Tag: Edible herbs

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.

A member of the mint family, lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) has been cultivated for centuries for its aromatic, lemon-scented leaves. As a staple in many herbal gardens, a common question is whether the lemon balm plant is edible for humans. The answer, for most people, is yes, and it offers a delightful citrusy addition to a wide range of culinary applications.

According to botanists, over 55 species of lemongrass exist, but only a few, like *Cymbopogon citratus*, are used for culinary purposes. This fragrant herb is a staple in Southeast Asian cuisine, yet many home cooks are unsure which part of lemongrass can be eaten due to its fibrous nature.

With over 900 varieties of salvia in existence, it is a common question whether the vibrant and ornamental purple sage leaves are edible. The short answer is yes, the leaves of culinary purple sage (Salvia officinalis 'Purpurascens') are perfectly safe and can be used in the kitchen just like common sage.

Sweet woodruff has been a staple in European cuisine for centuries, famously used to flavor German May wine. This guide explains how to eat sweet woodruff safely, covering essential harvesting techniques and a variety of delicious culinary applications for its distinctive vanilla and fresh hay aroma.

Historically, the root of the *Althaea officinalis* plant was used to make the original marshmallow confection as early as 2000 BCE in Ancient Egypt. This means that yes, the marsh mallow plant is edible, but it is vastly different from the gelatin and sugar confectionery we know today.

While fresh thyme leaves are a culinary staple, many home cooks wonder: is it okay to eat thyme stems? The answer depends on the stem's texture and its intended use, as young, flexible stems behave differently than older, woody ones.

In 2023, parsley was named Germany's "poisonous plant of the year" not for its leaves, but for its seeds, which contain high concentrations of harmful compounds. This raises a critical safety question for gardeners and home cooks: are parsley seed heads edible? The short answer is no, and consuming them can pose serious health risks.

Holy basil, also known as tulsi, has been cherished for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine and Hindu rituals, symbolizing health, purity, and spiritual significance. In addition to its cultural importance, this revered herb offers multiple edible components for culinary and wellness purposes.

According to botanists, most common mint varieties, including sweet mint, are non-toxic and safe for human consumption when used in moderation. The answer to the question, "is sweet mint edible for humans?" is a resounding yes, making it a popular and versatile herb in both the kitchen and garden. This guide delves into everything you need to know about consuming this delightful herb.