Earth Day falls on April 22nd every year. Think of it as an opportunity to reflect and be grateful for the beauty our planet has to offer! This year, we’re talking about one simple, environmentally friendly way to have an impact all from the comfort of your own kitchen: Growing your own herbs at home!

Did you know that the USDA estimates 30-40% of our food supply goes to waste? That’s approximately 133 billion pounds, each year! Growing fresh produce at home is an excellent way to cut back on your food waste, and you can grow many herbs from your kitchen – no fancy equipment or tons of space required.

Not only are fresh herbs and spices an excellent way to reduce food waste, but they can also be used to add a flavor boost without adding excess salt, which may be beneficial for those trying to cut down on their sodium intake.

Here are 5 herbs that you can easily grow at home today:

1. Basil: Use fresh basil to make delicious pesto, or add to salads, pastas, and pizzas for a boost of flavor. Basil provides you with antioxidants and nutrients such as vitamin K.
2. Green Onion: Most commonly used as a colorful garnish on many dishes, but the bulbs of green onion can be used in cooking soups or stir-fries for added flavor without a lot of added calories. Green onions also provide you with vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate.
3. Mint: For many years, mint has been used as a natural remedy for an upset stomach. However, you can also get creative and add mint to your brewed teas or even salads and desserts for a fresh flavor. Mint provides us with potent antioxidants, vitamin A, and iron.
4. Sage: Sage can be used to add aromatic flavor to soups, and even enjoyed as a cup of tea. Sage contains antioxidants and vitamin K.
5. Rosemary: Rosemary is an herb popularly consumed as a tea, infused in oil, or used as a way to flavor meats and vegetables before roasting. Rosemary is rich in plant compounds, called phytochemicals, that may be beneficial for health.