What Herbs Contain Vitamin K?

If you cook with and consume herbs regularly, it is likely you are receiving a good dose of vitamin K. The essential nutrient called vitamin K works in the body to prevent blood clots, aid the mineralization of bones with calcium and reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. The most well-known sources of this bone-loving mineral is dark-green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale and swiss chard. However, everyday medicinal and culinary herbs also provide excellent ways of maintaining a healthful intake of this vitamin.

Green Tea

• Originally brewed for consumption in countries such as China and Japan as a hot beverage, many Westerners now consume large quantities of green tea. Green tea is made from the leaves of the Camelia sinensis plant and is taken internally to protect the heart, improve dental health, prevent cancer and stimulate memory and learning. Dried green tea contains approximately 712 mcg of vitamin K per 100 g.

Parsley

• Parsley is an excellent source of iron, vitamin C, calcium and vitamin K.

  Parsley is a rich source of nutrients and much of the medicinal action of this plant is attributed to its high nutritional status. Parsley has been used as a kidney tonic, blood cleanser, antioxidant and nutritive herb. In addition to high levels of vitamin C, calcium and iron, parsley contains approximately 540 mcg of vitamin K per 100g.

Thyme

• Thyme originated in Africa, the Mediterranean and Europe as a popular culinary herb. In addition to adding taste and aroma to traditional dishes of food, thyme is a medicinal plant containing essential oils that fight bacteria, viruses, support respiratory health and improve digestion. Dried thyme contains 50 mcg of vitamin K per 100 g.

Basil

• Sweet basil is an aromatic herb used in cooking and for its high nutritional content.

  The many varieties of basil can be used for culinary and medicinal purposes, however the most popular variety that you see in the kitchen is sweet basil. Sweet basil aids digestion and reduces flatulence, fights parasites and was used traditionally to treat bites and stings. Dried basil contains 34 mcg of vitamin K per 100 g.

Sage

• Sage is a bitter herb used to treat menopause, infections and digestive problems.

  Sage has a long history of culinary, medicinal and ceremonial use among many cultures throughout Europe, Africa, North America and the Mediterranean. Dried sage was burned by native American Indians to purify and cleanse themselves. Dried sage contains 34 mcg of vitamin K per 100 g.

Oats

• Oats are highly nutritious, health promoting and an excellent source of vitamin K.

  Oats provide you with a rich source of nutrition and medicine, and can be eaten as a food or taken internally as a medicinal plant extract. Natural chemicals found within oats benefit and tonify the nervous system, promote relaxation, reduce fatigue and fight free radicals. Oats contain 20 mcg of vitamin K per 100 g.