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Lots of women try herbs like black cohosh for menopausal symptoms like hot flushes – but does it work?

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/sasha-taylor-1461085">Sasha Taylor</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/monash-university-1065">Monash University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/susan-davis-10376">Susan Davis</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/monash-university-1065">Monash University</a> Menopause is the stage of life where the ovaries stop releasing eggs and menstrual periods cease. Most Australian women go through menopause between <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/nrdp20154">45 and 55</a> years of age, with the average age being 51 years, although some women may be younger. Hot flushes and night sweats are <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/nrendo.2017.180">typical symptoms</a> of menopause, with vaginal dryness, muscle and joint pains, mood changes and sleep disturbance also commonly reported. Up to <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25706184/">75% of women</a> experience menopausal symptoms, with nearly 30% severely affected. These symptoms can negatively impact day-to-day life and wellbeing. The main therapies available include menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) and non-hormonal prescription therapy. Some women will elect to try complementary and alternative medicines, such as herbal medicines and nutritional supplements. Black cohosh is one of them. <h2>What causes hot flushes</h2> The cause of hormonal hot flushes (also called hot flashes) still isn’t completely understood, but the decline in oestrogen at menopause appears to play a role in a process that involves the <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3833827/">area of the brain that regulates temperature</a> (the hypothalamus). Factors linked to a greater likelihood of hot flushes include <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19675142/">being overweight or having obesity</a> and <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25706184/">smoking</a>. MHT, previously known as hormone replacement therapy (HRT), usually includes oestrogen and is the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26444994/">most effective treatment</a> for menopausal symptoms, such as hot flushes. But women may choose complementary and alternative medicines instead – either because they shouldn’t take hormone therapy, for example because they have breast cancer, or because of personal preference. Close <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26224187/">to 40%</a> of Australian women report using complementary and alternative medicines for menopausal symptoms, and up to 20% using them specifically to treat hot flushes and sweats. <h2>A long history</h2> Complementary and alternative medicines have a long history of use in many cultures. Today, their potential benefits for menopausal symptoms are promoted by the companies that make and sell them. The <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6419242/">complementary and alternative medicines</a> women often try for menopausal symptoms include phytoestrogens, wild yam, dong quai, ginseng and black cohosh. Black cohosh (plant name Cimicifuga racemosa) was <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6599854/">traditionally</a> used by Native Americans to treat a variety of health concerns such as sore throat, kidney trouble, musculoskeletal pain and menstrual problems. It is now a popular herbal choice for hot flushes and night sweats, as well as vaginal dryness and mood changes. There are <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37252752/">many theories</a> for how the active ingredients in black cohosh might work in the body, such as acting like oestrogen, or affecting chemical pathways in the brain. But despite extensive research, the <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6599854/">evidence to support these theories remains inconclusive</a>. It is also not clear whether black cohosh is effective for hot flushes. Results from individual studies are mixed, with <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17565936/">some</a> finding black cohosh improves hot flushes, while <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18257142/">others</a> have found it doesn’t. A 2012 <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6599854/">review</a> combined all the results from studies of menopausal women using black cohosh to that date and found overall there was no proof black cohosh reduces hot flushes more effectively than an inactive treatment (placebo). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6599854/">This review</a> also revealed that many studies did not use rigorous research methods, so the findings are hard to interpret. A more recent <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33021111/">review</a> of clinical trials claimed black cohosh may ease menopausal symptoms, but the included studies were mostly small, less than six months long, and included women with mild symptoms. There is also no meaningful evidence black cohosh helps other symptoms of menopause, such as vaginal symptoms, sexual problems, or poor general wellbeing, or that it protects against bone loss. Evidence for how black cohosh is absorbed and metabolised by the body is also lacking, and it is not known what dose or formulation is best to use. More good quality studies are needed to decide whether black cohosh works for hot flushes and other menopausal symptoms. <h2>Is it safe to try?</h2> A <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33021111/">review of studies</a> suggests black cohosh is safe to use, although many of the studies have not reported possible adverse reactions in detail. Side effects such as gastrointestinal upset and rashes may occur. While there have been <a href="https://www.mja.com.au/journal/2008/188/7/liver-failure-associated-use-black-cohosh-menopausal-symptoms#0_i1091948">rare reports of liver damage</a>, there is <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21228727/">no clear evidence</a> black cohosh was the cause. Even so, in Australia, black cohosh manufacturers and suppliers are required to put a warning label for the potential of harm to the liver on their products. It is recommended black cohosh is not used by women with menopausal symptoms <a href="https://www.canceraustralia.gov.au/cancer-types/breast-cancer/impacted-by-breast-cancer/physical-changes/menopause/treatments-menopausal-symptoms">after breast cancer</a>, as its safety after breast cancer is uncertain. All women should consult with their doctor before using black cohosh if they are taking other medications in case of possible drug interactions. Many women like to try herbal therapies for hot flushes and other menopausal symptoms. While black cohosh is generally considered safe and some women may find it helps them, at the moment there is not enough scientific evidence to show its effects are any better than placebo. Women experiencing troublesome menopausal symptoms, such as hot flushes, should talk to their doctor about the best treatment options for them.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/211272/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/sasha-taylor-1461085">Sasha Taylor</a>, Research fellow, Chronic Disease & Ageing, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/monash-university-1065">Monash University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/susan-davis-10376">Susan Davis</a>, Chair of Women's Health, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/monash-university-1065">Monash University</a> Image credits: Getty Images This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/lots-of-women-try-herbs-like-black-cohosh-for-menopausal-symptoms-like-hot-flushes-but-does-it-work-211272">original article</a>.

