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Herb directory 8
An A-LO-Z guide to more than l 00 herbs
and the various ways to u, e them
Gardening 140
Information on gro\\ ing herb uece, sfully.
from bact.. ard to \\inclowsill
Around th r 282
Fmm 1-.itchens to bathrooms. from clollws
to pets ...the herbal, olulion that \\or!.. lJrst
Craft 298
Contcmp(m.lf and traclilional projects that
arc ca, J to clo anfl lmcl to lool.. at
Cookin1 326
LkliciouH, Himplc recipes that sllm\case
hcr'IJs ancl spires fi'Om arottn(l the '' orl(l
Index 384
Introduction
li'l'hs liclH' heen usc<! for thousand of years to flm or an<I
n'slwn tile <llr. and decorate and C'nilacc our li\I'S. Over Lhr
Top row, left: Sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera). Right: Sweet marjoram
(Origanum morjorana). Bottom row, left: Garden thyme
(Thymus vulgaris 'Silver Posie'). Right: Echinacea (Echinacea sp.)
Arnica 16 Lime 77
Artemisia 17 Lovage 78
Basil 18 Mallow and hollyhock 79
Bay 21 M a rjoram and oregano 80
Bergamot 23 Meadowsweet 82
Borage 24 Mint 83
Box 25 Nettle 85
Brahmi 26 Parsley 86
Burdock 27 Passionflower 88
Calendula 28 Peony 90
Caraway 29 Perilla 91
Catnip 30 Pla ntain 92
Celery 31 Poppy 93
Chamomile 32 Primrose and cowslip 95
Chervil 33 Purslane 96
Chilli 34 Red clover 97
Clove pinks 38 Rocket or a rugula 98
Comfrey 39 Rose 100
Coriander 40 Rosemary 104
Curry plant 41 StJohn's wort 107
Dandelion 42 Sage 108
Dill 43 Salad burnet 111
Echmacea 44 Savory 112
Elder 45 Scented geran ium 113
Eucalyptus 46 Sorrel 115
Evening primrose 48 Sweet cicely 116
Eyebright 49 Sweet myrtle 117
Fennel 50 Sweet violet 118
Feverfew 51 Sweet woodruff 119
Flax 52 Tansy 120
Galangal 53 Tarragon 121
Garlic and onions 54 Tea 123
G inger 58 Tea tree 124
Ginkgo 59 Thyme 125
Ginseng 60 Turmeric 127
Gotu kola 61 Valerian 128
Hea rtsease 62 Verva in 129
Hops 63 Viburnum 130
Horseradish and wasabi 64 Watercress and nasturtium 131
Horsetail 65 W hite horehound 132
Hyssop 66 Yarrow 133
Iris 67 Trees 134
Jasmine 68 Berries 136
Lavender 70 Sp1ces 138
Aloe ve ra
Aloe vera syn. A barbadensis, A. vulgans Aloeaceae
seedlings when around 4 in. ( 10 em) high to a hour() rt. ( I.D ml and h<> gnenish 11 hllr lhl\\t>rs.
l\ o r l t111 ltlt. dong qudl 1s ont' ol thr must rommo11ll
or when the fifth and sixth leaves emerge.
Mai ntenance Plants d1e once the seed ll'>t'd 1\IJtiH'n\ lwrt1s. In lldtltllondl C:lllnt>sr
l iqu<u rs . t !'a'i . and clll'\\ 111g gum. Ch i nC'S!' , t a r a n i. l' and a n i ced m rlle .
G a l'dr n i n g bears fruits that open to an eight-pointed the seeds of each plant both contain a
Anise is an aromatic annual wrth stalked, star. Do not confuse it w1th the neurotoxic hrgh percentage of a compound called
toothed leaves that may be simple or Japanese star anrse (Illicium onisotum) or anethole, which i mparts the licorice-like
lobed. The slender lowerrng stems bear the inedible Florida an ise (/. floridonum). flavor. They both possess calming and
compound umbels of whrte flowers Aniseed myrtle (Backhousio onisota, antispasmodic properties, making them
followed by ridged gray seeds. Family Myrtaceae) is a beautiful small tree ideal remedies for alleviating flatulence,
Chinese star anrse (Illicium verum, from the rain forests of northern New intestrnal colic, and bloatmg. Do not use
Family lllicraceae). an evergreen tree, South Wales, Australia. The leaves are star anise in infants and young children,
strongly aromatic, with a sweet anise scent. as it has produced serious side-effec s.
Posi tion Anise prefers an enriched, Bockhousia anisoto. Part used: leaves. The
light, well-drained and fairly neutral soil. essentral oil of aniseed myrtle is believed
Propagation Sow anise seed direc ly to be srmilar to that of anise, although
in spring. Propagate Chi nese star anise little is known of its medicinal use. Some
Star an1 e 1 an rs enllal ingredient
by semi-ripe cuttings; they will grow i n studies suggest i t may have i m portant
m man >\ ian cui ines. In \'ietname e
well-drained but moist, acidic soil i n light antimicrobial properties.
cooking it i u rd to ria or 1 he n odie
shade. Propagate aniseed myrtle from For the safe and appropriate use of
oup kn011 n as pho. \long 1\ith Sichuan
semi-hardwood cuttings. It is quite hardy, anise and star anise, see Indigestion, page
pepper. clovr . ca ia and fennel eed .
w i ll grow in full sunlight, and prefers a 204, and Wind, bloating and flatulence,
it 1s a component in Chine e ri> pice
-
deep, rich, moist acidic soil. page 206. For an iseed myrtle consult your
mix (ingredient, pi LUred below) and in
Maintenance Keep anise free of weeds. healthcare professional. Do not use these
Indian garam masala.
Pests and d i seases Anise repels herbs in greater than culrnary quantities
)ou can u e tar anr e lvholr. broken.
aphids and attracts beneficial i nsects, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
or ground. dd it to pork. chrcken. or
such as parasitoid wasps.
duck tews. Insert a whole star anise
H a rvest ing and storing Cut anise Cook i n
mto lhe cavity or a chicken or du k
when the seeds are fully developed. Tie Anise seeds and oil are used throughout
before roa Ling.
bunches inside paper bags and hang Europe i n drinks such as the French pastis,
them upside down to dry and catch the the Greek ouzo, and Turkish raki. Use the
seed. Harvest leaves as required, and dig seeds whole or crushed, but for the best
up roots in autumn. H arvest star a nise flavor grind them as you need them.
fruits just before ripening, and harvest Use them i n bakery goods, confectionery,
firm leaves of aniseed myrtle at any time. tomato-based dishes, vegetable and
seafood d ishes, curries, pickles, soups, and
H r b al med i c i n e stews. Add the young leaves sparingly to
Pimpinella anisum, Illicium verum. green salads, fish dishes, fruit salads, and
Part used: dried ripe fruits. Anise and cooked vegetables.
its Chinese equivalent, star anise, are The leaves of aniseed myrtle are a major
1 Sichuan ppr 2. Cassia 3. Clov used medicinally for similar purposes. Australian bush-food spice. Use dried or
4. Star anisr 5. n,nnl srds Despite belonging to different plant fresh to flavor desserts, preserves, sweet or
famil ies, the essential oils derived from savory sauces, and marinades.
An i s e hy s s op
Agastache foeniculum syn. A. anethiodoro Lam1aceae
Other common names Anise mint, giant blue hyssop, licorice mint
r s used Leaves, flowers
Pat
tluvw er e!Y.
Jubilee', with its golden foliage, and
white-fiowered 'Alabaster', wh1le fragrant Anise hyssop
vaneties and hybrids include 'Heather (Agostoche
foeniculum syn.
Queen' and 'J ust Peachy'.
A. onethiodoro)
Korean mint (A. rugosa). similar to
anise hyssop, is a short-lived peren nial, Position A. foemculum, A. rugosa,
slightly more frost-tender, with a flower and A. urticrfolio prefer light shade and
that ranges in color from rose to violet a slightly acid to neutral soil. Most other
Licorice mint (A. rupestris) is a perennial species are from areas with a dry climate,
with small licorice-seen ed leaves and a re water-thrifty, prefer a light well
spikes of n ecta r-rich apricot fiowers. drained soil and sunny pos1tion, and
Hummingbird mmt (A. cona) is a are well-suited to pot culture.
spec acular perennial spec1es grow1ng to 3 ft Propagation Sow agastache seed 1 n
(90 em) with long, dense spikes of large rosy spring; just cover t h e seed with soil. It
pink flowers and a romat1c foliage. takes 6 to 8 weeks to germinate. Plant i n
pots when large enough. Established
plants produce many basal shoots in
spring. Propagate these as softwood Cooki n g
cuttmgs and plant outs1de in sum mer, or The flowers of an1se hyssop yield large
multiply plants by root division. quant1t1es of nectar, w h 1 ch was popular
M a i ntenance Agastaches are generally with North American beekeepers 1n the
ha rdy. I n cool-cli mate areas keep plants 19th century for producmg a tam ly
1n a green house and transfer to the garden a n 1seed - flavored honey Native American
1n their second spring, in warm -clima e Indians used 1t as a ea and a sweetener.
areas do so in the first summer. Infuse the d ned leaves to m a ke a ho
Pests and d iseases Leaf-chewing or cold dnnk. Also, use hem to season
msects can be a minor problem lamb, ch1cken or salmon. Add the seeds
H a rvesting and storing Use the to cakes and m u fins. Use the owers
leaves and flowers freshly picked, or dry or fresh leaves o an 1se hyssop or orean
them by hang1 g them ups1de down 1 n mmt 1 n salads. Korean m1nt has a pepper
Korean mmt (A rugosa), with 1ts lavender blue small bunches away from di rect sunlight mmt and a n 1 seed tlavor a n d aroma and IS
fiowers, is also known as wnnkled g1ant hyssop. They will reta in thm color and scent a good substitut e for m 1 nt.
Arn i c a
Ari'JCO montana Asteraceae
l h < l "Jll't'ad ll\ rh iwnw . \ \ i l 11 1 1 " rhtr r l u l gol d c n f!O\\C'r". a r n ira h a s long
I H' l'll u std for -;pra1n s and ili' U I S t ' s as \\l' l l a s h onwopa l h ic l rC'almrnls.
\\h l l<' s\\ l't' l i >c1si l . \\llh i l'i s m o ry clme l'rngra ncr . is thf'
Sweet basil is known more for 1ts pleasant rear. dang1r and protrcuon. an11 llfr
taste than for 1 s med1cinal effects. Due and deat h . Thr ntgativr connotation.
o 1ts mild sedat1ve properties, herbal ists prohahlv come from llasil La t in
rad1tionally prescribed bas1l as a tea for r p 1 t hct bimllcum. 11 hwh l i n ks it to
easmg nervous irntability Lllr hasJid ( l l' ft ) . t hr my th ica l
Oc1mum tnwflorum syn. 0 sanctum. , rrpr n t 'W i th thr dea!lly gazt>. Thr
Par used leaves. Holy basil, an 1mportant ancwnt G r rk. and RomJn llrlievrd
..
Cons irlt'rt'd t1 r u n 101 " m r l a n c l w l la 1 1 1 a n c i e n t t i nw'i.
Pa sedLeaves, bark (note that the plant can cause allergic reactions grand l; u ropean formal garden or
in susceptible individuals, and that all parts are toxic i i ngested) t h r 1 7t h and 1 8t h r<'nturies. b u t
shrub to small tree, attaining ful l height \\ rote a sati rical e sa for The
over a long period of time. The small, oval CuarUian newspaper rn 11 h irh he
glossy leaves are deep green to yellowish d sc r t bed an u nf m i hed box1100d
green. Borne in spring, the necta r-rich lOiliary of St Geore t ha t would not
petals, while the fruits are three-horned. cornpletrd - six mon t h s hencr.
Varieties Some garden varieties Today. topiary ts rmre again a
selected for their form include fea t u re or g ran c l cou n t r horn .
'Eiegantissima; a very compact type with pa rl ir u tar l y 111 Lhc L f.. 8nd E u rope.
white-edged leaves; 'Au reomarginata; also but r t is a l so popular tn olll<:ll n er
known as 'Marginata; with gold-edged ga rdens 11 here her!J .. , uch as
leaves; 'Suffruticosa; which is dwarf, boxwool l . at' s ulpted into im1 le
dense, and very slow-growing. making it hap . I n Japan. cloud-pru ning
particularly popular for edging herb the art or crea t i ng cloud l i ke form. -
gardens and creating topiary; and The wood of box was traditionally used in and !Jon ai are lloth fotrns of topia ry.
'Kingsville Dwarf; which is favored by engraving blocks, marquetry and instruments.
bonsai growers.
Position Boxwood prefers full sun but
is tolerant of shade, and prefers a
well-drained neutral-to-alkaline soil.
Propagation Take semi-ripe tip
cuttings with a l i ttle hardened wood
at the base, preferably in autumn.
M a i ntenance To encourage dense,
compact growth, trim boxwood toward
the end of spring. Carry out light shaping
of topiary and hedges i n summer.
Pests a n d diseases This plant is
not susceptible to many pests and
diseases, although the young spring
leaves may be damaged occasionally
by sucking insects, and rust can occ u r
o n leaves. I t i s natural for boxwood to
appear bronzed in wi nter.
Harvesting and storing Ha rvest
and d ry leaves i n spring, before flowering. The small leaves and compact growth habit of boxwood ( Buxus sempervir
ens) make 1t 1deal for topiary
Bra h m i
Bacopa monnien Scrophulaceae
Bacopa, thyme-leafed
C a nl e n i n g
vegetable. The leaves are large and oval, then lightly cover it with soil and firm
and the numerous purple thrstlelike down. Thin seedlings to about 6 in. (15 em)
flowers are quite remarkable in their apart. To produce h i g h-quality, long llc r b a l m e d i c i n e
perfect symmetry. Burdock can grow straight roots, dig the soil to a depth of 2 Arctium lappa. Pa rt used: roots. I n
as h tgh as 8 ft. (2.4 m). ft. (60 em) and incorporate well-rotted Western herbal medicine, burdock root
Varieties Some named varieties are compost before sowing. is used as an alterative or blood purifier.
grown as a vegetable for their slender, M a i ntenance Keep the soil moist and These terms describe its gentle detoxifying
crisp, textured taproots, which can grow weed the crop regularly, particularly when effect on the body and stim ulation of
as long as 4.5 ft. ( 1 .3 m). These include the plants are young. Remove the flowers the body's eliminatory channels, namely
two Japanese varieties - 'Takinogawa and burrs to promote root growth. the lymphatic, drgestive and u rinary
Long' and 'Watanabe EarlY: Both have a Pests and d i seases Burdock is rarely systems. It is commonly prescnbed for
flavor between that of parsnip and seriously affected by pests and diseases. chronic inflammatory sktn and joint
Jerusalem artichoke. Arctium minus is a H a rvesti n g and storing For cooking, conditions, which traditional herbalists
very bttter weedy species that is found all collect young shoots and leaves i n spring. regard as the result of a buildup of
over North America. Lif the roots in autumn, about 100 days unwanted toxrns in the body. When used
Position Burdock requires a moist after planting, when they are at least over a long period of time, burdock root
humus-rich soil and full sun, although 1 ft. (30 em) long. For medicinal purposes, can be particularly effective in clearing
it will tolerate some light shade. It is also dry the grayish brown roots, which are dry, scaly skin complaints, such as eczema
fully cold-hardy, and dtes down in winter. white on the inside. and psoriasis, and t m p rovrng rheu matic
JOint condittons.
For the safe and appropriate use
of burdock, consult your healthcare
professronal. Do not use burdock if
you are pregnant or breastfeed ing.
The !' I C n l y cit t rt l l u ted hook: on t h e uunlork
burrs. " hich kept st icktng t o h t . rloliHs o n
C oo k i n g
11 alb i n t h e cou n t r) Siclr. in pired c;l'ori,W cl
Burdock is not a n t m portant edible plant,
\1f' tral to in H' n t \ e lcro rn 1 9 15. The ndmr
although the cultivated Japanese arm,
comr. l ro m the l'rcnch 11 onls t eluur. meaning
gobo, is used as a vegetable and also
"1ellc( and r'ru('/7'1 or -hook.- Tht t m t n t ion
rn varrous ptckles and a mrso-base d
has been applied to a 11 tilr rang!' of J l t'm\.
condr ment. It is also eaten as a vegetable
from fatrners on clot he. !Jags dJHI shoes 10
rn Korea. Scrape he young leaf stalks and
stain lt>s-stcrl hook and l oo p Fa t e ners t ha t
cook them as you would celery. Use the
are ued to a t t a h car part..
roots raw as a salad vegetabl e, or cooked
rn stir-fries l i ke carrots .
Calendula
Calendula afficmalis Asteraceae
G a rcl n i n
Calendula (Calendula afficmalis)
..
are taken i n ternally for i n fections
-
and inflammation of the gut, including
stomach and duodenal ulcers, and also
as a lymphatic remedy for the treatment
...
Pot margold should not be conru ed
of swollen lymph nodes.
w1th the 1extcan genu ( Tapele J. which
For the safe and appropriate external
includ Lhe o-called Arri ao and french
use of calendula, see First aid, page 220.
-
marigold ( right) as ell a the coriander
.
For i nternal use, consult your healthcare
! ling ndean herb h uacata or Peruvian
professional. Do not take calendula
black m m t I TageLe ternif/ora). and the
internally if you are pregnant or breast
clo I re la ted T. minu111.
feeding. Topical application is considered
safe at these times.
C a raway
Corum corvi Apiaceae Roll o u t reany-made rizza dough
Caraway is a biennial with divided fernlike water the crop, because the seed is often golden. Serl'e warm. Make 36.
Coo k i ng
Caraway seeds are used to flavor rye
bread, sausages, cabbage dishes, cheeses,
soups, pork dishes, goulash and cooked
apples, as well as liqueurs and sp1rits such
as schnapps. A digestive known as "sugar
plums" 1s made from suga r-coated seeds.
Use the feathery caraway leaves in salads
and soups. Thw taste resembl es a m i xture
Caraway ( Corum carv1) of parsley and dill.
L
C a tn i p
Nepeta catana Lam1aceae
g<' IH'ra l l l u' h d \ 1 ng " " t h ough t h <' <H'Oilld i '> i r r<' i : t i l l l < ' .
i n \ D u ng c h i l r l rl' n .
P rt use Leaves
Cooki ng
Celery's tiny edible seeds are aromatic
and slightly bitter, tasting of celery. The
whole seeds retain their Javor wel l ; crush
as needed and use to complem ent fish and
seafood d1shes, pickles and relishes, soups,
stews, egg dishes, salad dressings, breads
and savory biSCUits.
Chamom ile
Chamoemelum no bile syn. Anthem is n obil1s and Matncana recutita Asteraceae
G a rd n i n g
Apicius, the renowned gourmet of 1 st of colder conditions.
century Rome, set his seal of approval Position Chervil requires good drainage
on chervil, which is an annual plant with and a moist soil that is close to neutral,
delicate and lacy, fernlike foliage that preferably enriched with compost. Grow
forms a low-growing rosette. The tiny chervil in a lightly shaded position, because
white flowers, borne in umbels on slender excessive sun exposure will cause the
stems, are followed by thin black seeds. leaves to burn and turn rose pink. In warm
Varieties There are flat-leafed and climates. grow chervil in spring, autumn Chtrvil (Anthriscus cerefolium)
lightly curled forms as well as a strain and even winter, as it has some cold
tolerance and will withstand light frosts.
Propagation Scatter seed over the preferably with scissors, because the plant
soil, press down lightly and water is delicate. Leaves can also be deep frozen
regularly. Seedlings usually emerge in in sealed plastic bags.
about 10 to 1 4 days. Plants are ready
Chervil i e pecially popular m
for harvesting about 8 to 10 weeks after Cooki ng
French cooking. and e enlial
planting. Chervil has a long taproot and Chervil flowers, leaves and roots are all
(along With parsley. ch ive and
bare-rooted seedlings do not easily edible, although it is the faintly anise
tarragon) in the etas ic herb blend
transplant. It will not germinate in soil flavored leaves that are most frequently
called fine herbes. which is u rd
that is too warm. In cool-climate areas used. There are various types, including curly
rre h "' it h poached fi h . hellfi h
with mild summers, grow chervil for a leafed varieties that make a pretty garnish.
and chicken and in green salads
continuous supply during the growing Use fresh chervil in cooking, because 1ts
and egg di he uch a omelr tes.
season, although light shade promotes delicate flavor is destroyed by heat or
lush growth. and the season can be drying. It goes well with glazed carrots and
further extended with the use of 1n butter sauces and cream-based soups.
protective covers. Chervil frozen into 1ce cubes adds a
M a i ntenance Water regularly to refreshing taste to summery fruit drinks.
promote lush growth. Chervil butter (see Herb butters,
Pests and d iseases There are no poge 336), makes a delicious spread for
significant problems. savory biscuits or bread. Also, use it as
H a rvesting and storing As w1th a flavorsome topp1ng for barbecued
parsley, harvest leaves from the outs1de, fish, meat or poultry.
Fruits
G a rd e n i n g So c/z.i,.tu variefietv
All Capsicum species are indigenous to
South America. The most commonly a;v aitradw
grown is C. annuum, which contains many
chili vaneties as well as the bell peppers, tandfedur!/.
p1mentos and other sweet capsicum
varieties, such as 'Banana' and 'Cubanelle:
Chilies and bell peppers differ from each and thick-walled, fruity-flavored hot fruits
other by a smgle gene that produces the with black seeds.
fiery-flavored compound capsaicin. Varieties There 3re possibly hundreds
C. baccatum, a spec1es less known of named varieties of C. annuum, and
outside South America, requires a long these have been selected worldwide for
growing season. climate tolerance, color, size, shape,
The rocoto pepper (C. pubescens), from degree of heat and flavor, wh1ch may vary
the Andes and upland Mexico, forms a from citrus and prune to smoky, coffee,
Tiny bird peppers (var. ovicu/ore)
perennial bush that is tolerant of cooler raisin, almond and tobacco. They are all
weather and that produces purple flowers divided into groups by shape: cherry
shaped (Cerasiform). cone-shaped The tiny bird peppers - including he
(Coniodes), clustered elongated cones wild pepper of New Mexico, the 'Chiltepin'
(Fasciculatum), sweet peppers (Grossum) or 'Tepin' - all belong to C. annuum var.
and long hot peppers (Longum). aviculare. 'Tabasco' is the most widely
Among the best -known varieties of known variety of the species C. frutescens.
C. baccotum are 'Anaheim; with large, The species C. chinense contains some
long, tapering, mildly pungent fruit; of the hottest chili varieties, including the
'Poblano; which has large, medium-hot, 'Habanera' and its variants, the 'Scotch
heart-shaped fruits (and is known as Bonnet' or 'Jamaican Hot', and the
'Ancho' in its dried form ) ; 'Pasilla; a large somewhat milder Puerto Rican 'Roc.atillo:
ra1sin-flavored tapering variety; 'Jalapeno; All three types are excellent for culinary
a thick-walled variety that is used in salsas use and widely grown in the Caribbean.
or smoked (when it is known as chipotle); The best-known variety, 'Aji Amarillo'
'Guajillo; a lathery, dark reddish brown or 'Kellu-Uchu; is widely used i n the cuisine
variety that is moderately hot; and of Peru.
'Mirasol; a reselection of a pre-Columbian Position All chili varietis require good
Mexican variety. drainage, full sunshine and an enriched
Som - such as 'Purpl Tiger, 'Riius soil. Do not grow chilies where related
Blue; Variegata' syn. 'BIIingrath Gardens' species of the family Solanaceae, such as
'New Mexico', a variety of C. onnuum. has a - are very ornamntal and widely grown tomatoes and eggplan ts, have recently
sweet flavor and can be either green or red. for landscape purposes. They are all edible. been grown.
\1osl nf Lhc rapsn1 in L ha t"s respons1h le
Propagation Even the fastest Pests and d iseases Plant rotation your Fare. rye<. or gr11 1 ta l aFttr
maturing chili varietieS of C. annuum will mmim1ze verticill1um wilt and other preparing t hem. Do nut f rd pe l food
reqUire a minimum growing season of soil-borne diseases. Vegetable bugs may contai111ng c h i l i . lwcau .t i t Fatal for
Mai ntenance You may need to Afncan and As1an CUISines 1n general - n011 n as 1 hr "Red Sa1 ina l lallaiiero."
protect your plants from b1rds. Control are almost unth inkable without chilies, yet 11 h1ch measured 3 7 7 . 000 S i l l . Far
aph1ds to prevent the spread of viral they were unknown m those regions until lr l et hal for t he w-,tcbud. "T<llasco
diseases; destroy any plants that have after 1 492, when Columbus mtroduced IS a ml're 30.000 to 0.000. In 2007.
mo tied or distor ed leaves. them from the New World. a nt'll rt'cnrd 11 as tstahfl,hed lJ) a
l d riPL From \ssam 111 l ntl1a n011 n a .
<ldngerou 1 .000.000 I l l .
l l lgh-prt'surr l i q u id c h romato
to incendiary. Generally, the smaller the -, u i tablf' val' it' I ies. Spa i n a n d
The heat level may vary considerably even always used fresh ; red chilies can be Conquist ador.'
among chilies of the same vanety, so the used fresh or dried. Dried chilies differ
Caye n n e is a spirt' powder t h a L
stated quantity i n a recipe should always in flavor to fresh, being fruitier and
i s drriH'd fi'Om d rird h o t red
be adjusted to taste. sweeter. a l though still retaining their
c h i l ies. cayenne is a fH't'
To check the heat level of your chilies, heat. Buy dried chilies whole, crushed
Co l u m b ia n 1 a rit'l) From French
cut the end off one and give it the tiniest, or powdered, and fresh chilies whole, or
G u iana. \ n u mbrr of caye n ne-type
tentative lick. A remedy for chili burn chopped and preserved in vinegar in jars;
va ri e ti e s ha\ r been de1 e loped
on the palate is dairy foods, such as milk these are a good substitute for fresh.
from i l . i nc l u d i ng ' I lot Portuga l . '
or yogurt. In one of those transatlantic differences
' Long Red . ' ' R i ng o f l'i re a n d
To minimize irritation from the fumes in spelling, "chili" - together with the
l l a d e l lot.' I rird c h 1 1irs a n d c h i l i
when grinding chilies. use a spice grinder less often used "chi lie" - are both used in
flars a 1e a lso usecl.
rather than a mortar and pestle. the UK, while the Spanish-originated
Choose firm, shiny fresh chilies: avoid 'chile' is commonly used in the United
those that are wrinkled. Green chilies are States and Mexico. The term "ch ili" is
reserved for a regional hot and spicy stew,
These colorful strings of chil ies include originally from Mexico, which the United
only a fraction of the varieties available. States subsequently made its own.
\. h i l i n n d l i m e H CI U C C'
Thi CaniJbra n auce recipe i s Cayenne pepper
de l ir1uu v. i lh IJ a r becurd o r bacd
f1 h or \rgctables. Bate the food ' l1basco. the mnst ra mu u c h 1 1 i
v.ilh il. or serve il eparatcly. sa u ce . i s m atle i n l .o u i s i a n o .
and pack i n to a jar. D issol\ e thr l (lflt'l) ' l 'rn l 'n i ' : l t iiH'Iudcs
sal t i n the j u ice and pou r over t h e lt mons, sp1ces .1 n d lwrl .s.
111 m u l ltd '' 1 1W s . conl 1 a l JH' J'\ l' t o n i c s . salads and t l c ssl' rt.. '' ll i l c t he
C a rd ' f l i n g
a l lso l u l t' is u. t'll m manv lllgh
& yredcJ/ ruul q u a l l l \ prrfu mrs. i n c l ud i ng Flons
Clove pinks were bred from h e grass
pink or cottage pink (O plumanus) and 12ohUUZ!Y rrlecl \ la l m a i o n . ma Rirci' 1; \1r tlu
l'r mps. Gurrlaul' $am ar anll
0 caryophylfus (which also gave rise to
the carnation). They form a dense, low, f dov/ w.v 1;1 1eun BIPu. \\ ortll's Jr RPi iens.
l l l' r mh ' Rtl Ami. Eslt'c Lauder\
spreading cush1on of grasslike foliage,
rom which emerge many flower stems flower of fy:;r/J;-. \\ h i t r Linen and Bllgan. Bll(!arl
For \len. It tnkt'' 1 . 1 00 Ill ( 00 kg)
in early summer. All are perenn1al.
of nll\1 l'l' to produce 3.3 n oz.
Varieties A remarkable number have
( 1 on m i l or thl' r s ,t n tw l mi. u
survived the centuries, mclud1ng 'Sops 1 n double-flowered forms mclude 'Mrs
' n t h e l ic. surh a eugenol ,Jntl
Wine: used m Elizabethan t1mes t o flavor S1nkins: 'Earl of Essex: 'Rose de Mai' and
1sorurnol are ortro ust'd i n
mulled wines. 'Bridal Veil', 'Queen of Sheba: 'Mrs Gullen: 'Napoleon I l l' IS a h1storic
modrrn pt>rfu mr n .
'Ursula le Grove' and 'Pheasan 's Eye' date variety that involves a cross with sweet
from the 1 7th century. E1ghteenth-century william (0 barbatus). The Carthusian pink
heirlooms include the Pa1sley Pin ks, such as (0. carthustanorum) was used i n medicinal p1nks include 'Kim Brown: 'Tuscan Lace:
'Dad's Favorite' and ' Paisley Gem: which l1queurs by the Carthusian monks. 'Highland Fraser: 'Pretty: 'Tudor Manor:
were bred to resemble i ntricate Paisley The famed Allwoodi1 20th-century 'Jean d'Arc: 'May Queen: 'Falstaff and
fabric patternmg, as well as 'lnchmery' pmks include 'Arthur: 'Kestor: 'Dons' 'Gioire Lyonna1se:
and 'Cockenz1e: Nmeteenth-century large and 'Fus11ier' Other very fragrant modern Position These plants requ1re a well
drained, sunny position. They grow well
in pots, and are both d rough - and cold
tolerant once established. Pinks thrive
in alkaline soil ; if gardening on acid soil,
add dolomite or garden lime. Alternatively,
tuck small pieces of concrete rubble under
the plant. These will leak lime mto the soil
during watering.
Propagation Mixed seed of perennial
pinks are available. Named varieties must
be propagated by cuttings.
M a i ntenance Clove pinks are hardy
and easily grown. Do not let these plants
be overshadowed.
Pests and d iseases There are no
significant problems.
H a rvesti n g and storing Harvest
flowers as required. To use fresh, remove
Clovr pinks (Dtanlhus caryophyl/us) the bitter white heels of the petals.
C o m frey
Symphytum officinale Borag1naceae
cornpo t accelera t o r.
Otner c r Knitbone
Part u l Leaves, roots ( high in toxic a l ka loids)
herb, has been shown to have a ron s u l t l lw l ntCI IH'I or 1 1 dfl l ioob.
regenerative action on connect1ve t1ssue.
While traditionally comfrey was also
prescribed for i n ternal use, these days
such practice is strongly discouraged
because comfrey contams pyrrollzidine
alkaloids that have been shown to have
tox1c effects.
For the safe and appropriate op1cal
use of comfrey, re er o Sports lnJunes,
Comfrey comes in many color variat1ons, page 222. Do not use comfrey 1f you are
Including pmk, lavender or wh1te. pregnant or breastfeeding
Cor i a n d e r
Conondrum sot1vum Ap1aceae
The inLen,ely i l\'e rccl needlrlikc foliagr or t h i s p i nt rclrasrs a 11 h ich IS u.cd 111 Ayurvrd1c medicine .
C oo k i n g
The entire plant is strongly aromatic of
curry, particularly after ra1n Add sprigs to
egg, rice and vegetable d1shes o i mpar a
m ild curry flavor, but cook only bnefly.
To enhance fruit flavors, the oil and the
extract are used commercally i n food a nd
beverage processing.
aronudib
Dand lion
Taraw"m' olfrcrnate Asteraceae
\ l rnol c 1 l l ol rl i s l'd l t ' ll Till' fl o\\ C ' I'S mat d d l ' l i c i u u -; \\ i ll t ' .
l l w \ i l d l l i i THil h . -; l rg l l l l l n l l t ' l' \ o u ng lt'ct \ < ' s cl l't ' u -; c d i n
co!l t n g c n d ! Il l ' J()Oh d l'l' u-.td l o ll lclt' twrilal collet .
coarsely too hed leaves. From the eaves season. Root rot can occur
emerge many unbranc ed flower stalks, in poorly drained soil.
each termrnating rn a double golden H a rvesting and Dandelion root can improve a sluggrsh
yellow flower. The flowers are followed storing Blanch the leaves for culinary digestron and provide a laxa rve effect
by spherical balls of seed, or 'clocks; purposes by covenng them from the light For the safe and appropnate use of
whrch are dispersed by the wrnd. for 2 to 3 weeks before harvesting rn late dandelion, see Uver support, page 208.
