Today we will look at three more types of greens — not as popular as the previous ones, but no less beneficial.

Sorrel is quite well known in Ukraine, but in recent years it has not been as widely recognised as it once was. Because of its pronounced sourness, it was traditionally added to delicious and extremely healthy green borscht. Sadly, this valuable tradition is gradually disappearing from everyday life, which is why we buy sorrel far less often than we did in the relatively recent past.

In England, I have neither seen it nor heard much about it. However, I am sure that if you really put your mind to it, you can find it here if you want to.

And it is definitely worth the effort, because this tangy herb is a rich source of vitamins, minerals and trace elements. It contains vitamins A, C and K, as well as almost the entire range of B vitamins. In addition, it is rich in minerals such as sodium, magnesium, iron, calcium and potassium.

It is also worth remembering that, besides vitamins and micro- and macroelements, this plant contains protein, fibre and complex carbohydrates, as well as oxalic acid. The latter gives the greens their distinctive and unmistakable flavour — a pleasantly sharp, sour taste.

Incidentally, people recognised the powerful properties of sorrel in ancient times, sometimes using it as a natural remedy for infertility, stomach ailments, rheumatism and tuberculosis. A decoction of its roots was given to patients suffering from coughs and colds. Moreover, regular consumption of sorrel not only improves the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, but also helps to normalise the functioning of the gallbladder and liver, while significantly strengthening the immune system.

Oregano is a spicy, fragrant herb with such an appealing aroma that it can even be brewed as tea — something I often do. It is also believed that the aroma of oregano has a beneficial effect on our psyche: it calms and relieves stress, helping to ease tension and, in some cases, even reduce symptoms of depression. This herb can also be added to salads and various appetisers; it pairs very well with vegetable dishes and especially with fish.

This spicy herb is a powerful natural antibiotic that helps fight sore throats, bronchitis, gingivitis, tonsillitis and even tuberculosis. In addition, it is an excellent anti-inflammatory, diuretic, disinfectant and natural antiseptic. Oregano helps treat various stomach ailments by regulating the digestive system. One of the flavonoids it contains, called carvacrol, has a pronounced anti-allergic and bactericidal effect and helps combat various bacteria, including E. coli, while also helping to normalise insulin secretion.

This fragrant herb also contains another flavonoid, thymol, which has antihistamine and antiseptic properties. Together, these two flavonoids help the body combat excess cholesterol. Vitamins A, B1, B2, C, D and K also make a significant contribution to the health benefits of consuming this spicy, aromatic herb.

Mint — who doesn’t know it? We all know it, but not everyone uses it — except perhaps as a tea infusion (by the way, did you know that the myth that mint tea is not recommended for men, but only for women, has not been reliably confirmed by any scientific research? There are nuances, of course, but no solid global evidence). However, when dried and ground, mint makes an excellent addition to various meat and potato dishes, and especially to baked goods. In English cuisine, peppermint is often used in the preparation of sauces and pairs particularly well with lamb dishes, which the English greatly appreciate.

Mint is indispensable for our stomachs — it significantly reduces heartburn, nausea, stomach pain and flatulence, and also helps combat intestinal and gallbladder spasms. This fragrant herb contains vitamins such as A, C, D, B1, B2, B5, B6, B9 and PP. It also provides minerals including copper, magnesium, manganese, zinc, phosphorus, iron, sodium, potassium and calcium.

In ancient times, mint was used to treat many ailments, including stomach problems, colds and nervous disorders. Mint harvested on special days was even regarded as a plant capable of prolonging human life for many years. The scent of mint is still valued today as a healing remedy in its own right — both the herb itself and its essential oil are used to promote healthy sleep and improve brain function. The ancient Romans even wore wreaths of mint on their heads to enhance mental activity.

Mint can also be used to make a very unusual but delicious puréed soup, which can be served either cold or warm, providing both refreshment and comfort. These dishes, like green sorrel borscht, are not difficult to prepare, yet they offer maximum benefit to the body. Unfortunately, many people today are unwilling to spend time preparing simple, healthy meals, as nutritional value has taken a back seat to the modern priorities of bold flavours and quick preparation.

The consequences of these regrettable changes in attitudes towards food are evident — not only in Ukraine, but across the world, including England. Sadly, so far, very few people seem to care. I must confess that when I arrived in England, I was struck by the sheer number of people who were not just overweight, but severely obese — weighing not 80 or 90 kilograms, but 120, 150, and sometimes even 200 kilograms.

Still, there is no reason to despair. Let us hope that the situation will soon change for the better. At the very least, both I and my like-minded colleagues have contributed, are contributing, and will continue to contribute our modest share to these important, necessary and deeply relevant positive changes — for every inhabitant of our planet.