Body

7 tips to maintain your herb garden

Whether you love to cook with fresh herbs or are just looking to add something new to your garden, starting your own herb garden is very rewarding. To start your garden off the right way, here are seven tips that will help your herb garden flourish. 1. Choose healthy herbs From the get go, when you purchase your herb you need to make sure it is in a healthy condition. Look for bright colours, no bugs, no eggs and plenty of foliage. Sickly looking herbs should be quarantined from all the other herbs to ensure they do not get infested. 2. Select the right environment If you’ve decided you want your herb garden in a certain area, make sure those herbs can live in that kind of lighting and soil condition. Planting rosemary in a humid area will cause it to die within weeks due to wet feet. The herbs that need to be in the sun will become pale and weak if they do not get enough light. If you don’t have a completely sunny or shady area, then plants your herbs in pots and move them accordingly. 3. Prune regularly All gardeners know that not pruning is a mistake that will detrimentally hinder the growth of your garden. If you don’t prune your herbs, they will only grow taller on a few stems. Lack of pruning will cause the leaves to age, dry and fall off. Make sure you regularly prune your herbs. 4. Don’t overcrowd When you purchase your herb, look at the height and width of the fully-grown plant. Growing too many herbs in the same vicinity will be a waste of time and money as the herbs won’t grow a healthy root system. Without a healthy root system, the herb will struggle to survive and thrive. 5. Stop flower growth When herbs grow flowers, it’s a sign that they are at the end of their life cycle. Once you see a flower forming, pinch off the entire thing to stop it from hindering the growth of the herb. If the herb is persistent then cut the entire stem off. 6. Fertilise and water Herbs need a water schedule in order for them to grow. Never wash out the leaves; pour the water on the soil. Mulch will assist in locking the moisture into the soil. A fertiliser is also important as it will boost much needed growth due to the herb being harvested multiple times in the growing season. 7. Watch what you spray Herbs should never be exposed to chemicals that will be harmful to those eating them. Even if a spray is safe for animal and pets you need to ensure that it says it is safe for edibles. Try using natural alternatives to chemical treatments such as natural fertilisers. Image credits: Getty Images

Home & Garden

A beginners guide to herb gardening

There’s an indescribable pleasure in sauntering out to your garden to pick freshly grown herbs to throw into your homemade dish. Anyone with an herb gardens would agree herbs from your personal garden gives food that extra oomph even freshly bought herbs don’t bring. What’s better is growing herbs is easy! How to grow herbs will depend on the particular herb you’re growing but here are some general rules to consider: Choose herbs you will use Think about what herbs you use for daily cooking. Popular options that enhance many dishes include oregano, basil, thyme and rosemary. Provide sunshine Most herbs need at least 6 or more hours of sunlight a day. There are some shade-loving exceptions like mint but Mediterranean herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, lavender and oregano, are drought-hardy and thrive in full sun. However, don’t scorch herbs. Place in an undercover area which receives sunlight. Invest in a good sized pot Don’t crowd your seedlings into a small sized pot. Provide room for them to grow and ensure it is deep enough for the roots to grow. Good drainage Herbs do not enjoy consistently damp or wet soil. Place gravel or stones at bottom of the pot to ensure good drainage. Quality soil Without good soil herbs will not grow properly. Supplement the soil with compost to give seedlings a boost. Water moderately During the early stages of growing herbs, you should water well. Once they are grown though, water moderately making sure you don’t over-water or under-water. Wait before harvesting Allow your herbs to grow before you start harvesting them. Wait into they are well and truly established (around twice the size) before plucking. Prune regularly Once your herbs have grown though don’t skimp on the pruning. This is what makes them grow faster and means more herbs for you to use! Image: Getty

Home & Garden

14 medicinal herbs you can grow in your backyard

Basil This medicinal herb can help with flatulence, lack of appetite, cuts and scrapes. Harvest the young leaves of this annual plant as needed. Chamomile Use the flower heads of this medicinal herb for infusions and salves to relieve conditions such as indigestion and colic, anxiety and tension, and skin inflammations and irritations. Echinacea If you suffer from a cold or the flu, try this medicinal herb to ease the severity of your symptoms. It also helps provide relief to your immune system. Feverfew Use the leaves and flowers of this medicinal herb for teas; chew leaves to ease headache pain (including migraines). It’s also been shown to be one of the most effective natural remedies for arthritis, as well as a treatment for various skin conditions. Wild pansy With anti-inflammatory properties, this medicinal herb is a good home remedy for eczema and skin blemishes, as well as to help loosen phlegm. Lavender Is there anything lavender can’t do? Even smelling this medicinal herb has been shown to calm and relax. It also eases pain, and when applied to cuts and bruises functions as an antiseptic. Lemon balm A relative of mint, lemon balm is a versatile medicinal herb that helps relieve anxiety, insomnia, wounds, herpes, insect bites, flatulence and an upset stomach. Marigold Good for easing sunburn, acne, and blemishes, this medicinal herb also soothes ulcers and digestive problems. Parsley Don’t think of it as decorative on your plate; this medicinal herb is loaded with nutrients as well as healing powers to help with flatulence and bad breath. Peppermint If you have digestion issues or gas, sipping tea made of this medicinal herb might provide relief. It’s also been shown to help soothe headaches. Rosemary This medicinal herb helps memory and concentration, improves mood – and sweetens breath. Sage Sage’s genus name, Salvia, means “to heal,” reflecting its early use as a medicinal, not culinary, herb. It can help provide relief for mouth and throat inflammations. Thyme The active principle in thyme, thymol, is a strong antiseptic. If you suffer from coughs, congestion, indigestion or gas, consider using this medicinal herb. St. John's wort Talk to your doctor if you suffer from mild to moderate depression; she may suggest St. John’s wort. The glossy leaves and yellow flowers are this medicinal herb’s active parts. Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/food-home-garden/14-medicinal-herbs-you-can-grow-in-your-backyard?pages=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Home & Garden

A KFC employee shares secrets behind the herbs and spices recipe

KFC lures in millions of customers per week worldwide, with most people flocking to the fast food chain for the world-famous fried chicken. A popular TV program in the UK called Secrets of the Fast Food Giants has lifted the lid on secrets behind the famous breadcrumb coating that gives KFC’s chicken its famous and distinctive taste. KFC worker Jo said the chain is fiercely protective of the flavouring and only a handful of people know the full recipe. “It’s kept in a vault in Kentucky,” she said. “Across KFC, only two or three people actually know the exact recipe.” “We have two different spice blenders so one factory does half of the blend, and then another does the second half and then packs it.” “So actually not one factory knows the complete recipe.” Jo also shared how the KFC buckets are made of a whole chicken cut into nine pieces. “That allows us to have the perfect ratio of our breading to chicken,” she explained. Meanwhile, popcorn chicken is made from chicken breast and coated in a light seasoning. Additionally, a million and a half pots of gravy are sold at KFC a week, and some diehard fans even put it away for Christmas Day. “This is an original recipe that has come from the fryers, we drain it overnight and then it goes into making our gravy,” according to the KFC employee. “It’s literally as you’d make gravy at home with those meat juices.” KFC was founded in 1954 and has 24,000 outlets globally. Image: Shutterstock