Varieties I mproved forms were spring and before flowering occurs. Lift Do not use dandelron rn greater than
developed rn France rn he 1 9th century. roo s at the end of the second season. culinary quantitres if you are pregnant
Thick Leaved' has tender, broad, thrck Both leaves and roots can be drred for or breastfeeding.
leaves. 'Improved Full Heart' has profuse herbal use.
foliage that rs easily blanched C o o h. i n g
Position Despite its weedy reputatron,
A y;orlFrleiV The variety 'Thrck Leaved' has leaves that
luw!/
dandelion crops will thrive if you dig can be used fresh in salads, or cooked in
the soil deeply and ennch rt with rotted j,()n-w wud'.v. a similar way to sprnach.
compost. It requres a sunny srtuatron and Dandelion and burdock rs a traditional
\ , . , rh
prefers a neutral to slightly alkaline sod. British, naturally rzzy soh dnnk made
PropagatiOn Sow the seed directly from fermented dandelion and burdock
mto the soil m spring. The plants dre l lcrbal me<li i nc roots - rn much the same way as root
d'lwn rn wrnter. Taraxacum officina/e Parts used leaves. beer and sarsaparilla.
M a i ntenance Cut spent lowers roots Dandel1on rs well known for its
to prevent reseedmg. therapeutic effects on bo h the krdneys
and !rver, hence rts traditronal reputa 10n
as a cleansrng cure rn the sprrng months.
The leaf exerts a powerful diuretic action
Dandel ion has ac(Jurred a number or
on the unnary system and may reduce
name . mrluctrn pts. en Iii Wrenrh for
flurd retention and assrst the removal of
wet l h bed'). a reference lD it d1urt'llt'
toxins from the body. It also contains high
l'ffect. It common names Include fairy
levels of potassrum and helps to replenish
clocl.. and dor and 11. atche . both
potassrum that would otherwise be lost as
or v. h 1ch nrer to lht' rhllllrtn gamr or
a result of i ncreased urrnatron.
The root, which has a bit er taste. 1s tellmg tum h tht numtltr or scrt1. I rt
nfter hlo11 log a 'clock.' . notller oamr.
utilized when a stimulating actron on the
caput muoachl. refer. to thr ton uret1
digestive system rs required. It promotes
heall of a rnt'dlelal monk.
bile secretron and is a valuable remedy
attract1ng beneflc1al 1 nsects such as bees for many liver and gallbladder conditions.
Dill
Anethum graveolens Apiaceae
Other c mo na s Bore tree, devil's wood, Frau Holle, Judas tree, pipe tree
Parts us Flowers. ripe berries, leaves (insecticidal only)
rehWtJec/, wert!/ Of'lee/ tAMYI fo !//ldet. use, but cook them for a few m mutes first
and use them in baked goods.
E u c a lyp t u s
Euc'Jiypcus sp , Corymbia sp. Myrtaceae
'' ll lr/1 ranges / rom lemon lo ptppt'rl l l l n l c n d l li i' J lt ' l l l i l l < ' .
H rba l m d i i ne
Oenothera biennis. Part used : seed oil.
Evening primrose oil (EPO) contains
significant levels of omega-6 essential
Theophra lU (37 1 --<:. 287 BCE) wrote
fatty acids, especially gamma-linolenic
two innuenlial botanical volume . On
acid (GLA), thought to be i nvolved in many
the Cau e or Plants and Enquiry into
of the oil's therapeutic effects. G LA has
Plant.s; thi I d to him bring rega rded
notable anti-inflammatory activity and
b some a th Path r of Taxonomy.
several clinical studies suggest that this
l ie named evening pnmrose OenoUJera. effect may be of benefit in alleviating the
po sibly from the Greek words oinos.
symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, diabetic
meaning winr. and thera. meaning
neuropathy, eczema and dermatitis.
hunt. ll i. thought Lhar Th ophra tus
Further research also indicates that EPO
recomm nded u lng evening prunrose
supplementation may help to reduce high
for tammg w i l d bea s.
blood pressure and improve some of the Evening primrose oil tends to be taken in high
symptoms of PMS. However, results of doses, so capsules are the most convenient.
Eye b r ig h t
Euphrasta officmalis Orobanchaceae EdH 1ght 1\ a f1rst rPrordNI d a
"
lrlC!I iCina\ ht'rb for "all I'\ il Of I hr t')P
Eycll r ill l is a ; u ropean a l p i n e '' i l dfl o\\ C t' L h a l La kes i t :; com mon n a rn ' in l hr 1 l l h c r n tu ry. P a i l h m it ur
\ a t u ra l hea u t
The pretty flowers o th1s plant have
a ton i ng, cooling and m i ldly astnngent
effect on the eye Eyebright may be
used as a compress or top1ca1 lot1on
to relieve common eye disorder s and
infec 1ons. To make a compress, see
Eyebnght [Euphrasia officina/is) Eyebr1g ht compress. page 256.
Fennel
Foemc,ourr. vulgare Ap1aceae
ScHil t ' \ .t r i t ' l l ! ' t l l ft ' ll ll t ' l l i d \ ! ' <1 pd i ' L i l' l l l d l' S\\ ! 't' I 11('SS ancl SOITH'
e l l n.r lll!'ll l t i l qud l r l lt's. 11 h r l t n l litr tll'l' l'<l l <' n d '> a \ t'gl' lahlc o r
u std I n ll;n or prd-i cs c1 1 1 d hdtd goocl s . "J o \I O I H i c ' l ' Chd l'l<'lllagriC'
dt'lllciiidtd 1 11 B I :.! t ll < l l l (' n rw l l ll' p l a n ted in c'\ ( ' 1'\ monast r gard l ' n .
H<'il l l l i l u l h l tH'-11 0\\ ( ' f'<'d flil\ I"> onl' o l l iH' o l ! l r s L - k tHJ\\ n c rop p l a n t s .
I t prod u r < ' d filwr L ha l .., u Td L o m a k<' l i n e n . a ncl fla\S<'nl o i l . a l so
-
- -- --- - - -- -- - ---- - - -------- - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - -
llw S t i ! Jl t ' r i . l l l " pltl l l l l 'd t H t io n -; 11101 1 ' I h a n :J.OOO ! 'il l'S ago.
\\ h i l t ' l l l l ' d iU 11 ' 11 1 l.g j i l l d l l '\ h,HI aho u l H . OOO llll'd i c i n < t l l ! S!'S
1 1 ' 1 1 1 1 " . 1 1 1 1\\ t ' \ t ' l. t H I H ill cl l"l' ' d i d In lw L ll r poor lll il lf l r u iT i e .
Milder-flavored leeks (A. porrum) is essential, particularly in the earlier or a l a rge k n r fe. T h rs \\. i l l distort an<l
origtnate from the Medrterranean. Some stages of growth. Do not overwater. crack the . kin. making it easu'r to
excellen varieties include 'Musselburgh; Pests and d iseases The main rrmo1 r. If you a n t to u r t h e ciO\l'
'Giant Carentan' and 'Bieu Solarse: problems are downy mildew and black 11 holr. use a ro m m c r c i a l l a a ilahlc
Garlrc leek. sweet leek or Levant garlrc aphid. Garlic is susceptrble to nematode gadget ron h; l ing of a ;.mall flc\ihlr
(A. ampelaprasum) is perennial and (eelworm) attack. As it is an accumulator, ruhiH'r t u h e : IJiacr thr u n peelrd cloves
develops a large basal bulb. whrch splits do not use chemicals. To clear the soil of i n t h rs and roll t h r t u tw on a work
into several cloves. nematodes, plant a prior crop of dwarf su rran fo r a fc1 seconds. \\ hrn you
Poor man's leek or Welsh onion orange marigolds ( Tagetes potu/a). l i p O U l i hl' l'Oi l lPntS. t h e CIOICS h o u l d
(A fistulasum) grows in the same manner as Harvesting and storing I f growing hr n ra l l ) st'paratrd rrorn t h e i r h u sks.
leeks but has hollow leaves. The plant divides species for their aromatic folrage, use
at the base, formtng a perennial clump. them fresh. Harvest globe onions at any
Ramps or wood leeks (A. tricoccum) form stage. When hey've stopped growing, the
scallionlike, onron and garlic-tasting bulbs. ops of both onions and garlic fall over
Position All the principal Allwm and wither Choose a sunny day to pull the
specres reqwe a well-tilled and weed-free bulbs of both types, then leave them for a
soil, good drainage and a sunny position. few days to dry out. Store in a dry, well-
Propagation Plant onrons by seed. In ventilated area to prevent fungal rots.
areas with a short growtng season, grow
them to he size of bulbils. or se s, rn 1- l e l' b a l m cl i c i n e
thetr trst season, then plant hem out to Allium sativum. Part used: bulbs. Regular
consumption of garlic, a potent natural
antrbiotic, can help to prevent and treat
t nfecttons of the lungs and rs a traditional
cure or coughs and colds. Garlic's
an imrcrobial effec s also extend to the
gut, and it can be helpful tn the treatment
of gastrorntestinal rnfectrons. Furthermore,
inclusion of garlic tn the dret has also been EI ' p h a n l g a rl i c
shown to have a preventatrve effect \ a t l l ' to t ht te<lrt <'ITilllt'an and
agatns stomach and colorectal cancers. I IH' \ t ultllr Ea'> l . t hr gra n t clmrs of
Garlic produces a n umber of benefictal t'l!'phclnt ga r l i c ( 1 . ampt'/cJJlf'asum
effec s on the cardrovascular system, ' E IIph a n t ' l lid l l' a sll t't' t fla1or t h a t r
many of whtch have been confirmed by mulll IPss p u ngPn t th<lll t i ll' g,nlit
cltntcal trtals. Garlic supplementation has cmnrnonl U'>ed r n toourg. ltw pldllt
been shown to lower cholesterol levels, IS dl t UJ I I ) a ITit'lllhtt o f t ht l t t J,l l l l l il
prevent the hardening of artenes and lOOt' til l i s ('t llillllt!ll naHH's IS l it ' l't ' l l l l i d l
lessen the nsk of blood-clo formation. sll t't ' t ltt k J . l:dt ill!' dm ts
It can also help to reduce blood pressure I'd\\ 01' t'tlttk t lit'lll
as well as rmprove general circulatron.
For the sa e and effec rve medrcinal
use of gar'tc, see Sore hroa s, colds and
flu. page 200, and Hrgh blood pressure
1 Green on1ons 2 Brown onions and choles erol, page 228. Do not use
J. Green on1ons w1th thelf tops garlic rn greater than culrnary quantities
4 Red on10n 5. Spnng onions
tf you are pregnant or breastfeedtng
G a l l ic a n d onion
C o o l d n .g
GariC cor-plements almost any savory
dsh, a11d goes well w,th most culinary
herbs and sp1ces I 1s an essential
1ngred1en 1n many cuis1nes. espec1ally
As1an, Mex1can, Mediterranean, M1ddle
Eastern and Car1bbean. Even 1f you don't
like the taste o garlic tself, a small
amount will enhance the lavor of
many dishes.
Garl1c comes m wh1te-, pink- and
purple-sk1nned var1et1es, and in a range
of sizes. Choose firm bulbs that are not mellow and sweet Try baking a whole
sprouting, and that are tightly encased in head 1n foil, then squeeze out the Above: Ch1ves (Allium schoenoprasum)
their husks. Peeled cloves should be creamy contents of the cloves. This mellow, Opposite: In a Cambodian village, garlic heads
white, not gray or yellow. Remove any creamy paste is delicious spread on are separated and the cloves set out to ory.
areas of discolorat1on before using, as bread or cooked meats or s irred through
these will impart a rank taste to the dish. mashed vegetables such as potato. Take
When peeled, then sliced or chopped, care when cooking garlic; if i is cooked
the enzymes w1thin a clove of garlic react over too high a heat, it will burn, become
on exposure to w to produce a strong, bitter and taste unpleasant Even a tiny
Dt'll!'nding on lhr 1a r ir1. rlll\rs
lingering, sulphurous aroma. The flavor of amount of burned garlic will permeate
1 \. 'clwenopriNJm) hal t' a m t h l
garlic is similarly strong and sharp, and spoil a whole dish.
onion or ga r l tc fla1or t hat goc wel l
and gives he Impression of heat on the Garlic is used raw in a'loli [a French
wi th :auces. str11 . m a hr c l
palate. The more finely it IS crushed or garlic mayonnaise) and tapenade (olive
1 rgl'lalllc uch a potatoes. fih.
chopped, the s ronger its aroma becomes. paste). Crushed garlic mashed into butter
pou l l l') An<l tgg dilws ( r prciJil
is a delicious and simple sauce for cooked
sr ra mh l trl eggs ) . and crram rhee'e
meats, or it can be spread on a sliced loaf
ami . a lad drrs s i ng . The deltcatc
or baguette, wrapped in foil and baked i n
na1 o r is eastl drstrord IJ hrat. -.o
a medium-hot oven for 10 minutes o r so.
a d rl chr1r. during the Ia t rc1
Push sl1vers of garlic into slits in a joint
minutes or cooking lime. or scatter
of lamb or pork, or put a few cloves instde
them on a lini hPCi llish to ga rn rs h .
the cavity of a chicken before roastmg.
Sntp ch11r. 11 ilh . cisor, . ra th er
Vanous processed forms of garlic are
than chop tllrm 11 t l h a nife. Tht'\
commercially available, i ncluding crushed
are r l'n t 1 a l (dlong 11 i t h chrr1 tl,
pastes and dehydrated flakes, powders
parslr ami tarrago n ) tn the F'rrnch
and granules. If you are using commerctal
herb b l r nd caller! rim" hrrhrs (.'<'t'
garlic pastes 1n a recipe, you may need to
make adjustments for the flavor of the l lr r b gutdr. paf.il' 336) . Snip clme,
c ; i 11gt' ( \\ tl . h rlll\ ITCOIIl lll ! ' l l t l ( ' d l l\ 11011(' o t ll l ' l' L ll d l l Coi1 1 U C i U 'i .
Part us d Rhizomes
Part u Roots
G a rd e n i n g Propagation It can be
Gotu kola is closely related to the propagated by seed, but is
pennywort (Hydrocotyle sp.) and more most easily grown from
remotely to celery and parsley. The plant rooted sections of stolon with
is a small, creeping, subtropical to tropical at least one plantlet attached.
groundcover that spreads by stolons, in a M a i ntenance Regularly
similar manner to strawberries and violets, water and weed gotu kola Gotu kola (Centella asiatica)
forming plantlets that root into the as necessary.
ground and eventually form dense mat. Pests and d iseases There are
1/arww.Y Wil'v
a
fw kofw jfecy
flowers are borne in umbels below the the leaves out of direct sunlight: Spread
leaves. Its natural habitat is in damp places them out in a single layer or dry them
co;;rorluctwiV.
and along stream and pond margins. under warm fan-forced air, then store
Position Gotu kola is easily grown in a them in an airtight container for medicinal
large pot or a dedicated garden bed filled use and for tea. You can also j u ice the
with free-draining, sandy soil enriched leaves and add them sparingly to tonics.
with compost and kept moist. It can be herbalists regard gotu kola as an effective
grown in full sun or light shade. In cool H e rba l m e d i c i n e nerve tonic that exerts a calming and
climate areas it should be grown under Cen tello asiatica. Parts used: whole strengtheni n g effect on nerve and bra i n
cover in winter. I t tends to die back, but plant. leaves. Gotu kola has been used cells, helping o improve memory a n d
will reshoot in spring. therapeutically for centuries. Ayurvedic reduce anxiety.
According to tradi ional Chinese
medicine, gotu kola is believed to slow
senility, act as a promoter of longevity
and improve rheumatic problems.
Studies investigatin g the topical and
ccordrng lO official record of the C h rnese go1 ernme n l . Pro fe . or Li C h u ng \on.
internal use of gotu kola have confirmed
a renowned cholar and herbali t . wa born r n 1 6 77. The stor go s r ha t he was
an i mpressive burn- and wound-he al ing
1 egetarian who u ed gotu kola a n d gin ng and took bns daily 11 a l s ll h i le
capacity, and a strengthen rng effect on
ultivating a calm and erene a t t i t ude to l i re ( walking l i ke a pigeon. i l l r n g l i k a
veins, w1th notable improvem ent in
tortDi e and sleeping like a dogr. \\ he n he died in 1 933. as reported by The Ve"
varicose veins and other vern disorders.
}ark Times. he appa rent! looked l i kr a man m h i prime. w i t h hi h a i r and teeth
For the sa e and appropna te use
intact. He pent t h e first 1 00 year or hi l i re tudying and gathenng wild herhs.
of gotu kola, consul t your healthca re
and t h e latter part lecturing and educati ng people ahout herb and longe\ ily.
professio nal. Do not use go u kola 1f
you are pregnan t or breast eed1ng.
H ea rtsea se 1uny 11 1'l.1S. lllCi utllllf! hParL t'aC'.
Viola tricolor Violaceae havr ccliille flower . V Ii lc h l ooJ..
\ e ry pretty 1n a ,a lad. ( Some
T h i I J IT l ly E u ropt'illl ll i lt l llmx t r, \l h ich h a s acq u i red an t''<l raorr l i n a i'J I l ow er are pcusonou. so he SUI't'
keep
\ l a l t ed gra i n s 11 co for l ll'l'\\ i ng lwc r a re v e ry S\\ t'l'l a n d rio n o t
moist, humus-rich soil. Humulus lupulus. Part used: female the flowers can be used in pil lows placed
Propagation Hops can be raised flowers (strobiles). Hops is well known by the bed to induce sleep. Hops' calming
from seed Only the female plants are for 1ts mild sedative properties and is effects can also help m reducmg anx1ety.
required, so propagate either by root commonly prescribed with other relaxing Hops has a gently stimulating effect
diVISion in spnng or from cuttings herbs for insomn1a, particularly when on sluggish digestion due to the presence
taken 1n summer. there IS difficulty falling asleep. of bitter compounds, and it IS a useful
remedy for gastrointestinal com plaints,
particularly when they are exacerba ed
H 6eer
by tens1on and stress. Hops also contams
estrogen-like substances and 1s bein g
inves igated for i t s use i n menstrual and
Brt'I\PO m anril'nt Egy p l . hopped hrcr
menopausal problems.
\\.il men unned 11 the Roman \\Ti t e r
For the safe and appropriate use of
Plinv. \\. h O r t' l i h r d ea t i ng the p l a n t "s
hops, see Insomnia, page 2 1 4. Do not use
wnng grm\lh 11 hen 1t 11 as prepa red
hops if you are pregnant or breastfeed1ng.
l i ke a s pa ragu . l lnp. lwcamr \1 idelv
Tile' gJ\J l <'li root u r lmrsnadl 11 . C U I ! J \ d l !'d 1 1 1 l hC' t'd S l l'rn '\ 1 P d i l r r ra n l'd l1
-, i nct t h l' I O L11 crn l u J tllld posst\' Sl'S a s i m i l a r. \ t ' J' llol t a s t r .
remain 3 5 0 rn i l l i n yea r l a w r a re m a l l t J c o mp a r i o n . n
Other c Gratiola
Parts u ' Flowering spikes, leaves Hyssop (Hyssopus officina/is)
you are using hyssop for hedging. ridvfoci.Y a.:Y wild tli'LC!;M-fb.
Iris
Iris sp. lrtdaceae
h. 1 1 011 n
ThP bea u t iful i r i ,l ' S i n c l t H i e seH ral l w r l >a l specie: '' i l h rh izomes.
Part u e Rhizomes
0 er Jessamine
Pa s Flowers, roots
l 'o p u l ii l d i'O l l l l l i l ll t ' \\ 111\d . l ragra n l liJI ( ' I H I I ' r is I H ' t'Olll i l l g 011{' or [ \1 ( ' most
Flowers
foliage, and g reen inflorescences with driecl lrm es to mut 11-rrpt> l k n t s.trheh
cream flowers and g reen sterile bracts. and place tined hunches 11 l l h slond
'Beverley' differs in having white sterile lJi d n kcts and o i i H ' I II DO I IP n s. S t l l l'l'rish
Pterostachys lavenders
These include a number of des1rable
landscape spec1es. mcludmg L buchn,
Canary Islands lavender (L. conorrensisl.
Jagged lavender (L. ptnnoto), ernleaf
lavender (L. multtfido) and the electnc
L denrara, one of the Stoechas lavenders blue-flowered L moroccono.
Jj a \'C n cl e r Continued
J l e r ha l m e ct i r i n e
Lavandulo angustlfolia. Part used: flowers.
An age-old remedy for calmtng and
soothing the nerves. 1mproving mood
and relaxtng m uscles, beautifully scented
Spritz still-damp washing with Lavender linen water (see page 288) and hang it out to dry.
lavender and 1ts essential oil are commonly
used for inducing a restful sleep, rel1eving
A ro u n d L h c h o m e
depression and anxiety and for other dis
orders relating to a nervous or tense state, If you could choose only one herb for
.,etWender ud
includtng stomach upsets.
Lavender flowers can be taken as
household use, lavender would have
to be at the top of the list. Apart from
oil w anliM!fl'ib and
an infusion or added to a bath to soothe its pretty flower and much loved scent, antibacterial) ideat for
and a1d in relaxat1on. Apply undiluted lavender is antibacterial, antibiotic,
essential oil to relieve the sting of insect antiviral, antiseptic, deodorizing and 6ilv.
b1tes or to prevent cuts and grazes from i nsect repel l i ng , which means that you
becomtng infected. You can add essential can use it in the living room, kitchen,
oil to massage oil to help relieve muscle bathroom, laundry, nursery and patio, Dampen a cotton-wool bal l and add
tension and headaches. as well as in your wardrobes and drawers, a few drops of lavender essential oil.
For the safe and appropriate internal on your pets and on your skin. Drop i t into your kitchen pantry, or
use of lavender, consult your healthcare Use both the dried flowers and leaves your vacuum cleaner bag, to eliminate
professional. For 1ts topical uses, see to make moth-repellent sachets and stale odors.
Depression and a nxiety, page 2 1 1, and lavender bags (see Croft, pages 302-5)
F1rst a1d, page 220. Do not use lavender - they both contain the aromatic oil C oo k i n g
if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, that insects hate. Lavender's culinary applications are
except under professional supervision. I nfuse distilled white vinegar with the limited, although the flowers are edible.
flowers and leaves, fresh or dried, for They are used in the Moroccan spice
an i nexpensive and very effective spray blend ras el hanout and in the French
for cleaning and disinfecting a variety herbes de Provence. Lavender goes
of surfaces. well in sweet dishes containing cream,
Add drops of lavender essential oil to such as ice cream. It can be added to
environmentally friendly unscented shortbread and icings and used in jams
Rcputrd t o haw twrn brought rrom kitchen and laundry cleaning products and jellies. Crystal l ize the flowers as
thr Garden or Eden b \dam and El('. for a fresh, natural scent. edible cake decorations (see page 380).
la1 ender ha a h i story t h a t is a l most
Other common n a mes Bee ba lm, common balm, melissa, sweet balm
Part used Leaves
?ronv to bU/
although it is easy o raise from cut 1ngs
taken in spnng and autumn, or from
rooted divis1ons. Grow named varieties
from lip cut ings, wh1ch will root easily, Lemon llalm' assonallon 11 1 1 h
seedlings, or you desire a new flush of \ll'IISSil II J\ Olll' ll[ ! Ill' 11\ l l l p h '
including the flowering heads. Cut back Cro n u s. ll'l'di nl.! h 1 1 1 1 111 1 1 1-. and
'All Gold' regularly to mam a1n i s color. h ! l llt'l . Olll'l' /,l'us rultd 011 mpus.
Remove any plam green shoots from both h rhang<d hn info a qllt't'll he
'All Gold' and 'Vanegata'
L e m o n g ra s s
Cymbopogon cttrotus Poaceae
ll'mon It agra nc1 . i '' ide I u sed for cook.ing i n Harvested lemon grass
Thcl i la n d . \ i t l n d m a n d o l lw r Sou t h a l \ s i a n
Part u S ems
Lemon-grass tea was traditionally used professional. Do not use lemon grass
to treat digestive upsets and to alleviate in greater than culinary quantities if
stomach ache, cramping and vomtting. you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
It was also used for a number of other
disorders, including cough, fevers. high C o k i ng
blood pressure and exhaustion. The strong citrus flavor of lemon g rass
Lemon grass has also traditionally goes well in Southeast Asian cooking and
been regarded as having pain-relieving is often teamed with chillies and coconut
effects and has been used internally as milk. Lemon grass is also an excellent
an mfusion for nerve and rheumatic pain. addition to Western cooking, particularly
Applied as a topical remedy, lemon grass in fish and seafood dishes. Use the lower
and its essential oil can ease the pain and white part of the fresh stems and slice
discomfort of headaches, abdominal pain, finely crosswise to avoid a fibrous texture
aching joints and muscles and neuralgia. in the finished dish. If using a whole stem
For the safe and appropriate medicinal or large pieces, bruise first to release the
Lemon grass (Cymbopogon cirrorus) use of th1s herb, consult your healthcare flavor and remove before servmg.
L e m o n ve r b e n a
Aloysia citriodoro syn. Llppio citnodoro. syn. A. triphyllo Verbenaceae
G a t'd e n i n g He rba l m e d i c i n e
Lemon verbena is a shrub with arching Aloysia cttriodoro syn. Ltppio citnodoro
branches and pointed leaves arranged syn. A. triphyllo. Parts used: aerial parts.
in whorls of three around the stems. I n Lemon verbena is used as a digestive aid
summer the bush produces large terminal for symptoms of flatulence and colic.
panicles of tiny, four-petaled. white or It is thought to help wtth insomn1a and
pale lavender flowers. nervous agitation. Lemon verbena is
Position I t requires full sun, and a also prescribed for feverish conditions.
free-drainmg loam with nearly neutral pH. For the safe and appropriate use
Propagation Propagate by semi-ripe of these herbs. consult your healthcare
Lemon verbena (Aloysia citriodora)
tip cuttings. professional. Do not use these herbs if
Ma intena nce Lemon verbena is cu you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
back by frost, so it should be winter The leaves are used to g ive a lemon
mulched in cool climates. I n heavy frost C o o k. i n g flavor to fruit salads and other fruit
areas grow it in a pot and bnng it under The leaves are best used fresh and young. dishes, desserts and d ri n ks. Infuse them
protection during winter dormancy. Trim Use sparingly, otherwtse the flavor can 1n custard-based sauces for desserts, or
to shape. Bushes often leaf out very late in overwhelm the food and be remintscent finely chop and add to Asian dishes.
spnng; don't discard them prematurely. of lemon-scented soap. Lemon verbena is poultry and stuffings.
Pests and diseases Under greenhouse a common mgredient in many herbal teas. Add whole leaves to apple Jelly, and
condt ions. lemon verbena IS prone o tmparting a wonderfully fragrant flavor, chopped young leaves to fru1t salads.
whitefly and spider mites. and can be substituted for lemon grass With i s digestive and relaxant proper 1es.
Harvesti n g and stori ng Leaves can 1n As1an rec1pes. the ea is tdeal for d n n ktng after dinner.
be harvested at any time to use fresh or
for air-drying.
Tht' lw rh \\ Ofld oiler Slllnl' ('\l fdllfdllldr\ S\\ l'('lf'r- l h d ll-Udr pi.J I I I . Ofll' or \\ h it h
1 s . 1 1 1 ltmon l t'rhtnc. d llll'ffi ht'l ol t ht \ t rllrn<H'l'<Jl' l a m t i l . \zltr s\\t'l'l hnh
IP/J_I /J ralwrrtmd s n . /,t/lfltil tlulrts) IS " frosi - L entlrl. St'ffil-pros l i <J l l' pl ' r e n n ld l
\\ l l h s l l ll r l . l l l l l l f ll'l'S ;ttJ
' \ j l l l'\ or \\ 1 1 1 1 1 ' IJil\\l'rs dllU 0\ <lJ itd\ 1' ! J((J[ '>llffiiSI' rtd
111 l ht 'un I I rn n l d i i i S ht'rndn t l u l n n . 11 Inch ' ' more l h.1 11 1 000 l llllt's s\\ t'l'lt'r l h J I I
s uga r. S l l dills Jngh 111 1 dlllpiHII \htllilli l ll' ,n llldt'li. a l t hnugh L ilt' <.uh,l!l rh1rnot1 Pl'
hd\ llll l\ d t racT or l'illllphOC
i 'd Jdgllil\ S\\1'1'[ h 1 rl l ( S/1'1 hi t'l'ildllr/l<illil) I d ldlJ PI'IC ' I I II I d i I l l l ht \ s [ t r.trt'dl'
ra m 1 1 1 I L "" 1 111 I C 'I'iw rltt fct oi i iH c ; ud r < n lntl ldns. 11 l1o usl'li l l l o sll t't'lt11 ' '' l ha
m a r t'. d l l << i t l ll!lldl l t 'd lll<<it l rom d ' lt 't l l 's nl l lolll l ilt'\ fl,ll.l/.!lhll'l l'll'l'l. St11 1.,
l
l ' ! l n [ J I I I \ \ [ 1 ' \ I O S i d C 1\ I I ICII is Up Ill ,l(l() 1 1 1111' S\\ l' l ' ( c r 1 11,111 sug,JI
In mild cllmatrs. lemon verbena can grow to
5 m htgh, topped wtth ttny flowers tn summer
Lic o ric e
G/ycyrrhiza glabra Papilionaceae
G a rd n i n g
Ucorice is a graceful, arching, deciduous
perennial to about 5 ft. ( 1 .5 m). It has a thick,
deep taproot and spreads underground via
extensive stolons. Aboveground, it has
pinnately compound leaves and loose spikes
of purple flowers. Ucorice grows particularly
Slices of dried licorice root Licorice (Giycyrrhiza glabra)
well on the rich alluvial plains of Turkey
which, together with Spain and Greece, is
still a leading world supplier. M a i ntenance Keep weeds at bay. effects and ability to expel mucus. licorice
Varieties There are three recognized Pests and diseases There are no is used to treat coughs, bronch1t1s and
botanical varieties: Spanish or Italian signi ficant problems. catarrhal lung conditions.
licorice (G. glabra var. glabra), Russian Harvesting and storing Both the A compound called glycyrrhizin, which
licorice (G. glabra var. glandulifera) and taproot and the rhizomes can be used. is responsible for the herb's licorice taste,
G. glabra var. violacea. Other species used They are usually dug when 3 years old is known to be responsible for the healing
in a similar way are Chinese or Mongolian and air-dried before being ground and effects of licorice on gastrointestinal ulcers
licorice (G. uralensis) and Manchurian then processed. and inflammatory conditions of the
licorice (G. pallidif/ora). digestive system. It also acts as a tonic
Position Licorice prefers a rich, deep, H rbal m dicine for the adrenal glands, so licorice is often
sandy loam and a sunny position. Glycyrrhiza glabra. Part used: roots. prescribed as a supportive remedy in times
Propagation New crops are Licorice root is one of the most scientifically of stress and exhaustion.
propagated by rhizome segments researched herbal medicines of our time For the safe and appropriate use of
planted in spring, but can also be and investigations are confirming many licorice, consult a healthcare professional.
propagated by seed. Portions of of its traditional uses, which date back Do not use licorice if you are pregnant
rhizome left in the soil at harvest to ancient times. A common ingredient in or breastfeeding.
time will generate new plants. many respiratory remedies for its soothing
a t u ra l b e a u t
This herb is considered a n effective natural
lightener for brown age spots. For the best
result, use it for mild discoloration and
pair it with a natural fruit peel containing
Pontrfract. or pomfret. cake became a popular sweet
vitam1n C and alpha hydroxy acids to
m F.:ngland in the 1 6th centur . The e oft. nat disks
slough off dead skin.
made w1th licorice. gum arabic and ugar '.Vere stamped
" il h a tylized image or Pontefract Cas lie. The are still
Cooking
made and lo\ed. along '.Vilh anothrr Engli' h fa1orite.
Licorice root is one o f many spices and
l h dlsllncte m u l l ic olore rJ licorice allsort . I t i . a1d herbs used in Chinese master stocks,
that apolrun Bonapart alway carried licor1 e lozenge .
adding to their intensity and depth of
11 h1Ch 11 cre lJaecl on pont fract cake .
flavor. Add the chopped root sparingly
(it can be bitter) when stewing fruit.
Lime
Tilia cordata syn. T. parvifolia, T. x europoea Tiliaceae
p riod l i me wa a ociated i t h the i rg i n 1ar . and ' a p la n ted for a r e har.e ted at their peak and a i r
it fragra n t hea l i ng flower and to provide hade i n mona t r garden . dried ror use in lime blo om tea. a
G a rd n i n g
l i m e blo som festival . together with
ume is also known as the linden tree
their annual harve t sale .
Small-leafed lime (T. cordata) is a small- in Germany and tilleul in France.
to-medium deciduous tree (to 33 ft.)(lO m) Position Tilia prefers a moist neutral
with glossy, dark green, heart-shaped to a l kaline soil and a sunny open position.
leaves. In midsummer, it bears clusters of Propagation It can be propagated
pale yellow flowers, heavy with fragrance, by fresh ripe seed or by stratification
which attract bees to their copious nectar. of stored seed planted in spring (see
H1ves placed around flowering trees yield page 44) and also by suckers.
a prized fragrant honey. While T. cordata M a i ntenance Tilia species tend to
is the principal species harvested, other sucker. Either remove these, or pot them
species used herbally include T. x europaea and, when established, plant elsewhere.
and T. platyphyllos. Tilia is occasionally Pests and d iseases Aphids and
confused with the citrus fruit species caterpillars on leaves can be a problem,
known as lime ( Citrus aurantiifolia). although rarely so in Mediterranean areas.
