Tag: Herb uses

According to plant experts, certain cultivars of golden sage, such as 'Icterina' and 'Aurea,' are completely edible and safe to use in the same manner as common sage. While these plants are often grown for their ornamental foliage, their culinary and medicinal properties are just as valuable. However, not all plants with "sage" in their name are meant for consumption, so proper identification is crucial.

While commonly associated with toothpaste and candy, mint is actually a genus of over 25 fragrant herbal species with widespread culinary and medicinal uses. This guide will explain how to use mints in their many forms to benefit your cooking, health, and household routines.

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 the Food Network, chives are a delicate, grass-like herb with a mild onion flavor, and since they are best used fresh, they are often added at the end of cooking to preserve their taste. This makes them a versatile addition to many dishes, both as a flavor enhancer and as a vibrant green garnish. Understanding what foods have chives in them will open up a world of culinary possibilities, from simple garnishes to complex flavor profiles.

Though often mistaken for a common leafy green, sorrel (Rumex acetosa) is actually a perennial herb that belongs to the buckwheat family. With a distinctive lemony flavor, this plant has a long history in European and Asian cuisines, offering a zesty punch that differentiates it from other herbs.

The well-known bay laurel leaf, used for flavoring in many culinary traditions, comes from a plant, *Laurus nobilis*, that also produces a small fruit. This raises a common question for many gardeners and cooks: is bay laurel fruit edible? While the leaves are safe, the berries present a more complex picture regarding their edibility and safety.

Lovage (Levisticum officinale), a perennial herb, has been cultivated since ancient times and is a relative of celery and parsley. The leaves, stems, and roots of the lovage plant can be eaten raw, though its taste is much more intense than celery and must be used sparingly. This guide explores how to enjoy lovage's unique flavor safely.

According to the American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook, lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is classified as a "Class 1" herb, meaning it can be safely consumed when used appropriately. With its pleasant, lemony-mint aroma and flavor, this herb is a versatile and safe addition to many raw and cooked dishes.

In ancient Greece and Rome, rosemary was regarded as a symbol of remembrance and loyalty, and it was often used in weddings and funeral ceremonies. Today, this Mediterranean herb is known for its distinct pine-like aroma and is celebrated for its culinary versatility and potential health benefits.

Native to the Mediterranean, summer savory is a versatile annual herb widely used in European cuisine, but many home cooks are unsure how to utilize the entire plant. This guide explains exactly what part of summer savory is edible, from its leaves to its flowers, and how to best incorporate them into your dishes.