Food & Wine

Kmart hack that keeps herbs fresh for up to six weeks

Savy Kmart shopper reveals how she keeps herbs fresh in her refrigerator for up to six weeks. Sharing in the Facebook group ‘Kmart hacks & décor’ Natasha raved about how the store’s 4.5 Litre fridge Food Saver which promises to keep items like herbs fresher for longer. “I am so in shock with these Kmart fridge containers,” She wrote on the page. “I bought this coriander on January the 30th and have kept it one of the Kmart fridge containers and it is yet to grow limp or rot.” “I kept parsley for over six weeks in one of these containers they are just amazing and such food savers.” Natasha posted a photo of a Coles bunch of coriander which looked fresh, and an image of its use by date which reads “best before 4FEB21”. She also commented: “They have saved me money as well, as I am not throwing out bad fruit and vegetables as much”. Other members have also shared their positive experience with the Kmart food savers, which sell for $9, with a smaller 1.7 litre size going for $7. You can find the container at a Kmart near you or online <a href="https://www.kmart.com.au/product/4.5-litre-fridge-food-saver/2439801?region_id=200001&gclid=CjwKCAjwiY6MBhBqEiwARFSCPp6xU5ogbyNsL-tQKtE-GFvmR-s48sNTnjk99e3rVVBnD27krvyczxoCsacQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds">here</a>.

Food & Wine

“Remembering Herb”: Nicole Kidman pays tribute with throwback snaps

Nicole Kidman has shared an emotional tribute to late photographer Herb Ritts, along with a series of throwback photos. “Remembering Herb ✨,” the Big Little Lies star captioned the post, alongside photos of herself with a bob cut, heavy eye makeup, and wearing a tank top. Other stars commented on Kidman’s post with their own tributes to the photographer. “Beautiful and he was great x,” singer Carole Bayer Sager wrote. “[His] photos were and are so beautiful. He made everyone look so gorgeous,” musician Rita Wilson shared. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CSRA8jNr1sS/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CSRA8jNr1sS/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Nicole Kidman (@nicolekidman)</a> </div> </blockquote> Ritts passed away from complications from pneumonia in December, 2002. The 50-year-old fashion photographer’s work was regarded as “glorifying images of the well known” which “helped to further mythologise celebrity in the 1980s and ‘90s”, according to his obituary in <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.nytimes.com/2002/12/27/us/herb-ritts-photographer-of-celebrities-is-dead-at-50.html" target="_blank">The New York Times</a>. The images of Kidman were taken by Ritts in 1999 in LA. But, she wasn’t the only notable star Ritts captured, with his models including Cher, Tina Turner, David Bowie, and Michael Jackson, as well as actress Elizabeth Taylor and actors Denzel Washington and Johnny Depp. Rits, who was HIV-positive at the time of his death, was committed to causes related to HIV/AIDS and donated to charitable organisations including The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation and Focus on AIDS, according to <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.herbritts.com/#/about/biography/" target="_blank">his website</a>. Image: Nicole Kidman / Instagram

Beauty & Style

The Kmart hack that keeps herbs fresh for six weeks

A Kmart shopper has revealed how she keeps fresh herbs purchased from the supermarket in her refrigerator for up to six weeks. Posting on Facebook group Kmart Hacks & Decor, Natasha praised the store's 4.5 Litre Fridge Food Saver which promises to keep items like herbs fresher for longer. “I am so in shock with these Kmart fridge containers,” Natasha wrote on the page. “I bought this coriander on January 30 and I have kept it in one of Kmart’s fridge containers and it is yet to go limp or rot. “I kept parsley for over six weeks in one of these containers they are just amazing and such food savers.” Natasha posted a photo of a bunch of coriander from Coles which appeared fresh, and an image of its use by date which reads "best before 4FEB21". <img style="width: 500px; height:265.3061224489796px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7839903/screen-shot-2021-02-15-at-21634-pm.png" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/5bfdd073254b426b87ac4badf8fc0f22" /> She also commented: “They have saved me money as well, as I am not throwing out bad fruit and vegetables as much”. Other members of the Kmart Hacks & Decor page posted on Facebook about their positive experiences with the Kmart Food Savers, which sell for $9, with a smaller 1.7 litre size going for $7. “We keep our baby spinach in one of these and the length of time it keeps for now is amazing!” one wrote. Another fan said: “Yes, I got some last weekend and I already love them. Going to get a couple more.” While yet another enthusiast revealed they used the container for storing “freshly cooked prawns … perfect over Christmas and kept them fresh for days,” another had a warning. One woman said the container, which includes a removable drainer, was only suitable for cleaning by handwashing. “Hubby ruined mine by putting them in the dishwasher,” she wrote. Another added: “The label says dishwasher safe but they are not dishwasher safe.”

