Kitchen Herbs 101 – Introduction

Growing herbs is pretty easy, and doesn’t usually require a green thumb.  As
a matter of fact, if you do any gardening at all, you are probably pulling weeds – which often enough, are actually herbs!

Herbs have been used in both kitchen and medicine cabinets for centuries, and many cooks find the addition of herbs in cooking adds flavor and nutrition at the same time.

Herbalism – using herbs for medicinal purposes sometimes comes under fire because it is not generally regulated by any government program, and is followed by many people who prefer an alternative means to modern medicine for health and healing.

The funny thing is, modern medicine traces its roots (literally) back to herbalism, and can to this day thank the lowly herb for the introduction of many helpful, and even life-saving, medicines.

So let’s talk about some herbs for use in the kitchen – and some of the ways they may contribute to your health.

Aloe Vera (Aloe barbedensis).  Okay, so maybe you don’t want to tear off a leaf and start sucking the juice out – but when you DO get burned while cooking (as I so often do), aloe is gonna be one of the first things you reach for.  Cool, soothing relief in the ooze of this plant has been used for centuries.  Just don’t overwater.

Basil (Osimum basilicum).  Used in a variety of recipes, basil has a distinct flavor and aroma.  A common ingredient in pesto sauce, it can be used in teas to offset digestive problems, and is often added as an ingredient for fragrance in body care products.

Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum).  Also known as coriander, cilantro is a necessary ingredient for great homemade salsa.  Looking something like flat-leafed parsley, cilantro has an almost citrusy taste that adds a real zing.    It also has antimicrobial properties, and helps food stay fresher longer.

Dandelion leaf (Taraxacum officinale).  Seriously folks – this dreaded “weed” has great nutritional benefits, and its culinary contributions outweigh its appearance in your lawn.  Your neighbors may disagree, but maybe you should just try offering one of these dandelion recipes and THEN see how they feel about them!  (Really – dandelion fritters are the bomb!)

Fennel (Fennel Capillaceum).  This stalky herb with a taste of licorice, is entirely edible from the ground up.  Although the seed is commonly used, the stalk can be roasted as a vegetable for your dining pleasure.  Medicinally, fennel is a common ingredient in calming digestive upset, and is used in homeopathic treatments for colic.

Lavender (Lavandula).  Because the scent is so familiar, people often take it for granted that the aroma is the only value this particular flower has.  However, the flowers are often used in soothing teas and tempting baked goods, too.  For use in your kitchen, always use organically grown lavender.

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis).  Its obvious lemon scent attracts bees, making it useful in any garden.  Its lemon taste offers a nice kick to homemade lemonade or Lemon Balm Mojitos.  Its usefulness for the human nervous system dates back for centuries, and while it is often found in commercially prepared teas designed for relaxation or sleep, it can also be found in extract or capsule form.  Easy to grow, easy to use – Lemon Balm may just be a great addition to your next garden experience!

Nettle (Urtica dioica).  Commonly known as “Stinging Nettle”, this may seem an odd addition to your kitchen herb collection.  Yes, it is necessary to wear gloves while working around or handling nettle, but this article at learningherbs.com explains why nettle is so good for you.  And here is a recipe for Nettle Soup that might tempt your tastebuds.  Are you brave enough to try it?

So, while there is more to say about herbs (forthcoming in my next post), as always, MODERATION IS KEY.  Some of these herbs are generally safe for everyone to use – young and old – but if you are going to grow your own herbs, be sure to consult with herbal experts as to the growing, harvesting, and use of each herb.  Herbs often look alike, and the difference can be the difference between life giving and life endangering.

Check out books from your local library, or visit your local co-op or extension office to learn more about growing and using herbs in your kitchen, and your medicine cabinet!

ALWAYS consult a physician if you are using any prescription medication before incorporating herbs into your diet and lifestyle.  Herbs may seem harmless enough, but don’t ever assume that if it’s called an “herb” it is safe to consume.  Some herbs affect blood pressure, diabetes and other medical conditions that should be monitored by a physician.

So why bother?

Because herbs offer great flavor, nutritional benefits, and when grown in your own back yard or patio, the satisfaction of contributing to the circle of life!

photo credit: vår resa