This week I have had a request to write about smoothies...green smoothies, in fact. This couldn't have come at a better time, since I have been experiencing a little creative block this week!
Smoothies are a great way to get in extra nutrients during the day, they are an especially great way to start the day off. And there are all kinds of "green" things that you can add...spinach, lettuce (any variety), kale, chard, avocados...dark leafy greens are nutrient dense, full of essential vitamins and minerals and they give a great, fresh taste when added to a smoothie. Avocados are a great substitute for bananas in smoothies; they help with the texture and are a great source of healthy fats.
The greens I want to review today, though, are greens that can be picked right from your herb garden, as well as some wild greens.
Herbs and their benefits:
Cilantro: controls blood sugar, lowers cholesterol and helps detox heavy metals from your system.
Parsley: contains healthy antioxidants, like flavanoids, to help with detox.
Sage: has anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal effects.
Basil: has anti-inflammatory effects.
Dill: is anti-bacterial.
Mint: aids in digestion, relieves indigestion and acts as a blood cleanser.
Oregano: has anti-bacterial properties.
Wild greens and their benefits:
Dandelion: supports digestion and acts as a diuretic, supporting kidney and liver function.
Wheatgrass: cleanses the body, and eliminates bad breathe and odors.
Nettles: treats allergy symptoms and reduces inflammation.
Chamomile: used as a sleep aid; and treats fevers, colds and stomach ailments.
There are obviously many, many more...but, this is enough to get you started on adding greens to your drinks. Be adventurous, play around with different recipes using these tips:
- use 60% fruit to 40% greens
- use at least 2 different varieties of fruit and up to 2 types of greens
- rotate your ingredients and blend different fruits and greens everyday
In good health,
Wendy
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