HERBS - HANJON GLOBAL Inc.

Introduction to Herbs

Herbs, with their extensive history and cultural significance, offer a rich tapestry of uses and symbolism that touch virtually every aspect of human life.

In the culinary world, herbs are more than just flavor enhancers; they are the soul of cuisine. Each herb, from basil’s sweet and peppery notes to rosemary’s pine-like aroma, brings a distinct character to dishes. This isn’t just about taste—herbs also contribute to the visual and aromatic appeal of food, making dining a multisensory experience. Chefs and home cooks alike treasure them for their ability to transform ordinary ingredients into extraordinary culinary creations.

The therapeutic use of herbs is equally profound. Long before modern pharmaceuticals, traditional medicine relied heavily on herbs for healing. Even today, herbs like ginger, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and chamomile, famous for its calming effects, are integral to natural health practices. Scientific research continues to uncover the health benefits of various herbs, affirming their role in both preventive and curative healthcare.

Culturally, herbs are woven into the fabric of many societies. They are used in religious ceremonies, weddings, and rituals to symbolize various sentiments and desires. For example, lavender often represents purity and calm, while sage is used in cleansing rituals. This symbolic use of herbs transcends mere tradition; it reflects the deep connections that humans have forged with the natural world.

Moreover, herbs are a testament to the diversity and adaptability of plants. From the sun-drenched fields of the Mediterranean to the humid tropics of Southeast Asia, different herbs thrive, each suited to its unique environment. This diversity is not just botanical; it reflects the varied tastes, health needs, and cultural practices of people around the globe.

Herbs are far more than just culinary additives or medicinal ingredients. They are a link between our past and present, a bridge connecting cultures, and a testament to the ingenuity of both nature and human civilization. Their importance in our lives is immeasurable, and they continue to offer endless possibilities for exploration and discovery.

History of Herbal Use

The historical journey of herbs is a fascinating one, deeply intertwined with human civilization’s evolution. These natural treasures have been instrumental in shaping various aspects of our lives, from health to culture, demonstrating their enduring significance.

In ancient Mesopotamia, the Sumerians were pioneers in using herbs for medicinal purposes. Their meticulous documentation of hundreds of plants, including potent ones like myrrh and opium, reveals an early understanding of herbal properties. This knowledge, etched onto clay tablets over 5,000 years ago, underscores the importance of herbs in ancient healthcare systems.

Ancient Egypt further exemplifies the medicinal use of herbs. The Ebers Papyrus, one of the oldest surviving medical texts, details the use of Cannabis sativa for its anti-inflammatory properties. This highlights the Egyptians’ advanced knowledge of plant-based treatments and their integration into medical practices.

In the realm of traditional Chinese medicine, a rich heritage of using botanical products persists. With over 12,000 items documented, of which about 500 are commonly used, this system showcases an extensive and sophisticated understanding of herbal medicine. This knowledge influenced neighboring cultures, such as Japan, contributing to a shared medicinal heritage in East Asia.

The Middle Ages marked a significant period for herbs, especially with the opening of the spice trade routes in Asia. This era saw a surge in the availability and use of herbs and spices, not only in the culinary arts but also in food preservation and as a safeguard against pathogens. The spice trade played a critical role in the cultural and economic exchanges between the East and the West.

Looking at specific herbs:

Thyme’s association with bravery and its use by the Romans as a protective measure against poison reflect the symbolic and practical significance of herbs in ancient cultures.
Lavender, dating back to ancient Egypt, showcases the long history of herbs in personal grooming and perfumery. Its use by figures like Cleopatra highlights its allure and importance in ancient societies.
Paprika, with its surprisingly high vitamin C content, surpasses even lemons, demonstrating the nutritional value of herbs beyond their culinary use.
Saffron, revered as the world’s most expensive herb, was utilized by the ancient Greeks and Romans as a perfume, indicating its luxury status and the high regard in which it was held.

