Our participants really enjoyed our July class on cooking with herbs taught by the University of Tennessee Extension’s Leah VanMeter and Teressa Honeycutt.

My favorite quote from the class.

“Scott County is number three in the state for type 2 diabetes. I commonly hear people with type 2 diabetes say “sugar runs in my family.” Although heredity can be a factor, often times what runs in our family is chicken and dumplins and cornbread, and our love for biscuits and gravy.” Teressa Honeycutt.

Commonly used Herbs.

Basil

Commonly used in Italian dishes and is wonderful for adding flavor to soups and sauces. Basil has antioxidant and anti-bacterial properties, and can help maintain skin health, boost digestion and detoxify the body.

Cilantro

Cilantro is common in Asian and Mexican dishes. Some of the health benefits of cilantro can be a reduction in the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. It may also increase energy levels.

Dill

Dill is a delicious addition to soups, salads and fish dishes.. Dill has been shown to help reduce the risk of stroke, and reduce cholesterol levels.

Mint

Spearmint is typically used in desserts, jelly, and teas. Some of the health benefits of mint are improved brain function, improved digestive health, and improved allergy symptoms.

Oregano

Oregano is most common in Italian and Greek dishes; often used in soups, stews, and sauces. Oregano is rich in antioxidants, has antibacterial properties, and can reduce inflammation.

Parsley

Parsley is commonly used in soups, sauces and salads, and reduces the need for salt. Parsley has may vitamins and minerals that can provide important health benefits. It is a natural diuretic and can improve eye health.

Rosemary

Used for poultry, vegetables and soups. Rosemary is an natural antibiotic, and can help manage diabetes and reduce inflammation.

Sage

Popular in poultry and meat seasoning, and is used in Thanksgiving stuffing. Sage can lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels and improve brain function.

GARDEN PARTICIPANT PICTURES: