Garlic Chives
ALSO KNOWN AS
Oriental Garlic, Asian Chives
PERSONALITY
That unassuming friend who actually has a blackbelt in Karate
PERKS
Chives may appear dainty and delicate but they pack in a powerful punch of health and flavor. They are perfect for our digestive system because of the allyl sulfides and other unique organic compounds that ease our tummy problems. The herb also has a natural antibacterial quality that can eliminate harmful bacteria like salmonella. It can increase the nutrient uptake efficiency in our gut, ensuring we get as many nutrients from our food as possible.
Side note: taking care of our digestive system is so important because our gut is our second brain. We really are essentially what we eat and how we digest!
Chives can improve heart health with a compound called allicin, which lowers LDL or bad cholesterol. When combined with potassium, allicin can have a major impact on reducing cardiovascular strain. Chives also have high amounts of vitamin C, vitamin K, anti-cancer qualities, carotenes (which improve vision), and folic acid (which help prevent birth defects).
USES
They say that for us to receive all the great health benefits of chives, we need to take heaps of it. It's traditionally served as a topping to sauces, dressings, and other dishes, but sprinkle and cook as you like. We love using it as stuffing and flavouring for steamed or grilled fish and meats. And for adding some extra umph to our sauces.