# Herbs & Spices

Flavor without salt, medicine without pills. Mediterranean herbs are concentrated longevity compounds.

## Why Herbs Are Longevity Foods

Mediterranean cuisine is famous for its generous use of fresh herbs and spices. These aren't just for flavor - they're concentrated sources of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and other bioactive substances that support health and longevity.

Beyond Flavor: Herbs and spices allow you to reduce salt while increasing flavor. This is important for blood pressure. The antioxidant content of herbs can exceed that of fruits and vegetables by 10-50 times per gram.

### Top Mediterranean Herbs

- Oregano: Highest antioxidant content of all herbs, antibacterial
- Rosemary: Improves memory and circulation, protects brain cells
- Basil: Anti-inflammatory, stress-reducing, antibacterial
- Thyme: Antimicrobial, supports respiratory health
- Parsley: Rich in vitamin K, supports bone health, freshens breath
- Sage: Cognitive support, traditionally used for memory
- Mint: Digestive support, cooling and refreshing

### Powerful Spices

- Turmeric: Curcumin is one of nature's strongest anti-inflammatories
- Cinnamon: Improves blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity
- Garlic: Heart health, immune support, antimicrobial
- Ginger: Anti-nausea, anti-inflammatory, aids digestion
- Black Pepper: Enhances absorption of other nutrients
- Cumin: Digestive health, iron-rich

Fresh vs Dried: Fresh herbs have more flavor and some volatile compounds, but dried herbs are more concentrated in antioxidants. Use both! Fresh for finishing dishes, dried for cooking.

### How to Use More Herbs

- Add fresh herbs to salads and as garnish
- Make herb-infused olive oil for cooking
- Create fresh pesto with basil, parsley, or other greens
- Use dried herbs in marinades and rubs
- Brew fresh herb teas (mint, chamomile, sage)
- Grow a small herb garden for fresh supply

Storage Tip: Store dried herbs in dark, cool places away from the stove. They lose potency after about a year. Fresh herbs last longer when wrapped in damp paper towel in the refrigerator, or frozen in olive oil in ice cube trays.

## Premium Herbs & Spices

These are artisan-sourced, single-origin spices - far superior to supermarket jars that sit on shelves for years. Fresh spices make all the difference.

#### Zane Hellas Oregano Oil - 130mg Carvacrol

World's highest concentration oregano oil. 150mg per softgel with 30% Greek essential oil. 120 softgels. Powerful immune support.

$39.67 on Amazon

#### Qunol Turmeric Curcumin 1000mg

Ultra high absorption formula. Joint support supplement. Amazon's Choice with 15,900+ reviews. 2 month supply, 120 capsules.

$29.97 on Amazon

#### The Spice Lab Complete Organic Set - 30 Jars

Complete starter spice set with 30 organic jars. Great for BBQ, grilling. Ultimate culinary gift set. 400+ bought last month.

$139.95 on Amazon