Food & Wine

Why you should clean with herbs

<div class="page-header clearfix"> <div class="tg-container"> <div class="detailPageHeader"> <div class="postIntro">Homemade herbal cleaning products are mostly composed of just one main substance – the cleaning agent – which means that you're not paying for bulking additives, artificial colours or perfumes. You can choose the type and strength of the scent you want; fresh herbs or essential oils almost invariably leave a delightfully fresh, clean smell.</div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="tg-container categorySection detailSection"> <div id="primary" class="contentAreaLeft"> <div class="share-buttons"> <div class="addthis_inline_share_toolbox" data-url="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/home-tips/why-clean-with-herbs" data-title="Why clean with herbs? | Reader's Digest Australia" data-description="Homemade herbal cleaning products are mostly composed of just one main substance – the cleaning agent – which means that you're not paying for bulking additives, artificial colours or perfumes. You can choose the type and strength of the scent you want; fresh herbs or essential oils almost invariably leave a delightfully fresh, clean smell."> <div id="atstbx" class="at-resp-share-element at-style-responsive addthis-smartlayers addthis-animated at4-show" aria-labelledby="at-029fd6d1-4439-4dc9-8fe6-9e3c12bc7441"> <div class="Maincontent"> There is also gathering evidence that links the use of chemical cleaners such as bleach with the development of asthma in both children and adults. Some chemicals can set off allergic reactions or contact dermatitis in sensitive people. And one 2010 US study discovered that women who held cleaning jobs while pregnant had a higher incidence of birth defects in their children. So, whether you’re already committed to a greener way of cleaning or you just want to save money and simplify your life a little, herbal cleaning makes a lot of sense. Try these two recipes to clean your surfaces and floors, the easy way, with the power of herbs. <h4>All-purpose herb vinegar spray</h4> This all-purpose, environmentally friendly, non-toxic spray is great to have on hand for wiping, cleaning and deodorising almost every surface (except marble). If you don’t have any fresh herbs, add drops of essential oil instead. Ingredients <ul class="no-bullet"> <li>fresh or dried herbs (you can also use herbal tea bags)</li> <li>distilled white vinegar</li> </ul> Preparation <ol> <li>Roughly chop 1 to 2 large handfuls of fresh or dried herbs (such as lemon verbena, peppermint, rosemary, lemon balm or lavender), or place 5 to 10 tea bags in the bottom of a wide-mouthed glass jar.</li> <li>Add vinegar to fill the jar. Replace the lid, leave for a few days to infuse, then strain out the herbs. (If you are using tea bags, you can gently warm the vinegar before pouring to ensure maximum diffusion.)</li> <li>Decant into a plastic spray bottle. This spray is perfectly safe and very effective to use at full-strength, but it can also be diluted half-and-half with water for lighter jobs.</li> </ol> <h4>Eucalyptus floor wash</h4> With its powerful natural antiseptic, disinfectant and cleaning properties, eucalyptus oil can be put to work in every room of the house. This simple solution can be used on both timber and lino floors. When washing a timber floor, remember not to saturate it. Your mop should be damp, not dripping wet, and the floor should be well-swept or vacuumed before mopping. Ingredients <ul class="no-bullet"> <li>1 teaspoon eucalyptus oil</li> <li>2 tablespoons methylated spirits</li> <li>5 litres hot water (about half a bucket)</li> </ul> Preparation <ol> <li>Combine all the ingredients in a bucket.</li> <li>Wring out a mop in the solution and use it to damp mop the floor. Leave to dry; you don’t need to rinse.</li> </ol> Written by Reader's Digest. This article first appeared in <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/home-tips/why-clean-with-herbs">Reader’s Digest</a>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, <a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.com.au/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=RDSUB&keycode=WRA93V">here’s our best subscription offer.</a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Home & Garden

3 hacks to keep your herbs fresher for longer

Herbs are a must-have for any chef who wants to add that little something extra to their favourite dish, but the shelf life of herbs leaves something to be desired. Nutritionist Dr Joanna McMillan knows this pain of bulk buying herbs and hoping for the best, so she’s shared her hacks for keeping herbs fresher for longer with <a href="https://au.lifestyle.yahoo.com/hack-forkeeping-herbs-fresher-for-longer-212750312.html">Yahoo Lifestyle AU</a>. 1. Create a mini greenhouse This hack might sound a bit odd, but if you’re able to create a mini greenhouse, your herbs will stay fresher for longer. McMillan suggests placing the cut stems of your herbs in a small glass of water and covering the whole thing in a plastic bag. Keep the bag sealed up tight with an elastic around the base of the glass. This keeps the humidity high. Simply store the mini greenhouse in your fridge and use the herbs as soon as possible. Another way to do this trick is to sandwich your leftover herbs between two damp piece of paper towel and place the herbs in your fridge crisper drawer. 2. Don’t cut the herbs in the first place McMillan recommends avoiding buying bunches of herbs in the first place if you don’t have plans to use all of the herbs at once. Instead, she says you should purchase the tiny pots of herbs that are now stocked in supermarkets. This helps keeping your herbs fresh as you can store them on your windowsill (if you remember to water them to keep the herbs alive) and they’ll be fresh until you’re done using the crop. 3. Don’t lose your leftovers Food wastage is an issue at the moment, so another way to ensure that you get the most out of your herbs is to chuck them into your freezer. McMillan suggests that you freeze your leftovers as chopped herbs in a zip lock bag or in little ice cube trays that are filled with olive oil. By keeping them in the ice cube trays, you’re able to use them quickly and whenever you need a flavour boost. By following these hacks, you’re bound to keep your herbs fresher for longer and give your cooking a boost of flavour.

Home & Garden

Could natural herbs heal the prostate?

