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Posted Tue Apr 21, 2009 5:55 pm...
Twenty Popular Herbs and Their Uses
by Carol Miller
Following is a selection of herbs that can be used for making
teas, culinary purposes, pot-pourris or for decorative drying
purposes.
LADY'S MANTLE (Alchemilla mollis) -- This beautiful plant looks
absolutely lovely growing in the garden and is a hardy perennial
that can be propagated by division in the spring or autumn. The
flowers can be preserved with the air-drying method or the
glycerine method. They are very popular in fresh or dried flower
bouquets or posies. Small sprays of the flowers can be pressed
for flower work. The leaves, when applied to the skin, make a
great skin tonic after they have been infused and chilled in the
refrigerator. Or, infuse the whole plant and drink as a medicinal
tea to help relieve symptons of diarrhoea or menopausal
discomforts.
WORMWOOD (Artemisia absinthium) or SOUTHERNWOOD (Artemisia
abrotanum) -- Both these hardy plants are easy to grow and can be
propagated from cuttings in early autumn. The silvery foliage is
very attractive in the garden and can also be used in fresh
flower posies or pressed or dried flower arrangements. The
leaves, when dried, can be used in pot-pourris or in anti-moth
sachets.
RUE (Ruta graveolens) -- A hardy evergreen shrub; propagate by
division in spring or from cuttings in early autumn. For
decorative purposes, dry the seed heads. The leaves can be either
pressed or glycerined. Rue looks very attractive in the garden
and is used for fresh tussie-mussies. It can also be used in
small amounts for cooking and works very well in anti-moth
sachets.
COTTON LAVENDER (Santolina chamaecyparissus) -- Another hardy
evergreen shrub that will give some silver color to the borders
of a garden. Propagate from cuttings through the summer and early
autumn. One shrub that is particularly pretty is "Lemon Queen".
Rather than the normal bright yellow color of most other
varieties, it has a cream-colored flower. Another variety worth
mentioning is Santolina neapolitana, because of the very
attractive foliage. This herb can be used fresh, dried or pressed
for decorative purposes and is also used in pot-pourris and anti-
moth sachets.
FEVERFEW (Chrysanthemum parthenium) -- A hardy perennial that
will seed itself profusely or cuttings and division can be done
also. One variety in particular that will give a bright color to
any garden is "Aureum". This plant has bright lime-green leaves
and when the flowers are dried, they can be used in pot-pourris.
The leaves may be infused for tea and may help migraine
sufferers.
HOP (Humulus lupulus) -- This is a hardy and beautiful climbing
plant when trailing up a fence, garden arbor or any other form.
The flowers and leaves are used in arrangements, garlands or
swags and the female flowers for making beer. Pillows made of Hop
are also considered to aid in sleeping. It is also said that tea
made from the infusion of the flowers and a little honey has a
calming effect and helps with hangovers.
HEATHER (Calluna vulgaris) -- A hardy shrub requiring very little
maintenance and is especially pretty in the garden when they
flower. Heather can be dried but is much better when preserved in
glycerine. Useful in dried decorative arrangements or pot-
pourris. The young heather tips can be infused for a tea and may
be helpful for skin or complexion problems.
CLOVE PINK (Dianthus caryophyllus) -- A perennial but will be
short-lived where there are fierce frosts. Propagate from stem
cuttings taken in the spring. Although there are many other
varieties, "Doris" has a lovely perfume. Preserve flowers in
silica gel for decorations or pot-pourris or air dry for
arrangements. The flowers are great for making floral vinegars,
jams or wines and can be infused in wine as a nerve tonic.
LAVENDER (Lavandula angustifolia) -- A hardy evergreen shrub that
is a must for every garden and is at its best when flowering.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings in spring or autumn. There
are many types to choose from. "Hidcote" is a dark purple variety
with "Alba" being white in contrast. Another variety, having
interesting shapes, is French lavender (Lavandula stoecbas).
Lavender has a great many uses. For instance, in the kitchen for
lavender vinegars, oils and mustards, in pot-pourris and sachets.
The oil is a very good antidote for insect bites, stings and
burns. Add a few drops to your bathwater and have a relaxing
experience.
BORAGE (Borago officinalis) -- A hardy annual that self-seeds but
may have to grow new plants each year. You may press the flowers
but the leaves do not dry very well. Crystallize the flowers for
cake decorating and try mixing the leaves in soft cheeses or for
decoration of food dishes.