Look out for gall mite, too. Lime flowers are a specific remedy for
H a rvesting and storing The petals certain circulatory disorders. They have
drop rapidly to allow the fruits to swell both relaxing and restorative effects on
so, over a short time interval, harvest the blood vessel walls. and have been used
flower clusters together with a few to counteract high blood pressure.
attendant young leaves at the peak of especially when it is associated with
flowering. Spread out the flowers and nervous tension. The flowers can also be
thoroughly air-dry them before storing. helpful in the treatment and prevention of
atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).
H rba l m d i i n Regarded as one of the most i m portant
Tilia cordata, T. platyphyllos. Parts used: diaphoretic herbs in European medicine,
flowers, bracts. Lime flowers are a lime flowers are beneficial in feverish
common ingredient of many herbal conditions such as colds. influenza and
teas that are prescribed to help induce other respiratory infections.
a restful sleep, especially in children. For the safe and a ppropriate use of
The plant has a sedative and calming lime flowers, see High blood pressure
effect on the nerves and muscles, and and cholesterol, page 228. Do not use
can help to reduce restlessness, tension lime flowers if you are pregnant or
and anxiety. breastfeeding.
rare! wa hed
r o{ fYl
6oudtoV cuhe!Y.
M a l low a n d h o l lyho c l<
Althaea afficmolis, Malva sp. and A/ceo sp. Malvaceae
mar h mal lO\\. i s " iclrly used medi i n a l ly. '' hilr t h r ornam 'ntal m u s k
l l c rba l m d i r i n c
Althaea officmolis. Par s used leaves,
roots. R ich m mucl!ag1nous compounds,
the leaves and roots of he marsh mallow
have a soothing effect and are bo h used
to treat 1rntated and 1nflamed condit1ons
of the respiratory trac , mclud1ng irntable
cough, bronchitiS and sore throat.
With a h1gher amount of mucilage,
he root IS regarded as the more effect1ve
remedy for mflammatory conditiOns o the
gut, such as stomach and Intestinal ulcers,
Confctionry marshmallow was one made gastroenteritis and ulcerative coli IS. The
from the mucilag in th roots of marsh mallow root 1s also used as a top1cal agent m Hollyhock (A/ceo rosea)
M a r j o ram
a n d o rega n o
Origanum sp. Lam1aceae
and oregano are common names that are Selections of 0. vulgare are often incorrectly
often used interchangeably. sold under this name. and 'Jim Best: which is a vigorous gold
Sweet or knot marjoram (0. marjorona Common oregano (0. vulgare) contains and green variegated variety. 0. pulchellum
syn. Morjorona hortensis) has gray-green six subspecies. 0. vulgare subsp. vulgare is a name attached to forms of 0. vulgare
leaves with a mouthwatering fragrance. is the mild-flavored wild marjoram with with purple bracts.
Although usually treated as an annual, it clustered heads of pink flowers and deep Greek oregano (0. vulgare subsp. hirtum)
is a short-lived perennial in mild climates. burgundy bracts that attract bees, but has a deliciously strong fragrance. The
A hardier hybrid, 0. x morJoricum, may be lacks any apprecible flavor. It is often very mildly aromatic 0. vulgare subsp.
sold incorrectly as 'Italian Oregano: sold as oregano. Cultivars of 0. vulgare virens and 0. vulgare subsp. viridulum
Spartan oregano (0. minutiflorum) is subsp. vulgare include the very attractive are both called wild marjoram.
frequently included in dried oregano golden oregano, 'Aureum: sometimes sold Lebanese oregano, Syrian hyssop or
mixes from Turkey. It resembles a as 'golden marjoram: which makes a white oregano (0. syriacum) forms a
diminutive gray-leafed sweet marjoram superb aromatic groundcover for full sun, tender perennial subshrub with gray
green foliage. Ezov, the biblical hyssop,
was almost certainty 0. syriacum. A hybrid
with 0. vulgare, sold as 0. maru, has
greater cold resistance.
Russian oregano (0. vulgare subsp.
zaar.ar i a n Arabic t rm for a n u m ber of gracile) has an aroma that is similar to
aromali herb . ofl.l'n var ing accord ing to Greek oregano.
the r glon and at o th local flora. While the Algerian oregano (0. vulgare subsp.
term mo t oftrn refers lO origanu ms. za"atar glandulosum) is rarely seen outside its
pe 1c a l so mclude ronehrad thyme ( Thymbra native land but is a good culinary herb.
cap11.ata). zaar.ar hom mar ( r. pica La). true Ornamental origanums Many species and
thyme ! Thymus sp. ) a nd awrP/a sprc1es such hybrids of Origanum are grown simply for
S. cuncifo/ia and S. Lhymbra. The ca oning their beauty and fragrance. They include
m1xtun ralltd zaar.a r u, ually in tudes wasted 'Herrenhausen: 'Country Cream: the
sesamr srrd and coarse salt. and IS used on aromatic and strangely beautiful Dittany
vrgrl.ahlr and rnrat cl1shrs and also sprmklrd of Crete (0. dictamnus) and 0. creticum,
on brrad before h k1ng. a very aromatic species. the source of the
essential oil oleum origani.
l\la rjora m a n cl
saus age pa, ta
Positi on Onganum spec1es are found
in the wild in sunny, well-d ra1ned and
ohen stony places . They thnve 1n full sun 1 0.5 oz. (300 g) riga toni
and are stronger flavored if g rown w1th 9 oz. (2 50) g sausages
tough love. 2 tablespoons ol ive oil
Propagation Raise the species from 1 large red onion, roughly chopped
seed in spring, and ornamental varieties 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
by cuttings. 1 small eggplant, diced
Mai ntenance Once the plants are 3 small zucchini, diced
established, do not overwater them. 2 cups (500 g) tomato pasta sauce
Cut back old growth in spring. 1 tablespoon chopped fresh
Pests and diseases Origanums are marjoram or oregano
Common oregano (0. vulgare! in flower
very resistant to both. 1 . 5 oz. (40 g) black olives
Harvesting and storing You can 9 oz. (250 g) cherry tomatoes
harvest the foliage fresh but the flavor Medicina l ly, sweet marjoram IS used
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
is enhanced if you dry it 1n bunches in a predominantly in the form of its essential
fresh marjoram leaves, for garnish
dark, dry, warm, well-ventilated place for oil, wh1ch is applied topically to ease
grated parmesan, to serve
several days. When dry and crisp, rub the headaches, sore muscles and rheumatic
leaves off the stems and store in an pain. As an external remedy i t can also Coo IJaWl 1n hoilmg 11 a l e r u n l l l a l
a1rt1ght container. relieve catarrhal conditions of the lung. denlc. about 1 0 m i n u tr . Dra i n . G n l l
digestive colic, flatulence and period pain. sa u sages u n l l l b i'O\\ n. Cool s l i gh l ly:
flowers. An infusion of the herb is a useful care professional. Do not use these herbs onion u n t i l ta rl ing 10 color. a bo u t
remedy for feverish conditions and also in greater than culinary quantities or 3 m m ut . . \cld ga r l i c and a u. ages:
for treating coughs, colds and influenza the essential oils of these herbs internally roo a fr11 m m u lrs. I ncrease lwa l :
due to 1ts ability to improve the removal or externally i f you are pregnant or aLitl rggplanl a n d zucc h m 1 : cou.
of phlegm from the lungs and relax the breastfeeding. s l i m ng. - m m u tes. u n t i l eggp lant
bronchial muscles. Traditionally, oregano hrgin t o softe n . -\dd t o ma to pasta
IS also regarded as an herb for the gut; it C o o k i ng aurr. s t i r m maqoram anrl 'l'a on
relieves flatulence and improves digest1on Oregano has a more pungent scent than t o wstr. Cmrr a n d s 1 m mer. t 1 rn ng
as well as treats mtestinal infections due marjoram, with a stronger flavor. The occm,IOn a l l \ . 1 5 m i n u t r . or u n t i l
to a strong antiseptic effect. hotter and drier the climate, the more eggplant 1s tl'lldl'r. S t i r i n o l i l r s ami
The essential oil of oregano has been aroma and flavor a vanety will have. tomator. CO\ r r anll l'oo a fu r t he r
shown to possess potent antimicrobial Sweet marJoram IS the type used i n :'i m i n u t rs. Comlllne pasla a n ti sauce
and antioxidant propert1es, primarily due to cooking. Its aroma is damaged b y heat. 111 a ld rt;r h0\1 I . St i r 1 11 pa rsle) .
the presence of the constituents thymol so use it in uncooked or lightly cooked S p rm l e 11 l l h maqorom l ea \ P.
and carvacrol. Some commercial oregano d1shes, or add it at he end. Oregano IS dlld parmt'san St'l'\ rs 1.
oil products have been used to treat a a more robust herb and can withstand
range of conditions, including respratory longer cookmg.
and gastrointestmal infections, although Both herbs go well with lemon, garlic,
substantial clinical evidence provmg its wine, meats, fish, salads, Greek and Italian
e 1cacy IS lackin g. dishes, beans, eggplant, capsicum and
Origanum morjorano syn. Mar;orono tomato-based d1shes and sauces. They
hortensis. Parts used: leaves and flowers. are also used in commemal mixed herbs.
('( ) ( 1 -; l ! l i ' l'<'d Oil(' OI I IH ' Ill O S I j H l\1 I'I' [ U I il ll(l S<IC'I' t'd i l l ' rhs ()[ L il t '
tall corymbs of almond-scented, creamy grow in full sun, provided the so1l IS
wh1te flowers to 1 .2 m 1n summer. very moisl lt prefers a well -enriched, help o bring down fevers, so this herb
(Corymbs are flower clusters with the a l kaline soil. is often recommended for the treatment
appearance of a flat or rounded top.) Propagation Propagate the spec1es of colds and flu. The plant's medicinal
The leaves smell like Wintergreen when by seed in autumn. or by stratified seed effects make it an effective remedy for
crushed. The plant occurs in moist meadows (see page 44) and plant in spring. Both helping to alleviate joint and muscle pain.
and around fresh water, and IS widely the species and named varieties can be For the safe and appropriate medicinal
distributed across Asia and Europe. propagated by division in spring. use of meadowsweet, see Indigestion,
Varieties Ornamental but herbally M a i ntenance Every 3 or 4 years, lih page 204. Do not use meadowsweet if
active varieties include the particularly and divide meadowsweet in autumn. you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
desirable double-flowered 'Flore Pleno'; Pests and d iseases Check for mildew
'Grandiflora; with large flowers; 'Aurea: toward the end of the growing season. C oo k i n g
w1th golden foliage; and Variegata; H a rvesting and storing Cut and dry The flowers are used to flavor jams.
with cream-variegated leaves. Dropwort flowers when in full bloom and use fresh stewed fruits and wine as well as mead
(F. vulgaris) is a closely related plant, for culinary use, or dried for herbal use. and the non-alcoholic Norfolk Punch.
once employed as a d i u ret1c. It has s1milar Harvest and dry leaves at the same time.
flowers, although the individual leaflets
are re-pinnately divided. The beautiful Herbal m dicine
Filipendulo ulmario syn. Spiraea ulmario.
Parts used: flowers. leaves. Meadowsweet
is considered one of the most important
digestive remedies, Indicated for many
conditions of the gut, particularly those
I n 1 827. sa licm v.as 1solatrrl rrum associated with inflammation and excess
mf'adowswrrt 's saliq la l t's-con tain ing acidity. Meadowsweet has a balancing
lravrs. then syn thrsizrd to acetyl effect on acid production in the stomach
salicyliC acid (aspinn) hy Frl1x as well as a soothing and healing effect
l lorrman 10 Germany m 1 890. His on the upper digestive tract. It is prescribed
Pmplnyer. Ha}er \ G . named the drug commonly for acid reflux, indigestion,
asrurin aftrr a n old llotan1cal name gastritis and stomach u lcers.
Fur mradowsv.. e rt. Splrl'd ulm:ma. Meadowsweet contains aspirin-like
l'he hl'rb I\ considrrrcl less lrflt,llinl.t compounds that are responsible for its
to r ile . tnmarh than the punfir11 dru. pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory Meadowsweet was once used in garlands for
properties. These compounds can also brides and as a strewing herb at weddings.
M in t
Mentha sp. Lam1aceae
Part us d Leaves
lavender fragrance. peppermmtlike scent. The best-known finely ha1ry leaves. Commercially they
Curly spearmint !M. spica to var. cnspa) vartety IS 'Eau de Cologne' or 'Bergamot; are sold as 'Apple' mmt or 'Ptneapple'
has ornamental fluted and curled foliage with a strong and delightful true scent of mint !the variegated form).
w1th a true spearmm scent. The large eau-de-cologne The whole plan is deep Woolly or Bowie's m i n t IM. x vtlloso var
and slightly crinkly leafed vanety, g reen suffused wtth purple. olopecurotdes) ts a v1gorous, all-growtng
'Kentucky Colonel; is very close to the A natura l hybrid between corn mmt speetes with broadly oval furred leaves,
common garden mint of Australia and (M. orvensis) and spearmtnt !M. spicata), often sold as 'Apple' min , but 1 is
England. 'Moroccan' mint is a neat form Menrha x gentilis has a long in lorescence distmgu1shed by he dense, pom ed
with a very sweet lavor. with clusters of lavender-colored flowers term mal clusters of lavender flowers.
Peppermint ! M x piperita) IS a wtually m the axils of the lanceolate leaves. Two Japanese peppe r m i nt or North Amencan
sterile natural hybrtd of water m1nt vanet1es are 'Red-stemmed Applemint' cornm1nt !M. canadensis) s ptercmgly
1M aquatica) and spearmmt !M. sptcota). ('Madalene Hill') and 'Gmger' pepperm1nt -scented.
The most commonly cultivated clones are Apple or pineapple m i n t IM. suaveolens) Pennyroyal ! M pulegium) 1s a creeping
'Black' !var. ptperita). with an inflorescence tS a sweetly frutt-scented spwes wi h mtn that forms dense mats. Its small
smooth leaves a re powerfully hot mtnt
scented and he I nflorescences have
clusters of lavender lowers. The Amertcan
pennyroyal tS Hedr?omo pulr?gtotdes.
Corsican m i nt ! M reqwnti) 15 a strongly
m1nt-scented ornamen a\ hat forms a
very dense groundcover of t1ny emerald
green eaves. we\1-su. ed to mo1st areas
or cui Jvaton n large po s
Rau ram I Perscarta odorato syn
Potygonum odoratum) s ar eas,\y gown
perennta t, 1deal for po cultur a gh 1
shaded post 10n Althoug r no o the m 1 n t
fam ,ty, s also c a l e d V1etJ1a.nee n' nt
and 1s used 1 As ar coo .ng t s po nred.
1ance-s haped oppos, ng .ea es are g reer
Vantga ttd app l t mtnt (M suoveolrns 'Vanrg ata') Prnnyroyal (M pulegwm) mar ed wttr deep browr a d burgu nd
1int Contmued
l l c r ba l m e d i c i n e
-J- Mentha piperita. Part used leaves.
Peppermint produces notable relaxing
e fects on the gut and can help to relieve
mdigestion, nausea, gas and crampmg.
Clinrcal trials have verified a therapeutic
effect of the herb on many of the
symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome,
including diarrhea, cons ipation,
bloating and abdominal pain, especially
Peppermint [ Mentha x piperita)
when taken in the form of enteric-coated
R a u ram o r peppermint oil capsules.
V1etnamese mint Topically, peppermint essential oil Sprinkle cotton balls with peppermint
(Persicaria adarata) has a pain-relieving effect, w hich can essential oil and leave them where
be valuable in allevia ing the discomfort rodents enter.
Position The ideal condi ions a re of joint and muscle pain and headaches. Add a few drops of peppermint
moist, nch soil and half to full sun. When it is inhaled, it can also help to essential oil to a damp rag and wipe
Propagation You can easily propagate reduce feelings of nausea and act as on cabinet interiors to deter ants and
mmts from cu tings or by dividing clumps. a nasal decongestant. cockroaches.
M a i ntenance If your mint is proving For the safe and appropriate medicinal To make a personal insect repellent,
invasive, grow it in large pots. use of peppermint, see Wind, bloating and mix 1 part lavender, 1 part eucalyptus,
Pests and d iseases Some mints, flatulence, page 206; Nausea, page 205. 1 part peppermint essential oils with
mainly varieties of M. spicoto, a re prone Do not use peppermint rn greater than 3 parts unscented moisturizer or sweet
o a rust disease, Puccineo menthoe. The culinary quantities, and do not use almond oil, and rub into the skin.
mmt flea beetle can cause leaf fall and the essential oil if you are pregnant To deter fleas, sprinkle dried pennyroyal
brownrng; caterpillars are also a problem. or breastfeeding. under your dog's bedding or put a spot of
H a rvesti n g and stori n g Mints dry oil on its collar. Don't use pennyroyal on
well in a warm, airy place away from ro u n d t h e h o m e cats or pregnant dogs, because it is toxic.
direct sunlight. Store crumbled leaves Peppermint and pennyroyal ( M. pulegium)
in an a i rtight container. Harvest foliage a re both natural insect repellents that are C oo k i n g
o use fresh as required. easy to grow. Lovely though its flavor is, fresh mint can
overwhelm milder flavors and is best used
with a light hand. Dried mint is less
assertive and is favored in eastern
Mediterranean and Arab countries.
In general, mint does not complement
1 lb. (500 g) green apples, cored
other herbs well, except parsley, thyme,
and roughly chopped
marjoram, sage, oregano and coriander.
't. oz. (15 g) roughly chopped fresh mint
It goes well with yogurt, and is used
leaves
in Vietnamese food and in some Indian
1 1/2 cups (375 ml) white wine vinegar
dishes. The coriander and lemon taste of
1 l b. (500 g) jam-setting sugar
Vietnamese mint is refreshing in salads.
'h oz. (15 g) finely chopped fresh mint
Spearmint rs the ordinary garden mint,
leaves, extra
and the most common culinary type. It is
Plan apple. . m i n t and 1 rnrgar rn mrd i u m
a classic flavoring for roast lamb and its
saucepan. cook. unroerPd. u n l l i applrs
accompaniments, and also goes well with
an 1cry tr n d er. Pure applf'S; < I ram
llorl ing ror I 0 m i n u tes. Removr rrom potatoes, peas and salads.
l h rough a srr1 r (don'l push them r h rougll.
heat. stir th rough l'\lra m i n t . Pour i n to Peppermint has a particularly strong
bur l in\\ Uw llqurd to run t h rough so It'll
rlran container: rrrrrge rate 6 h o u rs. or flavor and aroma. It makes a pleasam
c l ! w s n ' l l1ecomc rluudy). l<t'turn h q u 1 1 1 to
unl!l set. 1akes about 2 cups (600 g). digestive tea. The oil is used in ice cream,
;wnpmL add ugar RPLurn to t ill' hurl.
confectionery and liqueurs.
N e tt l e
Urtica diaica Lam1aceae
to spnng p1ckmg, harves i n m1dsum mer fill' it<J i t ' > dr<' ldl'f ' f ll l i l ,lf'I<JIIgl'cl ll\ l i d l l d
and again 1n autumn , and always wear t o lonn " pit'dSi flg pd l l l ' lll a n d Jho t o . J i l rdlt
gloves to protect your hands. D1g up the ll.t l U I <II l l l l l i i ls Ill I diiiJll\ rotors lli<l l iild Ill ! Il l ' I i i >t 'll lng f l l l l!'l'ss. d l i i l l llg d sub! it
roo s m autumn and air-dry them w1th nwslt mom t a s l l ' . Kt'llllll l' \ d l'g lmm t llt l l ' l ngt' l d l t l l d l ll l l l l d l l
liour l l t ' l l lrt' st' I I I I IL:.
the tops out of direct sunlig ht
Pa r s l ey
Prroseltnum sp Ap1aceae/Umbelliterae
I 'il l -; I t '\ ilts '' idtsp nad c u i J I I<I r\ . n w d i r i l l d l d JHI rosnwt ir 11 cs.
t'dSI<'I'II \ l l ' d i l < ' r J dllt'dll. p d r I t ' \ i nm1 r u l l l \ <l l l'd in l l' lllpl'r a l l '
G a rd e n i n g
Parsley ts a biennial crop, formmg a
dense rosette o leaves in the flfst year
and flowering 1n ts second summer,
when the foliage becomes bitter.
There are three distinct types of
parsley. Probably the most fam iliar ts curly
parsley (P crispum var. crispum). The many
excellent varieties nclude 'Triple Curl' and
'Green River' The plain-leaf types, known
as Italian or French or flat-leaf parsley
[P. crispum var. neapolitanum), have flat
leaf segments. In Italy, the true Italian
parsley is constdered to be 'Catalagno: japomco) IS in the same family. Its flavor
whtch is usually listed elsewhere as 'Giant IS a mtxture of celery, angelica and parsley.
Italian: Hamburg or turntp-rooted parsley Position Parsley prefers ful l morning
[P. crispum var. tuberasum) ts grown more sun to partial shade, and well-composted,
for its delicately flavored tap root than its well-dra1ned but moist soil. It tolerates Propagation This herb is grown
leaves, although they can also be used. fairly acidic to alkalme soil, but if the sod 1s only from seed and takes 3 to 8 weeks
Japanese parsley or mitsuba (Cryptotaema very ac1dic, Incorporate lime before planting. to germmate. You can speed up this
process by soakmg the seed in warm water
overnight before planttng tnto trays or
pots. Alternatively, pour freshly boiled
water along seed drills just before plant1ng.
Cover seed very lightly with soil. Transplant
For a ill' l ruuus-Lasung .11111 <J i l racl ll l'
seedlings into the garden (or thin seedlings
t'llll'fahJ-grrrn lwrll n ouo. rook a r i a stc
sown directly into the garden) to around
nso l l u 11'1'1111' umg dl'hono l'lrt'. 1 h i rt l l 10 in. [25 em) apart. Parsley self-seeds
or l l'gt'ldhlt stor d r H I \\ h t l t ' ll l n l ' liul tdd under suitable cond1t1ons. In cold climates.
a hdiHII U I III chopptll lldll S [ l l l ldt'h ll'dll'S
a cloche will warm the soil and allow for
11 111'11 I ll(' IICI' I il l ll l os t t'OOCil. Ollrt' t hl'
earlier planting of seedlings, or even
m 1' h l u l l\ Cllol'il l l l shou lrl l ll' d nea m. protect a wmter crop.
dropping consrstrnr\ 1 . s l t r i n d gl'rll 'nHts M a i ntena nce Water regularly or
,lllll l llllt ol l 1 11l'11 rhoppl'll l r t h pdr'h'\
parsley will flower ('bolt') in its first season.
111d cori.uu!Pr St'"'"" to t.t-,tt.
Cutting out the emerg1ng flowenng stalks
w1ll frustrate thts process to some extent.
H e rba l m e d i c i n e
CoUfli"r:rfotk otLCe/ Pr?troselinum crispum var. cnspum. Parts
\ccordi ng to G reek m y t h . parh
. l ilt' foreru n ne r Of d P a t h .
hero.
\rchrrn OI'II
who were- wicked leaf and root are well- nown for eliciting
11 lliiP English fu l k lo rl' has it t h a t
considerable diuret1c effects m the body
p a r ley serd g o t o t he Dl'\ i l and back
were- ab to yow Parsley has been used to treat fluid
ewn t inws befc11 r t hry grrrn i n a te.
retention, urinary tract d1sorders and
tw.Jv
n rer r i n g w I he ract t l l il t t hry can be
arthritiC conditions of the joints, includ1ng
-.1o11 to S!Jro u t . I t i. a lo c l a i med t h a t
gout, an inflammatory condition usually
on! 11 1 t he r a n grm1 i t . O n a mort
affectmg a s1ngle JOint, such as a big toe.
l ight hearted note. hnM1rr. parlcy
Pests and diseases Generally easy Parsley has a calming effect on the
i tra l it ion a l l y a curat i\l'. il fact t hat
to grow, parsley can be attacked by pests gut, alleviating fla ulence and colic,
B a t r i \ l 'ottrr wraves i n to The Talc
of closely related members of the same and also a gentle stimulatory action.
of Pc/1'1' Rabbi/ 11 hen l'rtl'r e a ts too
am11 - for instance. celery fly and carrot encouraging appet1te a nd improv1ng
rn u r h 111 FarmPr lcG regor, 1 rgetable
weevil. Septaria leaf spot can also be a digestion. It can also have a notable
patch: ' F i rst h e il t e somr il'ltucr
problem. In Hamburg parsley, crown ro stimulating effect on the uterus and has
and some hroa d brans. t hen . orne
can occur after prolonged ram. been used to encourage menstruation -
ra d 1 s h r. anu t l il' n . ree l i ng ra t he r icl<..
Harvesti ng and storing New but should no be used for this purpose 1f
lw 1\ Cn l t o look fo r ome par'le
growth comes from the center of the pregnancy is a possibility.
stem. so haNest leaves from around the For the safe and appropriate medicinal
outside o plan s. Wrap 1n a plastiC bag use of parsley, consult your healthcare
{'Atv lwi'U!4f taborwtv.Y
and store in the freezer. Parsley IS not a professional. Do not use parsley m greater
good herb for dry1ng, as 1t loses much of
1 s lavor. Collect seeds when pale brown.
than culinary quantit1es 1f you're pregnant
or breas feeding.
Cor..ut:rtr - , witlv nuuv
They npen progressively rom the outside or/ Bred, Salt and
w Par, wilt
of he mflorescence mward. Hang bunches ook i n g
of npenmg seed heads upside down 1ns1de Flat-leaf parsley is generally cons1dered to
paper bags. Harvest he roots at the end of have the best flavor, while curly parsley
the second season and a 1 r dry them. has a pleasing crunchy texture. Use either e- w contented
one as a garnish or m salads, vegetable
and egg dishes and sauces (see Frankfur f11ud witlv w
gree sauce rec1pe, page 338).
Parsley is essen ial to many traditional
roaM-ed OnJv. "
flavoring mixtures, partiCularly m French
cookmg. Bouquet garn1, a small bunch of
pungen fresh herbs for slow cooking, is
most of en comprised of a bay leaf. spngs C h i m i c h u rr i R a u c e
of parsley a nd sprigs of thyme. Other l 'ar-;h I S u s e d 111 mam l w rll .1nt1 spier
mixes include perslllade (finely chopped 111 1 \t ' s JI'OUIHI LIJt \\ fll'ltl (st't' Cht'tlllOUid
parsley and garl1c, see rwpe, page 352) iilltl l 'nsliladt' ttnpcs. fi.J!?t ' 1.1!1 Tl'\
Sprinkle them on a d1sh near the end o 1 11 1 .., \rg!'ntin i.Jil sc uet \l i t h llii'JI hot
1ts preparation to retain 1ts laver. oil L 111 hdrlwrut
The edible root of Hamburg parsley I n <1 l d l' . t'I HIIill nt b rlol t's gdt lw.
(lef ) is used m soups and s ews and can 2 t;Jh!I'SIXl(lll'i i 11sh l lr!'l!d lll l it'd\I'S .11111
be roasted or boiled 1n the same way as d hanl l l u l o[ p&slt\ it'd\t'' ,Jil l n it ' !
other root vegetables. t h"llllt'd \till I l.thll'spoou rt't l on1on.
Mi suba IS used 1n Japanese cookmg, thopptt l . 1 p 1 n r h ol tli lt'tl clulh ll.1k1''
m soups, salads. slow-cooked d1shes and I tt'dsj K X III ground hiJt k I K ' i 'Pt'l . 1 11 1 11
Hamburg parsley (P crtspum var. tuberosum).
grown for its roots rather than 1ts leaves, has
ned foods. Blanch the leaves bnefly to 1 I :;o 11 1 1 1 111i1t 011. 11 t<hlt'' " "ll' ntl 11 n11
a mild taste It can be grown '" conta1ners as tendenze them or add to food at t he las dllil Sdlt. to t;Jslt St'.li ldl h<ikt \I t'll
well as 1n the ground moment o preserve the delicate flavor. I .t'<llt' 1 1111111 s l tll ll.il tll , ! 1 1 dt'\t'iop
Pa s i o n fl ow e r
Pass, flora tncarnoto Pass1floraceae
To S pt n h h n J i s .., i o n d r t l ' " in Sou t h \mniciJ. I ll ! ' pds.'ion!IO\\ t' r rcpresrn tecl
l lw 1 '<1'-Sion ol CJm ., l : 1 111' t lm t s t Jglllas s m l >o l i zcd t lw n a i l s. t he corona
G a rd n i n g & IUUI1R/ pr
The opium poppy (P. somniferum) is a
t /MJ
rj,{)f-Vhv,
hardy annual that grows to about 4 ft.
(1.2 m) with large, coarse, toothed, silvery I Californian poppy (Eschscholzio cailformca)
green foliage and tall flowering stems
beanng four-petaled flowers that may be
white, pink, lavender or red, followed by a
'-inti ' The blue-green, finely div1ded leaves form
globose capsule with an operculum that a basal rosette and the many flower stalks
opens to scatter the ripe seed. The wall of The European annual red or field poppy bear single silken, four-petaled flowers 1n
the green capsule oozes bitter white latex (P. rhoeas) has four silken, bright red petals, lemon to orange.
when wounded. sometimes with a black blotch in the Position Al l poppies, including
Opium poppy cultivation is strictly center. It was used to breed ornamental Californian poppy, require a well
controlled in many countries; however, a Shirley poppies. d rained soil and sunny position.
number of ornamental forms are widely Californian poppy ( Eschscholzia Propagation To sow poppy seeds
grown, including the 1 9th century red and californica). which is related to true evenly during spring, mix them wi h
white 'Danish Flag; double 'peony' forms poppies, is a heat- and drough t-resistant dry sand.
and the very old 'Hen and Chickens: which annual, native to the western United M a i n tenance Weed regularly.
has a ring of tiny flowers encircling each States, with the subspecies mexicana Pests a n d d i seases Powdery mildew
large flower. extending south 1nto the Sonoran Desert. can be a problem.
H a rvesti n g and storing H a rvest
and dry the petals 1m mediately after the
flowers fully open. Collect seed from ripe
capsules and d ry them.
G a rde n i n g pers1stent rufflike calyx; 'Hose in Hose: Ba\1 Im e ! lemon bal m ] . Camamel
Pnmrose ( P. vulgaris) i s a perennial with a second flower emerging from the lchamom i le l . Costemary lcostmary].
forming a basal rosette of oblong, rugose first; and the very attractive fully double Cow l er and paggle ! cow ltp ] .
leaves. rom whtch spring a number of varieties such as 'Alba Plena; 'Double Dai i e o f a l l orts. Sweet fennel.
stalked. solitary flowers with a sweet, Sulphur' and 'Miss Indigo: Germander. lly op l h sop].
fresh fragrance. The flowers are five Position Primroses requtre a moist. l .a\ender. La1cnder pike. Lavender
petaled and pale golden yellow (rarely rich soil and l ight shade. while cowslips colten I antolina ] . \la rjorom.
whtte), with a central cleft i n each petal. prefer a well-drained drier site in ful l sun la\\ del in. Pen ryall l pennyro a l ] .
The foliage of cowslips closely resembles or light shade. Roe of a l l nrts. Red myn l r . Sag .
that of primroses. but the smaller. golden Propagation Propagate cowslips and Tansey. \ 10IPl . \\'inter avery.'
yellow, sweetly scented flowers are borne primroses by seed or by division. Stratify
tn clusters at the top of each flowering the seed for 10 weeks to break dormancy
stem. well above the leaves. According to (see page 44). Because of habitat loss and
the English herbalist John Gerard, writing over-harvesting of these plants, do not coughs associated with some resp1ratory
in the 1 6th century, a tisane made from gather them in the wild. disorders. such as bronchitiS.
the flowers was drunk in the month of M a i ntenance M ulch the plants. Break For the safe and appropnate use of
May to cure the "frenzie.' up any clumps and replant well-rooted cowslip, consult a healthcare professional.
Varieties Primrose varieties that are divisions every 2 years. Do not use cowslip if you are pregnant
mentioned tn Tudor and Elizabethan Pests and diseases Leaf-eattng or breastfeed1ng.
herbals. and are still available, tnclude insects can damage plants. Rust may
'Jack tn the Green; with a much enlarged infect leaves. and Botrytts can kill plants.
H a rvesting and storing Gather
leaves and flowers i n spring to use fresh,
and for use in preserves and wine. Before
storing, a1r-dry flowers, leaves and roots
(lifted in autumn).
I I rba l mecl i r i n r
Pnmulo veris, P. officmalis. Parts used
flowers. roots. Both the flowers and roots
of cowslip have been used med1c1nally
over t1me. The flowers are more
commonly associated wi h relaxing and
sedative properties and are used o treat
nsomn1a and restlessness. They can also
act as a valuable support1ve remedy tn
1mes of stress and tens1on.