Enlarged prostates cause excruciating symptoms affecting 90 per cent of men over 80 and millions as young as 50. Today over 4,000 men in Melbourne alone are on a waiting list for prostate surgery. Surgical and medical treatments frequently cause impotence, ejaculatory issues and destroy libido. Fortunately, natural treatments are paving the way for a paradigm shift in prostate health and are helping us discover natural ways to prevent prostate problems, balance hormones and ensure a long-lasting libido. We look at how the prostate changes in men as they age, current treatments and remedies, and how to get you started with some helpful and informative resources on ways to maintain optimal prostate health throughout your life. Prostate physiology The prostate is a gland the size of a walnut that sits underneath the male bladder and controls the flow of urine out of the body. When the prostate gets enlarged it restricts the flow of urine and makes going to the toilet urgent, frequent and uncomfortable. Left untreated symptoms usually get worse and it becomes difficult to stop or start urination. Men can experience itchiness, tenderness or pain in the testicles, groin or penis and just sitting can become very uncomfortable. It increasingly becomes harder to control urination at all and as a result sleep is massively disrupted by hourly visits to the bathroom every single night. Prostate prognosis The prostate starts to get bigger between the ages of 40 and 60 due to natural hormonal changes. With age it is spurred on by a potent form of testosterone and the growth continues. Many men get diagnosed with Benign Prostate Hyperplasia (BPH) and some men go on to develop other prostate problems including prostate cancer. Both medical and herbal treatments slow prostate growth by reducing production of the potent form of testosterone, which is also linked to male pattern baldness. When problems persist the last resort is a surgical procedure to remove the prostate gland entirely. Sadly, the progression from mild symptoms to severe problems is often ignored. Men all over the world are agreeing to risky surgery and drugs with a long list of unwanted side effects before considering more natural yet highly effective treatments and solutions. Early intervention can prevent the downward spiral of symptoms which devastates quality of life and damages intimate relationships. Lifestyle modifications and nutritional prescriptions are the way forward in personalised medicine: treating the root cause of disease not just masking symptoms. Natural herbs and minerals nourish the prostate directly to ensure its longevity and prevent problems from occurring. The ancient Tsimaine tribe Scientists from the University of California studied the prostate and lifestyle of an isolated tribe in South America called the Tsimaine. Men in the tribe had prostates which were 62 per cent smaller than Western averages and there was virtually no incidence of symptomatic enlargement. The researchers concluded that differences in diet, stress levels and toxin exposure were the likely causes for the immense difference in prostate size. The positive impact of rural lifestyles has also been noticed in Australian men who live in remote areas: they have a 40 per cent lower risk of prostate cancer than the average Australian. But you don’t need to find an isolated jungle or relocate to the outback to help the prostate. The human body is remarkably adaptable and can remove toxicity, repair damage and restore function with the correct nutritional building blocks. Herbs that heal The complex biochemistry of the body needs support. When we lack specific minerals, proteins or fats, the immune system can’t function optimally and fix damaged proteins, cells or DNA. Toxins from the environment combined with stressful lifestyles create a lot of work for the overloaded immune system. Unfortunately our diets often lack the high quality micro-nutrients needed to stay healthy and vital as we age. Science is rapidly discovering plant compounds that can transform our health. Thousands of clinical trials are verifying that plant compounds have therapeutic potential and significant power. Some herbs are as effective as medications, more affordable, and have no side-effects. It’s also been revealed that supplementation with bioactive plant compounds and minerals directly supports the immune and hormonal systems to thrive. Natural supplements Prosamin for men is a natural supplement manufactured by Quantum Health. Along with Prosamin, Quantum Health recommends the use of lifestyle modifications and nutritional supplementation before embarking on pharmaceutical and surgical interventions due to the long-term risks they carry. The High Strength Formulation of ingredients Prosamin contains includes six clinically proven herbs and minerals needed to ensure prostate health and reduce enlargement completely naturally and safely. Prosamin is manufactured and licenced in Sydney, Australia, and has been helping men (and their wives) maintain healthy and energetic lifestyles for decades. Transforming prostate health Leading the way in Australian natural healthcare, Quantum Health has been transforming prostate health for nearly three decades. Combining scientific research with empowering information Quantum Health has renowned experience and expertise in formulating, manufacturing, distributing and importing products exclusively in Australia. Producing scientifically proven supplements, educational resources and medicinal teas with a world-wide reputation for excellence. “For 15 years my husband has been getting out of bed two and three times through the night to go to the toilet, only to return grumpy and frustrated. Not only was he suffering… but so was I. Within a few months of taking Prosamin, he began sleeping through most nights without the need to visit the toilet and is now enjoying renewed energy levels and a returned libido” B.D, Queensland “I began getting an urgent need to race to the toilet and at night I was getting the call two or three times. I had read about Prosamin and so I decided to give it a go. By the time I had finished the first bottle of Prosamin, I noticed an improvement. After going through the second bottle, my problem was no longer a problem. Now, I am sleeping right through the night”. K. Mahony, NSW Quantum Health specialises in providing natural and botanical products that: <ul> <li>Enhance cellular rejuvenation at a molecular level.</li> <li>Accelerate detoxification and elimination processes.</li> <li>Optimise hormones and the endocrine system.</li> <li>Enrich the body with functional nutrition.</li> </ul> To support men and their families to discover how to prevent or eliminate prostate symptoms, Quantum Health has developed some free and easy to use tools. Take action now to assess prostate health, understand symptoms and heal it naturally with Prosamin’s unique high-strength herbal and mineral formulation. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7827535/2.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/f3e00031288f4b50b8ab54d4be129460" /> Where to start? Assess your symptoms and get instant results now with our quick 5-minute Prostate Assessment Questionnaire, download the informative Prostate Health Quick Start Guide or try your first one month’s supply of Prosamin today. 1. Prostate Health Symptoms Questionnaire <ul> <li>The first step to wellness is recognising current symptoms.</li> <li>The <a href="https://www.quantumhealth.com.au/pages/prostate-questionnaire?utm_source=Over60&utm_medium=Advertorial&utm_campaign=Prosamin_May_19&utm_content=Questionnaire_Link">Prostate Questionnaire</a> is designed for men or their partners to complete.</li> <li>This brief medical and psychological assessment of prostate symptoms creates awareness and takes just a few minutes to complete.</li> </ul> 2. Prostate Quick Start Guide <ul> <li>There are a lot of myths and misinformation surrounding the prostate. Much of the published science is simply out of date and often confusing and misleading.</li> <li>The <a href="https://www.quantumhealth.com.au/pages/quick-start-guide?utm_source=Over60&utm_medium=Advertorial&utm_campaign=Prosamin_May_19&utm_content=Prostate_Quick_Start_Guide_Link">Prostate Quick Start Guide</a> will fill you in with helpful diagrams, a list of symptoms and warning signs of an unhealthy prostate.</li> <li>Will go over the Symptom Progression Stages as well as Treatments and what to expect once a natural remedy has been introduced.</li> <li>It is easy to understand and gently informative, written in a comfortable user manual style with men in mind.</li> </ul> 3. Take Effective Action – Try Prosamin Today (Free Call 1800 25 15 66) <ul> <li><a href="https://www.quantumhealth.com.au/collections/prostate-health-1/products/prosamin?variant=15004060103&utm_source=Over60&utm_medium=Advertorial&utm_campaign=Prosamin_May_19&utm_content=Prosamin_Product_Link_Article_Copy_1">Try a one months supply of Prosamin</a>, see and feel the results for yourself.</li> <li>Get in control of your prostate health to raise your energy levels and sexual performance.</li> <li>Sexual decline and urinary issues are not an inevitable part of ageing and for less than $2 a day, Quantum Health’s Prosamin for Men High Strength Formula nourishes, supports and protects the prostate.</li> </ul> Prosamin for men is registered with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) Licence No. 281008. Take advantage of our Over60 special! From now until the end of June, we are offering Free Shipping for all Over60 readers, simply use this code at checkout: OVER60PRO19 And for an even better discount buy a 3-MONTH Supply and get free shipping and 20% OFF the normal price with the same code. For phone orders, questions or queries contact us on free call 1800 25 15 66. <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.quantumhealth.com.au/collections/prostate-health-1/products/prosamin?variant=15004060103&utm_source=Over60&utm_medium=Advertorial&utm_campaign=Prosamin_May_19&utm_content=CTA_Product_Image" target="_blank"><img style="width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7827536/3.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/8f9e8e95b07d4b39b15d9832025cfded" /></a> <div class="body-container"> This is sponsored content brought to you in conjunction with <a href="https://www.quantumhealth.com.au/">Quantum Health.</a> </div> <div class="footer-container"></div>