MINT (Mentha) -- There are a large variety of mints, all of which
are hardy perennials. They are propagated from root division or
cuttings and will take over your garden. It is suggested that
they be planted in pots or bags that have been sunken into the
earth in order to contain their roots. Mint is most popular in
the kitchen for jams and sauces as an accompaniment for roast
lamb. Also used to flavor potatoes, carrots and peas. Teas made
from mint have a very relaxing effect and can be used to help
relieve colds. Use as a hair rinse to relax the scalp or in
pilliows. Some of the more common mints are peppermint,
spearmint, applemint, pennyroyal and lemon balm. All can be used
in herbal posies.
ROSEMARY (Rosmarinus officinalis) -- A hardy evergreen perennial
that likes a sunny spot and can be propagated from cuttings. Also
best for culinary uses especially with lamb, pork or vegetables.
Use in pot-pourris or infused in tea to help digestion or use in
the bathwater for an invigorating effect. Oil of rosemary, when
diluted, can be used as a final hair rinse. Rosemary turns a
greyish color when glycerined.
COSTMARY or ALECOST (Chrysanthemum balsamita) -- A hardy
perennial that likes full sun. Divide in spring or autumn. This
was once used in beer but now it has become more popular for use
in flavoring vegetables, poultry or wild game. Used in pot-
pourris, is an insect repellent and will add fragrance to your
wash water or linens.
THYME (Thymus) -- An evergreen shrub poropagated from cuttings or
seed. Use in fresh posies for their aroma or for culinary
purposes. Also used as a soothing tea for chest pains or as an
aid for sleeping. When dried, can be used in pot-pourris, as a
facial steam for clear complexions, in stocks, marinades and
stuffings.
ROSE (Rosa) -- Hardy shrubs bought as plants or propagated from
curttings in the autumn. There are many very beautiful colors and
varieties and a must for every garden. Use in fresh or dried
arrangements or pot-pourris. Petals can be used in salads or
crystallized for decorations. The hips are used in teas, wines,
cordials and jams or a tonic called "Rosewater" which aids dry
and mature skins.
LEMON VERBENA (Aloysia triphylla) -- A half hardy shrub but
frosts will kill it in winter if not protected in a greenhouse.
Take dry cuttings in spring. Add dried leaves to pot-pourris or
for adding fragrance to clothing drawers. Great in teas, hot or
iced, and finger bowls. Soak pads in the teas and place on eyes
to help reduce puffiness. Also helps in bronchial and nasal
congestion. Mix it in your favorite apple jelly recipe for a
unique flavor.
FENNEL (Foeniculum vulgaree) -- A hardy perennial divided in the
autumn and seeds itself. Weed out plants when necessary to
prevent it from invading your garden. Do not plant near "dill" as
it could cross-pollinate and ruin the flavor. Air dry flowers or
preserve in glycerine. The flower of the bronze type can be
chewed for a breath sweetener and the seeds and leaves can be
used as a facial steam to deep clean the skin. The teas help
digestion and the leaves may be chopped and sprinkled over
vegetables and fish.
BASIL (Ocimum basilicum) -- An annual and is not the easiest herb
to grow and does not respond to overwatering. Best grown in a pot
indoors or a greenhouse, although, I personally have had some
good luck growing it in my herb garden on the south and sunny
side of my house. The purple variety is very pretty in the garden
and can be used as part of a dried herbal wreath or decoration.
When made into a tea, it has antiseptic qualities for aid in
relieving nausea and is very well known for its culinary uses in
tomato and garlic dishes. It also makes for a very refreshing
bath.
CAMOMILE (Chamaemelum nobile) -- A hardy evergreen perennial
propagated from cuttings or by division. The double-flowered
variety "Flore-pleno", when dried, is used in decorations. The
flowers and leaves are used for pot-pourris and when infused can
be used as a hair lightener. Chamomile tea is a very good tonic
and is said to prevent restlessness and nightmares. Place tea
bags on the eyes to reduce puffiness and lighten the shadows.
SCENTED GERANIUMS (Pelargonium) -- Evergreen perennials that must
be moved indoors or into a greenhouse during the winter. Take
cuttings and root them in sand. The different varieties and
scents include lemon, orange, rose and peppermint and are all
very well used in pot-pourris. They can also be used for culinary
purposes such as in jellies, sorbets and syrups. Infuse the
leaves and put into bath bags for an aromatic bath.
About the Author
Article written by Carol Miller. For free information on growing
and cultivating various herbs and vegetables, please visit
www.bricabrackorner.com/Vegetables and Herbs.htm.
by Carol Miller
Following is a selection of herbs that can be used for making
teas, culinary purposes, pot-pourris or for decorative drying
purposes.
