NUTRITIOUS HERBS!

SCOTT: With so much talk about tomatoes and peppers, we’ve not discussed herbs. There’s Russian Sage, garlic, mints and even Anise Hyssop, which you mentioned in a recent podcast episode is a native perennial. Want to introduce us to your new friend, Anise Hyssop?
MIKE: Scott, Anise Hyssop is a member of the mint family. It has really large mint shaped leaves and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Some gardeners believe this herb is unbelievably stunning and looks more like an ornamental flowering bush than an edible herb. This herb historically has been used to settle digestive issues, such as helping with bloating, gastritis and nausea. It has also been used to break up mucus, congestion and morning sickness. Believe it or not, Anise Hyssop is applied for the treatment of skin issues like burns and Poison Ivy as well. Some families celebrate holidays by baking traditional Anise cookies.
SCOTT: Perennial herbs (not all in our Sylvania growing zone) are rich in antioxidants, especially cloves, cinnamon, sage, oregano and thyme. Some have even been known to protect against cancers. Want to expand on this?
MIKE: Grapes yes! Those you listed do contain antioxidants. The definition of antioxidant is, “a substance that inhibits oxidation. Especially one used to counteract and protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.” These free radicals play a part in cancer, heart disease, stroke and other diseases of aging. One does not have to forage for plants and herbs in order to gain a rich antioxidant food source. Just plant them in your back yard garden. Some double as anti–inflammatory foods. Cilantro, wild blueberries, (Heirloom, where two of different cultivars are needed to cross pollenate to produce berries), Coji Berries, Elderberries and Blackberries. Traditional foods such as tomatoes, carrots, sweet potatoes, strawberries, kale, broccoli and squash all contain a highly beneficial antioxidant value.
SCOTT: Mike, I’ve done the apple cider vinegar drink, which really did help, and lately I’ve been on the cayenne pepper and hot lemon water kick. A possible fat burner remedy that tastes a whole lot better than the apple cider vinegar combo.
MIKE: Scott! I’m not a physician.
SCOTT: Well, there’s a news scoop…
MIKE: HAHA, however, it is known that apple cider vinegar and Cayenne Pepper are rich in helping reduce inflammation in the human body. It also contains an abundance of antioxidants. Stick to your drink routine as it also helps to boosting your immune system.
SCOTT: I understand Anise Hyssop is the most beautiful flowering perennial of this discussion group.
MIKE: Anise Hyssop makes for great eye candy. The plant is native to North America. It can also be used in drinks such as teas and preserves. It is drought tolerant and likes well drained soils and full sun. We are strongly recommending all gardeners do their own research and investigate the resources at their convenience. It is a wonderful time to start with perennial herbs as a resource to living healthier lives.