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| antibiotic against the bacteria that cause cavities. (Licorice components are often used in mouthwash.) |
| Licorice root also contains striterpenoids and phenolics, compounds that may help prevent cancer. Licorice is a traditional ulcer treatment as well. |
| Try it in . . . tea. |
| F.Y.I. |
| Licorice sold as candy in the U.S. is usually flavored with anise, so don't eat it for its healing benefits. The European version, however, often has a high licorice content. |
| Mint |
| There are more than thirty varieties of this herb, all of them blessed with a refreshingly cool flavor and smell. |
| Mint contains the essential oils menthol, menthone, menthyl acetate, and flavonoids, which have antiseptic properties and soothe sore throat, toothache, and digestive problems. Mint also helps relieve headaches, especially stress headaches. The antioxidant monoterpenes in mint may also prevent cancer and heart disease. |
| Try it in . . . tabbouleh; bean, potato, or fruit salad; tea. |
| Oregano |
| It's hard to find a Mediterranean or Mexican dish that doesn't contain this much-loved herb, which marries well with many foods. |
| Oregano may have more antioxidant properties than any other herb, which means it's a potent weapon against the free radical damage that can cause premature aging, cancer, heart disease, and other woes. Its essential oil has antiseptic properties and is useful in treating respiratory and digestive problems. |
| Try it in . . . fish, chicken, egg, bean, and vegetable dishes and tomato sauces. |
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