I did a post awhile ago about my top 5 spices and thought it only fair to do one on my other love – herbs. They are both my favorites.

Not only do herbs bring out a natural, earthy flavor to many baby purees but they also have medicinal purpose. And no, I’m not talking about the herb that just became legal in my home state of Colorado. I’m talking about basil, thyme, rosemary, tarragon, chives, parsley, oregano, etc. These herbs have been used for thousands of years for numerous medicinal purposes such as treating a vast number of illnesses, promoting digestion and for cosmetic purposes.

See why I love them so much? Not only do they make food taste better but they make you look and feel better. Bonus!

In many cultures, parents incorporate herbs into their babies food right from the start. Not even thinking twice. Here, it is different. Baby food companies and parents tend to error on the side of bland.

But I say, go for it!!

By introducing your baby to herbs at a young age it will help them develop a broad palette and crave food that is spiced, fragrant and complex, all while getting the health benefits that the herbs provide.

As with spices, go slowly, adding a pinch of one herb at a time and slowly build the quantity up. And remember to have fun and experiment.

These are my go to herbs, my ace in my pocket, my cat in the hat.

Basil

Promotes a healthy heart, skin and gastrointestinal track, prevents some cancer and boosts the immune system.
Great with strawberries, stone fruit, chicken, fish, melon, cherries, oranges, tomatoes, asparagus, squash and berries.

Cilantro

Lowers blood sugar, relieves intestinal gas, prevents urinary infections and is anti-inflammatory.
Great with peas, beans, mangos, avocado, chicken, pork, carrots, strawberries and pineapple.

Thyme

Promotes proper digestion, fights against bacterial and viral infections, stimulates the nervous system  and treats respiratory problems.
Great with sweet potatoes, chicken, apples, berries, citrus, peaches, cherries, figs, beets, leeks and lentils

Mint

Promotes digestion, effective remedy for nausea, helps in clearing up congestion and provides higher levels of memory retention and mental alertness.
Great with peas, green beans, apples, peaches, beets, citrus, blueberries, strawberries, spinach, yogurt and couscous.

Rosemary

Promotes a healthy immune system, improves blood circulation, helps treat indigestion, improves cognitive performance and fights off free radical damage in the brain.
Great with sweet potatoes, parsnips, carrots, green beans, all meat, zucchini, oranges, white peaches, berries, plums and eggs.