Monophenols are phytonutrients mainly found in herbs. They have antioxidant properties, which means they can protect you from the damaging effects of oxygen-based reactions and have also been linked with cancer protection. They include:
- Apiol (also known as parsley apiol, apiole or parsley camphor), found in celery and parsley, was used to treat lack of menstruation in women and was also used in the Middle Ages as a method to terminate pregnancies.
- Carnosol, found in rosemary, is an antioxidant(a compound which fights against damaging free radicals in the body) and also has cancer fighting properties.
- Rosmarinic acid, found in oregano, sage, lemon balm, marjoram, perilla (also known as Chinese basil), wild mint, hyssop, comfrey and of course rosemary, can relieve Allergies by killing off excess immune responder cells in the system that have been triggered by the allergen, has been used topically as an anti-inflammatory drug, is an antibacterial against several types of bacteria, inhibits gingivitis and plaque formation on the teeth and gums, prevents cell damage caused byfree radicals, and can protect against cancer and atherosclerosis.
- Carvacrol, found primarily in some herbs of the mint family such as thyme and wild oregano, is effective against a variety of bacteria and fungus, and has has anti-inflammatory properties, which may be useful in treating Arthritis and otherinflammatory diseases.
- Dillapiole, found in dill weed, is believed increase the formation of milk in women's breasts, prevent gas problems (by removing gas from the intestines and preventing the build-up of gas in the intestines), prevent muscle spasms (by relaxing the nerves and muscles), soothe the brain and nerves (which can help you relax and sleep while also reducing feelings of anger, anxiety, depression and tension), support healthy digestion (by stimulating the secretion of digestive juices and muscle contractions within the intestines), treat infections (such as colon, genital, hair, kidney, skin and urinary tract infections) and treat wounds (both internally and externally).