Body

Tasty lemon and herb mushroom salad

This quick and easy salad is the perfect accompaniment to a weekend lunchtime meal Ingredients: <ul> <li>Dressing</li> <li>125ml (¼ cup) extra virgin olive oil</li> <li>Juice of one lemon</li> <li>2 red chillis, de-seeded and finely chopped</li> </ul> Salad <ul> <li>250g button mushrooms, sliced</li> <li>4 mini cucumbers</li> <li>1 bunch flat leaf parsley, roughly chopped</li> <li>Salt and pepper, to season</li> </ul> Directions: Dressing 1. In a screw top jar combine olive oil, lemon juice, chillies and a pinch of salt. Put on the lid and shake until well combined. Salad 2. Add all salad ingredients to a bowl, top with dressing and gently mix to combine. Serve as a side salad with chicken, fish or grilled meat. Recipe courtesy of <a href="https://australianmushrooms.com.au">Australian Mushrooms.</a> Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/recipes/lemon-herb-mushroom-salad.aspx">Wyza.com.au.</a>

Food & Wine

Refreshing persimmon and herb chicken salad

There’s nothing better than divulging in a refreshing salad on a weekend afternoon. Not only is it light on the stomach, but it’s packed full of flavour and healthy to boot. This delicious persimmon and herb chicken salad will cure your cravings while providing you with essential nutrients to get you going for the rest of the day. Serves: 4 Ingredients Salad <ul> <li>2 Fuyu (crisp) persimmons</li> <li>400g chicken breasts, chargrilled or barbequed</li> <li>2 cups flat leaf parsley leaves</li> <li>1 cup mint leaves</li> <li>1/3 cup toasted macadamias, roughly chopped</li> <li>Cracked pepper to serve</li> </ul> Dressing <ul> <li>½ cup Greek yoghurt</li> <li>1 tbs lemon juice</li> <li>1 tbs water</li> <li>½ tsp thyme leaves, chopped</li> </ul> Method <ol> <li>Cut persimmons in half and thinly slice. Slice or shred chicken breasts.</li> <li>In a large bowl toss together persimmon, parsley and mint.</li> <li>Divide salad between four plates and top with chicken.</li> <li>In a small bowl combine all dressing ingredients and spoon over salad, season with cracked pepper to serve.</li> </ol> Photo and recipe courtesy of <a href="https://www.persimmonsaustralia.com.au/">Persimmons Australia.</a>

Food & Wine

Herb roasted potato wedges

Coated in thyme, oregano and rosemary, these oven-roasted potato wedges will make a delicious addition to any meal. Ingredients: <ul> <li>4 large potatoes, scrubbed and rinsed</li> <li>4 cloves garlic, minced</li> <li>Salt and pepper</li> <li>½ teaspoon rosemary</li> <li>½ teaspoon oregano</li> <li>½ teaspoon thyme</li> <li>3 tablespoon olive oil</li> </ul> Method: <ol> <li>Preheat oven to 210°C.</li> <li>Cut potatoes in wedges, according to your preference. Place in bowl.</li> <li>Add olive oil, garlic and herbs. Season well with salt and pepper. Toss ingredients to evenly coat wedges.</li> <li>Spread the potato wedges evenly onto a baking sheet-lined tray. Bake, turning half way, for 30 to 35 minutes or until golden and crispy. Serve immediately, sprinkled with more salt. Serve with your favourite dipping sauce.</li> </ol> Related links: <a href="/lifestyle/food-wine/2015/08/catalan-style-spinach-raisins-pine-nuts/">Catalan-style spinach with raisins and pine nuts</a> <a href="/lifestyle/food-wine/2015/08/zucchini-eggplant-gratin/">Zucchini, eggplant, tomato gratin</a> <a href="/lifestyle/food-wine/2015/07/three-bean-salad/">Three-bean salad</a>

Food & Wine

Roasted broccolini, kale and chickpeas with herbed ricotta

The beauty of this dish lies in the grilling – don’t be afraid to char the broccoli a little, as it delivers a great flavour. You can serve this as an individual starter, or as a main with grilled ciabatta. Serves: 4 Ingredients: <ul> <li>350 g broccolini, stems cut in half lengthways</li> <li>400 g tin chickpeas</li> <li>1 garlic clove, crushed</li> <li>60 ml olive oil, plus extra for drizzling</li> <li>1 bunch Tuscan kale, about 550 to 600 g, cut into 2.5 cm pieces</li> <li>250 g smooth ricotta</li> <li>2 tablespoons finely chopped dill</li> <li>2 tablespoons finely chopped basil</li> <li>1 teaspoon grated lemon zest</li> <li>1 tablespoon lemon juice</li> <li>Pinch of chilli flakes</li> <li>2 teaspoons sea salt</li> </ul> Method: <ol start="1"> <li>Preheat the oven to 180°C (fan-forced). Preheat the grill (broiler) to medium.</li> <li>In a mixing bowl, toss the broccolini, chickpeas and garlic with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil. Spread the mixture onto a baking tray.</li> <li>In another bowl, toss the kale with the remaining olive oil, then spread over another two baking trays.</li> <li>Place the broccolini mixture under the grill and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, then turn the broccolini over and cook for a further 4 to 5 minutes, until nicely chargrilled. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool.</li> <li>Meanwhile, transfer the kale trays to the oven and bake for 3 to 4 minutes, or until starting to brown, then turn the kale over and bake for a further 2 minutes, or until crisp. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.</li> <li>In a small bowl, combine the ricotta, dill, basil, lemon zest, lemon juice and chilli flakes. Season with salt and mix together with a spoon.</li> <li>Smear the ricotta mixture onto a serving plate and top with the kale and broccolini and mixture.</li> <li>Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and serve.</li> </ol> <img width="123" height="172" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7265262/the-vegetable-cover_123x172.jpg" alt="The Vegetable Cover (1)" style="float: right;"/> This is an extract from The Vegetable: Recipes that celebrate nature by Vicki Valsamis and Caroline Griffiths, published by Smith Street Books, RRP AU$49.99 or NZ$59.99. Image credit: Chris Middleton.

