https://theeyehuatulco.com/2025/08/10/skip-the-supplement-and-order-the-mole/
Skip the Supplement and Order the Mole
By Kary Vannice
When in Mexico, a mention that you’re suffering from some sort of ailment will almost immediately be met with a recommendation for a local herbal remedy. It seems every Mexican abuela has an encyclopedic knowledge of natural cures, especially if they’re derived from plants. But here, you don’t have to venture into the forest or even the health food store to find many of these remedies, because they’re often served right on your dinner plate.
Unlike most meals in the US or Canada, which may include a sprinkle of dried herbs or rely heavily on processed seasonings, traditional Mexican cuisine leans into the use of fresh herbs and spices that not only make food taste fresh and flavorful, but also have curative properties.
Their ancestors knew that food was about more than flavor. To them, it was also medicine. Cultures that incorporate fresh herbs and spices into their diets are healthier for a reason. So, why not tap into the healing power on your plate?
Here are some of the most common healing herbs and spices used in Mexican cooking, the ailments they can help with, and what you can order if you want a natural dose of plant medicine with your meal:
Got gut health issues like inflammation, parasites, or bloating?
Reach for the Epazote, a long, jagged, deep green leaf, somewhat resembling dandelion.
Health Perks: Eases digestive discomfort, supports gut health, aids nutrient absorption, and strengthens immunity.
Order off the menu: Frijoles de la olla (beans cooked with epazote), or tamales flavored with epazote layered in with fillings like beans or squash blossoms.
Dealing with respiratory issues, cramps, or headaches?
Hoja Santa to the rescue. This large, “sacred” heart-shaped leaf infuses meals with natural remedies, promoting healing with every bite.
Health Perks: Alleviates colic, cramps, asthma, and respiratory issues. Acts as an expectorant for coughs, colds, and bronchitis.
Order off the menu: Pescado Envuelto en Hoja Santa (fish wrapped in the leaf), or green or yellow mole made Oaxacan-style, often with hoja santa blended into the sauce.
On a detox kick, trying to repair your gut health or reduce your anxiety?
Load up on the Cilantro! This bright, leafy herb does more than make food pretty. It’s rich in antioxidants and helps the body flush out heavy metals while supporting digestion and calming the nervous system.
Health Perks: Lowers blood sugar and triglycerides, reduces inflammation, and eases anxiety.
Order off the menu: Tacos al pastor, ceviche de pescado, or salsa verde loaded with fresh cilantro.
Dealing with a cold or needing immune support?
Mexican Oregano will get you back on your feet fast! Its leaf is larger, fuzzier, and stronger than the Italian oregano you’re familiar with, and it’s loaded with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Health Perks: Helps fight bacteria and viruses, calms inflammation, and supports respiratory and immune health.
Order off the menu: Pozole rojo or birria. It’s also found in many marinades and chili-based dishes.
Got circulation issues, chronic inflammation, or need a metabolism boost?
Bring on the Chiles. Peppers do more than just add heat, they’re loaded with capsaicin, a compound that has serious health benefits. And the hotter the pepper, the stronger the benefit (if your stomach can handle it).
Health Perks: Improves blood flow, reduces inflammation and relieves pain. Also supports weight management by boosting your metabolism.
Order off the menu: Enchiladas rojas, salsa macha, anything made with mole, or simply ask for the “salsa de la casa” and add some punch to your meal.
Battling blood sugar spikes or high cholesterol?
Call in the Cumin. This earthy spice comes from the seed of a parsley plant and doesn’t just taste amazing, it also keeps your digestion running smoothly and is especially beneficial after carb-heavy meals.
Health Perks: Supports blood sugar regulation, improves insulin sensitivity, reduces cholesterol, and supports weight management.
Order off the menu: Mexican lentil soup, mole poblano, chorizo, or tinga de pollo.
Need an immune boost or suffering from inflammation?
Look for Papalo. This bold, peppery herb has thick, spade-shaped leaves with a soft, blue-green hue. Sometimes called “the cilantro of the Sierra,” it’s often overlooked, but packed with healing power.
Health Perks: A powerhouse of antioxidants, it helps calm inflammation, supports cellular repair, and boosts immunity.
Order off the menu: Cemita poblana (a classic Pueblan sandwich) or tacos árabes with a papalo garnish.
Turns out, the secret to better health might not be in a pill bottle, but in a taco. So, the next time you’re enjoying a meal in Mexico, remember, every bite might be doing more than just satisfying your taste buds. Herbs and spices like these have been passed down through generations not just for their flavor, but for their power to heal. With centuries of plant wisdom tucked into tamales, salsas, and stews, Mexican food isn’t just delicious, it’s actually functional medicine in disguise.