Trad1t 1onally, i t was
believed that 1f you n1bbled Cowsl1p IS also rad1t1onally used o
on COwslips you
would see fare s. alleviate catarrhal congestiOn and trrttable
Pu r s la n e
Portulaca aleracea Por ulacaceae
G a rd e n i n g P JireAAJtv aroUJUI
Purslane IS a n annual hat grows to about
3 m. (7 em) h1gh and up to 1 . 5 h. (45 em) tv 6ed Wa!Y 6eJievetf Ofl.Cb
w1de, w1th soft trailing branches and
wedge- to spoon-shaped, succulent green to wan/ off wd JUri&
leaves. The ephemeral flowers are
inconspicuous, five-petaled and yellow,
Purslane ( Portulaca oleracea)
while the seeds are tiny, spherical and hem mto the soil, which should be kept
black. Cultivated purslane is somet1mes moist. Leh uncovered, they will germinate
sold as var. sativa. The leaves are ender rapidly. Dunng the growing season, Purslane was popular in England 1n the
and fleshy, with a slight crunchy texture. trai l ing branches will root where they E lizabethan era and is once again finding
Purslane has been used both as a food and touch the ground; detach the rooted favor as a culinary herb. You can cook it
a medic1ne in the Mediterranean basm, tips and plant them out. In an area in a similar manner to spinach. I n French
India and China for thousands of years. with a long growing season, you can cooking, the fleshy leaves are used raw in
Va rieties There IS a golden-leafed sow month ly. salads, or cooked in equal amounts with
variety (var. aurea) with reddish stems. M a i ntenance For a tender, abundant sorrel to make the classic soup bonne
Position Purslane is found very widely crop, keep the soil mo1st at all times. An femme. They are sometimes included in
i n well-drained soils, growing i n ful l sun occasional light application of liquid fattoush, a Middle Eastern salad. Add a
to light shade. seaweed fertilizer at the recommended few leaves to the version of this dish
Propagation Plant the seeds after rate is also helpful. featured on page 357. In Asia, purslane
he soil warms in spring. Barely press Pests and d iseases Slugs may be is used in stir-fries. Abonginal Australians
a problem. used the seeds to make seed cakes.
H a rvesting and storing Harvest Purslane makes an excellent pickle,
Pur'Ia n
fresh plants before flowering, or the flavor using wine or apple cider vinegar spiced
oup will deteriorate. Dry them with garlic, chili and whole peppercorns.
'h lb. (250 g ) purslan. choppd for decoct1ons.
Coo k i ng
3.5 lb. (50 g) buttr
4 cups (1 I) stock
'h lb. (250 g) potatoes, Purslane has a slightly sour, salty, lemony
pld and sliced spinach flavor and has been eaten for
3 tablspoons cream thousands of years in India, where it
frsh purslane, to garnish grows wild. It is the leaves that are most
commonly used, but the roots, flowers
Cook purslane \\ l lh butter 1n
and seeds are also edible.
cowred pan . Add Lock. ook
The plant contains mucilage, giving
u n ti l potato L tender. lh n puree the palate a glutinous sensation and also
m a hlender. Sur tn ream. Lht'n
serving to thicken such dishes as soups
garnhh 1\ llh frr h pur lan .
and sauces. Blanching reduces both the Rich in vitamins A, C and E, purslane is
mucilage and the jellylike leaf texture. considerd one of the future 'power foods:
Re d c l ov e r
Trifolium pro tense Fabaceae
nr rogen-fixing bactena rn its root nodules agent. See Spices. page 138.
assrmila e atmospheric nrtrogen mto the Varieties There are about 300 spec1es These days, the most common medicmal
plant and significantly improve soil fertility. of clover, Including the beautiful crimson appl1catron for red clover centers around
The plants form a creeping groundcover clover (T. incarnatum), an important forage the use of isolated compounds known as
wrth stalked tnfoliate leaves, each leaflet crop that is also used in herbal crafts and isoflavones that come from the leaves
mar ed wrth a cen ral pale arrowhead. The planted for roadsrde erosron control, and and flowers. These compounds have been
stalked mflorescences are dense and club white clover ( T repens), which is likewise shown to possess mild oestrogenic
shaped, composed of many pink to purple an excellent fodder crop. I also has similar act1v1ty, and clinical studies suggest that
pea flowers, which are rich rn nectar. culinary uses to red clover, and IS used as they can allev1a e many of the symptoms
Closely related species include lucerne a tisane (flowers only). associated with menopause.
or alfalfa (Medicago sativa), and fenugreek Position Red clover prefers a light soil, For the safe and appropriate use of red
(Tngonel/a faenum-groecum). The latter rs good dra1nage, a cool to mild spring and clover, consult a healthcare professional.
an rmportant spice, partrcularly m Indian full sunlight. Do not use red clover if you are pregnant
Propagation Sow seed i n spring. or breastfeedrng.
M a i ntenance Keep plants weed-free.
Pests and d iseases Powdery mildew
can be a problem dunng dry weather.
H a rvesting and storing Harvest red
In th teac h mgs or St. Patrick. the
clover up to 3 trmes in a growrng season.
clo1 er' trifolial!' lra w ( from
Harvest he leaves when young; use the
thP Latm cri. mran111g -Lhfl'l' . - a n d
flowers fresh or dned.
fulwm. - l ea n mholi r d t h r l luly
l lcrhal med i c i ne
Trm1ty - the doct rrne t h t God
1s the Father. Son and l lol Spirrt
Tflfolium pratense. Parts used: flowers,
- and became t h t' shamrock ol
isolated 1soflavone compounds. Red clover
Ireland. A l t hough the Crl t r( ha rp
flowers have been used tradrtronally, both
1 the offici al }mho l nf I rrlancl .
internally and externally, as a remedy for
Lhr . ham rock 1 t hl'
the treatment of chronrc skin condi rons
jlOpu lar ymi.Jol of
such as eczema and psonasrs. particularly
L Patrick' oa1.
rn chrldren Taken as a n infusion or syrup
lh fou r-lafd clovr 15 of the flowers, red clover also alleviates
an abwation of T. rpns. the coughrng assocrated wrth some
resp11atory conditrons, such as bronchrtrs.
Ro c ke t o r a r u g u l a
Eruca sattva syn. Eruca vestcana subsp. sativa Brassicaceae
\ ,l l i \ t' to l i H \ i t ' ' l l < ' IT<I IH'd l l l la s l n a n d e a '> l \\ a rd t o Turh.r\ a n c l .lor(l a n .
lor i t P<'PP<'I'\ . -. m ol-.. . ITH' d l rlm o r. 1:\ t'n no\\ . i t L : t i l l omr l i m rs "n 0\\ 11
c1 Komtn rndt t .
Grown 1n the Mediterranean area since Roman t1mes, rocket has only been cultivated commercially since the 1 990s.
Rock! or arugula
(fruco sat1va)
shade protection in midsummer and .VinutlatetY fhe, itt?/ The Roman, con 1drred r o ket a n
Pests and diseases Flea beetles tUU/ aMidt.Y rliotv. mixed alacl of rocket. w i tlor. cos
can be a problem, and some butterfly lettuce. la1entler and tender m a l lo11
laNae may eat leaves. lea1es w 1 t h chee e ancl dre sing 1
Harvesting and storing Pick rocket oo k i n g urflciently seducli1e in it. ow n righ t .
leaves before flowering. Harvest the A member of the same plant family as \ modern t a ke o n t h i s a lad i rocket
flowers as required for fresh use. and cabbage and broccoli, rocket has a tangy, si m ply ctres.rtJ 11 1 t h good o l i 1 e 0 1 1 .
collect seeds when ripe. peppery flavor when grown during he 1Ja 1am1c l'inegar and some shm ing
cool sprmg and autumn months, but a or panne an cheese.
stronger, mustardlike taste 1f harvested
during summer.
The leaves are best gathered before
flowering, after which they become more
bitter. Wash rocket well and store 1t i n
the refrigerator 1 n the same way you
would lettuce.
This salad herb goes well with other
salad leaves to make a m1xed salad or
mesclun ( see Salad greens 1n the box,
nght); the younger leaves tend to have a
milder flavor, but old leaves can be bitter
Rap1dly saute or steam rocket for
use m pasta and risotto dishes, st1r-fries.
soups and sauces, or to replace basil 1 n
pesto. Rocket needs only the br1efest Sa l a d gl' e n
cooking. Add a scattenng of the fresh For a salad 11 1 1 h morr rotor. nmor and
herb as a traditional topp1ng for pizzas n u t ri l lonal 1al ue. l r\ t omllinl llg
at the end of bak1ng a selrcl lon of aldtl greens Rocct.
The Anc1ent Romans used rocket seeds 1111Wna . 1\ illt'll'l' l'ss and r u r l \ rntll\l'
to flavor oil and to concoct aphrodisiacs. d l'l' a i J l l l llft' llUll'ii iOlls l hctll ft' l l liCt'.
Plan t rockt in spring and autumn. In summer, The seeds make excellent sprouts and are I n cnmhl nallnn . t ill'\ h,l\ l' a slig h
t ly
you'll nd to provide som shad. also pressed for oil. lll t trr t a s l t ' .
Ro s e
Rosa sp. Rosaceae
Tlw ccl i l llc pelc l s of h<'rhal roscs m a e <l<' l icious consr n rs a n d a re usecl i n
G a rd e n i n g other roses, the fragrance m the petals is Other long-favored roses for the
Herbal roses. not modern ones - fragrant strongly retained after drying. The petals herb garden include the Gallica roses
and beautiful though they are - are the are tonic and astnngent, and were used 'Tuscany' ['Old Velvet'). 'Belle Isis;
roses of choice for cooking, fragrance and by many physicians, includmg the great 'Duchesse de Montebello' and 'Belle
herbal medic1nes. Arab doctor Avicenna. de Crecy; together with the Cent1folia rose
I n Provins, the petals of 'Officina lis' 'Reine des Centfeuilles:
'Apothecary Rose' were manufactured into conserves,
The most famous herbal rose is R. gallica jellies, syrups, cordials, pastilles, fragrant Atta r of roses
'Offici nails; sometimes called the 'Rose perfumes, salves, creams and candles, Today, the major producers of rose
of Miletus; the 'Rose of Provins; the 'Red all products still favored today. products and the extremely expensive
Rose of Lancaster' and 'Champagne Rose'; 'Officinal is' was grown in monastery perfume concentrate attar (otto) of roses
(see also The Wars of the Roses and 'Rosa gardens throughout Europe. The petals, are Iran and Bulgaria. Both reg1ons grow
Mundi' features, opposite page). either administered as a tea or a syrup, the Damask rose (R x damascena),
The 'Apothecary Rose' was cultivated were used to treat the common cold, 'lspahan' and 'Gioire de Guilan' being
in vast fields around the famous town of inflammation of t!:Je digestive tract and favored in I ran and 'Kazanlik' syn.
Provins, 30 mi. (50 km) southeast of Paris, hysteria. A decoction was used to treat 'Trigintipetala' in Bulgaria. The area
from the 1 3th to the 1 9th century. Unlike sprains, chapped lips and sore throats. around Grasse in France still produces
IJV Brit-a.iA'v,
clur
Wortd War IL Tlw rildlnlllll! Rrh./ 1!.1111< .1 \n
01 'Ro a lll lllltlt' ['ro't' ol l l u 1\ orld ' l .
u o l ot '
w iLd ro werf!/
ts lldllll'd lo1 Rn s .t fll l l l t d C l t lluJtl. t hl'
n l u r t . t n t l l l l s t n,, "' I knn I I . "-1111!
harteaied to !/ w ul En:,:l.uu i JII t il 1 2 1 1 1 nnl lll\ \ 1 1
.lfll'll'll l f il i i I 1 1! 'l lf!Jnn.t hs,' I I bt.trs
tJit- C '''lllld lluhlt dttp f l lll h l 1 1o m . up to
.l.i 111 l ! l nnl ,u"'" \l i t h p,J11 f l l l t
Rosa x domoscno 'Kazan lik; a Damask
rose r cJuldrev. Ill \\ h i l t l l lt'gUid l l l l f ll ' '.
Ro Con t1nued
ll<'rhal nwclicine
R oso canma. Part used Rose h1ps. The
hips of dog rose con tam notable leve ls
of vita m m C, and can be taken as a tea or
syrup m winter to help fig ht off common
colds and flus. Because of their slightly
drying nature, roseh1ps have also been
used to reduce symptoms of diarrhoea.
Medicmal preparations of rosehip,
mainly n powdered form, have been the
focus of recent scient1fic research for the
treatment of osteoar hri ic conditions. The 'Retne des Centfeutlles; a Centtfolta rose
results of clinical tnals suggest that it may
reduce symptoms of pain and stiffness.
For the safe and appropnate medicmal the skin; 1t 1s espwally useful for chapped \round the hom
use of roseh 1 ps, consult your healthcare skin and may also be used in soothmg Place Rose and lavender pot-pourri !see
professional, and also see Pregnancy, preparations for eye i n fectiOns, such page 284) m bowls around your home.
page 236. Do not use rose h 1 ps 1n g reater as COnjunctiVItiS.
than cui mary q ua ntities if you're pregnan The essential od has ant1 -agmg effects C oking
o r breastfee d i ng, except u nder the and may be used 1n preparattons for dry The h1ps (fruits) and pe als of some
superv1sion of a professional. and sensitive skms as well as to reduce varieties of roses - 1ncluding R. canina,
the appearance of fine wrinkles. R. x damascena and R gal/ica- are
\atural be a ut To make beauty products using the edible. The petals can be crystallized and
Rosewater distilled from the petals is a rose, see Three roses moisturizer, page 247, used for decoration, to make rose petal
fragrant and m ildly astr1ngent ton1c for and Rose-petal bath bags, page 268. Jam, or (w1th the b1tter 'heel' at the base
of the petals removed) added to salads.
See recipe for Rose-petal Jelly, page 376.
Rosehips are high in vitamm C and can
be made into Jams, Jellies or a syrup that
se rves as a dietary supplemen for bab1es.
osl'\\illl'r. a tJ-produC'l nf I he Ras el hanout, the Moroccan sp1ce
cllslill1ng process tlwt mars blend !see page 368), has many vanations,
1nst oil from rosr 1wtal. 1s an some of which contain dned rose petals
Jmporldnt fl m o r mg lfl \lidt lil '
and flower buds.
Easltrn rooking. II 1 U'of'd rm
some \Siiln and lultllf !<: rrrn
s\\t'f'ls. In c l ud i ng 1)1rkJsh l ll' l i h l.
pi l im < ' rs dJH I pot s to gro u n dco\ t'J'S and to p i a ry. The
G a rden i ng
Rosmorinus means "dew of the sea," and to one species, R. officina/is. There are
in the wild this herb is most commonly two other species that are both rare -
found growmg on sea cliffs a round the R. eriocolyx and R. tomentosus, from
Mediterranean. Despite the i r different southern Spain and north-western Africa,
forms and colors, all the rose m a ry which have not entered general cultivation.
varieties offered in n urseries belong Rosemary flowers vary from pale to rich
blue, violet, mauve, pink or white. The
form vanes, from rounded bushes and
prostrate varieties to columnar varieties
up to 10 ft. (3 m) tall. The majority are
well suited to culinary uses. All are
evergreen with small, dense, narrow,
pointed leaves.
Varieties Recommended tall varieties
include 'Tuscan Blue' syn. 'Erectus; with
large leaves; the delightfully scented
'Portuguese Pink; with pink flowers;
and 'Sawyer's Selection:
Among the most intense ly blue Rosemary (Rosmarinus officina/is)
excellent for seaside plantings. and myrtle, but other herbs can be added.
Propagation Propagate rosemary
by tip cuttmgs taken in early autumn or In th1 l l ungar:r water recipe.
gravel, coarse gritty sand or small pebbles mmimum of 2 1\rtb lll'fon fil ttrmg.
are the mos suitable mulch.
sts and diseases Overwatered
potted rosemary is very prone
to root rot, Prostrate rosemary IS ideal for hang1ng baskets.
Ro ffi a ry Contmued
r prrlark
\round the home so use them finely chopped. Alternatively,
Rosemary 1s one of the mam ingredients use whole sprigs, or tie leaves in a square
m the famous antiseptic Vinegar of the
Fou r Th1eves, page 110, and can be used
6runett hair. of muslin, and remove just before servmg.
Dried rosemary has a flavor similar to that
m a number of ways around the home. of fresh, but 1ts very hard texture may not
Make a simple rosemary disinfectant 1 tablespoon bicarbonate of soda soften, even on long cooking.
by simmering a handful of leaves and and 5 drops rosemary essential oil. Rosemary is popular in Italian cookery.
small stems in water for 30 minutes. Use dried rosemary in moth-repellent Make a simple and delicious pizza toppmg
Strain and pour mto a spray bottle. sachets and m pot-pourri. with thinly sliced potatoes, crushed garlic
Disinfect and deodor1ze hairbrushes Use a rosemary rinse on your dog and chopped fresh rosemary leaves.
and combs by soaking them in a after washing to deter fleas.
solut1on of 1 cup (250 m l ) hot water, Wash your pet's bedding, then add
a few drops of rosemary essential oil
to the final rinse. O r, spritz your pets
with rosemary disinfectant as they dry
themselves in the sun after a bath.
Cooking
The bruised leaves of rosemary have a
cooling pinelike scent, with mint and
eucalyptus overtones, and the strong
taste can overwhelm other flavors if
used too generously. It complements
similarly strong flavors such as wine
and garlic; starchy foods (bread, scones,
potatoes); rich meats such as lamb, pork,
duck and game; vegetables such as
Rostmary stems, stripped of most of their leaves
eggplants, zucchini and brassicas; and is You can crystallize the flowers of rosemary with
and used as skewers for fish, meat or vegetables
also used m sausages, stuffings, soups egg white and caster sugar (see page 3801.
cooked on the barbecue, will impart their flavor.
St. John's wo rt CJ'hilrnllng th(' s u mmr r sol. tict.
Hypericum perforatum Clusiaceae (Guttlferae) Lhl' lnngrt tla of lhr Par. 1. a
ragan ftstilalrhat's still ohsrr\C'tl
natfitinnall. golden-floi\Ct-e<l St. John\ 1\0I'l \\a, hung O\t'r entrances and wlla\. Tradilronall. parlllJJlanh
G a rd r n i n g In addition to the
Com m o n o r g arden sage (5. officina/is) common form of
is one of the best-known culinary herbs, garden sage, there
but there are also many ornamental species, are handsome broad
all with small, lipped flowers in delightful leaf varieties, such as
shades, from white to dark purple. 'Berggarten; and
A subshrub native to the Dalmatian colored-leaf forms,
Coast, common sage has silver-gray such as the purple-leafed
elliptical leaves and spikes of attractive 'Purpurea'; the cream-,
lavender, pink or white flowers. It is a pink- and purple-variegated 'Tricolor';
pleasantly pungent culinary herb, which and gold- and gren-variegated 'lcterina:
also aids digestion. Three-leafed sage (5. fruticosa), native
to Greece and Turkey, closely resembles
garden sage except that most leaves are
subtended by a basal pair of leaflets. The
Common sage (Salvia officina/is)
d ried leaves are often sold as 'garden
sage: A hybrid between this species and
garden sage, known as 'Newe Ya'ar; is used by Native Americans as a flavoring,
cultivated commercially in Israel. medicinally to reduce mucous formation
Spanish sage (5. /ovondu/ifo/ia), also and salivation, and for smudge sticks
known as lavender sage, resembles a in purification ceremonies.
narrow-leafed garden sage. It has a The golden chia (5. columbariat:), an
lavender-and-sage fragrance, and its annual, is native to the southwestern
oil is extracted for toiletries. United States. Like chia (5. hispanica),
Clary sage or muscatel sage (5. scloreo),
a bienn ial, is one of the most beautifu l
sages, forming a large rosette o f broadly
ovate, pebble-textured leaves and sending
up tall dense spikes of l a rge pink flowers.
Thr root or rrd root agr or
The leaves add a muscatel flavor to a
dan hen {S. milliorrhiza)
diverse range of liq ueurs, vermouths and
w ines, while the essential oil is used in
perfumery. In water, the seeds become
mucilaginous, and were once used to
remove specks from the eyes.
White sage (5. apiana) is a silver-leafed,
rosette-shaped subshrub native to south
Usc the pineapple-scented leaves of pineapple
sage (5. lgans syn. 5. rutilans) to flavor drinks. western North America. The leaves are
wh1ch was cultivated as an Important () and lhym Luffing
staple crop by the Aztecs until colonization Gently heat I tablr poon Oli\e oil and
by the Spanish, it produces tiny oily seeds 25 g buurr in large frying pan over
that are gluten-free, very rich in omega-3
moderate heat. Add I finely chopped
fatty acids (alpha-linolenic acid), and high
onion and 2 finely chopped celery
in anti-oxidants, vitamins, minerals and
talks. Cook about I 0 minute . until
fiber. A third chia, 5. polystachya, is also
oft. Rem01e from heal and tran fer to
nutritionally valuable.
a bowl . Stir in I 'I; cup (I 00 g) fre h
Diviner's sage (5. divinorum) exists only
\1 hite breadcrumb . I table poon each
in cultivation and has been used for many chopped fre h age and fre h thyme
centuries by Mazatec shamans in Oaxaca, and I lightly beaten egg. Mix well to
Mex1co, to create visionary experience s
bmd the mixture: ea on generou ly
and promote spiritual healing. Despite
with salt and pepper. Allow luffing
sensationa lized media reports, it is neither
to cool completely. e it to tuff a
LSD-Iike in action nor a "party drug."
turkey. Alternatively. u e mixture
It is generally understood to be non
lO loo el tuff a large chicken and
addictive, and toxicological studies have
cook remaining Luffing in a bullered
shown it to be non-toxic. The plant is a
baking di h. putting it in the oren for
prohibited substance in Australia, South
the Ia l 30 minute or the chicken
Korea, Belgium, Italy and Denmark.
In France, clary sage (5. scloreo) is cultivatd cookmg time. To a\ oid the ri k or rood
Fragrant-leafed species Some of these
and the essential oil xtracted for perfumery. poi oning. do not tuff poultry until
species find culinary uses. Pineapple sage
you are ready 10 cook it. To vary the
(5. elegans syn. 5. rutilans) has slender
recipe. try u ing 1 table poon each
spikes of red flowers and pineapple California species, Cleveland sage
fine! chopped fre h lemon gra and
scented leaves used to flavor drinks (5. clevelandii).
par ley in place of age and thyme.
and garnish desserts. Found on several Greek islands, apple
Others include its variety 'Honey sage (5. pomifera) forms fruit-like semi
Melon'; fruit salad or peach sage transparent galls that are candied and
(5. dorisiana), with large, lush spikes eaten as delicacies.
of rose-pink flowers and broad fruit Position With few exceptions, the
scented leaves; and the very fragrant Salvia genus, particularly the gray-leafed
species, req u ires a sunny, well-drained
position. Sa/vias generally make poor
i ndoor plants and become easily infested
with white fly and scale. 5. officina/is
prefers alkaline conditions.
Propagation Sages are propagated
from seed, or by tip cuttings or div1sion
for named varieties.
Maintenance Most shrubby sa/vias
respond well to gentle pruning or pinching
back, particularly aher flowering. Do not
heavily fertilize these plants.
Pests and diseases Pick caterpi llars
off by hand. Sudden wilting indicates
' r/Uirf!/ of
poor dramage and root rot.
Harvesting and storing Harvest
fresh leaves and flowers for culinary
use a any time. Dry mdividual leaves tb- to render hUUv
and sprigs before flowenng; spread
Pottd salVias flower make a pretty display
'" them out in a well-aired place, then ihvnwrtrd. "
but ar not suitd '
to long-term indoor life. store in airt1ght containers.
ag Contnued "Henvho would
l l e t' ba l m e d i c i n e
tiAlf!/fr '
Solvta offic:molts. Part used leaves. Sage
s an an 1- nflammatory and antm1crob1al
f11.w.vt eat
Avf11."
remedy, and IS frequently used as a
mou hwash and gargle for sore throats,
g u m 1n ect1ons, tonsillitis and mouth lll<l hnll h 111 "" 1 h
in dried herb or essential oil form to repel s1n a well a on , ock and hoe
clothes moths and pantry moths. In the to ui. courage licks and m1tes. Dilute
garden, plant sage to repel cabbage moth. it 50:-o \1 ith water if ou are pra}mg
it onto our kin and te t it on a mall
Of the many types, which all differ widely jar. combme 8.- cup (2 l iter ) 3Jlple
in flavor, common sage (5. of ficina/is) c1der \ inegar and 2 t.able poon s
is the one most often used for cooking. chopped garlic with 2 ta b l e poon
The aroma is h1ghly pungent, while the each of the f o l l ow i ng herb : rosemary.
Sage goes with starchy, rich and . unny pot r r about 2 " ek . hakin
fatty foods such as duck, with poultry the Jdf dai l . train out the hrrb . and
and por k (and stuffings for them), red relllm the liQUid. -\dd e'eral clove' or
meats, beans, eggplant, tomato-based cru ht'd garhc. and "eal again. L av
sauces, casseroles and soups, and also to oak for 3 da .. Str 1 n OU[ the
in commercially prepared stuffing mixes garlic fiber and d1 card. Labell he jar
and Italian dried mixed herbs. You can and store 1 t1n a cool place. Do not u e
also use deep-fried leaves as a garnish. thl Ylnrgar 1 f ou are pregnant. and
cucumber. Th plant i ufficienll pretl Lo have be n recommendecl plants make the heart merr and glad."
Savo ry
5atureja sp. Lam1aceae
P rt Leaves
Summer savory
(Sotureja hartensis)
Gard ning
Summer savory (5. hortens1s), an annual
g rowing to 1.5 ft. (45 em ) , has slender dark Savor;r '.v eMULtud although the flavor of summer savory is
aM footlrfadl?/.
(5. montana) is a perennial subshrub when dried; in this form it is preferred
with dark green, narrow-leafed foliage for cooking.
and white flowers. Creeping savory Savory goes well with lentils and peas,
(5. mantana subsp mantanavar. prastata)
. with trailing branches of fragrant round slow-cooked soups, stews, meatloaf and
is semi-prostrate, very ornamental and leaves. Jamaican mint bush (5. viminea) is egg dishes. Use it in coatings for delicate
resembles white heather when in flower. an intensely mint-scented plant with small, meats, such as veal, and for fish. Add to
Lemon or African savory (5. biflaro syn. oval, glossy bright green foliage. sauces, pates and homemade sausages.
Micromerio biflora) is an excellent culinary Position Except for yerba buena, It is a key herb in herbes de Provence (see
perenn1al herb with creeping branches, which g rows well in a hanging basket below ). Use summer savory in marinades,
attractive mauve flowers and bright green, out of direct sunlight, all species should especially for olives. In Croatian cooking,
fine leaves that a re strongly lemon- and be g rown in full sun in well-drained a lemon-scented strain of savory is used
oregano-scented. neutral to alkaline soil. In cold areas, with fish and seafood.
Thyme-leafed savory or za'atar give plants winter protection.
rum i or savory of Crete or pink savory Propagation All species can be
(5. thymbro) is a low-growing, stiffly propagated by seed sown shallowly
branched perennial with whorls of small in spring. Perennial species are also Hei'be de Pro nc
grayish leaves that have an i n tense propagated by cuttings in spring and
Use tbi cia ic berb mix to ea on
oregano and thyme fragrance. Verba early autumn.
vegetable . ch1cken and red meal.
buena (5. douglasii) is a perennial herb Maint(:nance Plants should be
regularly weeded. 4 tablespoons dried rosemary leaves
Scrntrd grrnniums dl'<' LIH' great mirnics or till' plant \\OI'IU. \l liH'
slight<' t touclltlll'J n'lt'dsr in ten. r trur-to-n'lnlC' rragrancc's. I'rom
lemon .;lwrhet ancl rip<' apples to Pf'JliH'rrnint and reel rosrs. maing
i , r \ cr :a t i le i n d i -; h e such a a l a < l s . ou p
lea , garden or sheep's sorrel, or sour when the soil has warmed in spnng, or start Sorrel
grass (R. acetosa) ; French or buckler- leaf it indoors and transplant 1t. Seeds germinate (Rumx
sorrel (R. scutatus) ; and sheep's sorrel wi hin 1 4 days. Thin plants to 1 ft. (30 em) ocetoso)
1 1frcn ral'n us " l r.td i i ii Jilal spnnl! lnr t lit nnw si-.111 rnntlililllls .Jnd fm at t h n l tt
IOIIIl' . \ l l l l rt ' Ill l l l i U SIOil of (rtslt rom pl, l l ll l s . l lnhd l t' l s ht'lit'l t' r h,ll 111.1111
h'Jirs 11 as u se t l 111 rtdun ft'l t'rs ol t hcst' rnndl t lnlts drt' rt'l,tli'd In . 1 tn\tll
!:ihl't'p\ SUITt'l i\ l'l l l l l l t l l l t l l\ IIlii Itd l ttiildup Ill l ilt hod\ . lt'litll\ tlotl I'I X I I !lid\
a a n mgnditnl 111 ,tn lwrhdl hll l f i i i i . J d l lt'l Iilli' lht'!ll h\ l ' l l h d llCiflg 1 111' dt'IJt\ll\ 1 11g
.
t t l l l ' t l Esstar l1a. s a t d r o 11(' h,bt'd m 1 C\ l p,lt' il\ of l hl' lil t'! " \I t ' l l "' tnroJII ,J!!IIlg
a t l'iidt l londl "al t l t ' \nH't lran nnwd1 llli ll t' l'fllt'lt'lll l'l'lllll\ d l nf ll l\lns l rt1111 l ilt'
\\ l i th t lwrl'\ nu 'll' lt'nli l tr t'ltdnn In l w J\\ t'l " ' . 1 rtsu l r 1 1 1 .1 !!t'Jll lt ld\.J i l \ 1 ' .
w l tnll
Frrnch sorrrl IRumx scuto
tus)
S we et c i c e ly
Myrrhis odorata Aptaceae
rn o n n English myrrh
Young leaves and stal ks, young roots
Parts u Leaves. buds. lowers, frui s I loll ,., .... T h r lra1 rs hal(' a n i n ten r l y
fresh lemon frag ra n P. and t he rs rnual
of C<Jok to adrl w
{twor.
munis)
s e t iol t
Viola odorota V1olaceae
In tht' I Ulh rl'n t u ry.
.
s1reN wood ru ff and i t s c lose re l a t i\fs. Ia d i e bcd s t ra\\
u s 'd i n r nwt l i el a l
mad der and clca1 e r s . have a l l been
a l l 1 il l r bookmark - it> m 1 n ll i kr s em
\ l l i l l < ' l' ht' rll i n c l u l ie<l in l i q u e u 1's. in mer l i n 8 l t i me s t a n s::. \\ CJS ca t r n i
n 11 a prrter1 fn1 l't'> i> i n l h fam t -
d l " il l ' s a s a J H' n a ncc a l l: d l t ' r l i t l < ' . T l w n a m e i : ( !('ri \ r< l ! rom L IH ' C rcr l!cart d d u r i n g lntermmal ile ' u nday
\\ l ll' d for " i m m o r t a l i t y . " ri ' l'l f 'C l i ng ! Il l ' !'a c t l l 1 8 l t a n sy S l et ,' i n l'lo c r for ermons. The 11 ord tanacrlum i s rrorn
athanasia. G ret'k for "imrnorta U I) . .. and
a long J H ' I'ioc l . Tll f ' p l a n t J l l'od ucts a y l' l l o\\ dy('.
10 ancient G rrect' corpse 11 ere packed
.
11 1 t h tan y lea1es Lo pre rr1e them and
Golden buttons
ll'ard orr insert unlil huriai LOOk placr.
Aerial parts
foliage and is used in moth-repellent or those attempting to become pregnant. highly destructive Colorado beetk.
Tarragon
Artemisia dracunculus, A. dracunculo1des Asteraceae
IArtrmiSio ururunCUIL"I and leaf fungal diseases. particularly rust. Oil of tarragon IS used 1n commercial
H a rvesting and storing Harvest salad d ressings, beverages, confections,
foliage until mid-autumn. perfumes and mustards.
l lcrba l medicinr
Artemisia drocunculus, A. drocunculoides.
Part used: leaves. These days, tarragon is
more likely to be used for culinary than
therapeutic purposes. Tarragon contains
an essen 1al oil component that IS reputed
to have s1milar propert1es to that of an1se,
which is o en used to treat d 1gestive
symptoms. Russian arragon has been
used for st1mulat1ng he appet1 e.
In some countries, tarragon IS
trad1 10nally used to treat the symptoms
of diabetes, recent scientific research
appears to support this. Prelimmary
studies in diabetic animals found that Winter tarragon I Tagetrs Iucida)
Tea
Camellia smensrs syn. Thea srnensis Theacea
e
\\ h i lt' \\ est e rn pald t < s l d i OI'l' d 1 11 < ' mon roilust l l m o r of illark
Opposi t: Harvstmg
yotdeV fuu &;;re;;aredfronv w rar
Com//io smensis lea vs for
ta. on of th
world's most popula r beverages. "twfY.Jd" fund ill/ c
Te a t r e e
Meloleuco sp. Myrtaceae
puu l l i et " ' I rom liH' l ' l'l l '- ll l ' t l ll'a \ l' ol t < 'a t ree t o
P u d Leaves, branches
C oo k i n g
Various types - including lemon thyme
and caraway thyme - have the flavor
suggested by their names. Lemon thyme
and common thyme, with their warm,
pleasant aromas, are the ones commonly >\ recipe for a magi al o t l . al leged!}
used i n cooking, but 1t's well worth trying rnabltng onr to ,ee falrtt' . >a' round
other varieties. in a 1 7t h cen t u r manuscri pt tn th('
casseroles and dishes conta i ning meat. tnstrucuon for coil cung 11 t id t h) m :
poultry or game. It can be assertive and rhr t hyme must br garnrrr d near the
dominate other milder flavors, so robust stdr of a h t l l 11 here f;:uric. used to bt':
Grow common thyme ( Thymus vulgons) in pots
or as a border plant in the garden. compan1ons, such as onions, red wine and
Tu rm e ric
Curcum a Iango Zng iberaceae
\ a i l ' l' i a n mnl i" l w l i C'I < ' r i t o i H' t lw a l l ra c t a n l u "e r l l l t he l1iC'd P i p e r ancient Greek phy icians uch a
i n l lw n H' d l ! ' l ci l Cl'l'll1 d n m i l l i ng tm1 n o l l l <:mw l i n in 1 28 4 . I t certa i n ! l l lppo ratrs and. 111 thr Dark \gr.
ncp i t c i t ldck of looks d rH I :cen t . \ l' l'\ a r n \\ d S nnn' con: idcrcd L IH ' most
unmo rtal i t . crop fert i l i t . JWOsPt' r i t . IO\ l' a n d l o r p ro t ec t ion fi'Om l ' \ i l
uu.d to jl-rofed
wnam I l <'rbcaa /JJti.llt
') it'd l t's to llldt' The Druids may have built Stonehenge, the
lhno\ IIJU
rJer on go a11 " standing stones on Saltsbury Plain, England.