Food & Wine

Chicken braised in white wine and herbs

“My mum came on my show Everyday Gourmet to make this quintessential French dish. It was so popular that I had to share it again. It’s brilliant because it’s so simple to make and can either be a fast mid-week dinner for the family (that’s how Mum serves it) or served to impress guests dining at your home,” writes Justine Schofield in her latest cookbook Simple Every Day. Serves: 4 Ingredients: <ul> <li>6 tarragon sprigs, plus extra handful of ﬁnely chopped leaves to serve</li> <li>2 ﬂat-leaf parsley sprigs, plus extra handful of ﬁnely chopped leaves to serve</li> <li>30 g butter</li> <li>1 tablespoon olive oil</li> <li>1 x 1.5 kg chicken, cut into 8 pieces</li> <li>1½ tablespoons cognac (or brandy)</li> <li>2 French shallots, ﬁnely chopped</li> <li>150 ml white wine, such as riesling</li> <li>salt ﬂakes and freshly ground black pepper</li> <li>2 egg yolks</li> <li>100 g crème fraiche</li> </ul> Method: <ol> <li>Preheat the oven to 180°C.</li> <li>Remove the tarragon and parsley leaves from the stalks and ﬁnely chop the leaves. Reserve the stalks.</li> <li>Heat the butter and oil in a heavy-based ovenproof sauté pan until foaming. Add the chicken pieces and sauté for 2 minutes on each side until they are golden brown all over. Add the cognac and ﬂambé by igniting with a match and then waiting for the ﬂames to subside. Remove the chicken from the pan and place on a plate.</li> <li>Add the shallot and reserved herb stalks to the pan and stir for 1–2 minutes until the shallot is golden. Pour in the wine and bring to the boil. Return the chicken pieces to the pan and add a good pinch of salt and pepper. Cover with the lid and bake for 35 minutes until the meat falls easily from the bone.</li> <li>Remove the chicken pieces from the pan and place in a warm serving dish. Cover with foil and keep warm. Place the pan over medium heat, bring the pan juices to the boil and cook until reduced by one-quarter. Remove the herb stalks.</li> <li>Mix the egg yolks and crème fraiche until smooth.</li> <li>Remove the pan from the heat and whisk in the egg yolk mixture and chopped herbs until the sauce is smooth and coats the back of a spoon. Pour the sauce over the chicken and serve with the remaining chopped tarragon and parsley.</li> </ol> <img width="139" height="182" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7265047/image__139x182.jpg" alt="Image_ (36)" style="float: right;"/>Recipe courtesy of Simple Every Day by Justine Schofield (Plum, $39.99).

Food & Wine

Adam Liaw’s red beef and vegetable curry with fresh herbs

Celebrity chef Adam Liaw shares his no-fuss red beef and vegetable curry recipe. Serves: 4 Ingredients: <ul> <li>2 tbsp vegetable oil</li> <li>1 jar Thai Red Curry Paste (195g)</li> <li>1 can Premium Coconut Cream (400ml)</li> <li>1.5L chicken stock or water</li> <li>¼ cup Fish Sauce</li> <li>1 tbsp sugar</li> <li>4 kaffir lime leaves</li> <li>1 eggplant, halved lengthways and sliced</li> <li>1 zucchini, halved lengthways and sliced</li> <li>1 red capsicum, cut into strips</li> <li>1 red onion, cut into chunks</li> <li>8 spears baby corn, halved</li> <li>2 cups button mushrooms, halved</li> <li>1 cup green beans, cut into 5cm lengths</li> <li>2 cups cherry tomatoes</li> <li>1kg beef topside, sliced very thinly</li> <li>1 cup loosely packed basil leaves</li> <li>30ml lime juice (about 1 lime)</li> <li>Coriander leaves, to serve</li> <li>Steamed rice, to serve</li> </ul> Method: 1. Heat the oil in a large pot and fry the curry paste for a few minutes, stirring occasionally until the paste is very fragrant. Add about 100ml of the coconut cream and continue to fry for a further 5 minutes. Add the stock or water and bring to the boil. Add the fish sauce, sugar and lime leaves. Boil for 5-10 minutes until the top of the liquid starts to take on an oily shine. 2. Add the vegetables and return to a simmer. Simmer for 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften, and add the beef and simmer for a further 10 minutes until the beef is cooked through. Stir through the remaining coconut cream, then stir through the basil leaves and lime juice. Scatter with coriander and serve with steamed rice. Recipe courtesy of <a href="http://www.ayam.com/" target="_blank">AYAM</a>. Image courtesy of Hachette Publishing.

Food & Wine

Eddie McGuire opens up about his dramatic weight loss

Media personality Eddie McGuire has lost a dramatic 20kg in a matter of weeks by following a strict Chinese herb diet. The Collingwood president will showcase his transformation when he makes a return to the AFL Footy Show this Thursday. The 52-year-old followed the 101 Wellbeing Program by Dr Shuquan Liu, which was the same diet Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull used several years ago. In the first two weeks, Eddie followed the diet plan of replacing meals with three cups of herb tonic. Eddie explained that in the third week, he was able to incorporate half a cucumber and a 50g serve of chicken into his daily meal plan. <img width="297" height="389" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/40692/eddie-mcguire-in-text.jpg" alt="Eddie Mcguire In Text"/> The results of the diet were immediate with Eddie shedding 15kg in the first weeks, but he admitted to the Herald Sun that the program was “extreme”. He explained that he had let himself go throughout the past decade and he was left unimpressed with how he looked. “I have probably been the classic case of the person who has put on one and a half kilos a year for the past 10 years and suddenly you look out the window one day and you see a fat bloke looking back at you and you realise it is a mirror,” he said. Eddie claimed that he experienced no negative side effects whilst on the diet. “It has taken all the heat out of my body, I feel great, I did not feel tired at any stage, and did not actually even feel hungry, believe it or not.” He has continued to drop weight since finishing the diet and has now lost a total of 20kg, despite going on holidays where he says he “ate for Australia”. “The next stage for me is to get myself physically fit again and keep the discipline up and make sure I don’t plonk it (the weight) back on,” he said.

