Anise seeds give a unique flavor to dishes and excellent anti-bloating digestive properties, which counteract abdominal discomfort. They promote well-being after meals and stimulate the appetite. They are the basis of herbal preparations that calm coughs. As aromatic and tasty seeds, they can be used in milk for breakfast, together with muesli or in a mix of dried fruit.
Contemporary phytotherapy uses dill leaves to relieve digestive difficulties and irritation of the oral mucous membranes. The diuretic and purifying properties make it an ally against water retention and cellulite, as it helps eliminate the accumulation of excess fluids. Dill tips are excellent in the kitchen for flavoring fish-based dishes such as salmon, with their spicy and intense flavour.
The cumin plant is one of the oldest medicinal plants, it produces seeds that have a spicy flavor and a rich and singular aroma. In recent years, some research is also verifying its slimming power. The scientists involved compared the effects on overweight and blood sugar levels of the use of cumin extracts.
The sage with a pungent and camphoric flavor can be used to flavor meat, vegetables, omelettes, soups and stews. In French recipes, sage is used for the preparation of soups and flavoring white meats and salami, while in Italy it is the protagonist of recipes such as tortelloni with butter and sage, Roman saltimbocca or in the scent of porchetta.
Thyme is a spice that makes many preparations pleasant. With an aromatic and slightly spicy taste, it can be easily used to flavor pasta dishes, roasted or grilled meat, fish and fillings. Excellent liqueurs and vinegars are also produced. Combined with wine, garlic, onion or brandy, it is used to prepare excellent sauces for meat dishes.
Laurel is also called "Laurel" or "Poets' Tree", it has been known for centuries in cooking and herbal medicine. Its dried leaves are used both to flavor dishes and as an infusion. An infusion based on bay leaves helps digestion: it avoids annoying fermentations, fights stomach discomfort and loss of appetite. Very useful in the kitchen for flavoring potatoes, stews and second courses such as white meat stew.
