Intoxicating flavors for body and soul: the healing properties of fresh herbs

In the field of plant cultivation, it is perhaps no exaggeration to say that there are two types of people. Living with the first one, the plants are bursting with happiness, while at the other one, even the most undemanding cactus is drying up into a stump. However, even inveterate plant killers should consider keeping herb plants growing in balcony boxes, because their green leaves not only make our food taste better, but are also beneficial to our health.

Let's see which herbs are worth getting involved with!

Imagine a freshly baked sourdough pizza emerging from the oven. The picture would be complete with a few basil leaves on top, wouldn’t it?

It is no coincidence that we find the mere sight of green leaves soothing: according to researchers, basil has a positive effect on our mood, helps stabilize blood sugar levels, and is also good for the stomach and intestines, as it can alleviate bloating. And the bonus: it is also great for stress relief! (Especially if you manage to satisfy its delicate needs and it starts to grow luxuriantly in the pot instead of wilting!)

Few people know that oregano belongs to the same family as mint. It is native to North America, but it is also cultivated in certain regions of the Mediterranean. Fortunately, it thrives on most balconies, so there is nothing to stop us enjoying its benefits every day, such as its antifungal and antibacterial properties. When oregano is not fulfilling its destiny in the frying pan, it is still happy if you simply sprinkle it with a little water. The tea prepared in this way (steep for 5 minutes, then strain and season with a little lemon and honey) helps to combat inflammation in the body and strengthens the immune system.

Rosemary is a spice that adds a new dimension to dishes in small quantities, while also being beneficial to our health. Rosemary is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents that revitalize the immune system and stimulate circulation. Furthermore, the pointed leaves that won a place on the podium in the pine needle competition also gently regulate blood sugar levels, so its regular consumption is particularly recommended for diabetics. If all this were not enough, rosemary contains carnosine, which is a type of antioxidant and one of the brain cells’ best friends: it strengthens memory and has a beneficial effect on learning ability and speech center function.

Sage is a herb that is almost impossible to eradicate: if it gets a little water and sunlight, it is practically impossible to get rid of it. This is extremely fortunate, given that this evergreen plant is excellent for treating persistent coughs and asthma, and, according to some studies, it also improves memory and mood. Furthermore, in a study conducted among people with type 2 diabetes, experts also observed that sage tea reduces cholesterol and triglyceride levels. In addition, it can also be used to treat insomnia and digestive problems.

In addition to the herbs listed above, which are perhaps the best known, mint, thyme, lemon balm, marjoram, and coriander can also work wonders. It’s worth experimenting with them in the kitchen! So, long live herbs: let’s spice up our everyday lives and our health with them!

A useful tip: If you would like to learn about the secrets of the most common herbs through personal stories, it is worth visiting the Pannonhalma Archabbey Winery, the Fiastyúk Manor House, the Graefl Major, or the Dörgicse Levendula Major, where you can not only purchase quality products, but also enrich your experience by talking to local farmers.