/U<'fronv IJetY.
Vi b u r n u m
Viburnum JPU"JS, V prundolium Capnfol1aceae
\ illlll'!llll/1 " I H'CI!' c l l ' t ' " l l r u h '> gn !\\ 1 1 lor l l w i r o u l -> l a rH i i ng s w i ng r l i . p l a ) s
o l l l '> l lcl l l \ l r<lgl c l l l l ll o\\ l ' l' s . rolml u l c u l u m n l t 'd\ t'" a n r l l w r r i l ' s . H u t t lw
l ltll ol l \\ 1 1 s pt 't' i ! " ' l t cl " c 1 l so l o u n d l l l ' l' l l a l u -;r a-; c1 m u T i l ' rr l a \d n t i n
l l'l'<l l i ll g l' l <l l l l j l'> . I ' '> J H ' I' I d l l i lli l\l ' tl '>SI I I' I d l t ' d \\ i l l l l l l l ' l l 'i i i ' U tl t i O i l .
through chalk soils. The cultivated form. Propagation To propagate, use tip
now usually grown hydroponically, is cuttmgs grown in regularly changed
preferred, because wild watercress is often water, rooted runners or seeds. Grow
a re uge for liver flukes (Fasciola hepatica) all other cresses by seed
.n areas where sheep graze. The plant has Maintenance Water very regularly. nasturt1um Juice rubbed onto the scalp
compound green leaves. a hollow stem Pests and d i seases None of note. is said to stimulate ha1r growth.
and ms1gnificant wh1te flowers. The plant H a rvesting and storing Harvest For he safe and appropriate use of
s no ably more b1t er when flowenng. wa ercress fresh and only use before nasturtium, consult your healthcare
Nas urtiUm or Indian cress ( Tropaeolum flowenng. Store 1t at room temperature professional. Do not use nasturtiu m 1f
maJus) has large, sh1eld-sha ped, peppery w1th its roots 1n water. you are pregnant or breastfeedmg.
leaves and cheerful, helme -shaped
lowers 1n yellow, orange and red. l lcrhal medicine Cooki ng
Position You can grow watercress Tropoeolum maJUS. Parts used aenal parts. The sharp, peppery taste of watercress
.n pots 1n a partially shaded pos1tion. It Nas urt1um and watercress belong to the makes 1t a good salad g reen. I goes well
prefers a well-limed soil. The large seeds same fam1ly as horseradish and, like their wi h a citrus d ressing Use watercress m
of nasturtium germinate easily in spring, relat1ve, contam pungent compounds soups (see rec1pe, page 346), sandwiches
known as m ustard oil glycosides, which and sauces for fish (see Frankfur green
are responsible for he major medicmal sauce, page 338). Nastur 1um flowers
effects of nasturtium. These compounds make an attractive edible garn1sh.
possess po en antibacterial a nd anti
fungal properties tha have part1cular
\ llllnilJI'I or llilll'r \[II'C II''- SIJdl t' i ll\'
application 1n the treatment of mfectious
htll f"'lll''''' IIJ1n1 or ll d l t ' ITII''-' a n t i
conditions of the respiratory and u rinary
f i n d '-llll liJr r u l l ll i lr\ u , , . , I pldnt l o 1
tracts. They can help the body fight off
11 11\11'1 ncs I Harhartu l t'/11<11 h d
colds, flus and other 1nfec ions of the
I oltl-hdllh dri -IJilti iTt'" Tht nts
lungs as well as cyst1t1s.
sold i n I fillS lu lw t l i ppl' t l lor Sdldch
The fresh form of the herb 1s reputed
'- IWill'll r1 I' l /,t'/!UIIIIIII <i/tl llll/1
to have a h1gher ant1microb1al effect than
Tilt' ruruntlw r- l l.tl tHI'tl l .l'ildllt''' ' tTss
the dried form, and IS commonly prepared
I lptl/111 fll!dt//tl/'11111) r!''>l'mh ll's
as an mfusion Applied externally as a
ll dll'ltrl's bill ' ' 111 ldr l . a l<nil plillll
i h<ll'
poultice or compress, he fresh herb is
rt'IJH 'tl lo rl'it'l')
also used as a local ant1bactenal agent
for cuts and wounds. Interestingly, fresh Nasturtium flowr" leaves and '"rds are ed1ble
Wh i te h o r e h o u n d In latr \ldrch or In \p1 11 rarh t'ilr.
Morrubium vulgare Lam1aceae .I<'" rriPIJr atr l 'a sowr \1 1 l h a meal
h i rn st rippcu
Yarro 11 is one or o u r o l ctrst lwrbs. I n C:
s u l t t he
and cl ricd j a r rO\\ s t a l s 11 e re L o secl l o con
Yarrow is a tough, fully hardy perennial Damask rose-scented 'Fawncett Beauty; 3 o 4 years 1n late autumn or, in cooler
formmg a rosette of very finely divided 'lilac Beauty' and coppery 'Colorado: climates, early spring.
feathery leaves with a pungent, refreshing Other widely cultivated species include Pests and d iseases There are no pests
scent that is strangely uplifting to the feathery, woolly yarrow (A. tomentosa); or diseases of any consequence. Cold, wet
senses. It multiplies via underground fern-leaf yarrow (A. filipendulina) and its winters may cause rotting if plants are
rhizomes The small white flowers form golden-flowered hybrid 'Coronation Gold'; poorly d rained.
dense, flat-headed, large inflorescences sneezewort (A. ptarmica); and A. taygetea H a rvesting and storing Harvest
borne on wiry stems to about 2.5 ft. (70 em). and its famous hybrid 'Moonshine: the flowering stalks j ust as they fully
There are some 85 species of Achillea, Position The yarrows described above open, and dry in small bunches h u ng
and many hybrids. Yarrows are among the all require a sunny, well-drained position. upside down out of direct sunlight.
toughest and prettiest modern ornamen al They are frost-hardy and have good Harvest leaves at any time.
perenmals; many have been bred from drought resistance.
A millefolium. Propagation Raise species by seed l lcrbal med icine
Varieties Some beautiful varieties sown in pots and transplant about 6 to Achillea millefolium. Parts used: aerial
include 'Lemon Queen: 'Paprika; 'Cense 8 weeks later. Propagate named varieties par s. Yarrow has been used since ancient
Queen; 'Appleblossom; cream-flowered by division. times for its healing effects on wounds,
quickly stopping bleeding and reductng
inflammation. It is also well known for
its application in any feverish condition
where it encourages persp1ration and
reduces body temperature; for this
\arro11 has hrrn u. ed o n many ll t t l rfi e l <l .
purpose it is commonly taken with
ht'OCP t l\ o of 11 common names. a l lhcal
elderflowers.
and l!lnod\\Ort . Onr of our olti<'st herl!s.
Yarrow is a valuable digestive remedy,
1 1 11 a named fOI' the nnl'lenL G rrPk hero
allev1at1ng colic and ndigestton and
\clnllt ' ' 11 ho. a c on l mg tn l lomer' Tlw
1mprov1ng appeti e while also having a
lliJd, ustd I t ttl st.au n t h t hl' flo 11 of hloncl
Stimulatory effect on bile low and liver
from hi. t roops 11 uunch in t h e Tror a n 1\ J i'.
function. TraditiOna lly regarded as a
\!'tuliPs htti i.Jren taught h011 w llt' plauts
women's herb, yarrow was commonly
hv Chttron. a learnrd centaur. \l onr pomt.
used to treat menstrual complatnts
Eul)p Ius is 11ounul'tl and l i!'g. l 'a t roclus
assoc1a ed with particularl y heavy and
tn 'put L hl' l'lghr l h tngs on 11.' ' l 'atroclus .
patnful bleeding
crusl il'iJ a hlttl'r nXJL. . . antl put 11 on the
For the safe and appropri a e use of
IIOUniJ Tht 1'0()1 I<Xlk i:ll\ a\ a l l t h l' palfl.
yarrow. see Sore throats, colds and fl u,
Tht lJiootl 'loppl' tl and t h t \\ O U I\11 c l rtl' d
page 200. Do not use yarrow 1 you are
pregna t or breastfeeding.
Tr e e s
\dll! i n d 1 1 11' t ll! ' i l 1 10\\ l'IS. I I II l S d ll d l l l l i l . Ill S l l l l ( l l
o l l l l l ' d iC ' I Il il l p ro pt ' l l it''> t ll d l ild\ t ' long ht'l ' l l u s!'d as
:1 \\ ii l ll l l l lu:l.tth llil:t.t
Black walnut hulls have traditionally been used for the treatment
of worms and intestinal parasites.
Not only does the olive produce wonderful fru1t and oil, it is also
a blood pressure-lowering herb w1th antioxidant propert1es.
Caution
With the exception of he topical use of w1tch hazel, do not use
any of these herbs 1f you are pregnant or breastfeeding, except
under the advice of a healthcare profess1onal.
Berries
\\ h i lt SOilH' of ! IH'Sl' i H ' I'f'I!'S (l f'(' d l' I I C I O U S a n d safe I ll
The berf'Y contains an oily extract that has been clinically proven
o reduce symptoms of ben1gn prostatiC hyperplasia (BPH).
Rarely used these days, an infusion of the leaves was once taken to
relieve mild cases of diarrhea and soothe minor stomach problems.
Caution
Except for raspberi'Y leaf, as directed on pages 236-7, do not use
any of these herbs if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, except
under the adv1ce of a healthcare professional.
136
S pices
H-tr k l'l">i n . ttth. "l 'l'd poth. ! r r r i l . ! l m\ c' r h u c l s .
-1 C u m i n r umim11n 1 l lllitllun
Black, g reen, white, p1nk and red peppercorns all come from
Piper nigrum The different appearance and taste characteristics
of each type are created by d ifferent processing methods.
B \ i gc l l a \ lt!l'lla '"/"'
9 Ta m a r i n d tiJmarlmiLt' illllil'a
The fruit is used widely in cooking, and various parts of the plant
also have traditional medicinal uses. For example, in India the
fruit is used as a laxative and also taken for nausea in pregnancy.
Caution
Do not use any of these herbs 1f you are pregnant or breastfeed1ng,
except under the advice of a healthcare professional.
1 38 E CO .' P L r r E LJSTRATED J O O F H E R B
Tl1 r i \ i ng 11 r rh" a rc a bea u t i fu l ,' igh t . \\ l w t lw r
u u 0 1'0\\ t h e m for coo i ng o r ro r t lw i r lwa l t ll
a n cl bea u t l w n c l' i t s . O l' i m p l t o c n jo t h e i r
a p pea ra n c e a n d a ro m a . t ll i gu i d e " 110\\ :y o u
llO\\ t o grO\\ lw r l l s \\ i t l1 grea t uc c f ' .' s .
l l c r b ga r ei e n s ty l e
\\ lw l lw r o u r lwrh ga rden i : fo r m a l o r i n fo r m a l . , h a pc . t \L u r and
I H' r l'u nw a l l p i a a n i n l l ' gr a l ro l e i n c rea t i ng a n i m i l i ng o u Lcloor ra c e .
l'lw b e a u t \ ol h e r b
l l e l'h l o r a " n o t ga rde n
Herbs form such a diverse group of plants,
from g roundcovers o shrubs and rees, Tnild\. I hi' 11Hl I Cllllllnl lll l\ U I'U hedgmg l lldlll I S bU\. d\ il
that there are herbs to su' any climate, 1 s nlll i J ldl' l . rolllll dlld long- l l\ 1'11. hut 1 o u could u . 1' o t h r 1
soil type and pos1 10n. Even f you live lr< d l l liHldl not gd 11 k n p l d n l s s u r h c1s rusrmar . lci\I'IHI!'r.
n an apartment w1th a small balcony or sdn lo l l na . gcrmandtr and m ug11 or1 (<il ngh l ) \ arwgaud
have no outdoor space a all, you can still \ ill'll'l lr's can dho loll d l l ra r t l l l ' l'an sir. grounrlc<J\ ('1 i ng
grow culinary herbs in a window box. l h\ mrs <Hid rah'IHiu lc1s an 1dral for f i l l m g l htsr S IJdCC''-. h u l
And herbs are mcredibly versatile. Take a1 oid 10 \ il 'l l \ 1 ' IH' I l is . ucll c h ill l n l . 11 h ich pro<lurt's r u n nrrs.
excellent example of a n Intricate knot garden. of Europe in the 1 6th and 1 7th centuries. continuity and interest, at ground and eye lrvel.
Parterre g a rd e n s A few hours from Paris, in the Loire
In 1 6t h-century France, parterre gardens Valley, is Chateau de Villandry, one of the
- intr1cate, complex beds spanntng huge most v1s1ted gardens in France. Designed
areas - developed from the English kno In 111011' II'Ct'llt t t l l l l' . t hl' I illlgl' of to be viewed from above, the replicas of
garden. Agam, geometry and symmetry pi.J I I I s ll'ot'd lor toptJI\ 111 parttt rc the 1 7th-cent ury beds in the Love Garden
were intnns1c elements tn hese designs. hd l'\j1Uilllt'd to lllCI Udl' l ho ;p
have been planted in symboltc designs
W1de g ravel paths separated beds, whtle rnm m o n l rrrcrred to as -l dtHiards" associated with love - for example, tragtc
flowers were used o balance he green - pl a n t t ha t ran tw gn111 n and love, represented by the shapes of blades,
hedging. These fine gardens were also l ll illlt'd i n to d l o l l i po p s h a pt For swords and daggers. Nearby are the Herb
des1gned to be viewed from above - t lwir rl mlt'l''>. rrarantT nr rom p l i J n t Gardens dedicated to about 30 aromatic,
perhaps from a terrace or u pper floor. loltagr. 1 011 co u l d I I'\ tlura n t a . ro l' . cooking and medicmal herbs.
Topianes, a ea ure of parterres, IJII 1 11 1 1. Ch mest' l a n i L'I'Ih ( \hull/on Another fine European garden 1s in the
provided focal potnts. They were crafted sp 1 a n d mueh iPIIht'rkia. grounds of the Dutch palace Het Loa, near
rom small-leafed species, such as citrus, Apeldoorn, tn the Netherlands. It features
yew, bay, box or cypress, and punctuated restored parterre gardens, an axial layout,
corners and cen erpieces in imagtnative fountains and statues.
destgns that ranged from sp1rals and Some g ra nd restored gardens
spheres to cubes, symbols and animals. Near London, Hampton Court Palace Desi g n i n g a for m a l garden
While Versai lles, outside Paris, showcases gardens is the home of the Prtvy Garden. In your own garden, you could plant out
extravagant ormal gardens fit for royalty, Raised walks are lined w i th rows of yew a simple knot garden in a small space of,
it took an army of workers to build them. cones and parterres on either side of a say, 40 ft. ( 1 2 m] square, divided into four
You can still v1stt many stunntng examples central walk leading to a circular pool and sections with low or dwarf hedges. Or
o these formal gardens, whtch have been fountam. To the west of the Privy Garden you could design a circular garden by
re-created or restored; 1n the 1 8th century, 1s a small Knot Garden hedged with box. planttng out a "wheel" and "spokes with
many grand European gardens were A ltttle farther north is Hatfield House, hedging materiaL
destroyed and replaced by open, undulating in Hertfordshire, where Elizabeth I spent But be patient, because hedges grow
landscapes, wh1ch were designed or greatly part of her childhood. Included within the best from immature planttngs, and the
tnfluenced by the great English landscape grounds are splendid examples of herb and gaps will take a few years to close up.
archi ect Lancelot "Capability" Brown. scented gardens, kitchen and knot gardens. Within the subdivisions, grow herbs for a
variety of uses - for example, separa e
culinary herbs from medicinal ones.
Using a formal des1gn is often the
easiest way to start plann1ng, espeCially
if you think you lack imagination. Mirror
images of garden beds are a good way to
replicate patterns on either side of a path,
lawn area or house. Use the continuity of
low g reen hedges to balance color and
reduce the possibility of overdomg the
flower planting and parallel lines to give
a sense of order and calm.
M a i ntena nce
Pruning, clipping and general tidytng are
the main maintenance tasks for these
formal gardens but, in spite of the work
involved, there is a satisfying sense of
purpose and achievement. The tdea is to
have no-nonsense clean lines and shapes.
1'\,trll ph I ' I I I'IIS. il'lllllll h,tllll. l hl iTII' l lt l l l,l'ilOitl usc l l .tllr'sl r usrs.
.tnd .tni ttd Cwtl r.tst l ilt gt n t h sptartn l l i l lfl,l qor,lln .tnd Ort'gt.tno
Som hrbs grow to ovrr 6.5 ft. (2 m), form1ng a
snllnt ' 1 11 ldmh' t\11 11 1 1 11 upnglil lor pot-prHIITI. ma1' ft J!!lilfll ,t i t
stnkng background planting 1n an 1nformal border.
sptts n l ldi i'IHII'r 1 1 1 I hi' roughtwss f rt''>hl'lll'l's tntl hl'fhal r lt '<IIWrs:
and rectangles, and plant herbs in round dllrl ptn n H tdtl!it'r O t IOU rnu h l tht'll ht'l l l ng pllllll'illl's fr om htrh
pots, ra her than square ones. However, p l t! n l l fd l l i l tnrttl F n n t 11 r u l ll ldl'l I-'m t ill' Stile .tiHI J ) l ) II'Op r t d l l ' U St' I l l
the pr1nc1ples o a formal garden can still htrll'. Sill It d I .Ill dl,!llll. r i H' I I tl h t ' l h.tl I I t'iil lllt'lll I Illi can I l l I'PJf!'
be usefu n providtng structure .1 nd parslt'\. I'm t n form.l l ton Oil '"urwll t n l ll'tlt contli l lllfl' rangml.!
Define plantmg areas with low hedging ('I)OIIIg II t i lt ltttlls. s('l' /1#1' .J:!H. I rom sOli' t ltrual I n art h n t ts. l'l'
bu , mstead of tradtttonal box, try a less lll'tbal l l1 'rlu uw. fltl/.!1'' .!01!-311.
Picing Lrt'd l l ' postt'' 11 1 1 11 111 1111'1''
regtmented plant, such as ca mmt. Thts is
gJI Iwnd l rorn \tllll g.t rtl1n l 'tnn\ . co,melit' II t l h lwrhdl t'SSIl l ldl
a billowing flowering herb that softens
l d l l ' t l l it'l' lli.l\l l l lf i !I I I I S, gl'f'd il llllllS, Otb. It tsh ht'l hs ,11111 sllllll' t lcm
lines, making t t tdeal for a more mformal
I K I ) I)lll'', S,lgt, I dit'lltlUid, 11 '1 !'I I I'll 11'11111 \IIIII )l.l ll l f . \ l lll 1-.111 llld{'
nerb garden des1gn.
<lltd lf'IS llldl' 111\ t ' l\ l,!tlh Ill' tltspld\ fl. l l llrJI Iw,liftl protl11rt to lone
Des1gn tnformal herbal borders so
pltl n h h 1 1 pr11wt ' ' oil nl,tktng hnh I I II I I kill. I'IIIH I I I illll \ I Ilii h,lff. dlld
ha shrubs and trees form a high hedge
.ttHI IIctll t'l d ll .tllgt'llll'rtl . 1'1' l.'r.l/1. IIlii! h Ill I l l t' Jo' lll' I'd I I t'l lpl's. S('!'
o disgu:se he fence or a n ugly shed, or
fl.ll!l'' :IOH I.J \.Jftll<ll lll'.ltl/ 1 . 1'1/.!1 '' .! 1.!--H I
o prov1de pr1vacy rom the ne1ghbors.
In front of hese, grow taller perennial
herbs, such as cardoon and angelica (see
Herb Directory, page 13), wh1ch can reach
over 6 / f . (2 m), then lower-gro wing
herbs, such as salvias (see page 108).
Use trailing, groundcovering plants to
blur garden lines and edges, and add self
seeding herbs, such as Californ 1an poppy
(see page 93) and pre ty hear sease (see
page 62), wh1ch pop up year after ear.
You can even grow an herb lawn w1th
a low-growmg plant, such as chamom ile
(see page 32), or a compac ground cover,
such as thyme (see page 125], betwee n
pavers. When walk1n g or these herbs,
you Vanet1es of Citrus, such as lemons, are grown for their fragrance and the11 cui mary use
w1ll crush t em and release herr scent
.
I\r o I ng
.
ou r s i t
lk l o l'l ' p l cl n l i n g o t l t c111 IH' rh ga rdl'll
cl10o s i ng t il l ' rigl l l l l r rhs for o u r or parterrr ( l'r pa(.!es 1 12-1). Dra11 the st ring.
. 1 o u r plan to ca l e on a sheet or gnu Dll Ide a knot garden mto srction
ro n d i l tons. \ OL I I I i ll ' : u r<' l o t'f<'Cl l < '
paper nrst . l hrn t ra n pose 1t to t h e by plant ing hedrs or loll -growing
Cl t l l ri\ i ng a n d p md u c l i \ t ' ga n l e n .
hell I tse l f b y using s a n d . garden l i m e compact herb\ . . uch as ro'emary.
o r lanclcape-markmg pa i n t . 11 h 1c h i lavrndcr or conan laH'nder. then fill
height elements provided by an olive tree provides the central focal point. gravel, used to fill open areas between
in each corner and trellises on either side. the beds, complements the overall color
The central herb garden is planted with
scheme of the main planting.
The main color scheme is lavender and culinary herbs, but you could also use the
mauve flowers, with gray-green foliage four quadrants to separate culina ry from e The standard roses on either side of the
provided by lavender, artemesia, nepeta, medicinal herbs, for instance. The brick entrance are reminders of how, i n the
olive and rosemary, accented with pink, paving radiating out from the pond makes Middle Ages, monks grew standard roses
i n the roses, hollyhocks and echinacea, each section easy to access for weeding in their monastic gardens to represent
and red, i n the chillies. and harvesting. themselves at work.
\ pe( l
One of the keys to growing successful
herbs IS plenty of sunlight, so the aspect
of your property will determine what you
can grow. A northerly aspect IS ideal,
because many herbs will struggle Without
daily exposure to the sun.
Remember that he amount of sunlight
vanes w1th the seasons: The sun IS higher
in the sky in summer than in wmter, and
deciduous trees will prov1de shade durmg
warmer months but extra light during the
cooler months of autumn and w1nter.
De: ign l i p
Before you tart pla n t i ng, ah\ay 1 correct. thr height i accurate and
prepare new garden b d properly. your color. form and texture choices
can comfort bl wa l k s1de by sid . garden color sch me. Thr,e feature
S1t rows or pot. in poSJl ion before garden beds and e n h a nce or ton dO\\ n
Use the vertical planes of your herb garden
planllng. to rnsure I h a t thr pacing flowers and fol iage. by installing pots of herbs on trellises.
Th e p r i n c i p l e of'
p i ;J n l H r l ec t i o n Aqua t i c he rbs fo r ponds
What you can grow will be determ ined \n 1 n trns 1 1ng li\ I S L on an h e r l l gar<lf'n
by the amount of space and available is o pond or pool plan I eel w i t l l aqu 8 l l
sunlight you have, soil considerations hcrh J .on for f l lm> p o 1 n l 1 1 1 yo u r
and, of cou rse, personal preferences. gl'c l c n t llal is ons1te n 1 1y hoggy or
Think about where your new herbs will 11 !'1 . perhaps a1 t he IJotLorn of a s m a l l
t ill' 110l l ' . you ' l l nel'rl 1.0 cr'r'a l e a level surh a ll alrr' I I IY ( IVI mp/WI'a s p . ) a n d
Plan l i n g i d eas
shrlf al1DUL 10 in. ( 2 :! em! I H ' IOII l hr loLUs 1 l 'ium/Ju nucifera ) .
Herbs are extremely versatile plants,
su rface on 11 1iicli 10 posiuon pol l t'd \ntl if o u cion! hmr t h e sparr
suitable for a range of garden designs,
marginals. such a s ilra h m i I Racopa for a pond. )flU can Jill d s plctnl u p
from formal to cottage gardens.
moooien) n n l i 11 a 1 e r i r i s ( Iris sp.). a large clrcorat 11 r pol f u l l n f 1\Cl lPr.
Set aside a dedicated area for growing
herbs, or consider interspersing them
with vegetables, flowering perennials
and annuals and shrubs.
Grow herbs in containers, using them
to create focal points or accents. For
more impact, choose large containers,
rather han small ones [see page 167].
Think about color combinations
throughout the year. For example,
tone down summer's heat with soft,
soothing blues, mauves and white.
Plant tall herbs at the back of large
beds, or in the center of circular beds,
with other plants graduated in height
in front of them.
Use groundcover or spillover herbs
to disguise borders or path edges.
Position edible herbs where they're The sacred lotus (Nelumbo nuc1fero) has large fragrant flowers
With a seed cup that is
easy to access and can be monitored remmisce nt of a showerhe ad. It contams hard edible seeds
that can be eaten raw or cooked.
ci o 1 ga n i m a tt r
C 1 1! 11 l '1 1 1 1 1 ' t l w l o u ndc t m n tor g n m 1 11g l wa l t h p l a n t s . I t p ro\ idts acc< 'S<; So i l L \ pes
t o l l l i i iWil h . \\ d l t ' l dlld a 1 r. -.; t . J l l l l iZ< ' " roo t s cliHI a s 1 s t 111 p la n t s ' n a t u ra l There are three m a i n types of soil: sandy,
rt ' s l , t a n c < ' t o JH's t s d l ld d l s<'il " ' " l 'oor soi l s t h d t d l'<' IO\\ i n n u t rll' n t s loamy or clay. Sandy soil is easy to dig,
but it doesn't hold nutrients or moisture.
l t ' l l d t o n -.. u l t 1 11 \\ t'<l k s t u n ttd plt n t s . a n d a l t hough so t n <' o f t lw t ougllrr.
Heavy clay soils tend to become
I I H ll'l ' l t' s l i l <' l l t l l t r l ls . s u c h ds St . l ol l n \ \\ O I' l . l h ri \ t i n t lll'S<' con d i tions.
waterlogged, are d1fficult to dig mto
\ 11 1 1 -.. 11 1 11 1 1 d l it ' d\\ d lt ' t l l a t t il l ' n s i i H ' IH ' l ' <'cl n t u rn s u c h p la n t s i n to \\ Ccds. and set hard when dry.
small sl ick.
I Kistc. lls1 1 11r spoon or a
luer yowtlv.
C o m p o -.; t IH'a p \lulch
Sor etrmes c a l led "black gold," com post Mulch tS a layer of material that's lard on
slowly releases nu n e n ts o your sod a n d op of the sorl or potting mrx, acting as a
conserves m o 1sture. na ural 'blan ket' that has many benefieta l
Successful compost heaps marnta m a functions. This layer can be made up of
b a l a n ce be ween carbon (dry, brown a n d different types of ma erials, from bark
woody materra1, such as dr1ed leaves) a nd a n d straw to pebbles and gravel.
n1 rogen (we , fresh a n d g reen mater1 a l ,
such a s grass c l i p pings). The r d e a l ra r o The benefits of mu l ch
is 25-30 1, so rem e m be r h r s easy rule . A thick layer o m u l ch shrelds the soil and
Loads o brown m a terra1, less green plant roo s from temperatu re flue uations,
The pde should also be mo1st. not keeptng them cool and helping to retain
sodden The mo1sture h e l ps mrcrobes motsture tn he soil, reducrng the need o
to break down materra ls, but rf you water. This rs parttcularly t m portan for
add too m uc h water, you w i l l create s h a l low-rooted plan s.
To speed up the decompos1t1on process 1n your
smelly a naerobic cond1 ions- that is, Thick layers of mulch help o suppress
compost heap, add comfrey leaves.
wrthout oxygen, a nd the pde needs weeds. Often there rsn't enough light for
oxygen rn order to break down. the pile and speed up he decomposition. weeds o successful1y germrnate or, 1 they
Although you can buy powdered actrvators do reach the seedling stage, they have to
M a k i n g com post from n urseries, try a natural activator - push herr way up through thrck mulch.
Include kitchen scraps (excl u d i n g citrus, comfrey, an herb. Thrs results i n weak, exhausted spec1mens
onrons a n d mea ), a n d a handful or two Choose from free-sta ndmg compost ha are much easrer to remove, so mulch
of blood and bone(see Fertilizer types, brns or tumblers in a wrde vanety of saves you trme, e for and energy.
page 156)m your com post pile, and d i g rt shapes and srzes, or build your own If you use an organrc matenal, such
over at least once a week. You can include frames, about 3.5 ft. ( 1 m) square. Have as lucerne, rt w i l l break doNn, adding
cow, horse or chrcken m a n ure as well as two or three com post brns or piles, so you organrc mat er to he soil. Th1s prov1des
mush room compost - even natural carpet have heaps in various stages of the rdeal environment for bene 1cial sorl
f1bers from a vacuum cleaner Add a decom posrtron : by the i m e the third pile rs organrsms, such as soil microbes, fung1
compos activator to build up the heat i n full, the first will be ready for the garden. a nd earthworms.
''"stc i nell in
liqurd 1\dstc that rlrams from lhl' upprr
rertilrzrr. lwcau't' lh t ' r r
ocker1es and Japa nese gardens, subtle, drawdow n." but you are able to combat
Mu lch types
There are two types of mulch. Organ1c Applying m u lch
mulches - such as various wood or bark Always a pply m u lch to a motst garden,
products, straw, pea straw and lucerne - preferably after rain , never apply i t to a
break down, adding organ1c m a tter and dry garden. Also, make sure the garden
On he other hand, tnorganic mulches. clear space around the tru n ks of tree a n d
s ....,.rel 'ollt t'' tn es ",j ffil)l)l, humus-nch soil
such as gravel and pebbles, nei her break plant stems, otherwise rot ca n s e i n as a
.n sur. or pJrt a shade
down and provide soil w1th extra n u tnents result of the motsture conten .
nor contribute to the soil structure and 1ts How th1ckly you lay the m u lch will
Aesthe 'ca lly, mulch can add a "carpet." wa er-hold1ng capac1ty. However, hey are depend on the type you use, but generally
wh1ch puts the ;nishmg touch to garden very effect1ve for a decorative look i f the a good layer of 1 to 2.5 in. 12 to 6 em ) will
beds or con a1ner plantings. Choose the area 1sn't a ffected by fallen leaves and can be adequa e. Finer m u lches break down
appropriate material and color to blend be tidied easily more quickly than the coarser ones a n d
w1 h your garden type, scale of plan ings It is worth noung that uncomposted will need t o b e rea pplied more frequently
or the color scheme of your house and bark products set off a cham react,on, - perhaps once or tw1ce each year.
surrounds, and 1t wil make a dtfference stimulatmg bacterial a nd fung1 actiVIty Compos ts bes dug i n to the garden
:o he overal VISual effect. While bng h in the soil, which uses n itrogen from he rather h a n applied as a m ulch.
\lulclw:
Thl'lt' an lllillll .tttrarlilt' I\Jlt'' ol organic
.Jllcl tnnrgalltL IIIII I< h In rltcJCN' lrrllll
Culti va t i o n
Choosing hralth plants. preparing thl' soil to :uit their rwccls and gi\ ing
them tlw appropriatt> care and maintenance\\ ill result in a thri\ ing 11<'1'1>
garllen thatv. ill "upply you'' ith u l'ful plants for cool--ing. natural braut
Once you've made your choice at the nu rsery, check for pests and even growth before buying.
Horticultura lists are em ployed to share
Some of he taller-growng perenn1al herbs. such as some salv1as. requre prunmg and staking, otherwise they become leggy and look unattractive
the1r gardenmg knowledge w1 h their \11.1 i 1-ol'd<' 1 pi d nts Pnptt'ing g;mhn lwds
customers and help them make the best Some herbs are hard to find at general Before transplanting or buy1ng plants,
choices, so don't hesitate to ask questions. nurseries, so you may have to buy them prepare the areas m which they are going
You'll build a friendly, useful relationship from specialist growers, who usually offer to be grown; these may be existing beds
with the staff 1n the process. a mail-order service. The Internet is a or newly created areas. To ach1eve the
As soon as you get your purchases great place to start your search. best results, remove any weeds and d1g
home, give them a good soak 1n a bucket Once you've placed your order, 1t's over the soil until it's loose, so the
o water for a couple of hours to ensure exc1t1ng to wa1t for the arrival of your new roots can stretch out and grow
the rootball gets a thorough watering precious package. Plants are packed 1n un1mpeded. It's also a good tdea to
before planting. vanous ways, but they will usually be tmprove the soil and 1ts water retention
grown beyond seedlmg stage, but not to and drainage WI h some organic matter
matunty, and will be sent 1n a sturdy Once you've prepared the site, start
cardboard box. planting your herbs. Some herbs benefit
The roots and soil may be encased rom added nutnents 1n the soil, so
m plastic wrap or in tube stock pots, give them a good start 1n thetr new
and secured with protective material to environment by adding a slow-release
stop the potting mix from coming loose. fertilizer 1nto your beds. Other herbs -
Alternatively, you may receive only the such as anise, swee basil and the various
roots - as w1th turmeric and g1nger lavenders - like an appltcation of lime.
or the cloves, as w1th elephant garlic
They will surv1ve for a day or two, but
you'll need to unpack them soon after
amval and place them 1n a sheltered area
that receives filtered light for several days
until they acclimatiZe to your location.
