Essential herbs are super important in real Mexican cooking. They make the food taste amazing and give it a special character. Let's look at some key herbs used in traditional Mexican dishes:

1. Cilantro

   • This herb is used a lot in salsas, guacamole, and salads.
   • Research shows that cilantro has good stuff called antioxidants and oils, which help give it its unique taste.

2. Oregano

   • Oregano is a must-have for dishes like mole and various stews.
   • Mexican oregano is different from the kind used in Mediterranean cooking. It tastes citrusy and earthy.
   • It also has a lot of thymol, which is known for fighting germs.

3. Epazote

   • This herb is often added to beans and meat dishes to help reduce gas.
   • It contains something called ascaridole, which might help your tummy feel better.

4. Thyme

   • Thyme is included in marinades, soups, and other hearty dishes.
   • Like oregano, it has thymol, which can keep things clean and healthy.

5. Sage

   • Sage is often used in moles and when roasting meat.
   • It has rosmarinic acid, which can help reduce swelling and inflammation.

6. Bay Leaves

   • These leaves are added to soups, stews, and sauces to give them a nice smell and flavor.
   • They contain eugenol, which adds to their unique taste and can be good for your health.

Using these herbs the right way can make Mexican dishes even better. Here’s a tip on when to add them while cooking:

• Fresh herbs like cilantro are best added at the end to keep their fresh taste.
• Dried herbs like oregano or thyme can be added earlier while cooking to boost the overall flavor.

By knowing how each of these important herbs works, cooks can make tasty and authentic Mexican meals.