Tag: Garden herbs

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.

Over 2,000 components have been identified in the volatile oil of lemon verbena, giving it its characteristic and potent aroma. This fragrant herb, known scientifically as *Aloysia citrodora*, is a popular addition to gardens and kitchens worldwide, but many people still wonder: can lemon verbena be eaten raw?

Preserving herbs is an ancient practice, with freezing and drying being two of the most popular methods for extending the shelf life of your harvest. When it comes to the best way to preserve fresh thyme, the choice between freezing or drying depends largely on your intended use and desired outcome.

Oregano is one of the most powerful natural antioxidants, with an oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) score of 159,277, making it a healthy addition to many dishes. Many home gardeners wonder, however, if this potent herb is safe to eat straight from the garden without any preparation.

Lovage (Levisticum officinale) has been cultivated since ancient times, prized for its potent, celery-like flavor which is significantly stronger than common celery. For modern home cooks and gardeners, knowing what to do with lovage leaves can transform simple recipes and prevent culinary waste.

Sweet rocket, also known as dame's rocket, has been cherished for centuries for its sweet, evening fragrance, but its benefits go far beyond its pleasant scent. This plant offers a wealth of nutritional advantages, supports garden ecosystems, and has a rich history of culinary and medicinal uses.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), fresh herbs like basil and cilantro have been linked to foodborne illness outbreaks caused by pathogens such as *Cyclospora* and *E. coli*, raising concerns about the safety of consuming them raw. So, is it safe to eat raw herbs? The answer is generally yes, but only with proper precautions.

According to the Royal Horticultural Society, the leaves of common rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) are ideal for many culinary uses. The good news is that you can absolutely use rosemary from your garden, provided you follow a few essential guidelines for harvesting, preparation, and general safety.

Historically, borage has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties and mild cucumber-like flavor. However, the crucial question remains: **Can borage leaves be eaten raw** without concern? While young, tender leaves can be consumed raw in moderation, the safety of eating borage depends heavily on the plant's maturity and preparation method due to the presence of potentially toxic compounds.