To mmimize transplant shock, water
Gently ease the herb out of 1ts
pot and check your plants with a weak solu 10n of liquid
hat the root system 1s healthy,
not pot-bound fert11tzer and a seaweed solut10n.
I 'etlilizitl" Nutrient deficiencies
For heal hy g rowth, plants eed the right Well-balanced soils play an 1mportant
balance o nutnents, applied as ertil1zers. role 1 n ensunng that utnents 1n the so1l
These a re sold on nursery shelves under a are be1ng released and made available
mynad of descrptiOns, and you'll probably to plants. Add1ng more fertilizer will
find here's something for palms. herbs, not necessanly resolve the long-term
roses, c1 rus trees, rndoor plants and m uch problem, but Improving the soil will.
more. You car add fertilizers to the soil so Nutr>ent defic1enc1es man1fest
hey're absorbed through he plant roo s, hemselves n various ways: distorted or
or you can apply them as a foliar spray to stun ed growth, yellow or mot led leaves,
he leaves. scorched leaf edges. premature maturity
De ermine wh1ch plants you want to of fru1t, d1eback or poor roo g rowth.
fertilize and ind out a lit le about the Some deficiencies are common to
chemical makeup of basic fer illzers certain types of plan s. For example, fruit
o make sure you choose the nght one. trees w1th yellowing leaves and green the roots have grown, then plant them out.
Avoul water
Ba l a nci ng the e le m e n ts while the older leaves of gardenias that
The best fert11izer to choose IS one that are yellowing or browning around the
offers a bit of everythi ng. Th1s is known outer part usually need the help of an
as a "balanced fer ilizer," wh1ch you can old garden remedy - a combination of wlzuv if wilulf,
use n various ways. magnesium and Epsom salts (magnesium
Add 1t at the 1me of planting. sulphate) dissolved in water. 6 the- nwi!Jfurf!/
Sprinkle 1t around garden beds as 0 her symptoms migh require more
wilt j,{j(Jtv wraff!/.
and
Calcium (Ca) - needed for healthy cell are designed to release nutrients slowly.
nlll'llgl'l1. pho phorou; pold'-SIUill.
walls and root growth
Faster-acting forms are liquid plant foods.
Magnesium (Mg) - a key component
Primary elements
plants a good, long soak infrequen tly, holl'. ma rng sure it sn. at th same
hey'll search downward for water This l e l'r l 1n llw ground a it !lid in the
rn turn encourages strong root growth, poL Don't ro1er the rro\1 n.
Ensure
these effects.
that your 'Oil has plenty Of
These products include soil-wetting
organrc matter. such a compost or
agents that help to reduce the amount of
11ell-rottNI manure. th e n dig a llolr
water that's repelled by the "waxy" coatrng Barfill anti firm t1011 n I he sorl
ar ound Lhe
that's largrr than tht root IJall.
plant. Tarragon can
hat forms on dry soils. The agents are
much more sophrsticated vers1ons of also bt propagCJtrd lly rootdr1 is ion
rn pring.
detergents, which reduce surface tensron. ,
Watering options
How you water your garden depends on
115 size, how much time you have and the
local water restrictions. You can install a
rarnwa ter tank, a gray-water system or
an approprrate timer-operated irrigation
system. Check w1th your local council
2 Teas!' out I hi' roots <llttl loo. rn lhe 1 \later I hi' p l ant 11<'11. .rnd tlwn
and consult a membe r of a qualrty
11111
poltrng nil\ so rhatthc'\ '<'" 11atrr rcgularl\ unl rl estdblished
endorsed landscape assoc iation.
out IIUtl'il'l!tS and llllliSIUI'I' from Prunt' fur rul!!ldr\ ust and a l s o to
If you water by hand, stick to early
tlw soil <H'lllltlll iht'rn c l iscouragr 11 ood\ stl'llls.
mornrngs or late aftern oons so the
moisture won't evapo rate rmmed
1ately
Ga rd('n main Lcnance
Filler.. mHI frcr piDnts
Routine garden tasks, such as pruning and
Whilt' youn, watting ror olllCr plants r ntO\C any unw<lltlf'CI . erdlings. then weeding, will not only keep your garden
to mature ancl spnad. plant some pot L11em and u e llwm t'l 'P\\ lwre. tidy but will also help prevent pest and
annuals as fillrt'S. \ l thoug ll rnot 1\ ht n thinllrllg out plants in the disease attack, which often starts with1n
annual herbs \I i l l nerd to ht rrrno1rd garclcn. thrnk about giving those r cess decaying plant debris. So. employ good
at the f'ncl of lhCil' life yell'. lhOSC' that sc('(llings to a frirncl. novice garclrnrr garden hygiene methods and you'll have
rra<lil self-seed- such as calntp. or schoo l . Pruntng fmm perrnnials can less maintenance to do in the long run.
nasturtiums and tlorage- 11 til al o he Lh(' start or nt'\oly JH'opdgatefi
perprtuate tlwmsr l ws . With larger pl8nts. F'or more mfornralinn. sec St.em Pru n i ng
plants that elf-seed. such a ba. UUIDgS. page ifi3. Many herbs benefit from being cut back
annually by up to one-third, because this
not only makes them look more attractive
but also promotes new growth in the
following season.
Normally, gardeners are encouraged
to prune back spent blooms on annuals
and perennials after flowering, but that's
not the case with herbs that are grown
for their seeds, such as coriander, dill and
Many herbs self-seed in the garden, popping up where you least expect them. Catnip, fennel. Leave them to compte e their life
nasturtiums and borage, all shown above, keep appearing for years, as does heartsease. cycle. With herbs that are not grown for
their flowers. pinch off their blooms to
encourage leafy growth.
l2e11WvA1f {b;we.rY
wilt;-rotJtLf the
{b;werA1f .i&lMnt.
You only need to prune trees if their
branches are rubbing together, which
can create open wounds that are prone
to disease and insect attack, or if their
limbs are congested, reducing light and
air circulation. For low branches. use a
small handsaw, but for larger ones, call
in the professionals. Always protect your
eyes from sawdust.
For regular stem pruning, invest in
a good-quality pai r of clippers, but
for tougher stems and small branches,
buy a pair of ergonomic ratchet or anvil
pruners. If you regularly clean and oil
them, they'll last a decade or more. On
the other hand, if you habitually mislay
things, buy the cheaper ones.
garden, weeds won't be able to grow, so plant they touch, so use them carefully
plant groundcovers, such as thyme and on a sti ll day so the spray drift doesn't
mints. to fill m gaps and stop weeds land on your garden plants. The most
rh1zomatous roots. Dig up the whole root the entire plant. from the roots right
And 1t's best not to put weeds w1th seed applied to the soil before seedlings
heads into the compost, or you could end have emerged to e l i minate weed seeds.
up returning the problem to the garden. Post-emergent weed ki l le rs- are Topiary shears ar idal for shaping herbs with
It used o be considered good practice applied after crops have emerged. compact leaves, such as this variegated thyme.
r ., ,. /. \ ,I *
neath, resulting in a i rl ess, sli my, smelly
conditions. Weed mat is a much better
-\ 11t>rd 1s oflln a plant that"s IJ ,
.
,.
gr011111g
alternative, because i t a l lows a1r as well as
mo1sture through.
111 thr uong p l ace - and thai In c l udes i 'I , .
,. f., . 'I
herb:. Finclmg I he nghttllant for the
j .,
.I . ItI
Use weedkillers, or herbicides, only as a
un11 t' diff i c u l t conlllliOn\ or
'. . I
111
las resort or 1f you're preparing a whole
the
'J \ -:- / ' -
..
bed, but be careful, particularly 1f you're aspects. lllr\ 're usua l l y rrsillt'nt
'
'
.. . '. j
p l a nt . that rntl up takmg owr. I
growing edible herbs or there are valuable
w/ \,"-
\.
.
.
or favorite plants nea rby. Always read the r
Check 11 het h r \OUr chosen herb ,. I , .
.
label and follow the manufacturer's
directions carefully.
has a rrput..Jtion for lwmg invas11 t', At ,
.
then tJec1de 11 hrtht'r to gro11 11. The
.... '' ' fk-,
../ . \ ..
..
.
staff at your lora! llUI"t'I'Y \hould
Ch1cory 1s a self-seeding herb that can
hr able to <HIIISt' you If a partwular
become a weed in the garden.
plant is a problem m our area \n
"('('d. or cuttings cllld lht'n \\dlchirrg 1111'111 flourish. \!though <>ornr llrrll. Seed-raising mi'\
rcquin pcll'liculdl' trr'cltnwnt . liH'n ' arr 'C'\eral rnellwd-; )OU can use. The growing medium play a critical
dnd it\ ah\tl\" ''orth 1'\IH'rinll'nting. \nnuallwrhs arT IH''>l plant<'d each role 10 r>lant propagalion. The Lin
will come rue from seed, because certa1n r1n brickie, sand. L be 1 for
herbs may cross-pollinate or stmply not good drainage.
hero h attct
For ease of growing, particularly for
ilicatc mat rial ha
new gardeners, packet seeds provide good
it expand . oa up\\ tcr
value and Instructions that tndicate when, Carefu l ly remove seed l ings from punnets by
and allract nutri nt .
gently squeezing the bottom of each cel l .
how and where to plant. In addition, he
plants will be true to type, and are PERLITE Deri1rd rrom \Oicanit
ava i lable in the right season. their roots encourages them to "bolt" rock that ha a l o been mined
The requtred depth of planting will (flower prematurely), are best planted and ht'ated. it 1 used lO atrate
vary, dependmg on seed size. In general, either directly i n the garden or in large soil and imprO\C drama e.
the finer the seed. the shallower it should pots. These include borage, coriander, COCO'\Ff F'IBER. roco-prat
be sown; sowing at a depth of about twice dill, chervil, fennel and summer savory. ot' coir. Thi 1 a natural \Ia Le
the diameter of the seed 1s a good gauge. To add interest and color to paved product \lllh exc llent wat ,_
It is easier to spread fine seeds, such as areas, paths or retaining walls, fill cracks, hol<ling capac1tie It i u. d
marjoram, savory and thyme, more evenly crevices or nooks with potting mix and 10 gardrmng products in>Lead
if you mix them with a little sand. sow seeds of compact or trailing plants, or peat mo >. 11 h1ch 1 a non
such as nasturtium, sweet violet and renewaule natural re ource.
When to sow different varieties of thyme.
When you plant your seeds will depend
on your clima e and the advice given on Sow i n g seeds u nd e r cover
the seed packet. If your chosen seeds take Other seeds, such as coriander and
6 to 8 weeks to germmate, start them verbena, need to be in the dark until
indoors or in a glasshouse about this far they've germinated. Block out the light
ahead, before the final frosts. Once the by covering the seed trays w i th sheets of
good spring weather starts, the seedlings newspaper and store in a d ry, warm place.
will be ready to transplant. Some annual Soaking seeds in warm water overnight
herbs can be sown successfully in autumn before planting will also help basil and
but, to achieve best results, follow the parsley to germinate, while other seeds
packet instructions. need to be stratified. For details on this
Sow seeds in cell packs or seed trays, process, see Echinacea, page 44.
in individual pots or in situ. Herbs that Once seedlings appear, prick them out. To block out the light while stedlings germinatt,
don't transplant well. because d isturbing See Pricking out. page 162. cover the eed trays with newspaper.
Ittoforp
what :;ow' 1/f!/;;fanted.
Writ!/ t OIV
ek and/M then-v
Wo tfMtJ/ or fr?
provide artificial heat i n a n u mber of
ways. Try heatmg trays from he base
with p u rpose-built electrical heat packs
or hea m ats, even hot-water bottles.
You can a l so purchase portable
glasshouses through n u rsenes and m a i l
order suppliers. These compact PVC
greenhouses are ligh weight and easy
to assemble, and come in various sizes so
you can posi ion them agamst a n outdoor
wall or even on a baleen .
Propagators are portable trays, like
a m1ni greenhouse. and are also sold
by n u rseries.
Alternatively, place seed trays by
a sunny window, in a warm k1tchen or
outdoors m a warm, frost-free locat10r
Possible problems
At th1s stage, you cou ld experience a
couple of problems.
1 Damp1ng off IS a fu ngal d1sease
that thflves 1n cool o r cold, d a m p or
overcast conditions. The best way
to preven th1s is to keep seed trays
m a location w1th good alf Clfculavon,
Using the l.atm name to identify your plants is the professional way to go. It ensures that.
should you WISh to grow the same plan again, you will purchase exactly the right one. l1ght and warm h, at hough you could
also try water1ng the seed l i ngs w1th
chamomile tea, an old herba' remed
Rai s i ng '<'t'ds Fert i l izi ng If a white mold a p pears. 1 n sp1te ot
Keep seeds and seedlings moist but don't Once seedlings beg1n to emerge, give your best ef orts, discard the rr x a n d
overwa ter them. Seeds, i n particu lar, need them JUSt a half-strength solu ion of an transplant the seeds or seedl ngs n t o
to be kept damp but must not be soggy. a l l-pu rpose soluble fer i l izer. Later, once n e w stenlized cor a 1 ners
Once plants dry out, the1r germina tion you have transplan ed them, ncrease the 2 Seedlings become leggy wher here
will be stunted, or may even stop. dosage, but remember More is not better; IS not enough ligh or tile cond IOns
It IS important to water the seed tray plants can absorb only so much. are overcrowded . S 1 m pty mC' e t11e
gently. E1ther lightly m i st the m1x w1 th tray to a br1grter spo dncl thin ou
mg t''" u n wa ned
a spray bottle, or dampe n 1t Heat the seedlings by cu
before
plant,ng Alterna tively, you can
wa er the Warmth 1s also a n 1 m por ant factor for seed l 1 n gs a tile base. If you 11, therr
tray rom the bottom so
the mo1stur e can germ,nat,on and, dependmg or your out. you r u n the fiSk or d1s ,Jrlli'lq lle
be drawn up mto the m1x
. locat10n and the type of seed, you can roots of the others
P r i c k i ng out
eed m ing Once the first few leaves have emerged,
move the seedl i ngs so they receive more
mdi rect sunlight and heat, and they
"harden off." T h 1 n out the rows by
seed tray
transplanting mdividual seedlings into
bag of propagating or seed-ra1sing mix
l a rger containers or single pots. Use a
various seed packets or small wooden skewer to gently ease the
collected seed
delicate roots out, then carefully handle
piece of dowel or pencil the seedl i ngs by the leaves.
plant tag
M i n i mizing transplant shock
spray bottle
Here are some tips for easing your plants
plastic wrap (optional)
1 n to the garden.
JciiJIIH' SC'l'd ll'ill 1\llh f]liDiit) St'l'd Gradually 'harden off plants by moving
ra!Sing or pmpagaling Jnl\. (F'nr ilt'sl them into stronger light while they are
rtsults. usr clean sii'I'Jilzed 1ra1s and still seedl i ngs and before transplanting
too l s th<Jt han' !wen 11 aslwd m a weak them into the garden.
sn l ulion or tJircch.) G\'nll:, moolh the If the plants don't l i ke their roots being
su1'filCt' 111111 a p1rcr of dc111 el or a small d isturbed, grow them in small pots or
lllock ol 11 ood. bul tlo nol cnmpacl the individual cells so you won't need to
mi\. Lsing a prnci l or a p1ccr ol <lo11cl. thin them out from other seedlings.
create a shallo11 channtl. Gtnll shak1' Don't transplant - simply grow plants
thr seed t'lenl\ O\l'l' tile mix or. if they directly in the garden bed.
Ru n n er
Strawberries, sweet violet, mint and
Vietnamese mint all send out run ners
that w i l l take root wherever they touch
the soil. Carefully lift satellite plants that
have developed roots and plant them in
a new position. Consider planting them
i n a pot to keep them contained.
L a r ri n g
aga tion met hod , the herb
With thiS prop
,s s dl attached to the pare nt pla n t, but
Stem cutting
\ou ran tar oft -s t emm ed c u t l l n. .
urh a basil and m m t . i n spri ng
(aflrr the Ia. t fro t ' ) u n t i l midsummt'r.
lart lhC' cutting 111 a pro tt'c t t'L I l se a glass ol 11 a l l'l' - \nolht ' l l ltl' \l d l l'l' 1'1 1'1'\ It'll d d S dllll
IXhllion With natura l mchrer t light .
lll l ' [ illld i\ [II pldC'l' S[ l'lll ('tl [ [ llli!S Ill t hen l rtl n s p la n t l hc r u l l mg m to
\lake a 10 111 1 greenhouse h cu t t mg J a glass or ll <l l t ' l' 1 1 1 a po'ftlllll 11 1111 md11 1dual ront.tmtr or IIllo t iii'
lllasuc soft-dn n bottle 111 half and
llldtnrt llgl l l . 111< ' 1 1 ll <l l l lor lllllh to l!dl'th'n . I h'rl t ' U i l .t h l t l o t lht'
mverung ll o1 r r thr c u t t ings
fortn 11 1 t h l ll I to 2 ll l't'ks Cll,mgt l rt'tl l lllt' l i l i i i C IUdt 1 1 1 1 11 1 d l l d qgt'.
; ( n t a i n r g a rd n 1 n g
\\ t l lt 1 ,. i i t ' l l l i < l < nas t'\panding a n d mort' peu p l l ' sc t t i ng up homr i n
(JOrou. a un t rr a w d roncrete.
\ p o l l ( d h < ' r h .ga rden On the other hand, a few herbs, such as t!'fracott.a or lim!'ston .
Heros ove gr uwmg 1 n pots, and some watercress and angelica, actually need the
If mm ing pots is a problrm.
herbs, sucll as mmt and parsley, spread shade. So, determme how m uch sun your
eas1 y and will take ove r garden beds, so balcony, courtyard or wtndow box will hu fihe rg l a s or polethylcnr
even 1t yOIJ have a huge garden, it'S best rece1ve throughout the year, and choose onr. . They're ltghtwri 'll and
to con tau them. If you put containers 1n your plants accordingly. Alternative ly, romr m man differe n t hape. .
the nght sunlit pos1t1on, use good-quality choose the plants you want to grow and '>iZe. nd colors.
potting mx and give you r herbs the care then find the most suitable spot in which
Sit our I>Ot on aucer to hold
they need, they will flourish. to grow them.
any e\cc 11. atrr a nd to LOp tile
In hot climates, it's best to give plants
or urface tain ing. How e\cr.
The best position some shade protectiOJ1, as the heat can be
make urr ou give tlle root
Man) herbs, such as marjoram. fennel and too intense, even if they enjoy full sun in
a c h a nce to rtry.
thyme. prefer to grow 1n full sun, while cooler locations. Another important factor
others. such as catm1nt, chamomile and is good air Circulation; humid cor.ditions To rai e pots. and makr moving
conander, are happiest m part1al shade. can create fungal problems. Also avoid or weepmg easirr. u r static or
posit1ons open to strong winds; a barrier
mO\ able tand on ca ter . \lakr
such as lattice, can diffuse the breeze.
sure pots are ecu r and won't
mate nals, as these will play an important e.1.po.erl to trong wm!l . suct1 as
part in the success of your herbs and the rooftop garden and balconle .
design of your diplay.
Con lder the calr: a verv ta r r
Don't use lots of l i ttle pots, particularly
pot 11. i l l look tot.a lly ou l of place
in different styles and colors, as these
tend to make small spaces look cluttered. queez d onto a liny balcony.
Shapes and sizes Troughs are generally long and narrow, In fact, the new generat1on of plas 1c
Round, square or rectangular, squat or l i ke window boxes. and are perfect for matenals offers a range of good-look1ng,
tall, with straight or tapered sides: any formal or narrow areas. Team them with pract1cal cho1ces. Polyethylene and ber
of these container types is perfect for a square pot of simi lar matenal to create g lass (including marine grade) are most
growing herbs, as they a l l al low for good a right angle, then add a round pot to com monly used, as they're long- last1 ng,
root growth and the display of foliage and create a point of d i fference. l ig h tweight, wa erproof a n d available
flowers. Varymg sizes of the same design m a w1de range of colors. They can a so
will g1ve an area a uniform look. Mate r i a l s be frost-, UV- and scratch-res1start. And,
Although they look attract1ve, urns T h e type o f p o material WI I also affec because these materials a re not porous,
and 'oil jars' have narrow necks, making it both the look and the par abil ity of your they ' l l hold moisture longer a ., ro,crete
extremely hard o remove plan s without h erb garden Terracotta pots are popular or terracotta.
damagmg them. You could also find your with ga rdeners because they're practical, Expenment w1th u n usual (Onta ner
self w1 h many plant roots and very little affordable and look attractive 1n most such as old colanders and w1rkr baskets.
foliage. I f you favour bell-shaped pots, a situa 10ns. Limestone and concrete pots, If your chosen pot h<Js no dra1naqe
cylindncal shape is bes because ones that with heir lovely pale color1ngs, are also holes ( m a ny po s are des1gned or ndoor
taper i n sharply may not provide enough popular, while a l ternative materials, such use and don't have then' I. JSt d r , l l a ew
room for roo s to space themselves out. as plas ics, are worth exploring. of them lflto the base
Potting m i x The best products have a 'standards'
One o h e most 1mpor a n t elements m mark to indicate he potting m1x contains
g row1ng herbs successfully 1s the nght soil extra 1ngred1ents, such as a wetting agent
or plan mg m1x. Pott1ng m1x IS better than o stop 1t drymg out too fast, vermiculite
garden so1 , as 1 's specially des1gned for to keep the m1x lightweight, and a slow
container cond1t1ons and will prov1de jus release fertilizer that gradually feeds the
:he right balance between holdmg water roots. The old adage 'you get what you
and prov1d 1ng good dr a 1nage. At your pay or' I S true here: 1t is worth invest1ng
local nursery, you'll find var1ous organic 1n a good quality m 1x as, over t1me, you'll
m1xes that are tailored for different have hea lthier, happ1er plants.
s1tua 1ons. such as hang1ng baskets.
Feed i n g t i ps
There are many fertilizers on the market.
A good all-rounder that will su1t most
herbs is a "balanced" or "all-purpose" one:
1t will contain all the necessary nutrients
Deride 11 hat ou \\ <J il t to use
to promote strong, healthy roots, flowers
1 o u r herbs for - for t'\<Hnplr.
and leaves as well as help herbs grow in o
picking - and plant dccordmgl
vigorous, sturdy plants. A soluble fertilizer
Choo e a t hemr 11 hrn grrl\\ mg 1s ideal for container-grown herbs and also
Vibrant petunias add a splash of color
u l i n a ry ht'rll . riC'ct h o t c1nd
for seedlings, which need to be fertilized
to thyme, lovage, chamomile and erigeron.
regularly so that they will flourish. Always
sp1c herbs such as c h l l l w s and
follow the directions on the packet.
ronan<! 1 for \ll'\lran or '''an
If you notice that white 'salt' depos1ts pelargonium, are ideal for hanging at eye
d1shr : and d i l l . lemon ha l m .
(fertilizer res1dues) are appearing on the level where you can easily see your plants
hor,era(lish a n d oregano for
outside of terracotta pots, you can easily maturing and enJOY their fragrance. If you
Fi. h di hes.
wash them off. hang baskets higher than eye level, you'll
I !ant contra l i ng colors i n t hl' Add a liqu1d seaweed product to your tend to forget about them.
amr pot. Tr "Rurne . .- t hr dark watering regimen, as th1s is an excellent Baskets are commonly made of plastic
011\
l 'laC'I' ' o u r s\ t'il\1 lll'rry pot in a 'ili!IO)
In ide > tl h your hancl to en ur<' t h a i cenJtrp it'Ct'. tucktng pnl l tng
'>Pill. l ill' ll ll iltl'l' \I t'l l .
t h e roots a r r col'ere<l. \clcl m i'< u n t i l a round ils roo t s. This l tnal plant
(: o m p a n i o n pla n t i n g
For nn t u ri t "< fa mw rs. g,l l'll<'llt'r a n < l l l l ' r l la l i t s hl ' l iC\ l ' t l t h <n is a
'>\ m l l i n t i< . u lt r n I H' r w l r c r a l r<' lcl t io n s h i p l H ' t \\ < '<' n C < ' r l a i n pla n t s t ha t gro\\
t rong. IH'cl l t h tw rh \\ i l l l o u t c lw m i c a l s .
6econu?/ r,
Insects are a n impo rtant part o f a
tXUV
garden's natura l ecosystem. As plant
polltna tors, they both bring life and
susta in it, and may also defend your
& Jaicf to rio
r
common lacewings eat caterpi llars, unwa nted insects away from your plants
aphtds and other soft-bodied insects, but also ma kes pest control easier: Once
while the assassm bug tnjects lethal they've congregated on the decoy plant,
saliva mside its prey before sucking you can destroy the l u re (and the pests).
out tts insides. Fi nd out when the peak pest imes occur
Parasites often lay their eggs on or and decide whether one well-timed
m the bodies of their prey where, once growing period is all that's req u t red. or
hatched, they will feed off their host, whether you need to plant tra p crops
eating them from the inside; tachinid successively throughout the season to
fly larvae are parasites of caterpilla rs. keep the pests under control. It's also
So tf you spray your susceptible herbs I m portant to know the life cycle of
Grow butterfly-attracttng plants to draw t nsects.
wtth insecticide, you're likely to k i l l all the various insects so you can successfu lly
such as the Monarch butterfly, to your garden.
beneficial insects as well. If you grow your break their breed ing cycle.
herbs organically, essentially you're letting Nasturtiums, for instance, are tdeal
your garden - a bala nced ecosystem - trap crops to grow near edibles and roses, Other chotces tnclude borage, coriander,
regulate itself. because cabbage whtte caterpillars a n d licorice, hops, lemon balm, lovage, sage,
aphtds love them (aphids a r e often nastu rtium, pa rsley, rosemary, rue, sweet
attracted to yellow flowers). You can also vtolet and thyme. Many of hese herbs
l u re tomato fruit worms away from their repel pests, too. For example, tansy wards
intended target by planting borage or d i l l off aphtds, fruit fly, cabbage moth a nd
close t o y o u r tomato plants. cabbage whtte but erfly.
You can also welcome other poll i n a tm g
\tan) herbs haH' armnallt oi l Benefici a l i n sects 1 n sects, s u c h as some wasps a nd beetles,
mntJtmng rlwmirdl ro mpou n t h that No a l l tnsects are detnmental, so find to your garden by planttng flowenng herbs,
t l'prl ptsts. hut )llU nt'l'd t o llrush out which ones you actually need to such as dill, ch ives and fennel.
aga irt s l them befor!' tht') reltast deter or destroy For example, some
thttr ern h. 11 htch an u sua l l ) caterpillars mtght chomp their way
pil'asanll) J t oma t tr . Till'S!' I l l' I hs through a few leaves, but u nless they're
.tn grx11J to 1'011 10 high t 1 a IlK
rampant, constder leaving them alone -
,mas, such as alortgsidl' pd i h ll a1 ' after a l l, they m ight transform hemselves
i lt'fl' dl'l' Sllflll' SU/!/!I".,tlrtrts.
t n to beau iful butterflies and adorn you r
Bas i l 11 a rrl qif hoth l i us The bee pol l inates m i l l ions of lowers
I n sec t i c i de
a n d fu n g i c i des
Basically, there are two major problems
you can treat with chemicals - insect
pests and fungal diseases. If you have
any herbs affected by a virus, you'll
Female mealybugs are sapsuckers and protect To treat m ildew, remove any affected foliage
and also use a fungal spray. have to destroy them.
themselves with an unsightly powdery wax.
Latlyb inh rlr1 uur aphid . sca lr
pon rd
ro
Ot coure . i t '. much hea l t h ier mite.
in rcr, ancl thr 1110-
u r na r ura l remetli es. parUru iMil and
This onr reed' on m l lciCI\ fu n g o "
1r }ou're ,gro11in g ct.Jil!lc hel'l> .
u l ack mole! on Je;11 es. To a u ra t
to
Tackle l ea f-e
prt roleum-llast'd) moL tlrr
l i ng catNpiiiJI .. of
Bacillus
i nrcts such a m i trs. a p h id .
moths and b u t t erfl1es 11 llh
lhuringiPnsis
mea l yb ugs. 11 h l le fl\ and scale.
rsold a- D i re i J . T h i s
base.
Conli'OI 1 ar iou i n sects.
plaslic hag. l ie I t arounrl the
i nc l u d i n g
ancl p u l l t lw 11 ho l e pl a n t our lor
caterpillars. f r u ! l fl). t h ri p .
j u 1 c u t orr the arrertrd t r m J . I n t egra t e d p e s t
I afminer. sa11 fl and leer bee L ie
m a n a ge m r n l
11 i \ 11 spmosad. a n a l u ral product Usc l u rs to clrtect t h l'ips as ..,oon
An environmentally friendly alternative to
dem d from a oil fungus. as Lhey apprar in y o u r ga rd E n .
pesticides is i n tegrated pest management
(IPM), w h ich is usually available to home
gardeners only by m a i l order. Certain
insects are mass bred for their natura l
It could be that insects such as aphids and t h e more toxic chemicals have been predatory habits and then released so
are carrying the virus, so perhaps you removed from the m arketplace. they can seek out and attack their target
need to deal with the problem by using At your local garden center you'll find prey. Some of the beneficial predators
an appropriate chemical. It's also a good low-toxic sprays that are less harmful include predatory mites and lacewi n g.
idea to go back o basics and check the to waterways, bees and other beneficia l Phytoseiulus persimilis IS a predatory
plant's environment. insects. Check with your local nursery m i te used to control two-spot ed mites
so you can make an mformed choice (or spider m ites). These m1tes suck the sa p
Insecticides before tackling your spec1fic problem. from hop and rose leaves, causing them
Formulated to k i l l only insects, insecticides Final ly, take extra care when applying to mottle, yellow and die.
fall into two broad categories: con act sprays to edible plants. Always follow the The Australian pear-shaped m i te
insecticides, which k i l l the pest after it manufacturer's instructions. ( Typhlodromips mon tdorensis) preys on
makes direct contact with the chemical, most thrip larvae. Ad u l t t h r i ps create
and systemic insecticides where the insect F u n g i c i de s curling, deformed leaves or leave silvery
1ngests the chemical by chewing or sucking These a r e added to water and used to brown damage, deform fru1t and leave
the plant, poisoning its nervous system. drench the soil or saturate plan s. thus pale feedi ng d a mage in flowers. This m 1 te
However, the disadvantage of using treating a variety of air- or soil-borne can be used for herbs that are susceptible
insecticides IS that they are very l i kely to fungal diseases. Add a wetting agent to to thrr ps, such as thyme a nd rosema ry.
kill beneficial insects (see page 1 69). not help spread the fungicide, g1ving a be ter Green lacewmg IS e m p l oyed to targe
JUSt the pests. For unately, over recent coverage. Using a seaweed-based product h r i ps, mealybu gs, greenhou se w h i tefly,
vears, many changes have been made to as a foliar spray or to drench the roots small caterpil lars a n d two-spo tted mites
the active ingredients used in insecticides, will a lso benefit the plant's heal h. and moth eggs.
I-l a rve s t i n g , p re s e rv i n g a n d s to r i n g
l l cl i'\ ('S l i ng I IH ' IIO\\ l'I'S. l('cl\l'S. '\('('ti'i. I'OOl S a n d C'\t'n ha r Of l h l' hrrh
\ CH J r !ld l"\ l's l . folio\\ ou r l i p. for c o l l ec t i ng. pre<;e r\ ing a n d sto r i ng herbs
II Sill;! il s h ,l l Jl hl,Hil'
IOI!t 'l ht r 11 1 1 h s t n ng .
1-(ar
Hang bu nchs of flower stems, with their stems straght, whre Narm a or can corcu late around them.
or 1 1\1\ I I t l" 1!11 llf'st
Flowers heads n a place where here s plenty .unlllltl 1 htm. 11 ,, t .tt r.ul is
Co11ect flowers shortly after the buds have of warm a r Clrculatng over a period of pt rlt'l'l \1111 t'lllllti ,tl 11 I I l'tCh
opened and well before they start los1ng a few weeks. Flowrrs conta1n h1gh levels llll'sh I l l !it' l l I ll!.! lil t'!' , , ft.lllH'
( : ids"
thm petals. Flowers that grow 1n clusters of mo1sture, so to prevent mold from
jar-. I l.t ' ' ' o l l l l i h l .111tl
- for example, elder flowers, angelica and formmg, make sure the petals aren't
lllt l t s t u n pt not. so tl' ptrftt i
meadowsweet - and those w1th long overlappmg on the tray. Once the flowers
lor stot ln,.. t i t it'd lit'l lo II 1 1111
stalks, such as lavender and roses, can be a re completely dned. they shou l d feel
!ll ll it'l' t tllltit!i ' . ! I IOII ill! ldlli!! u p
p1cked on the stem, but it's preferable o
I
stiff, no l i mp.
