Antioxidant plants

Antioxidants are chemical substances that prevent oxidative damage by neutralizing free radicals, the renegade oxygen molecules that are so damaging to the body. Among the best antioxidants is vitamin A, which we get from food in the form of carotenoids like beta-carotene. Other antioxidants include vitamins C and E, the vitamin-like flavonoids, and the mineral selenium.

And fruits and vegetables, especially leafy vegetables, are simply the best sources of these beneficial substances. Good research suggests that oregano, rosemary, bee balm, lemon balm (also known as melissa), peppermint, sage, spearmint, savory and thyme contain significant levels of Antioxidants. 

Broccoli (Brassica oleracea) and other herbs containing glutathione. Studies indicate that people who are low in the antioxidant compound glutathione are more likely to have arthritis than those who have higher amounts. 

Vegetables rich in glutathione include asparagus, cabbage, cauliflower, potatoes, tomatoes and purslane. Fruits with healthy amounts include avocados, grapefruit, oranges, peaches and watermelon. 

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba). Ginkgo’s ability to increase blood flow to the brain has been shown to offer a number of benefits to people who are aging. It improves alertness, memory and the ability to concentrate, it elevates mood, and it relieves tinnitus (ringing in the ears), dizziness and anxiety. 

Oregano (Origanum vulgare). Studies are accumulating that the “pizza herb,” oregano, is a powerful antioxidant. Rosemary and oregano are both antioxidant mints. 

Purslane (Portulaca oleracea). Exceptionally rich in Antioxidants, . It’s also rich in the compound glutathione, which is both a powerful antioxidant and an immune system booster. Speaking of glutathione, other vegetables rich in this anti-aging compound include asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, potatoes and tomatoes. Fruits with this antioxidant include avocados, grapefruit, oranges, peaches and watermelon. 

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis). A mint relative of catnip, rosemary contains more than a dozen antioxidants.

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris). Thyme is another good source of beneficial anti-aging chemicals. You can even benefit from soaking in it. 

Turmeric (Curcuma longa). In addition to good amounts of vitamins C and E and carotenoids, turmeric contains many other antioxidants.

Vitamin C. Vitamin C inhibits the progression of osteoarthritis in guinea pigs. Does it work in humans? There’s no proof yet that it does, but it certainly can’t hurt to get more vitamin C. Red pepper and many of the other herbs and vegetables contain good amounts.