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Growing fragrant herbs can be a rewarding and enjoyable hobby. Whether it is in a dedicated herb garden or in pots lining your favorite walkway, the fragrance of these plants will be enjoyed throughout the year!
Most aromatic herbs prefer a sunny position, but there are a few that will tolerate light shade. They also need free-draining soil and can be improved by adding horticultural grit or other organic matter, advises Jekka.
Basil
Basil is known for its aromatic qualities, but it also offers some serious health benefits. This herb and its essential oil help boost immunity, balance hormones, support digestion and reduce bloating and fluid retention. Basil leaves and oils are also traditionally used to soothe head colds, coughs, headaches, upset stomach, loss of appetite and intestinal worms.
The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds in basil leave and oil, such as linalool, estragole, anethole and eugenol, may offer relief from stress, anxiety, depression and insomnia. Try incorporating basil into your meals with a simple, classic caprese salad or add a touch of its peppery flavor to fresh bruschetta. It’s also delicious tossed in summer rolls or blended into creamy basil aioli. Basil pairs well with most fruits, berries in particular.
Rosemary
Rosemary is one of the most distinctively fragrant herbs. It has stiff, pine needle-like leaves that are attached to a woody stem. In cooking, rosemary is often paired with lamb, chicken, and fish and is an excellent choice for soups, stews, and casseroles.
It also pairs well with potatoes, beans, and legumes. It has a strong flavor, so it is usually used sparingly. Its piney, lemony, resinous, and astringent notes can be compared to other woody herbs like thyme and marjoram.
Try it as a garnish on roasted vegetables or baked potato wedges or add a couple of chopped sprigs to a glass of rosemary fizz for an herbaceous twist on the classic drink! You can also use full sprigs to make kabobs for the grill.
Thyme
Thyme is a staple in many world cuisines, most famously in the Mediterranean region. It's a great addition to soups, stews and roasts, as well as vegetables and pasta dishes.
Like rosemary, thyme has an earthy-citrusy flavor that pairs well with many ingredients. It's also a great addition to salads and roasted potatoes.
Thymol is a natural chemical compound that has antimicrobial properties, meaning it can kill or inhibit microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses and fungi. It is a promising phytochemical alternative to antibiotics. More research is needed to confirm these claims, however.
Chamomile
Chamomile (also called matricaria or camomile) is one of the most familiar aromatic herbs. The tiny daisy-like flowers are a mainstay in bedtime herbal teas for their calming effect, and they’re also the basis for natural cold remedies.
This herb’s gentle carminative qualities soothe fluid retention and digestive tract issues like abdominal distension, bloating and gas. It promotes the secretion of digestive juices, promoting fullness and helping the body to absorb nutrients.
You can use chamomile leaves to lightly flavor milk or cream in dishes such as pot de cremes and creme brulee. Try adding them to savory dishes, too. You can easily grow chamomile in your own garden or purchase it in a store. Its essential oil can be diffused or applied to the skin in a bath, as well.
Peppermint
Throughout history, peppermint (Mentha x piperita) has been used as a flavoring and medicinal herb. Leaves and oils have been used to treat digestive disorders, respiratory problems and to help stimulate the circulation and the heart.
Peppermint oil contains 30-55% menthol, along with other essential volatile compounds such as menthone, pulegone, and methyl acetate. These chemicals are what give peppermint its unique cooling and refreshing taste and smell.
Adding a few drops to a carrier oil can make for an invigorating yet soothing massage experience. Peppermint's uplifting and energizing qualities also make it great for a post-workout recovery rub. Dried peppermint leaves and a few drops of the essential oil can be added to green salads, or used in a homemade iced tea or lemonade.
Frequently Asked Questions
What herb heals all wounds?
The answer to this question varies depending on the type and severity of the wound.
The herb comfrey (also known as knitbone) has long been used for its healing properties, particularly for skin injuries such as cuts and bruises.
Studies suggest that comfrey contains allantoin, which helps speed up healing. Other herbs commonly used for healing wounds include calendula, plantain, and yarrow. These herbs help to reduce inflammation, stop bleeding and speed up the skin's healing process.
