Category: Culinary herbs

While hoja santa has been a cherished herb in Mexican cuisine for centuries, concerns exist regarding its safrole content and potential for negative reactions. So, does hoja santa have any side effects, and is it safe for regular consumption? Understanding the risks and safe usage is key to enjoying this aromatic plant without worry.

Though not a true oregano, Cuban oregano (Plectranthus amboinicus) is a popular and edible herb with thick, fuzzy leaves known for their potent flavor and aroma. This succulent plant, also known as Mexican mint or Indian borage, is widely used in Caribbean and Southeast Asian cuisines and possesses significant medicinal properties. However, due to its very strong taste, it must be used sparingly to avoid overpowering a dish.

As a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), no members are known to be toxic, making many parts of the lemon balm plant, including its flowers, edible. However, while safe to consume, the small, white or yellowish flowers differ in flavor and use from the more potent leaves.

In 2022, Canadian health authorities issued a recall for certain sand ginger powder products after two individuals were hospitalized with heart irregularities due to contamination with poisonous monkshood powder. This incident highlights the importance of understanding the safety of this culinary and medicinal herb and knowing whether sand ginger is safe to consume.

According to Healthline, eating 1–2 cloves of raw garlic per day can provide significant health benefits, but not all varieties are created equal. Discovering what is the best garlic to eat raw depends entirely on your flavor preference and intended use, from a mild, subtly sweet experience to a powerful, fiery kick.

Spearmint, a versatile herb with a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations, has been used for centuries for both culinary and medicinal purposes. It's a common flavoring in toothpaste, gum, and beverages, but many wonder: Is spearmint ok to eat? In most cases, yes, spearmint is safe for consumption in typical food and tea amounts, though certain precautions should be considered.

Packed with calcium, iron, and protein, chipilín leaves are more than just a tasty Central American herb; they are a nutritional powerhouse. So, what are chipilín leaves good for beyond flavoring tamales and soups?

Native to southern Mexico and Central America, the chipilín plant is a nutritional powerhouse, celebrated for its high content of protein, calcium, and iron. A versatile leafy green, what is chipilín good for extends beyond its culinary appeal to include significant health benefits and widespread use in traditional regional dishes.

Jambu refers to a variety of plants, including the mouth-numbing Amazonian herb Acmella oleracea and the Indian fruit Syzygium cumini, which is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine for its medicinal properties. This diversity means that what jambu is used for varies significantly depending on the specific plant species. Both the culinary and medicinal uses are highly valued in their respective regions.

While typically used as a colorful garnish, chive flowers possess surprising nutritional value, including vitamins C and K, and a rich array of antioxidants. This nutrient-dense profile naturally leads many to wonder: are chive flowers good for you, or is their use purely decorative?