I I l h 1 . 1 1 . t ilt' lwrll \ fll ll l ot
collect nd1vidual flower heads of others, Store dned flower heads l r' a dar glass
t'llllipll'ltf\ til\ I 1 1\ t ! Itt Ill
such as calend ula blooms . Jar, or use 1n a pot pourri [see Around the
.tlld ,!IIIII\ l ht'lll I n tit i I I I I I Itt I'
To dry flowers, follow the 1nstruc 1ons Home, page 284). And once you remove
hi'Ft l l t ' lllfllll!
for eaves (see oppos1te) and hang bunches flowers trom dfled s ems. a l so store t em
of flowers or spread mdiv1dua l flower 1n dark Jars before they deter1orate
Seeds
When collecting seeds. the timing is vital.
Harves them in late summer in the short
\\ dn<IPI'IIl!.! ltt'lch. fnt t''" dtld fc H t t pa t li s " ' I O U roll!ct ll tlcl lll' t lls sou nd t'<l! IH'r
period between the ripening of the seed
rom< n t tr. l t u t l lwrr .tt c 't'l f't<tl t m pnrt<nt i . silt'' tn lll' illl a n' ol llrlorr you stan
pod and the potnt when it bursts open
l r l t t t l i l i a l i l l n lilttl l tf\ i tlg pl< n t s Ecol g1 01 ('1'-lw n e t mg ul \\ t id to disperse the seeds into the air.
' ' d t l t f l t t 1111 . k i l L diHI t'l fll ! ru i ned c m ps ol ornt tn(dirinal herb. Keep a close eye on the plant, and
t'\IJt'tb rdn ITidkl' t n J s l , t ke s . \ l l hl\ s has rcs u l t (d i n t hrm IJrcornmg when you judge that the seed pod is
L CIITI d p l d n l l!llldt JS d rl'ft'I 'PnCl'. cntlangrrrd Tlw rlastr r\ample starting to ripen (its color will start
<1nd rlwck both lilt' pltotogrJphs <Jild ts t Ill' \orlh \mt'rtrdn hrrh oltlrn changing from green to brown), cut
I IH' 11 t i t ttn de,cTtpl tnn dga t n s t !'a I'll sta l . ll it trh has ,, tlr l'ned the seed pods from the plant, taking
htrll. If 1 o u "'" tlou l l ! l u l of a pl, 1 ! 1 t 's re p u t u l l l tn d s a polt'nl a n t unirrobial plenty of the stem at the same time.
idP n l l l l . don ' t piCk t l . Prt'\ t n l rt'tTtt"il). L nfor t u natPiy, gulden ,eat Gather the stems in a loose bunch,
d t l l tnnt planh ! rom lwnun i ng b a tl tffi c u l l plant to r u l t 1 1 ate. )Ul
I place the ends with the seed pods on
r u m hi<'Ci nr Mftc u l t In tdcnt tf} I<J t e r i s nne of t h l' mo>l popular mrtltcinal
them inside a brown paper bag, and
h) 1 1 1 11g tlw samplt's i n t o l l u n d l c s hrr!Js i n '\mrrica. 01 e r mau rars.
use string to tie the opening of the
a n t ! l a l H' I tng t he m t1 )Ou hdl'l t's t . this has led to a n P '\ l l'l'mef)
bag around the stems. Hang the bag
\ l a ke sun j ou collect t lw correct l u c ra l l i P m a rket For ll tld-hari ('"L cJ containing the herb in a warm, airy
medtcinal part of t lw planL too. (or \\ t ldcra ftPtl ' l gotcltn sent roo t .
spot (see page 163). As the seed pods
use medici nally, it is ideal for culinary could eHr hope 10 dry or h a n r t
herbs with very fine leaves or a very ourself rs m a ilable at your local
h i g h mo1sture content, and for those health-food store. The more norular
that lose their taste when dried. Good herbs are available i n teahags. but
An Omani man taps a boswellia tree for ca ndidates include fennel and d i l l tips, 11 h i l e con1 enient. the e omel!m
the resin, better known as frankincense. con t a i n a 1011 er grade of herbal
tarragon, chives, parsley, chervil and basil.
For herbs you intend to use in sma l l material. and Lend to be more
roots and rhizomes, such as ginger and quantities or a d d to w e t dishes, such a s l'\pen ive bl 11 erght than loo e
horseradish, scrub them with a vegetable soups, casseroles and risotto, freezing herb . Look for dned herb that
brush; however, gently rinse finer and herbs into ice cubes works perfectly. rrtai n the color and h a pe of t he
more delicate samples, such as valerian, Rmse fresh herbs under cold runnmg plant and ha1 e a trong. plea a n t
under running water. Don't soak them, water before choppmg hem finely. Place scent. Reject tho e that are dust.
or they'll take up water and lose flavor, a tablespoonful of the chopped herb i n to po11 deo or ha1 e l ittle mell. See
and perhaps develop rot. each segment of an 1ce-cube tray, add page 328-9 for more mform a t 10n.
Once he roots are clean, cut them into a little water, and then place the tray in
small pieces and dry them in the oven at a the freezer. When the cubes are frozen,
very low heat ( 1 20. to t 40F] (so to soc). transfer them into a labeled plastic bag or
You may need to keep the oven door ajar container, and they'll keep for months. loosely together. Place the whole bunch
to prevent the temperature from rising too Freeze whole bunches of herbs to use inside a sealed and labelled plastic bag
much. Turn the root pieces regularly to in larger q u a n tities or i n recipes that and s ore i t in the freezer. The frozen
ensure they dry out evenly; you'll know won't benefit from the extra water of he herbs will become qu ite brittle, so before
they're ready when they become brittle. melted 1ce. After rms1ng the herbs, pat you use them. just scrunch the bag with
Allow the roots to cool before storing them d ry with a paper towel and tie them your hand to break h e leaves into p1eces.
them in a dark glass jar.
Bark
I 's easy to kill or injure a tree when
collectmg 1ts bark, so in many cases it's
better to use commercially ha rvested
varieties of these herbs. If you do decide
to collect bark yourself, choose a damp
day, and use clean, sharp tools to remove
i from the tree in vertical stnps at least
a metre above the ground. Never take
a horizontal band of bark from trees
or collec bark from saplings, or they
will die.
Clean the bark to remove any d 1 rt, and
then flatten it out as much as you can
before leaving 1t in a warm, airy place o
Another way to store chopped herbs is to freeze An ice-cub e tray is 1deal for freez1ng small
dry for a few weeks.
a large quantity 1n a small plastic con tamer. quantit ies of herbs you tend to use spanng
ly.
Trea t i n g com m o n a i l m e n t , a nc l con cl i l ion s a fe l
a n d e ffcc l i\ l y \\ i l h h e rb. i a n a rea o f grO\\ i ng
i n te re ,' l a ' '' e l l a t h e foc u s o f re l'a r c ll a ro u n d
t h e wo r l n . F' i n cl o u t \\ h i c h h e rb, hme h ea l i ng
p ro pc r t i e a n d l e a rn t 11 e be ' l \\ a , to u se t h m .
-
n h e rb a 1 t r a d i t i o n
l l u m a n ki n c l h a been acc u m u l a t i ng a n d u ti l iz i n g
h e rba l k n m\ l c c lge for a l I a L 60. 000 ca r .
while the Leechdom, produced in the same Sou t h Afrlc<Jns con s u l t 1 racl i l lona l
centu ry, is an outstand ing compila tion of h ca l rrs. lore t ha n 700 spl'nr" nf
medical and veterinar y herbal knowledg e 10d1gr n ou s hl'rhs arr h an tstrcl fl'l lnl
of the t1me. An extens1ve herbal was also lhr \1 i l d c>ach l'a r. 3nd man arc>
school in Europe during this period, the '1\v o popu l a r t'\a m pl l's arr C'ilnrPr hush
The Norman invasion of England saw a gonrl all-pUfiiOSt' tome for 1 1 1 \ / \ l l ls Dried buchu leaves (Agathosma betulma)
associated with castles and manor houses. appr t i t r . and huchu ( \{icJli/Osma rommrrrial prod url lon of l h tst lwrlis
Filled w1th fragrant herbs as well as hc/JJima). ta rn for t hr t re a t m e n t \\ 1 t iH I U I ;m l it nl'fl l acrrumg 1 1 1 tiH'
flowers, they included plants such as or m i ld urinm1 tract i n frcuon . Stps I IHiigenuus (lro p l t (sl'r fc a l llrt' llo\.
the legendary Rosa gal/ica 'Officina lis; arr nu\1 bring ta r n 10 prt'\ t 'llt l h !' l l c> r l ls 111 L IH' fu t u rr. fhi{:C IRI
that found their way to Europe from
the Crusader expeditions.
The greatest of the English herbals
emerged from the 1 6th century onward. Parkinson. an apothecary and botamst who resurgence in herb usage a n d herb c u l t u re
William Turner's New Herbal included no is remembered for Porodisi in Sole Poradisus worldwide. At the same ime, the complex
fewer than 238 British plan s. But for rerrestris and Theatrum Botanicum. i n teraction between body, m1nd and spiri
charm as well as content, two others is again being acknowledged i n he field
remain unsurpassed - that of John Gerard, \ l od n n of holistic medicme.
physician, apothecary and knowledgeable h e l' h a l m e (J i c i n r An era of complementary medic1ne has
gardener, who first published his Herbal/ in The modern practice of herbal medicine, come, and with 1 t the acknowled g m e n t
1 597, basing it on tha of the Rem ish coupled with a fascination with culinary that herbal medicine deserves respect 1 n
physician Dodoens; and also that of John and fragrance herbs, has seen a g reat i t s o w n n g h t.
I 't;J ,mamua
anil l h!' ChC\\ IIlg of \dfiO
US lc'CI \ t'S. ptppcrht'l'l\ lannofat,J I.
\\ c s tc 1 n l1 c rl> a l p h i l o so p hy
T h t -; t lc nl lw r l l a l nwt l ic i rw c u r n n l l \ prac t iced in L IH' \\'c t e rn wo rld
contemporarres more than 2,000 years ago. fast-actrng treatment. auvr American healer were
These eachrngs included he prrnc1ple that highly re peeled and pia ed a
a pat1ent's d1et. environment and mental Gentle treatment valuablr role in thr phy iral and
state all contributed to h1s or her well-being. for c h ro n r c hea lth p ro b l e m s pirilual \\.ell-being or their society.
Today's Western herbalists take a similar On t h e other hand. herbs a r e often The} al o had a rich herbal traditron
holistic approach to healthcare. prescribing appropriate for chronic disease states. on wbich to ctra\\ wh n treating
die ary and other l ifestyle changes as well which develop over a longer period, illne or injury. and ror midwiFef}
as herbal remedies. based on the principle and whose symptoms may be less well and cont raceplil e purpo es.
that the factors that contribute to ill defined. These conditions are commonly 1bda mao or the remedre
health need to be removed i n order for l i nked with u n healthy dietary and lifestyle round i n the \\ e tern herbali L's
healing to occur. habits. and they often respond well to di pcnsary - including the \Cf}
This is an extension of their view that slower-acting, gentler herbal remedies - popular herb echinacea. golden
the body often repairs itself when provided especially if healthier habits are adopted a l ( below) and black coh h
with the opt1mal conditions in which to do at the same time. By addressing these \I ere nu in troduced to e u l ers
so - another concept associated with the chronic states of ill-health. herbs may help by the alive American .
Hippocratic tradition, wh1ch taught the prevent some conditions developing into
vis medicatrix naturae, or innate, self more serious diseases that require acute
healing capacity of the human body. i n tervention; in fact. disease prevention is
I n many ways, this goal of returning often an i mportant goal of treatment.
the body to a state of balance is central
to every decision the herbalist makes i n D r gestrve system
treatment. Whereas the medical approach In order to restore the body to a state of
largely focuses on fighting disease and balance, the Western herbalist considers
pathology, the Western herbalist mainly the functioning of each of the body's
works toward optimizing the function major organs and body systems. Of central
of the organs and body systems so that importance are the digestive system and
the body can heal itself. the organs of elimination: optimizing their
Of course. in all acute and serious ability to assimilate nutrients and process normalize hormonal balance, relieving
conditions, medical intervention is entirely the bodily wastes is a major focus of many the symptoms of menopause or
appropriate. The specific, targeted, disease- treatment protocols. premenstrual syndrome and, where
The herbalist may also prescribe it is appropriate, priming the body
remedies that: for conception;
"Cure- .wnud, help the patient cope better with stress relieve pain and inflammation; and
op-uv, by either building up or calming down support heart and blood vessel function.
treat the nervous system ;
Cl i nica l tri a l s
However, unlike Chinese and Ayurvedic
herbalism (or, for that matter, the
Hippocratic approach to medicine -
see the box at nght). modern Western
herbalism does not incorporate a humoral
or "elemental" approach to disease. For that
reason, the herbal remedies the Western
herbalist borrows from other traditions
are rarely used in their original context.
The Western herbalist prescribing dan The l l ippo l'a lic school oF IIH'rl i c i ne t heorizrd t h a t t ile 11 orl!l illlU f'l r r, t h mg in i t
shen (Salvia miltiorrhiza), for example, is including IIH' h u m a n lind) - 11'8' i n rltiJICt'd ll) t ile Four rlemen t s ol' fir('. \I d l er. cal t h
likely to be thinking of its clinically proven and a i r . I n h u m a n , t hP r lemcnt ruled tou r fluids rercrretl t o a: tllr h u mors. a n d
actions in angina and other heart problems, these. i n t u rn . 1 n n urncrd each inuivldual's con s t i t u t inn a n ! l perona l i t ) . Sicknrs 11 ils
ra her than its traditional Chinese attributes also lllamru on un imllalanre or llw h u mors. and t lir pa rt icular 1mbalancr i ll\ ol 1 rd
as a cooling herb. hrlpt'd to tlictute thP appropriate remedies to lw usrd 111 tn'i l l llll' n l .
In fact, Western herbalists are
increasingly turnmg to scientific evidence Element Fire Water Earth Air
such as this to validate their traditional
Humor Yellow bile Phlegm Black bile Blood
knowledge. Notwithstanding that the
Personality Choleric Phlegmatic Melancholic Sanguine
scientific study of herbal medicines has (quick to anger) (lazy, slow-thinking (prone to (relaxed and
to overcome a un1que se of challenges and slow-moving) depression cheerful)
(see Herbs in the future, page 786). and sorrow)
the double-blind, placebo-controlled, Health issues Hot. dry Cold, damp Cold, dry Hot, damp
conditions, eg. conditions, eg.
randomized clinical trial has become the conditions, eg. conditions, eg.
liver problems respiratory infection constipation diarrhea and
gold standard of herbal medic1ne research
and other catarrhal other conditions
- just as It is in med1ca1 science. conditions associated w1th
Given that relatively few herbs have
over-mdulgence
been subjected to any scien ific scrut1ny,
E a s L r n h rba l p h i l o o p h y
Till' a n r i 1 ' i 1 l pracl lt'!''i ol l l'dd i l i o n a l bemgs should strive to live 1n accordance In the human body, q1 is believed to
C l l i llt"W <1 1 1 < l \ u n !' d i c lw r i la l with the rules of nature and emphasise flow along channels called meridians.
the Importance of balance and harmony. These are not physical anatomica l
llH' d i t' l l l t ' . i ln t ll llol h t ic a p p roactws
In keepmg with the Tao teach1ngs, the structures like the blood vessels, but
Ill IH'< l l l ng. d f'!' i ld-.t'<l on L IH' goal of all healing 1n TCM IS to restore nevertheless TCM practitione rs can identify
p r i n c i p l e o l h u mor" o r c l e m e n t internal harmony. thelf locations with pinpoint accuracy so
This philosophy of returning the body they can insert acupunctur e needles in
a n d l o c u s on ! TC'<l l i ng i n t n n a l
any one of over 500 individual points,
lld rnHHl u r l l a l a nct i n L IH ' l locly.
((H{!/ Who fake! affecting the flow of qi through the body.
\ n a tH' i <' n L t r a d i l i o n
n-zd MU/
Y i n a n d yang
\\ i l h s p i r i t u a l roo t ..; Another important concept in TCM is
Chinese herbalism has a h1story that can
to r/iet wade! the- Ji<dt that of ym and yang, two opposite but
of hi:Y rloctorJ/."
be traced back thousands of years. The complementary qualities hat can be
most famous of Chinese herb books, The attributed to all things. The familiar
Yellow Emperor's Inner Classic (or Huang circular symbol made up of black and
Di Nei Jmg). may have been written 1n white tear-drop shapes, each containing
about 100 BCE, but its ongins are even a small piece of the opposing color, is
older: the emperor for whom it was to a state of balance in order to bring called the taijitu. I t represents the
named ruled from 2,698 to 2,596 BCE. about healing is not unique to TCM - in dichotomy of yin and yang by illustrating
Since then, Chinese scholars have fact, 1t is also central to the philosophies that any two opposites are dependent on
cont1nued to document this complex and of Western herbal ism and Ayurveda. But each other, and cannot exist in isolation -
sophisticated method of healing, and the methods used to achieve this aim in each requlfes the other in order to make
traditional Chinese medicine continues to TCM are unique, a nd the concepts and up the whole.
thrive today 1n mainland China, in other practices i nvolved can be quite difficult Yin is represented by the black
Chmese communities throughout Asia, for Westerners to grasp, especially as they segments of the taijitu. It is characterised
and increasingly in the Western world. encompass not only herbal medicine, but as feminine, passive, dark, cooling and
The philosophy of traditional Chmese also acupunct u re, massage, diet therapy associated with night. Yang is depicted
medicine (TCM) has its basis in the and healing exercises. such as q i gong. in white in the taijitu, and has act1ve,
sp1ritual practice of Tao1sm (sometimes masculme qualities associated with heat,
spelt Daoism), which teaches that human The l i fe force lightness and daytime.
The Chinese use the word qi (sometimes A state of harmony exists in the body
1. Boxthorn (Lycium borborum) 2. Ginkgo (Ginkgo westernized as chi or ki) to refer to the when yin and yang are balanced, but a
bilobo) 3. Chinrsr haw ( Crotoegus pinnotifido} life force that inhabits not only the relative excess of one quality (and the
4. Ginseng ( Ponox ginseng) 5. Schisandra human body, but also all aspects of the consequent deficiency of the other)
(Schtsondro chinrnsis) 6. Dan shen (So/via
environment and everything in 1t. Oi is causes an imbalance that can lead to
miltiorrhizo) 7. Bitter orangr (Citrus ourontium)
8. a moving energy, sometimes defined as illness and disease. Herbs and foods are
Dong quai (Angelico polymorpho var. sinensis)
- Qing hao (Artemesio annual 10. Chinrsr date 'breath' or 'air; which also has many classified according to how yin or yang
(liziphus ;ujubo) characteristics of fluids. they are, and the effects they have on
an
the bod , and these quali ties are
impor tant consid eratio n 1n help1n g to \ u rwdic med i c i n e
res ore harmo ny and health .
Visiting a TCM practitioner \ ) Ul'll'da. a tradlllonal ht'a li ng stem 1. Fenugreek ( Trigonlla foenum-graecum)
rrum lnd1a. 1s an ancJent holistic hra l t h 2. Gymnma sylvestre 3. Nig e ll a (Niglla sativa)
A TCM practitioner uses tongue, facial a n d
4. Winter cherry ( Withama sommfera)
( Curcuma Iango) 6. Brahmi
pulse diagnosis, as w e l l as your description praclicr 11 1 1 h man) similarilles to
5. Turmeric
of your symptoms, to determine whether tradi tiona l Clune c nwd innr (TCI}. (Bacopa monnien1 7. Gotu kola (Cent//a
there is an imbalance 111 the five elements, ' " l l h TC\1. t he a 1 m or \ur\Cdlc asiatica) 8. Tamarind ( Tamarindus indica)
n the ym and yang of the body, or the mcdJcme i t o bring t he bOd) into
flow of q1. The terms used can be quite halann. Thi I ' achit'\ed through
bewildenng to a Westerner, who might dietary changr. thr prescn ption or \ a la gO\ ern mcM'mrnt n r tht hod
be puuled to hear heir practitioner make hrrhal ml'clicme a m i a t o through ancl m i n tl . ancl LIH' runrllonin or Lh
a d1agnos1s of spleen qi deficiency when mrd l la t Jon diHI yoga . - \ u n rda" is CJrrulalion. nerw-,. m u,rles a n d bones.
hey came for a consultation about the1r a San , kr i t 1\ 0rd that literally means It IS assoc iated 11 Jlh dr lll'SS. co ttl and
persistent headaches! "thr cienu or tiling: l'l'necung the 11 ind \\ hen 1 a LJ i 1011. il can flp
Depending on your individual needs, pnnc1p l l' t h a t an J O d i \ idual's htalth '' ' l l rn u lald h\ h i l l er. J '>lr l llge n l i:lnd
your pract1 10ner IS likely to prescnbe thr1r 1111 n rr,polhibi lll and t hat thl' pungent tastes. 11 hilr 'iflur. s11 tet and
herbs for you, and sometimes a l so a ph)Jrian an unlv guicll' lhrir patients. a l l L<J Strs h l' l p lmng 11 mto lld!clnre.
course of acupuncture. Chinese herbal AJ m . l i kl' TC I . \yun Pdll 1 I.Jasct
on a h u moral ph i l m.ophy. hut thrre are
Pi l l a gmtrns L hl' p o ll l'r ot t ra n s
formulas often contain n u merous herbs,
threr elements. ca l l c tl ctoshas. rather
formalloll . such as 1 111' rom tr mn ol
which are boiled together for up to a n
foocl m t o t'nl'rg\. ,md hds mmsl. hot
hour t o make a traditional decoction t han r11t' You h<lr a l l ll1 rrl' or thl'm
dlld
,mil your
llllil l l l ll' . . \.,Sil(ld[l'tl \\ i l h [O(' l l \
ha concentrates he herbs' flavors and in dlfiPrrnt proporuous.
medicinal ac 10ns. The full course of your
connn tra L J n n . i l ls \ I J m u iJ lt'd 1!1 st l l \ .
ronsl l l u l ion partly dt'll'l'mim-; t he
arc no\\ uni\ crsity trainee! . and their stucl:,. inclucles elemrnt o r
ol S l dtHi d t dized
I H 1 ha l p n p t 1 1 c1li o n "'
Desp1te still being regarded as un proven Unlike the production of pharmaceuticals,
and old-fashioned in some quarters, the where manufacturing processes ensure
modern practice of herbal medicine is each batch of med1cine is exactly the
i ncreasingly u nderpinned by scientific same, the compounds i n herbal medicines
rigor and academic research, and are subject to natura l variation. Weather
g a i n m g credibility as a result. Herbalists and soil conditions, the age of the plant
now study elements of botany, chemistry, and even the time of day the herbal
biochemist ry, pharmacology, toxicology remedy is harvested can all affect the
and medicine. levels of active constituents in a batch
M uch of what we know about herbal of herbal medicine.
medicme has been handed down through To guarantee that each patient i n
the ages. However, plants are complex a clinical trial receives a medicine o f the
chemical ent1ties, and the herbalists same potency, many clinical studies are
of yesteryear could only observe their now performed using herbal remedies
effects; they lacked the tools to work that are standardized to contain
out why a certa i n herb works the way consistent levels of one or two key
it does, or how it achieves its actions. marker constituents.
Today, the science of phytochemistry, High-quality tablets, capsules and
the study of the chemicals in plants, liquid extracts for commercial sale are
reveals a much deeper level of i nformation, also made the same way - and this
which helps us understand how medicinal can be one advantage of purchasing
plants work. commercial products rather than
harvesting remedies at home or using
S, rg str = c.ts dried herbs for infusions or decoctions.
I t's q uite l i kely that the combinations of In many cases, but not always, the marker
active constituents in many herbs work used is one of the compounds that plays
together to create synergistic effects an important role in the medicinal actions
that are more powerful than any of the of the plant.
i ndividual components acting alone. Even
'7hh art of
so, u nderstandmg the actions of the
individual compounds helps researchers
to make herbal medicine safer, more
effective and more reliable. co fronv nalur(!/
In some cases, this type of research
has identified new uses for existing
ruul Mf fronv
JJ
remedies as well as potential adverse
m teractions between herbal medicines
and pha rmaceutica l drugs. l'.u 1< 1'1 u I l!L> , -, I I
Major clas e of phytochem ica l s
t raditional sy t m or medicine they are
luc i la ge i a t pe or fibre t h a t b i n d
Thousand or different ch mica is wllh
gel .
taken a s tonic for the tomach. l iver. ll'i t h wa t e r to form a n i n d igestib le
phy iological acuvity have been identified
Juci lage-ric h p la n t uch a p yllium
gallbladder and pancrea . Wilh its
in plants, and no doubt there are man
in low dose or not at all. Alkaloid tend or a n herbal medicine. They c a n a l so Phytoc trogen are p l a n t compounds
1.0 affect the central nervou system. be extra ted from plants by proces es with e troge n - l i ke activity. The two
and orne well-known examples include that concentrate the esse n t i a l o i l . main cia es are the i ona1one found
morphine and codeine from the opium m a k i n g i t more pote n t . a n d enab l i ng i t i n red clover and soy. a n d the lignans
poppy. 11 hich are central nervous t o b e used i n aromatherapy. perfumes fou n d i n na:.. eed. orne gra i n s a n d
ystem depres ant . and caffeine from and food l uff . They commonly h a \ e o t h e r rood . Phytoest rogen-co n t a i n i ng
coffee. a nervou sy tern Umulant. a n t i - pasmodlc and a n t i m i c robial plant h a 1 e been u ed in many herhal
actions. and a n u mber or mental and tradi t ion for t he t re a l lnent of frmale
Anthraquinone are a group of
emotional effe t have a l o been reprod uctive I I'Oblerns. I n addition.
compound 11 ith potent laxative action.
documented 11 ith thei r use.
the d i tar i n take or phytoest rogen
Found in herb such as enna and
peri ta l lie movements i n the colon compound found in man p l a n t rood or hea l t h-protec t ing errrct . i nc l u d i ng
and trigger a bowel movement a well a in herb . are re pon ible for a po i b l e reduction in the ri k of
orne hours later. The e effect ar a large n u m ber or beneficial effect . brea t cancer. On t he other hand.
magnified i f the herb are taken i n They have a n t i-oxida n t rropertie and con s u m p t ion in e\ces i 1 e doses
overdo e . and exces i v c u s e m a y cau e a l o a trong afrin i ty w i t h the blood ( a llove those norma I I con. u mrd i n
electrolyte . n t h ra q u inone-conta i n ing flavonoid' S l l'engthen ancl m a i n ta i n the b orne a u thoril irs.
1nrm1Jr<tncs
chr t n u t . among oth r herlJ .
the back of the tongue. Thi. i believed and m il kt' l lH'I I I h'ss ca s 1 i)
to trigger a renex re pon e in thr vagu Gl ucosinolalcs are sulphul' com p u n d ptnt'lraled b1 l l l fCr l l l l' org, u l ts l n ' . and
nerve. which in turn s t i m u lates th(' that ar con\erted i n the bod 1 n t o also l u l'l'Ch1rc dld iTilt'd. h il'l'thng diHI
production or 1 ariou ga tric secrelions. ubstances ra i led isothlo ya n c l r . . o1 her l'\Ct' \ I l l' st'c Tc t i ons Tl'a ,, l ilt'
Herb that ta te biLLer have had a long The glucosmolale i n hnr t'l'adish lllO'il II llil'i) ll '>l'li l d l l l l l ll-('O i l l d lll lll/.!
history of usc in s t i m u la t i ng d 1gesl i1e and na t u r l i u m are rrsJlUil'>ihlc ror p l d n l m l hl' 11 orlrl. J nd l h , J s l nngcnf
h1
function in thi way. and in many tht' a n l l-i nfect11 e and rnurou.,-i lqtwf\ mg IW t u rc l'JII cas1il ill' it'll d n n ktng
propert i('S or llll' c hnh . 11 h t i P t ho''' a n 1 p of t c a 1 11<11\ hecn .tl lm1 " " 111
Th three scanning electron micrographs show: in 1 cgrtthll's surh a., ralihtge. hrurcuil S l l 'l'p f01 1ou long iiiHI IIOI IIIQ liS
1. Caffeine, an 2.
111 \ l llg.
l'iltrfs
alkaloid. Morphine crystals,
and l>ru:srl> spronts i l fl' credited 11 1 ! 1 1 t ig h t t ' l l l ng on l ilt' lll t ll l t h g u n 1 s
p rl'I Cn l CilllCl'l.
another alkaloid. 3. Oil glands on the surface of
corolla petal of peppermint (Mentha x piperito). helping 10 ;uu l tonguc
II i n t h e fu t u re
I n I IH ' Pd '-' 1 . l w r l l a l nwd icirH' Ira-; '-'Oill ! ' t r rnts l ll '!'ll rdr rncl t o a an art.
pr. Jrt rrtd l l \ p t o p h \\ r i ll , 1 II O\\ ll 'dgr o f pl c l n t s d n t l t hc i r qua lilil's. l l u t
becofn/ Jeri{;udr dt
annual. Ol' Ch lnest II OI'mii OOrl. treaunr nt. u 1 u s far. i t hos Sd\ l 'd m i l lions
clzdd clfh.Y of if
n:em-chlrs t'<'kill" hcrlw l remetlits
t1/ againL malaria rctii,COi errd ils prowd rrloluwma f\. In 2003. Lhe med1cal
re1raletl that thr artilr mnLi t u c n l 11 1 L h research HLl i i U l l' ' from \ nca. \sia.
arlrmt>sinin 1 s txt rrmcly effrrl ii'P L:ui' Upt' ann Sou t h 'l m nra Lo form I IH'
agam t t h e malaria parasilr. 11 hi 11
patients. Of course, clinical trials
Drug. for Nrghctrtl Diseases l n i t ia l ivr.
sometimes produce negative results,
is spread ftom person 111 prrsnn lly known us D"JDi.
bringing the use of particular remedies
moquitocs. k i l l i ng m i l l ions e1 c r yra1'. To !laLr. t h 1 s rollallora l lon has
c1 > l'lopecl two furms of CT thal arr
into question.
Today. malaria 1 rra t m e n l has hern
Using clinical trials to verify herbal
I'<'I'Oi u l ionisrd by artrmc i n in-has!'d 11011 in ust i n As1a. \friciJ a n d South
therapeutics provides researchers and
comhinat ion therapy (ACT). 11 hich and Cen t ra l \merica. > lwrc. as Lhr
pa i l'S artemrsinm t l c r i i D L i l r: \lllh
clinicians alike with a grea deal of
world' fii'Sl pa t e n l - lrrr m rchrinr, . I he
arc changmg not on l y the health oullno
valuable information, but there are
pharmacrulical agcnts 1nto a singlr
some unique challenges involved i n
drug. -\s \CT sarl'l) ll'C<JI malaria or com m u n i l i r afftcLrcl ll\ malaria. b u t
testing herbal medicines in this way.
I n just L h rrt' days. 1\ 1 1 0 has cnllorsecl a l s o L hc1r conomic prognosis.
The first hurdle to be overcome is that
all the patients in the study should take
exactly the same medicine; however, as
they are natural substances, herbs can
contain chemical variations from batch
to batch.
Thus, the herbal products used in many
stud1es are standardized, and we now
possess a sigmficant body of evidence
supporting the use of standardized herbal
products (commonly single herbs dispensed
as tablets or capsules), but far less evidence
of the effectiveness of more traditional
prepara ions, such as homemade infusions
and decoctions and compound medicines
made up of several herbs.
The processes involved in creating
A Chinese farmer carries stalks of qing hao, which contains the constituent artemismin.
standardized herbal products provide
companies wi h a level of ownersh ip of
the research results, giving them more
leeway to recoup their investm en funds to focus on prescribing standard ized popular herbs work, and Lhe roles h a t
by claimin g that their specific produc
remedies tha have been clin ically trialed. herbs can p l a y i n extremely com mon
has been clinically proven, while other
It's also worth pointing out that he conditions, such as a r t h n tis a n d heart
non-standa rdized produc ts have not.
econom1cs of scientific research are d i sease However, this focus on financ1ally
These issues have major I m pl ications such that the herbs most l i kely to be lucrat1ve remedies may mean that our
for the way herbal medici ne is practic
ed Investigated and "proven" to be effective knowledge of more obscure herbs, a nd
m the future , and have
alread y strong ly are those for which there is the largest the herbal methods for treatmg less
mfluenced the prescr ibing hab1ts
of potential market. We therefore have a prevalent con d i tions, could l a n gu1sh
many doctors and herbalis s, who
prefer good understan d i ng of the way the most 1n the future.
l i n g ll I b sa f ly
It' t'<ts t o 1 <1 1 1 i n t o t h e l r. t p ol t h 1 1 1 1 ng t h < l l hrca u sc lwrh a n' n a t u ra l
t ill') n a l o '-'.til'. h u t t ll l ' n' an -;onw i m po rt a n t c a u t ions you sho u l < l lw Seek p rore, ional help
; m d l'l' ol . \ 1 \\ d \ S sec professio n a l h < l p i f Jou s u ll e r from a serious
Srlf-trealrn !'nl 11 1 t h hrrh i
iiiiH' o r '-'<'\ t ' l'l' ") Ill I tom'>. or 11 ) OU a rc prrgn d n t or lm a : t fl'<'tli ng. approfH idlt' For mrnor condit ions
d i H I I I \ o u ' re h a n < ' s l i n g p l d n t -; you n l f. mc1e s u rr ou i n < lc n t i fy t h e pla n t and For ptol !din ') mptomauc rl'litf
colrt'c t l\ . l<' i n d l l \ . t il l' Cdr<' t o ciHJO'>t' a rc p u t a t lh profc sion a l herha l i t. from 'Oml' ilisra\I'S. 1 1011 e1 1'1'. an
of earlk IJ
lllhl1r.11 l l llH'S.
frwmb
\ I I J if' l 'll l l P r and
Jt,11 111'11 I ll ,I 1\. 1>:1111 l ing's
\1, h.ikl' I Ill
I 10
lftun l'ot/l'r aml thr' c.'hJm/Jt't of
A' mru and .Ju/11'1 \t ! I\, Stl'lll' I l l Secret\ ll'grnil ha'> ll l hci l . 11 hcn
to m a ke l lwm
Drug 'ltP c ons may occur when
GO-.Jtll) lll f.)