In addition to herbs, honey has also been found to have powerful antimicrobial properties that can help prevent wound infection.
Herbs for wound care is an age-old practice that continues to be used today. However, herbs should not replace medical treatment, and always consult your doctor before using herbs for healing. With the right herbs, you can give your body the support it needs to heal naturally.
Should You Use Herbs and Spices for Brain Health?
Herbs and spices have been used for centuries to improve brain health. Research shows that these natural remedies may help prevent dementia and Alzheimer's. Some herbs may even boost memory.
However, no scientific evidence proves that eating an herb-rich diet can keep your mind sharp. When it comes to improving cognitive function, there are more effective ways to do it.
One study found that older adults who took 1000 mg of vitamin B6 daily had fewer mental lapses than those taking placebo pills. Another study showed that drinking coffee could increase blood flow to the brain. Other studies suggest that exercise, socialization, and sleep improve brain health.
The bottom line is that herbs and spices probably won't make much difference to your overall health. But they might give you extra energy and focus, which can come in handy during the day.
Is it okay to use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
It is best to pick up fresh herbs whenever possible when using herbs.
Although dried herbs are convenient, they don’t provide the same benefits as fresh herbs.
Fresh herbs contain essential oils that give your food a unique flavor. These oils help preserve the nutrients within the herb.
Dried herbs lose all their flavor after drying, so they cannot replace fresh herbs.
You should only use dried herbs if you absolutely must. Otherwise, you should get your fresh herbs from the market.
What is the difference between "regular" and smoked paprika powder?
Regular Paprika Powder (Piment d'Espelette) is an essential ingredient for our recipes. We use it for its intense flavor and color. It's also used as a spice and seasoning agent. Smoked Paprika Powder (Paprika Chorizo) adds a smoky taste and aroma to dishes. Both types of Paprika Powder come from Spain, where they grow the best peppers in the world.
Smoked Paprika Powder (Chorizo Paprika) is made from red peppers, which are dried slowly in special ovens. This gives them a rich flavor. They are then ground and mixed with salt, garlic, and spices.
Regular Paprika Powder (Espelette Paprika) is made by grinding green bell peppers without additives.
Which plant can heal wounds?
Plants are amazing creatures. They grow, they live, and they die. They make food, clean our air and water, and help keep us healthy. But plants also do more than that...they heal wounds.
Plants release molecules called phytochemicals when they are injured. These chemicals act as antioxidants, which protect cell membranes from damage and promote healing.
Phytochemicals found in plants include flavones (found in citrus fruits), terpenoids (present in mint leaves), and polyphenols (common in berries).
In addition to these protective compounds, plants contain proteins, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, and carbohydrates that support the body's natural processes of healing.
The best way to use plants to heal wounds is to consume them directly. However, there are ways to apply the power of plants to treat wounds without eating them.
First, soak a cotton ball in an extract from the St John's Wort herb. This product contains salicylic acid, which helps reduce inflammation.
Next, place the soaked cotton ball on the wound. Avoid applying the herb directly to open cuts, burns, or puncture wounds. If you feel any burning sensation, remove the herb immediately.
You may also find that placing a few drops of essential oil on the affected area promotes faster healing. Lavender essential oil reduces swelling and speed recovery; rosemary stimulates blood flow and increases circulation; peppermint relieves headaches and muscle aches.
If you want to try your hand at growing some of your medicinal herbs, here are some tips:
- Start with small pots, so you don't end up with too much of one particular type of plant.
- Grow several different types of herbs together. The same goes for flowers and vegetables. Mixing it up will ensure you get all the benefits of each plant.
- Use organic fertilizer if you're growing your herbs indoors. Non-organic fertilizers may be harmful to your health.
- Harvest regularly. You'll enjoy the freshness of homegrown herbs, but leave enough time between harvests to allow the soil to replenish itself.
- Be careful not to overwater your plants. Overly wet soil encourages mold growth, which isn't suitable for your herbs.
- Wash your hands after handling your herbs. You don't want to risk spreading bacteria onto your plants!
