They may be best known for their pungent aromas, but these potent veggies, including onions, garlic, and leeks, have powerful effects on your health.

Vegetables in the Allium genus include onions, shallots, leeks and scallions, as well as herbs like garlic and chives. These vegetables and herbs all contain “organosulfur compounds” and have been shown to possess antioxidant properties that make them protective against health conditions such as heart disease and cancer.

The best Allium vegetables are onions, shallots, leeks, and scallions — and herbs like garlic and chives.