These historical uses and cultural significance of herbs paint a picture of a world deeply connected to nature. They were essential not just for survival but also for their roles in rituals, symbolism, and daily life. Today, while modern medicine has become predominant, the resurgence of interest in herbal remedies and traditional medicine reflects a continued appreciation and curiosity about the natural world’s healing powers. Herbs, with their rich history, continue to be an integral part of our lives, connecting us with our past and offering natural solutions for the future.

Types of Herbs

Each herb has its own unique flavor and can be used in a variety of dishes. Some herbs, such as basil, cilantro, and parsley, are often used as garnishes, while others, like rosemary and thyme, are used to season meat and vegetables. Mint is often used in desserts and drinks, while chamomile and lavender are commonly used in teas. Ginger and turmeric are often used in Indian and Asian cuisine.

Medicinal properties and benefits of each herb:

Basil: Basil has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties and may help with digestion and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Cilantro: Cilantro has detoxifying properties and may help with digestion and reduce anxiety and depression.
Rosemary: Rosemary has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and may help improve memory and circulation.
Thyme: Thyme has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties and may help with respiratory issues and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Mint: Mint has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may help with digestion and reduce nausea and headaches.
Sage: Sage has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties and may help with digestion and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Oregano: Oregano has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties and may help with respiratory issues and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Tarragon: Tarragon has antioxidant properties and may help with digestion and improve sleep.
Marjoram: Marjoram has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties and may help with digestion and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Chives: Chives have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties and may help with digestion and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Dill: Dill has antioxidant properties and may help with digestion and improve sleep.
Parsley: Parsley has antioxidant and diuretic properties and may help with digestion and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Lavender: Lavender has anti-anxiety and sedative properties and may help with sleep and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Fennel: Fennel has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may help with digestion and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Lemon balm: Lemon balm has anti-anxiety and sedative properties and may help with sleep and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Bay leaves: Bay leaves have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may help with digestion and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Chamomile: Chamomile has anti-anxiety and sedative properties and may help with sleep and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Lemon grass: Lemon grass has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties and may help with digestion and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and may help with digestion and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Turmeric: Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and may help with digestion and reduce the risk of certain diseases.

Please note that these are the general medicinal properties and benefits of each herb and that more research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of these herbs. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before using herbs for medicinal purposes.

CULINARY HERBS

Culinary herbs are edible plants that feature an incredible aroma and add flavor to foods and beverages. They allow you to experiment with different flavors and explore awesome recipe tweaks that completely elevate your dishes. Here are descriptions, uses, and tips for growing some common culinary herbs:

Basil:

Description: Basil is a versatile plant that grows in the ground, in containers, or on a bright kitchen windowsill.
Uses: Basil is a popular culinary herb, often used in breads and sauces.
Growing Tips: Basil grows best in a location that gets 6 to 8 hours of full sun daily. The soil should be moderately fertile and moist but well-draining.

Rosemary:

Description: Rosemary is a fragrant herb that grows as a perennial, rounded, evergreen shrub.
Uses: Rosemary likes full sun and does not tolerate shade.
Growing Tips: The worse your soil is, the better your rosemary plant may grow. It prefers sandy or loamy soil instead of moist soil and can even thrive in rocky gravel.

Thyme:

Description: Thyme is a low-growing, woody perennial that performs especially well in somewhat dry, sunny conditions.
Uses: Thyme holds its taste in cooking and blends well with other flavors.
Growing Tips: Thyme grows best in a location that gets 6 to 8 hours of full sun daily. The soil should be moderately fertile and moist but well-draining.

Sage:

Description: Sage is a perennial, evergreen subshrub with woody stems, grayish leaves, and blue to purplish flowers.
Uses: Sage is a staple herb in various cuisines around the world.
Growing Tips: Sage prefers a sunny location and well-drained soil.

Parsley:

Description: Parsley is a biennial plant with bright green, feather-like leaves and is in the same family as dill.
Uses: Parsley is used for its leaf in much the same way as coriander (which is also known as Chinese parsley or cilantro), although it has a milder flavor.
Growing Tips: Parsley grows best in moist, well-drained soil with full sun.