What spices assist in recovery?
The use of spices to aid in healing is an ancient practice dating back centuries. Many spices have been used for their medicinal properties, including ginger, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, turmeric, and garlic. Each of these spices has unique benefits that can help with various health issues.
Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and can help reduce inflammation in the body. It can also be used to soothe an upset stomach or relieve nausea.
Cinnamon has been found to have a wide range of medicinal properties, including antiseptic, antifungal, antimicrobial, and antioxidant agents. It is even believed to help regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial in helping prevent diabetes.
Cayenne pepper has been used for centuries as a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory agent. It is also thought to increase circulation and metabolism, which can help the body heal more quickly.
Turmeric is an herb that contains curcumin, a powerful antioxidant. Curcumin is beneficial in treating various conditions, from arthritis and neurological disorders to cancer.
Garlic is packed with nutrients and has many health benefits. It can help reduce inflammation, act as antibiotic, lower cholesterol levels, and even boost the immune system.
These spices are all-natural ways to help the body heal and improve overall health. They can all be easily incorporated into food or taken in supplement form for convenience. While spices alone won't cure any ailments, they can play an essential role in aiding healing.
In addition to spices, there are also other natural remedies for healing, such as herbs, essential oils, and homeopathy. Research has shown that many of these remedies can be effective in treating a variety of conditions. If you're looking for an alternative to conventional medicine, consider incorporating some of these natural remedies into your health routine.
What plant helps with infection?
There are plants out there that help fight infections. Some even contain anti-bacterial properties. One of them is mint.
Mint has been used for centuries to treat respiratory infections such as cold symptoms and flu. Mint also supports digestion and relieves gas pains. You may find relief with peppermint tea if you have an upset stomach. Peppermint oil has antibacterial properties, which make it effective against germs.
Peppermint tea contains menthol, beta-carotene, vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, iron, and potassium. These nutrients support healthy immune systems and provide energy to keep your body strong.
You can make peppermint tea at home by adding one teaspoon of dried mint leaves to boiling water. Let steep for five minutes and drink hot three times per day.
Or you can buy peppermint tea bags at any grocery store. Simply add two teaspoons of dried mint leaves to a cup of hot water. Steep for 10 minutes and strain. Drink hot three times per day for best results.
Statistics
- For those with high cholesterol, garlic supplementation appears to reduce total and/or LDL cholesterol by about 10-15% (72Trusted Source73Trusted (healthline.com)
- Studies have shown that cinnamon can lower fasting blood sugars by 10-29% in diabetic patients, which is a significant amount (9Trusted Source10Trusted (healthline.com)
External Links
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- Peppermint oil (Mintoil®) in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: A prospective, double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trial
- Curcumin reverses the effects of chronic stress on behavior, the HPA axis, BDNF expression, and phosphorylation of CREB
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How To
What to look for in herbs?
Herbs contain natural compounds that may help treat various conditions. In addition, herbal remedies may provide relief when used along with conventional treatments.
Herbal remedies include teas, capsules, tablets, ointments, creams, lotions, oils, and topical applications. Some of these products are meant to be taken internally, while others are applied externally.
The most common uses of herbal remedies include relieving minor aches and pains, treating cold symptoms, reducing fever, controlling coughs and sore throats, easing digestion problems, soothing skin irritations, alleviating menstrual cramps, and providing general health benefits.
When buying herbs, look for the following:
- Freshly picked plants. Avoid dried herbs unless they've been stored in a cool place. If possible, buy herbs directly from farmers' markets.
- Pure extracts. These are made by extracting the active ingredients from herbs using alcohol or water. Look for 100% pure extractions.
- Certified organic herbs. Organic herbs must meet strict standards set forth by the USDA.
- Natural flavors. Many herbs have strong scents that can overwhelm other foods. Adding flavorings such as vanilla, almond, or orange helps mask their smell.
- Potency. The amount of active ingredient per unit weight varies depending on the type of herb.
- Packaging. When purchasing herbs, check the packaging to ensure that it's clean and free of chemicals.
Resources:
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