More: 5 Healing Smoothies to Boost Your Immune System

  1. Basil Basil has a warm flavor that will boost your green smoothies and strengthen your kidneys. The kidneys play a major role in removing waste products and toxins from your bloodstream, like those produced from a diet that includes highly processed foods. The best part is that basil is easy to grow at home by either planting it in your garden or purchasing a small basil plant to leave on your kitchen counter.
  2. Cilantro If you’re looking to add a refreshing citrusy flavor to your next green smoothie, try cilantro. This herb is known for a variety of nutrients, but its ability to bind to toxic heavy metals and remove them from our bodies is what makes it a rawkstar in our eyes.
  3. Mint The mighty mint helps with toxin buildup, which can occur in the stomach and colon when improper digestion takes place. When you’re looking for soothing relief from cramping, bloating, or constipation, mint is the herb you want to add to the mix.  More: 5 Smoothie Ingredients to Fuel Your Workout
  4. Parsley Parsley is another herb with a distinctive flavor that can liven up any green smoothie with a fresh and light herbaceous taste. There are three main filters in the body—the bladder, kidneys, and liver—and parsley is here to assist them all in the detoxification process. Parsley specifically targets any buildup in these filters and helps flush it out of the body.
  5. Ginger This healing root has a strong bite, so start small. A 1/4-inch piece is about 1 teaspoon grated, and a 1/2-inch piece is about 2 teaspoons grated. Ginger helps with nausea, gas, and inflammation. We recommend using fresh ginger root for your green smoothies, although ground ginger could work in a pinch.
  6. Turmeric Known as the King of all Spices for its potential role in natural healing (it’s actually been proven to ease arthritis pain and could help prevent Alzheimer’s disease), turmeric is a keeper and should be used when you need to ease aches and decrease inflammation.
  7. Cinnamon Cinnamon is a great immunity booster and contains both calcium and iron. Its warming scent is known to have a very energizing effect on the mind.
  8. Ground Red Pepper Ground red pepper is insanely potent and adds a spicy kick to your green smoothie, so use it sparingly. It also boosts your circulation, revs up your metabolism, and curbs your appetite. Try It: Start this one simple habit to jump start a healthier body, a happier heart, and a lifestyle you love! The article “8 Herbs & Spices You Should Add to Your Smoothies” originally ran on RodaleWellness.com.