreshing. 

ROSEMARY 

A wonderfully anti-ageing and antioxidant rich herb that can help to lower the stress hormone cortisol. The fragrance of rosemary has also been shown to improve memory and boost mood. I love to take a walk in my garden mid-afternoon and collect a spring of rosemary for a rosemary cup of tea. 

SAGE 

An anti-inflammatory herb that could support cognitive function. Sage contains wonderful antioxidants. It can help to support heart health and blood pressure.  Sage has been shown to be beneficial to supporting menopausal hot flashes. Sage tends to lend itself a little more as an autumn herb. However, it goes very well with meat, think pork or chicken. A little goes a long way, use sparingly as it packs a powerful flavour punch. 

CHIVES

An anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial herb that is nutrient dense. Chives are a wonderful addition to add to spring summer dishes. Simply add a sprinkle to salads and my personal favorite way is to add to my scrambled eggs for breakfast.  

MINT 

Mint is most well known for its role in supporting digestion, alleviating indigestion, and nausea. Mint is a refreshing yet calming herb. During the summer, when the mint is abundant in my kitchen garden, I love to use it in my smoothies and to make fresh mint tea. 

CORIANDER 

A super detoxifying herb that is also a great anti-inflammatory herb and good for digestion. Coriander is a love-it-or-hate-it herb. But I suggest giving it a go for its wonderful health benefits. Use it in carrot and coriander soup, homemade guacamole, or in curries. 

Sending all the green love, 

Katie xx