LADY'S MANTLE (Alchemilla mollis) -- This beautiful plant looks
absolutely lovely growing in the garden and is a hardy perennial
that can be propagated by division in the spring or autumn. The
flowers can be preserved with the air-drying method or the
glycerine method. They are very popular in fresh or dried flower
bouquets or posies. Small sprays of the flowers can be pressed
for flower work. The leaves, when applied to the skin, make a
great skin tonic after they have been infused and chilled in the
refrigerator. Or, infuse the whole plant and drink as a medicinal
tea to help relieve symptons of diarrhoea or menopausal
discomforts.
WORMWOOD (Artemisia absinthium) or SOUTHERNWOOD (Artemisia
abrotanum) -- Both these hardy plants are easy to grow and can be
propagated from cuttings in early autumn. The silvery foliage is
very attractive in the garden and can also be used in fresh
flower posies or pressed or dried flower arrangements. The
leaves, when dried, can be used in pot-pourris or in anti-moth
sachets.
RUE (Ruta graveolens) -- A hardy evergreen shrub; propagate by
division in spring or from cuttings in early autumn. For
decorative purposes, dry the seed heads. The leaves can be either
pressed or glycerined. Rue looks very attractive in the garden
and is used for fresh tussie-mussies. It can also be used in
small amounts for cooking and works very well in anti-moth
sachets.
COTTON LAVENDER (Santolina chamaecyparissus) -- Another hardy
evergreen shrub that will give some silver color to the borders
of a garden. Propagate from cuttings through the summer and early
autumn. One shrub that is particularly pretty is "Lemon Queen".
Rather than the normal bright yellow color of most other
varieties, it has a cream-colored flower. Another variety worth
mentioning is Santolina neapolitana, because of the very
attractive foliage. This herb can be used fresh, dried or pressed
for decorative purposes and is also used in pot-pourris and anti-
moth sachets.
FEVERFEW (Chrysanthemum parthenium) -- A hardy perennial that
will seed itself profusely or cuttings and division can be done
also. One variety in particular that will give a bright color to
any garden is "Aureum". This plant has bright lime-green leaves
and when the flowers are dried, they can be used in pot-pourris.
The leaves may be infused for tea and may help migraine
sufferers.
HOP (Humulus lupulus) -- This is a hardy and beautiful climbing
plant when trailing up a fence, garden arbor or any other form.
The flowers and leaves are used in arrangements, garlands or
swags and the female flowers for making beer. Pillows made of Hop
are also considered to aid in sleeping. It is also said that tea
made from the infusion of the flowers and a little honey has a
calming effect and helps with hangovers.
HEATHER (Calluna vulgaris) -- A hardy shrub requiring very little
maintenance and is especially pretty in the garden when they
flower. Heather can be dried but is much better when preserved in
glycerine. Useful in dried decorative arrangements or pot-
pourris. The young heather tips can be infused for a tea and may
be helpful for skin or complexion problems.
CLOVE PINK (Dianthus caryophyllus) -- A perennial but will be
short-lived where there are fierce frosts. Propagate from stem
cuttings taken in the spring. Although there are many other
varieties, "Doris" has a lovely perfume. Preserve flowers in
silica gel for decorations or pot-pourris or air dry for
arrangements. The flowers are great for making floral vinegars,
jams or wines and can be infused in wine as a nerve tonic.
LAVENDER (Lavandula angustifolia) -- A hardy evergreen shrub that
is a must for every garden and is at its best when flowering.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings in spring or autumn. There
are many types to choose from. "Hidcote" is a dark purple variety
with "Alba" being white in contrast. Another variety, having
interesting shapes, is French lavender (Lavandula stoecbas).
Lavender has a great many uses. For instance, in the kitchen for
lavender vinegars, oils and mustards, in pot-pourris and sachets.
The oil is a very good antidote for insect bites, stings and
burns. Add a few drops to your bathwater and have a relaxing
experience.
BORAGE (Borago officinalis) -- A hardy annual that self-seeds but
may have to grow new plants each year. You may press the flowers
but the leaves do not dry very well. Crystallize the flowers for
cake decorating and try mixing the leaves in soft cheeses or for
decoration of food dishes.