Fresh herbs should be added at the end of your cooking to ensure that they do not overcook. If you let them cook for too long, they will lose their flavor. On the other hand, dried herbs are added at the beginning of cooking to give the flavors time to release.

Here are the uses of the spices you asked about:

Sage: Sage is a staple herb in various cuisines around the world. It contains antioxidants, which may help promote oral health and brain function. It may also help to lower cholesterol and blood sugar. Sage is also used as a natural cleaning agent, pesticide, and ritual object in spiritual sage burning or smudging.
Sumac: Sumac is most commonly used as a spice in a lot of Middle Eastern cooking, including in the dressing of the popular Lebanese salad, fattoush.
Tarragon: Tarragon is a popular herb most commonly used in French cuisine. It is an essential addition to recipes like béarnaise sauce and is one of four ingredients in the French herb mixture fines herbes, which also includes chives, parsley, and chervil.
Thyme: Thyme is an extremely versatile herb that can be used in many forms to add aromatic flavor to savory dishes. It pairs well with meats like chicken, veal, and lamb, as well as seafood and egg dishes.
Turmeric: Turmeric—and especially its most active compound, curcumin—has many scientifically proven health benefits, such as the potential to improve heart health and prevent Alzheimer’s and cancer.
Vanilla: Vanilla is used as a flavoring agent for products such as candies, toothpastes, and mouthwashes. It can also be used as a scent additive.
Wintergreen: Wintergreen oil is traditionally extracted from the leaves of the wintergreen plant. There are two species that can be used to produce the oil: Gaultheria procumbens (native to North America) and Gaultheria fragrantissima (native to Asia and India). You may also see the wintergreen plant locally referred to as checkerberry or teaberry.
Woodruff: Woodruff (Galium odoratum) is a well-known herb that is one of the spring plants. The leaves of the plant are often used for bowling, jellies, and other desserts.
Za’atar: Za’atar can be used as a seasoning, to finish dishes, and as a condiment. Use za’atar anywhere you want to add or accentuate bright, herbaceous, and earthy flavors and in dishes that would benefit from a nutty, toasty crunch.
Zedoary: Zedoary is used for colic, spasms, loss of appetite, and indigestion. Some people also use it for anxiety, stress, fatigue, and pain and swelling (inflammation).

HERBAL MEDICINES

Herbal medicines or supplements are natural compounds from plants’ leaves, bark, roots, seeds, or flowers that people can use for medicinal purposes. They may offer therapeutic benefits when people use them as complementary medicine. Herbal medicines contain active ingredients from natural plants. Their use dates back thousands of years, even before the invention of conventional medicine. While many people prefer herbal medicines to some doctor-prescribed medications, others may use them in combination with prescription and nonprescription drugs.

Chamomile: Chamomile is said to take away weariness and pain or inflammation of the bowels. The oil from the flowers can be used against many pains and aches, including joint cramps.

Ginger: Ginger is a popular herb used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to aid digestion.

Turmeric: Turmeric, and especially its most active compound, curcumin, has many scientifically proven health benefits, such as the potential to improve heart health and prevent Alzheimer’s and cancer.

Garlic: Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties. It has been used in traditional medicine for its ability to fight infections and improve cardiovascular health.

Echinacea: Echinacea is often used to prevent or treat the common cold. It is also used for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

Sage: Sage is a staple herb in various cuisines around the world. It contains antioxidants, which may help promote oral health and brain function. It may also help to lower cholesterol and blood sugar.

Sumac: Sumac is most commonly used as a spice in a lot of Middle Eastern cooking, including in the dressing of the popular Lebanese salad, fattoush.

Tarragon: Tarragon is a sturdy, perennial herb that grows on tall, slender stems that produce glossy leaves and edible yellow, green, or white flowers. Tarragon is a popular herb, most commonly used in French cuisine. Tarragon is an essential addition to recipes like béarnaise sauce and is one of four ingredients in the French herb mixture fines herbes, which also includes chives, parsley, and chervil.

Thyme: Thyme is an extremely versatile herb that can be used in many forms to add aromatic flavor to savory dishes. Fresh thyme leaves: strip the tiny leaves off the woody stems and chop before using. Add fresh thyme at the end of cooking for maximum flavor.

