herbal remedies

June 23rd, 2010

thai basil

What’s in your garden?  Anantara Dhigu divulges the juicy scoop on the resort’s chef’s garden. Check out the growing there. Not only do the 12 varieties of organic herbs and vegetables add punches of flavor to food and several offer holistic benefits. This may be inspiration for starting a backyard garden, or at least planting some herbs on the fire escape.

 

Lemongrass

As an ingredient: used to give soups and sauces a sharp lemony flavor

For good health: works as a diuretic, emmanagogue, and is anti-flatulence, anti-flu, and antimicrobials

 

Thai Chili, Maldivian Chili, Indian Chili, and Hot Pepper

As ingredients: used to make curries spicy and give varying levels of heat to many Thai dishes

For good health: Chilis contain capsaicin, a chemical that benefits the respiratory system, blood pressure, and heart. Eating lots of chilis also raises body temperature which can speed up metabolism.

 

Arugula

As an ingredient: used in salads and as a garnish, this zesty leaves has a horseradish flavor

For good health: While arugula seeds are historically thought to be an aphrodisiac, its leaves are known to stimulate digestion and promote healthy hair, skin, and nails.

 

Bok Choy

As an ingredient: this Chinese cabbage is great for soups, salads, and stir-fry

For good health: The leafy green is a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K and promotes improvement of vision and the proper growth of bones and teeth.

 

Thyme

As an ingredient: adds an earthy taste and rich scent to stews and sauces and grilled meats

For good health: it’s said to aid in the digestion of fats

 

Sweet and Thai Basil

As an ingredient: both basils provide a fresh, flavorful note to dishes, with Thai basil carrying a stronger anise taste

For good health: basil can help digestion and stomach health

 

Ginger

As an ingredient: adds a spicy kick to lots of Asian dishes and makes a great soothing tea

For good health: this root has many perks, thought to be an aphrodisiac and known to help upset stomachs and calm nausea from motion sickness and morning sickness.

 

Cherry Tomato

As an ingredient: sweeter than its bigger cousins, these tomatoes are great in salads

For good health: they’re a great source of Vitamins E, C, and A

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