MINT (Mentha) -- There are a large variety of mints, all of which
are hardy perennials. They are propagated from root division or
cuttings and will take over your garden. It is suggested that
they be planted in pots or bags that have been sunken into the
earth in order to contain their roots. Mint is most popular in
the kitchen for jams and sauces as an accompaniment for roast
lamb. Also used to flavor potatoes, carrots and peas. Teas made
from mint have a very relaxing effect and can be used to help
relieve colds. Use as a hair rinse to relax the scalp or in
pilliows. Some of the more common mints are peppermint,
spearmint, applemint, pennyroyal and lemon balm. All can be used
in herbal posies.
ROSEMARY (Rosmarinus officinalis) -- A hardy evergreen perennial
that likes a sunny spot and can be propagated from cuttings. Also
best for culinary uses especially with lamb, pork or vegetables.
Use in pot-pourris or infused in tea to help digestion or use in
the bathwater for an invigorating effect. Oil of rosemary, when
diluted, can be used as a final hair rinse. Rosemary turns a
greyish color when glycerined.
COSTMARY or ALECOST (Chrysanthemum balsamita) -- A hardy
perennial that likes full sun. Divide in spring or autumn. This
was once used in beer but now it has become more popular for use
in flavoring vegetables, poultry or wild game. Used in pot-
pourris, is an insect repellent and will add fragrance to your
wash water or linens.
THYME (Thymus) -- An evergreen shrub poropagated from cuttings or
seed. Use in fresh posies for their aroma or for culinary
purposes. Also used as a soothing tea for chest pains or as an
aid for sleeping. When dried, can be used in pot-pourris, as a
facial steam for clear complexions, in stocks, marinades and
stuffings.
ROSE (Rosa) -- Hardy shrubs bought as plants or propagated from
curttings in the autumn. There are many very beautiful colors and
varieties and a must for every garden. Use in fresh or dried
arrangements or pot-pourris. Petals can be used in salads or
crystallized for decorations. The hips are used in teas, wines,
cordials and jams or a tonic called "Rosewater" which aids dry
and mature skins.
LEMON VERBENA (Aloysia triphylla) -- A half hardy shrub but
frosts will kill it in winter if not protected in a greenhouse.
Take dry cuttings in spring. Add dried leaves to pot-pourris or
for adding fragrance to clothing drawers. Great in teas, hot or
iced, and finger bowls. Soak pads in the teas and place on eyes
to help reduce puffiness. Also helps in bronchial and nasal
congestion. Mix it in your favorite apple jelly recipe for a
unique flavor.
FENNEL (Foeniculum vulgaree) -- A hardy perennial divided in the
autumn and seeds itself. Weed out plants when necessary to
prevent it from invading your garden. Do not plant near "dill" as
it could cross-pollinate and ruin the flavor. Air dry flowers or
preserve in glycerine. The flower of the bronze type can be
chewed for a breath sweetener and the seeds and leaves can be
used as a facial steam to deep clean the skin. The teas help
digestion and the leaves may be chopped and sprinkled over
vegetables and fish.
BASIL (Ocimum basilicum) -- An annual and is not the easiest herb
to grow and does not respond to overwatering. Best grown in a pot
indoors or a greenhouse, although, I personally have had some
good luck growing it in my herb garden on the south and sunny
side of my house. The purple variety is very pretty in the garden
and can be used as part of a dried herbal wreath or decoration.
When made into a tea, it has antiseptic qualities for aid in
relieving nausea and is very well known for its culinary uses in
tomato and garlic dishes. It also makes for a very refreshing
bath.
CAMOMILE (Chamaemelum nobile) -- A hardy evergreen perennial
propagated from cuttings or by division. The double-flowered
variety "Flore-pleno", when dried, is used in decorations. The
flowers and leaves are used for pot-pourris and when infused can
be used as a hair lightener. Chamomile tea is a very good tonic
and is said to prevent restlessness and nightmares. Place tea
bags on the eyes to reduce puffiness and lighten the shadows.
SCENTED GERANIUMS (Pelargonium) -- Evergreen perennials that must
be moved indoors or into a greenhouse during the winter. Take
cuttings and root them in sand. The different varieties and
scents include lemon, orange, rose and peppermint and are all
very well used in pot-pourris. They can also be used for culinary
purposes such as in jellies, sorbets and syrups. Infuse the
leaves and put into bath bags for an aromatic bath.
About the Author
Article written by Carol Miller. For free information on growing
and cultivating various herbs and vegetables, please visit
www.bricabrackorner.com/Vegetables and Herbs.htm.
If you cant explain it simply, you dont understand it well enough.-- Albert Einstein
Blessings Bright and Dark,