Turmeric: Turmeric—and especially its most active compound, curcumin—has many scientifically proven health benefits, such as the potential to improve heart health and prevent Alzheimer’s and cancer.

Vanilla: Vanilla is a versatile spice that can be used in various applications such as food, beauty, household, and health. Learn how to use vanilla beans, extracts, powders, and essential oils for different purposes such as cooking, skincare, hair care, and deodorizing.

Wintergreen: Wintergreen oil is traditionally extracted from the leaves of the wintergreen plant. There are two species that can be used to produce the oil: Gaultheria procumbens (native to North America) and Gaultheria fragrantissima (native to Asia and India). You may also see the wintergreen plant locally referred to as checkerberry or teaberry.

Woodruff: Woodruff (Galium odoratum) is a well-known herb that is one of the spring plants. The leaves of the plant are often used for bowling, jellies, and other desserts. It is less well known that woodruff is also used in medicine, where it can alleviate liver problems, difficulty falling asleep, and even migraines.

Za’atar: Za’atar can be used as a seasoning, to finish dishes, and as a condiment. Use za’atar anywhere you want to add or accentuate bright, herbaceous, and earthy flavors, and in dishes that would benefit from a nutty, toasty crun.

Zedoary: Zedoary is used for colic, spasms, loss of appetite, and indigestion. Some people also use it for anxiety, stress, fatigue, and pain and swelling (inflammation).

These are just a few examples. There are thousands of herbs used in traditional medicine, each with its own unique set of benefits. However, it’s important to note that while these herbs are used for various health conditions, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before using them for medicinal purposes. Also, the effectiveness of these herbs for such uses may vary, and more research may be needed in some cases.

AROMATIC HERBS

Aromatic herbs are plants that have a pleasant and distinctive smell. These herbs are often used for their fragrance in various applications, such as perfumery, aromatherapy, and other non-culinary purposes.

Here are some examples:

Lavender: Known for its calming and relaxing properties, lavender is widely used in aromatherapy to relieve stress and promote sleep. It’s also used in perfumes, soaps, and other beauty products for its pleasant scent.
Peppermint: Peppermint has a fresh, invigorating scent. It’s used in aromatherapy to boost energy and alleviate headaches. It’s also used in a variety of products, like toothpaste, chewing gum, tea, and ice cream, for its minty flavor.
Rosemary: Rosemary has a strong, refreshing aroma. It’s used in aromatherapy to improve memory and concentration. It’s also used in perfumes, soaps, and candles for its distinctive fragrance.
Chamomile: Chamomile has a sweet, apple-like scent. It’s used in aromatherapy for its calming effects and is often used in teas, cosmetics, and perfumes.
Lemon Balm: Lemon balm has a fresh, lemony aroma. It’s used in aromatherapy to relieve stress and promote sleep. It’s also used in teas, cosmetics, and perfumes for its refreshing scent.
Sandalwood: Sandalwood has a rich, woody aroma. It’s used in aromatherapy to promote mental clarity and relaxation. It’s also a popular ingredient in perfumes, cosmetics, and soaps.
Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus has a strong, minty aroma. It’s used in aromatherapy to clear the mind and promote relaxation. It’s also used in a variety of products, like soaps, lotions, and candles, for its refreshing scent.
Thyme: Thyme has a strong, earthy aroma. It’s used in aromatherapy for its calming effects. It’s also used in soaps and cosmetics for its distinctive fragrance.
Basil: Basil has a sweet, spicy aroma. It’s used in aromatherapy to sharpen the mind and relieve stress. It’s also used in perfumes and soaps for its unique scent.
Jasmine: Jasmine has a sweet, floral aroma. It’s used in aromatherapy to uplift moods and promote relaxation. It’s also a popular ingredient in perfumes and cosmetics.

While these herbs are used for various non-culinary purposes, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before using them for medicinal purposes. Also, the effectiveness of these herbs for such uses may vary, and more research may be needed in some cases¹.