Body

Herbs for winter wellness

During the cooler months, it is important to build up and support your immune system. Here are some herbs you should consume this season. 1. Echinacea This herb is renowned for its ability to stop cold or flus from developing. Some of its benefits include fighting bacteria, stimulating the immune system and being a powerful anti-inflammatory which can help arthritis. 2. Ginger Ginger stimulates circulation, aids digestion and increases perspiration. The increased perspiration helps flush out fever and toxins. Ginger can also help with cold hands and feet, gastrointestinal problems and travel sickness and nausea. 3. <a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/gardening/products/dtbrown-all-you-need-herb-spice-seed-pack?utm_source=Over60&utm_medium=in-article-link-all-you-need-herb-spice-seed-pack&utm_campaign=Over60Shop&utm_content=all-you-need-herb-spice-seed-pack" target="_blank">Thyme</a> Thyme helps relieve coughs and colds. It is also an anti-oxidant and tonic, supporting the body’s general functions, building the immune system and countering the effects of ageing. 4. <a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/gardening/products/dtbrown-all-you-need-herb-spice-seed-pack?utm_source=Over60&utm_medium=in-article-link-all-you-need-herb-spice-seed-pack&utm_campaign=Over60Shop&utm_content=all-you-need-herb-spice-seed-pack" target="_blank">Sage</a> An infusion of sage leaves can help treat colds and coughs and is a great gargle for sore throats. To make sage gargle, infuse 3 teaspoons of leaves in a cup of boiling water and then strain and cool. 5. <a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/gardening/products/dtbrown-all-you-need-herb-spice-seed-pack?utm_source=Over60&utm_medium=in-article-link-all-you-need-herb-spice-seed-pack&utm_campaign=Over60Shop&utm_content=all-you-need-herb-spice-seed-pack" target="_blank">Oregano</a> An infusion of oregano can be used to treat coughs, tiredness and irritability. To find your garden essentials, including the herbs mentioned above, <a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/?utm_source=over60&utm_campaign=Over60Shop&utm_medium=in-article-link-o60shop&utm_content=over60-shop%20%20%20" target="_blank">head to the Over60 Shop for high-quality offerings</a>.

Body

Pumpkin soup with serrano ham and herbed rolls

This creamy pumpkin soup mixed with crispy serrano ham and herbed rolls will be the most delicious version of the soup that you have tried yet. Serves: Two Ingredients: <ul> <li>1 pumpkin</li> <li>1 tbsp olive oil</li> <li>½ brown onion</li> <li>1 clove garlic</li> <li>2 tsp cumin</li> <li>2 cups hot water</li> <li>1 tin cannellini beans</li> <li>4 slices Serrano ham</li> <li>2 bake-at-home herb rolls</li> <li>Handful parsley</li> </ul> Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan-forced. To prepare the ingredients, remove the pumpkin skin and cut the pumpkin into 3 cm pieces. Finely chop the brown onion and parley. Peel and crush the garlic, and drain and rinse the cannellini beans. 2. Toss the pumpkin in half of the olive oil and place in a single layer on a lined oven tray. Season with salt and pepper. Cook in the oven for 35 minutes or until tender. 3. Meanwhile, heat the remaining olive oil in a large saucepan. Add the brown onion and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until soft. Add the garlic and cumin and cook for a further 1 minute or until fragrant. Transfer the roast pumpkin to the saucepan with the hot water. Bring to the boil. Reduce to a simmer and add the cannellini beans. 4. Reline the same oven tray with baking paper and place the Serrano ham on the tray in a single layer. Cook in the oven for 5-10 minutes or until crispy. Add the bake-at-home herb rolls in the last 5 minutes until warm and crusty on the outside. 5. While the Serrano ham is crisping up in the oven, remove the large saucepan from the heat and, using a stick blender, blend the mixture into a smooth pumpkin and white bean puree. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Tip: You can adjust the consistency by adding extra water. 6. To serve, divide the soup between bowls. Top with the parsley and crumble over the Serrano ham. Serve with the bread rolls on the side. Recipe courtesy of <a href="https://www.hellofresh.com.au/" target="_blank">Hello Fresh</a>. Have you ordered your copy of the Over60 cookbook, The Way Mum Made It, yet? Featuring 175 delicious tried-and-true recipes from you, the Over60 community, and your favourites that have appeared on the Over60 website, <a href="https://shop.abc.net.au/products/way-mum-made-it-pbk" target="_blank">head to the abcshop.com.au to order your copy now.</a>

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Lots of women try herbs like black cohosh for menopausal symptoms like hot flushes – but does it work?

7 tips to maintain your herb garden

A beginners guide to herb gardening

14 medicinal herbs you can grow in your backyard

A KFC employee shares secrets behind the herbs and spices recipe

Kmart hack that keeps herbs fresh for up to six weeks

“Remembering Herb”: Nicole Kidman pays tribute with throwback snaps

The Kmart hack that keeps herbs fresh for six weeks

Why you should clean with herbs

3 hacks to keep your herbs fresher for longer

Could natural herbs heal the prostate?

Tasty lemon and herb mushroom salad

Refreshing persimmon and herb chicken salad

Herb roasted potato wedges

Roasted broccolini, kale and chickpeas with herbed ricotta

Chicken braised in white wine and herbs

Adam Liaw’s red beef and vegetable curry with fresh herbs

Eddie McGuire opens up about his dramatic weight loss

Herbs for winter wellness

Pumpkin soup with serrano ham and herbed rolls

Our Partners

News

Shop

Catalogues

Newspaper

Contests

Entertainment

Travel

Health

Lifestyle

Finance

Property

Compare

Games

Information

Keep up to date

Search

Lots of women try herbs like black cohosh for menopausal symptoms like hot flushes – but does it work?

7 tips to maintain your herb garden

A beginners guide to herb gardening

14 medicinal herbs you can grow in your backyard

A KFC employee shares secrets behind the herbs and spices recipe

Kmart hack that keeps herbs fresh for up to six weeks

“Remembering Herb”: Nicole Kidman pays tribute with throwback snaps

The Kmart hack that keeps herbs fresh for six weeks

Why you should clean with herbs

3 hacks to keep your herbs fresher for longer

Could natural herbs heal the prostate?

Tasty lemon and herb mushroom salad

Refreshing persimmon and herb chicken salad

Herb roasted potato wedges

Roasted broccolini, kale and chickpeas with herbed ricotta

Chicken braised in white wine and herbs

Adam Liaw’s red beef and vegetable curry with fresh herbs

Eddie McGuire opens up about his dramatic weight loss

Herbs for winter wellness

Pumpkin soup with serrano ham and herbed rolls

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