1\ 0ITI<'n's p u p i l morr
Uflil ll'S f(' li d
a pa ien IS ta ing wo or more medicines
a u rari i i C: hnll l'l t'r. prolo11grd U'>l' led
lounci i!Uilt\ ol (Oi l Uflllllg t ill' \ 11 U l h
t o h l i n i l lll' s. I t " "' ahn l lt' l i C i r i l t o be
s1multaneously. For example, 1t is well
or \t hens and entl'nrl'cl to di'a t h .
\l ilcllt' m "fl\mg o i n tmtnts.-
documen ed that he herb St John's wort
so. a rro n h ng tn \t hl'lli.JO ldl\ . lw
u,ttl ll\
.n eracts wi h numerous pharmaceuticals,
reduc1ng he efficacy of the drugs. G1ven
cl ra n a t u p of t hl' po1 on twm l nr .
while o hers are well documented. The )I<JfdiSIS l hJ l crt')ll llp hiS hOd\
Cond1 10ns section of th1s book, pages u n t i l hJS htdrt stopptd hta t l l1!!
J n i U "\ i O l l "\
The word "infusion" i s used to describe
an herbal tea or tisane that is made by
pouring bollmg water over a quantity of
fresh or dned herbal material. Every time
you make a cup of tea with a tea bag,
you a re, in fact, making an infusion.
An infus1on is an effective preparat1on
method for delicate or fine plant parts, II
such as petals, leaves and other aerial
parts. It IS Ideally sUited to extracting
water-soluble components from the plant
and is often used for aromatic herbs that
contain essential oils (such as peppermint,
fennel and chamomile).
1 Place the recommended quantity of
loose dried herb (dried chamomile
is used here) or finely chopped fresh
herb into a pre-warmed glass or
chma teapot or coffee plunger.
2 Pou r about 1 cup freshly boiled
water over the herb and stir. Place
the lid on the teapot to trap the
steam and prevent the essential oil
evaporating. Allow the m1xture to
steep for 10 to 1 5 minutes.
3 St1r agam before pouring through
a strainer into your teacup.
Usage Drink one cup of tea three times a
day over several weeks for chronic (long
standing) problems, or up to SIX cups a
day m the shorter term for acute problems.
Storage I nfusions do not store well, so
1t's always best to prepare a fresh pot of
tea for each cup.
Dt CO( lion Grind the required q u a n tity of dned 3 Stt r agatn before pounng through
A decoction ts an herbal tea made by herb (dried dandelion root is used here) a stratner t n to a teacup.
boiling an herb i n water This method i n to a coarse powder U a Drink one cup hree ttmes a day
tS most SUitable for the woodier parts 2 In a saucepan, cover the powder with over several weeks for chrontc (long
of a plant - such as the bark, roo s, about 2 cups (500 ml) cold (not hot) standing) problems, or u p to six cups a
twtgs and seeds - and tS used to extract water; sttr. Bnng water slowly to the boil. day in the shorter term for acute ones.
as many of the water-sol uble active Reduce heat to low and, with the ltd still Str rag DecoctiOns keep for a m a x t m u m
constituents as possible. on, stmmer for 1 0 to 15 m t nutes. (If your of 3 days t n the re rigerator. I f you have
stovetop doesn't have a suffictently low the time, tt's preferable to m a ke a fresh
heat setttng, use a double boiler.) decoction for each dose.
Herbal creams help to relieve Itch and sore throats, because the thick, sweet honey) and '/. cup (50 ml) water in a
IJn. soothe burns and 1rritalion. liquid has a very soothing effect. small saucepan over a low heat un il
rela\ tense muscle. encou ragt' Commonly used herbs include marsh the sugar is dissolved and the mixture
11 ound healing and t rea t mfrclion. mallow, licorice, thyme and white is thick but still runny. Remove from
To make medicated herbal horehound. Although syrups can also be the heat and leave to cool. Add 1. cup
cream aL home. tart 11 1 th an made using an infusion or decoction, th1s (50 ml) of the appropriate tincture; st1r.
un crnted non-greasy cream ba e . recipe uses a tincture, so the result is a 2 Pou r the cough syrup into a dar
u c h a sorbolenr or I Laffiln E syrup with a stronger mediCinal act1on. glass jar and seal with a cork. Makes
cr am. Add . orne herbal u n c t u rc. about J, cup (200 ml).
u ing a rauo of I part uncture to U< go Take the appropnate dose directly
10 parts cream. or c srnlial 0 1 1 at from the spoon without diluting i .
1 to 2 percent the eight of your StJrage Refrigerate the syrup for up
ba e crram. Sur u n t 1 ! yuur cream to 3 months. The sugar may crystallize
ha an e1en con i tenc. 1 'orne as a result o he refrigera ion, but he
es entia! 011. are u n . u n a blt' for syrup will easily become liqUid agam if
topical u e. o eel. profc. sional the bottle I S allowed to stand 1n a bowl
ad> ire 1f you are not sure J of hot water for a few mmutes.
Homemade herbal cream. haw
a hurt Jifp span. so make a sm<JII Caution
QUdnliLy a }Ou nred l l ancl u e 1t Occas1onally, when syrups are stored,
u p qu1 l.ly. To htlp extrnrJ the shell fermentation occurs, so It's best to make a
small quant1ty at a t1me and to use 1 1 qu1ckly.
life. add a few drop of lavende r
Syrups are traditional ly stored m bottles w 1 h
es rnlial oil OI' the contt' n l . u f
a cork stopper so that the bot 1e w111 not
some Vtta m 1 11 E capules.
e plode 1f fermenta 10n does ta e place.
A compress is a cloth that has been soaked in an
mfusion [or a diluted tincture) and applied to the skin
Compresses are used to relieve headaches and pain,
disinfect wounds and soothe tired eyes. Make a fresh
one each time.
Make a strong infusion of dried herb (lavender
flowers are used here), using 2 to 3 teaspoons of
dried herb per 1 cup [250 ml) water. Cover and steep
for 10 to 1 5 minutes. Remove the cover and leave the
infusion to cool to a temperature that is comfortable
to the skin. Soak a face washer or flannel in the
infusion and wring out the excess water.
Apply to the affected part. As the compress
dries out, it can be resoaked and reapplied.
affected body part. Place in a container 1 R ub a little body oil onto the affected
A poult1ce IS a top1cal appl1cat1on of a and blend using a stick blender, adding body part to prevent the poultice
fresh herb, which is most commonly used a little water to aid the blending, if sticking to the skin. Apply the poultice,
to encourage healing of inju red muscles necessary. The finished mixture should covering the muslin with plastic wrap
and bones (for example, strains, sprains be of a m ushy consistency. to keep it in place. To make it more
and fractures), or to draw matter out of Place the mixture on a piece of folded secure, if necessary, place a bandage
the skin (for example, to help remove a muslin. Use a spatula or the back of a around the poultice.
splinter or bring a boil to a head). spoon to spread the mixture thinly so J ag Change the poultice about every
Chop sufficient fresh herb (comfrey that the surface area will cover the couple of hours, or, if possible, leave it
leaves are used here) to cover the whole area of the affected body part. in place overnight.
II
t n f u cd > i i "-
d
Oil-solubl e components can be extracte
1n oil over an extended Hot infused oils are used for woodier,
by infusmg an herb
denser p l a n t parts, and are used for
penod of hours or days. The pure mfused
p l a n ts with "heating characteristics.
oil 1s then used for topical applica tions or
Popu lar exa m p l es are hot mfused oils
added to a cream or ointmen t. Medicat ed
of cayenne (ch i l i pepper), black pepper
1nfused oils are similar to (althoug h much
a nd g i nger, all of which a r e used to
stronger than) culinary 1nfused oils. They
warm stiff, painful m uscles and joints.
are quite different to the essent1al oils used
aromatherapy, which are commonly For dried herbs, use a ratio of 1 part
n
extracted from plants by distillat1o n. herb to 3 parts oil. For fresh herb, the
ratio is 1 part herb to 1 .5 parts oil.
A cold mfusion process (shown below) (fresh bird's-eye chi lies a r e used
H . t r h 1' 1 0\H' I' L , l' IH diluted w1th spnng water and brandy for
Dr. Edward Bach was an eminent researcher dispensing to patients, an1mals or plants.
in the fledgling sc1ence of Immunology The stock IS also sometimes added to
Clrmatls (ClematiS v1ta/ba) may also rncouragr
when he gave up medic1ne 1n 1 930. A firm creams and ointments.
grrat crrativity and makr you morr alrn.
bel,ever that mental and emot1onal issues Dr. Bach 1dent1fied 38 flower essences
were beh1nd every 1llness, from then on he that are s ill used throughou the world,
devoted his life to Identifying gentle natural and their indications are summarized Cherry plum is for people who fear
remedies to bring he heart and m1nd back below. Rescue Remedy, the most popular for ther san1ty, who feel they are heading
to a state of balance. of h1s creations, is Indicated during any for a nervous brea down, or who are
Bach spent much of his time in the emergency, large or small. Th1s combination fnghtened they will harm themselves
Bnt1sh countryside, where he "tuned tn' of the five flower essences - cherry plum, or others.
to the healing properties o flowers, and clematis, impatiens, rock rose and star of Chestnut bud teaches you to learn from
where he developed a system of prepanng Bethlehem - helps to relieve fear, panic, your experiences, so you don' repeat the
his remedies - or flower essences - that stress and shock, and is mostly taken by same mistakes again.
is still in use today. He believed the subtle mouth, but 1t can also be added to a bath Chicory is for people who risk stifling
energetic qualities of the plant could be tub, applied to the wrists or forehead, or their relationships by clinging too tigh ly
captured by float1ng freshly p1cked flowers admm1stered in a cream. to thelf loved ones.
in bowls of pure spring water, which were Building on Bach's work, researchers Clematis bnngs those who are always
then allowed to sit 1n a sunny place for have developed ranges of essences dreaming about the future back down
several hours before he used brandy to from flowering plants that a re found to earth to focus on the present.
preserve and stabilize the essence. in other parts of the world, including Crab apple helps you to heal yourself
This concentrated flower essence, Australia, New Zealand, South Afnca, of any feelings of unworthiness and
called the "stock" remedy, can be further Hawaii and even far-flung places such as uncleanliness.
Alaska, the Himalayan mountains and the E l m helps people who are overwhelmed
Amazon Jungle. by thelf responsibilities to feel able to
cope again.
l n t mfl u r r n g Gent1an provides energy and enthusiasm
t h e rc nw d i (' :-- after d1scouragmg setbacks.
Here's a list of the Bach Flower Remed1es Gorse renews optim1sm in those who
and their main indications. feel hopeless, and enables them to see
Agr many helps cheerful people who the pos1tive steps they can take.
a re secretly troubled to deal with their
underlying problems.
Aspen supports those who are anxious
or warned, but are unable to identify
what frightens them.
Beech fosters a spint of compassion in
those who are intolerant of people who
are different to them.
Cenaury helps people who over-extend
themselves help1ng others to learn to say
no so they don't wear themselves out.
Cerato boosts self-confiden ce, teaching
you to listen to your own counsel instead
Star of Brthlrhrm (Ormthogolum umbel/a tum) is
Chwy plum (Prunus cerosifero) in blossom
a prrrnnial bulbous plant with a drlicatr flowrr. of others' opinions.
Heather helps self-centered people who
constantly seek attention from others to
become less needy.
I G:i an m,Jtil'
iZC'
Holly helps release feelings of anger, rr t han rsnc(' frllm Olli look. u n d o l d m a n lianksia lu recnerg
LO
aggression, jealousy and hatred, and l h r flora or i hl' ,\IJ'i i TU i idll II ildtJ'IJCSS. Lhnsl' 11 110 han hccomr l r lhargic due
encourages a positive, open outlook. lany i\us l r< J iin n p l a n I <ll'l' un ique frull'a l ions dlltl setback .
Honeysuckle is for people who are 111 I he world. Jncl according to L l w L1e I h e Rdch Flo11 e r Rr m e d l(' . . Lilt'
stuck in the past, reliving either their m J n u facLUI'l'I'R or I IH' \ u s l ra l ian Bush \uua l ian Bush FJowr1' srnct
l s are
.
past mistakes or past happiness. Flm1 t'l' Esstnceg. thr 1' 1rmrdirs createcl h . t uning m " to each p l a n t ',
Hornbeam supports people who <Irati on l ilt' 11 iBllnm of I h is ancirnt <'nrrgcl ic qua l i l irs 111 i l s n a t u ra l huhland
procrastinate because they are so landscape to promolt' I<JI ing M'l l i ng. These energies are ! he n capturrtl
overwhelmed by the tasks before them emotional cha nge. ann J ra n s ferrl'd 1 0 a l i q u i d remedy t h a t
that they feel exhausted before they begin. TIJr \'\ll'll Sii C range 111Ciudrs Slul'l c a n be taken Cll'a l l } or ad!lrd L o creams .
Impatiens is for critical, irritable or Desel'l pra lor aline s <Hld ci\'CP Also al'ailalllc i a range of Sou l h
1mpulsive people who are easily frustrated emotional pai n . s u n s h i ne 11 a t l l t ' to Ar1ican F1011 f'r t'SSCIICr . w h i c h inrluctr
by the slowness of others. h e l p people 11 h o d l'(' L rugg l i n g 11 1 l h aganan l h u s . hlush i ng liri!it'. keu rl j ie.
Larch builds self-confidence in those
n Pga l i l i l ) Lo re t u rn t o a po. i l i 1 r nicolidna. SOUl' l'ig a n d si lvrrlear.
people who consider themselves inferior
to others, and helps overcome an
expectation of failure.
Mimulus helps heal fears and phobias,
ranging from anxiety about public
speaking to fear of ill ness or death
Mustard brings clarity and light during
times of despair and despondency.
Oak helps determined, driven people
to realize when it is time to sit back
and take a rest, or perhaps to realize
that their goal 1s neither achievable
nor worth striving for.
Olive brings renewed energy to those
who are exhausted by struggle and ready
[Swainsana formosa) to
to give up.
Sturt Desert pea has been proven help alleviate deep emotional pain.
p;ne is for those who feel guilty about
thw own perceived past faili ngs, and
always feel they could have done better.
Red chrstnut releases excessive anxiety Sweet chestrut strengthens those who Wa r v olet helps 1solated or aloof
or fear for the well-being of others. feel they are in a hopeless situation and people to reconnect with others.
Rock rose brings calm during times cannot go on. Wh1 1 1 t ca l m s a n overly
of terror, panic or extreme fea r. Vuvam brings flexibility and detachment busy m 1 nd, helping to settle mcu lar
Rock water is for those who deny to people who zealously try to convert or repetitive thoughts and allowing
themselves pleasure in favor of some others to their own bel iefs, and who concentration and focus to return
higher goal and feel a failure when they can become quite worked up by their W l d oat helps those who can't dwde
cannot maintain their own impossibl y own efforts. he1r d i rection 1n life to 1dent1fy ther path.
high standards. Vme eases the need to dominate IN l d rose rekindles motivation 1 n people
Scle ranthus helps people who question and control, and is for those who who no longer stnve for change because
hemselves when making dec1s1on s to are prone to agg ress1on and the hey have become resigned to ther
instead feel confident in their convictio ns. abuse of power pa r ICUiar lot 1 n l i e
Star or Sethi{ hem heals feeling
s Wa l n u t eases you throug h times of W i l l o w helps people who feel overly
of shock, regard less of whethe r the
change and helps you confidently stand sorry for themse lves and resent the
unpleasan t event occurr ed recent ly
your g10und when those around you success and happme ss ot others to
or m the dista nt past . have different op1n1ons return o a more pos1 1ve Oltloo
1 el i i n c I I ( t b s
\ l ud n n l lo t a n i c n l nwl i i c i n e llas become t ru l y i l l t r ' r n n l iona l .
1ydrastis canadensis
M i l k thistle has such a remarkable ability
r 1 Rh1zomes
to prevent and repair liver damage that
)olden seal IS named for 1ts rhizome's certain constituen s are somet1mes
haracter1s ic yellow color, and It was used intravenously to treat death cap
1sed as both a dye and a medicine by mushroom po1son1ng. It 1s a lso em ployed
Ia 1ve Amencans. It is still beloved by against more frequently encountered
erbalists today, who regard it as a b1tter toxins, such as a lcohol and environmental
1gest1ve st1mulant, a n as nngent ton1c poilu a nts, and can help digestive and
You can use dried senna pods, available at
Jr he mucous membranes and a potent cholesterol problems, h a n ks to its effects
health-food stores, to make an infusion.
road-spectrum ant1microb1al remedy. as a liver and g a llbladder tonic The best
ome of 1ts most medically 1mportant qual ity products are s anda rdized for thelf
lkal01ds are also present m other plants silymarm content, which is considered to
.uch as barberry and Indian barberry), be responsible o r most of the herb's
Arctostaphylos uvo-ursi
nd these are now largely used m its medicinal benefits.
Leaves
lace, because golden seal has become
,dangered by over -harvesting. Uva - u rsi's an 1 m 1crobial proper 1es are
cl
specifically 1 n d 1cated for un nary tract
TobebuJO 1mpetiginoso
mfect1ons, and seem to be more ef ec 1ve
I n n er bark
when the unne is a lkali ne. Smce many
In he 1 9 60s, pau d'arco developed an u r i nary tract i n fections acidtfy he u rine,
internat1onal reputat1on as a cancer the herb IS somet1mes prescribed wi h an
cure, but it had been used as a trad1t1onal alkalizmg substance (such as bicarbona e
medicme m Brazil for hundreds of years of soda) to m a x 1 m ize 1ts effec s. The
before that. Some of the herb's compounds that are responsible for
consu uents have been shown m a the antibiotiC ac ion a re not presen
laboratory sett1ng to mhiblt the growth in uva - u rsi Itself, but are formed rom
and activity of umor cells. An i m m u ne 1\s content o phenolic glycos1des af er
stimulant act1on that may further help the herb IS 1ngested.
he body fight cancer (as well as fungal
d1seases and other 1nfect1ons) has also
Caution
been documented. However, extensive
Do no lakr he herbs on hese pages ,
ou
e Cherokees pounded golden seal rhizomes research will be required before 1 s are pregna rt or breas feeding , e>cep
urder
th bear fat to makr an nsect repellen t. paten ial is fully understood. the adviCe of a healthc are profess ona
R E S P I R ATO Y SYS T E M
Sor th roa t s c o l d a n d fl u
Tile c ll o i c c of a n a p p ro p r i a t e remed Lo re l i ve a c o l d or a
bo u t or f l u i c l c Lc r m i n I b L ll e ymptom yo u ' re peri n c i ng.
l lO'-. \( ; r . Infuse 1 to
which is released when you crush fresh cloves.
documented as having antimicrobial 2 teaspoons
properties. which may help to explain (2 to 5 g ) dried elder flowers in boiling
the herb's traditional use as a gargle water; drink 3 cups per day. Alternatively,
Garlic
for sore throats and tonsillitis. look for a commercial preparation
Allium sativum
IH) \ ( ; I Make a strong infusion made from elderberries and follow
Broad-spectrum t nfection fighter
of dried sage; use as a gargle several the manufacturer's instructions.
times per day, as required. In vitro research has shown that garlic
and several of its constituents have
\ m l rogra ph i s
broad-spectrum activity against a wide
) a lTO\\ Andrographis paniculato
variety of d isease-causing organisms,
Achillea mi/lefolium C l i n i ca l ly proven to reduce
including strains of the virus that causes
Fever remedy symptoms of respiratory infection
flu. Garlic also helps fight colds and flu
Native Americans traditionally used Used in many parts of Asia for the by enhancing the activity of immune cells
yarrow to treat feverish conditions, and treatment of infectious and feverish and, when taken prophylactically - that
modern herbalists still follow their lead. condi ions, andrographis has been is, as a preventative medicine - may help
It is often called for in the early stages investigated in several clinical trials. protect you from catching a cold.
of cold or flu, and is commonly combined These studies document i mprovements 1 I >U \! ; E To treat infection, take up
with elder flower, which is also considered in symptoms of cold, flu and pharyngo to 2 cloves fresh garlic per day. Chop them
helpful in lowering high temperatures. tonsillitis, such as fatigue, sore throat, and leave them to sit for 5 to 10 minutes
) )( )') \ ! , L Infuse 1 teaspoon (4 g ) muscle aches, shivering, excessive nasal before cooking with them. This will allow
dried yarrow ( the flowers, seeds and secretions, sinusitis and headache, and the medicinally active component allicin to
leaves) in boiling water; drink 3 cups suggest that andrographis may also reduce form. For prevention, aim for a dose of up
per day. the amount of sick leave patients need in to 3 cloves per week, or buy a commercial
order to recover. Like echinacea, astragalus preparation that provides a standardized
and garlic, andrographis also appears to quantity of either alliin or allicin, and
Elder
have some preventative action and, when follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Sambucus nigra
taken over several months, may help
Fever a n d flu re l ief
reduce the incidence of colds.
Thyme
Elder flowers are used to treat upper DOS \< ; I : For the best results, take Thymus vulgaris
respiratory infections with fevers or andrographis as soon as possible after
Antimicrobial and antispasmodic
sinus congestion. The berries have long the onset of cold or flu symptoms. Look
been used to make cordials and wines, for commercial preparations standardized The essential oil of thyme is regarded as
but more recent research in Israel has for their content of andrographolides, one of nature's most potent antimicrobial
established that a commercial preparation which are considered responsible for substances, so herbalists commonly
of elderberries, standardized for its much of the herb's activity, and follow prescribe the plant to help resolve
content of anthocyanins - the purple the manufacturers' instructions. Doses respiratory tract infections, such as
compounds that give the berries their of up to 6 g dried herb per day are colds, flu, tonsillitis and l aryngitis. It
color - helps relieve the symptoms normally used to treat infection, while also has antispasmodic properties, so
of flu and shorten the duration of the lower doses are taken for prevention. it can be used to help reduce coughing.
R E S P I RATO R Y SYSTE M
DO:\ \ ( ; 1 Infuse up to 1 teaspoon Marsh mallow and andrographis may affect Yarrow may very occasionally increase
be
(4 g) dried thyme leaves or 2 teaspoons
blood sugar levels, so they should not sensitivity to sunlight. If you develop
taken by people w1th diabetes, except under th1s symptom, stop usmg it I mmediately
fresh leaves in boiling water; dnnk 3 cups
professional supervision. and seek medical adv1ce.
per day. Do not use large doses of elder flower
Don't use yarrow 1f you are allerg1c to
\\ h i l r hore h o u n d plants (for example, ch1cory, da1s1es, Black horehound (Bal/ota nigra) should
Marrubium vulgare echinacea and chrysanthemums). not be used as a substitute for white
diarrhea and vomiting. Use only the not take the herbs on these two pages 1f
White horehound has expectorant
dried or cooked berries. you are pregnant or breast feed ing , except
properties, helping to break up thickened
Andrographis may exacerbate pre-existing under professional adv1ce.
phlegm and encouraging you to cough to
cases of heartburn and gastnc ulcer. Garlic
remove it from the respiratory tract I t is
may cause minor gastric upset in some
particularly favored by herbalists when
people, but these symptoms are less likely
coughs are dry, hacking and unproductive. when the herb is cooked.
j )( ), \ ( , I, I n fuse up to 1 teaspoon
[2 g) dried flowering tops of horehound
in boiling water; drink 3 cups per day.
\ l mh m a l h m
Althaea officina/is
Soothing expectorant
for i rritated a i rways
Caut ions
Exceeding the recommended doses
of yarrow, andrographis or wh1te
I1 rnun suppo1
l lclp l)OO. t o u r l)()c l:r's elden . e. aga i n,'t di ca e-cau
i ng
11actl' r i a a n d ' i r usc, l l. tak i n g i m m u n e-s t i m u lati n g h e r b .
I .rltilldl t'cl
fe 1 t rr to 1rf t1on
pooled the results of 14 clin ical studies members of the Asteraceae fa moly of plants
l m p rov s 1mmun ity
and est1mated that taking echinacea (for example, daisoes, chrysanthemums.
1n chron c cond;t10ns
decreased the l i kelihood of developing a chocory and chamomile); people woth pollen
allergies should also take care, as some
cold by 58 percent, and when a cold d1d In traditional Chinese medicine, the herb
preparatoons may con tam pollen. Cases of
occur, its d u ration was shortened by astragalus is attributed with warming
contact dermavtis have also occasionally
about 30 hours. properties and is regarded as a lung
been reported.
Ill I ( I The most appropnate tonic. It IS indicated for patients with Talk to your doctor before taking echinacea
dose of echinacea depends on both the longstanding illnesses and for those who 1f you have an autoommune conditoon, such
plant part and the species used, but it are susceptible to recurrent infection, and as lupus, or a progressive disease. such as
is important to start taking the herb as appears to improve the functioning of the multiple sclerosos or H IV/AIDS. Echinacea
soon as possible after symptoms develop. should not be used by patoents taking
immune system so that the body can
immunosuppressive medocations.
Preparations made from the root of better defend itself against pathogens -
Note that astragalus os recommended for
Echinoceo ongustifolio or E. pol/ida are especially viruses. Astragalus is a good
chronoc (longstanding) rather than acute
generally taken at doses of about 1 g taken herb to try if you're run-down and tired
mfections; discortmue use i you develop
3 times daily to treat colds or, in lower and repeatedly catch colds or flu since, an infection while takmg ot.
doses, as a preventative. For E. purpureo, in addition to its immune-boosting The resistance-boostmg effects of astragalus
either the whole plant (including roots) or propert1es, it is also traditionally used may help reduce the sode effects of some
the aerial parts may be used. The dose is to raise overall vitality and energy. immunosuppressove cancer treatments, such
r Iay f er an I sinusitL
prevent. Lhe
Herb' can help provide relief from. and rna e en
d bilitaling pain of inu ili and lh mptom of hay fe er.
llol'...,l'I\Hlhh \ll>izia
Armorocio rusticono Albizio lebbeck
1 you've ever tasted horseradish (or its Albizio lebbeck has a long history of use in
Japanese cousin wasabi), you'll know that Ayurvedic medicine, where it is prescribed
sinuses and easmg breathing almost including hay fever, asthma, hives and
is due to the ability of compounds called that albizia works by stabilising the cells
glucosinolates to liquefy thickened mucus, that release histamine and other allergic
makmg it easier to clear and relieving the mediators, thereby relieving allergrc
pressure and head pain assoetated with tendencies and helping to manage
its potentral for preventing hay fever m some people and should be avoded by
runny nose and watery or irri a ted eyes. allergy med1ca 10ns (such as antoh stam nes)
of high-pollen exposure.
It can also be used for colds and lu with except under profesonal super;1s on, as
( I Take up to 9 g of dried leaf
the effects o the drugs mav be e1arced
smilar symp oms. per day rn tablet or capsule form. For the
b.cept for normal cu1 nary quar Jt1es u
11 1
lncligc tion
Tlw l' n jo)mr n t of a meal q u i c k! el i ', i pa t es if thr b u r n i ng
pa i n a n d d iscomfort of i n c l ig ,' l io n o r c l , prpsia fo l l ov. .
Na u ea
Wheth r it' a 24-hour Lomach bug. a ca or food poi oning
or a bout of ea ickne
. nau a make you r I mi rable.
If you're feeling queasy, reach for ginger The essential oil that gives chamomile
first Several clinical trials support its its characteristic smell also imparts
treatment and preventative for nausea properties, while its bitter principles help
morning sickness, motion sickness and This combination of actions, along with
post-operative vomiting and nausea. For its renowned calming effects, make
more information on ginger and morning chamomile a very useful herb for the
1 DOS \Ia'. Add 20 to 30 drops ginger it is due to, or accompanied by, anxiety
colic in babies and is equally beneficial of peppermint and/or caraway are not
(4 g) dill seeds to release the essential they may interact with some drug5.
oil before infusing them in boiling water. Caraway may cause an allergic reaction in
some people. Stop using it if you expenence
Drink up to 3 cups per day to relieve
any adverse effects. such as diarrhea or
bloating and flatulence in yourself or
a runny nose.
colic in a breastfed baby. For babies over Do not use the herbs on this page in greater
the age of 3 months. allow the infusion than culinary quantities if you are pregnant
Caraway is combined with fennel and dill to to cool and give 1 to 3 teaspoons at or breastfeedmg, except under the advice of
make an infusion for treating intestinal problems. a time up to 4 times a day. a healthcare professional.
DIGE'STIVE- SYSTEM
Western diet. In fact, psyllium IS one of the drink the decoction up to 3 t1mes daily.
also be sprinkled on fruit or breakfast corticosteroids) for the relief of the pain,
cereal once a day. Every dose of psyllium itching and bleeding of hemorrhoids. The Cautions
should be taken with a large glass of water. herb is also traditionally taken mternally Anthraqumone-containmg herbs should
It IS prescribed for constipation and is appropriate for your circumstances. Persons d1agnosed w1th an 1ntestmal 1llness
considered to promote bile secret1on, should only use herbal medic1nes ( i ncludmg
ldl'\' i llg ((UJiltilll'S O[ l'OIIIjlOIIO(IS psyllium. because cases of cho rng have
rh1zome in 3 cups (750 ml) water Simmer
ralll'<l Jntllraqumonl' gl rosults. occasionally been reported m people
un il reduced to 2 cups (500 ml). Take
llhll'h ll'all'lillniUgh lill' lilgt'S(II(' who have taken psyllrum powders
'/, to I. cup (50 to 100 ml) of the
Without adequate flurds
systrm LO llw 1ntrsunr. 11 ht'l'l'
decoct1on with your evening meal. Rhubarb leaves are toxic and should not
tiH'\ tllnulall l)('n,lahls a nil
be consumed.
tri gger a hOIIt'l lllOi t ' ment . Smre
Top1cal applications of w1tch hazel
)tllo\\ cl<w"
damage from toxic exposure, and for disease (including gall stones), do not
Th white veins on the leaves of milk thistle attempt to treat yourself using these
headaches a nd skin problems associated
were said to be milk from th Virgin's breast. or any other herbal medicines. lnstad,
with poor liver function.
seek th care of an appropriately trarned
I)( l" \I,( Look for tablets or
healthcare professional.
capsules that are standardized for their
Dan(lelion mol Minor gastrointestinal symptoms. such
silymarin content (sometimes labelled as nausea, diarrhea and flatulence
Taraxacum officinole
as flavanolignans or silybin), and follow are sometimes experienced when th=
Trad itional hepatic toni c
the manufacturer's instructions. remedies are taken. If you experience
to support its use, schisandra may have caffeine-free alternative to coffee and a do not take turmeric at doses higher than
similar liver-protecting properties to milk pleasant way to stimulate digestion before normal culinary intake.
thistle. Laboratory studies demonstrate or after a heavy meal. In tradrtional Chinese medicine, schisandra
is contraindicated in the early stages of
a number of a ntioxidant effects and 1 ()(h \(,h Infuse 112 to 2 teaspoons
coughs and colds.
suggest that it, too, has the ability (2 to B g) dried or roasted dandelion root
W ith the exception of normal culinary
to prevent cell damage by harmful in boiling water; drink 3 cups per day. quantities of turmeric, do not use the
substances and to reduce some of the If using the roasted root, add milk or herbs on this page if you are pregnant
symptoms associated with liver disease. soy milk to taste, but avoid sweeteners, or breastfeeding, except under the advice
1 l)(), \(,1': Take the equivalent of because they may diminish the herb's of a healthcare professional.
500 to 1500 mg of the dried fruit 3 times effective-ness. Tablets, capsules and a
per day, in either tablet or tincture form. tincture are also available.
Detox
Fe ling luggi h and run-down? tJ a be iL's lime to d to
di t.
e pe iall if you e been o erinclulging or n glc Ling your
Dandelion leaves have powerful diurettc congested, and when skin problems, such
properties (although, traditionally, these water; dnnk 3 cups per day. Alternatively,
actions are considered to be milder than juice the fresh herb and drink 5 to 15 ml
the actions of the dandelion root). 3 times daily.
1 f)O \( ;t: Infuse 1 to 2 teaspoons
(4 to 10 g) dried dandelion leaves 1n P I lium
boiling water; drink 3 cups per day. Plantago ovata, P. psyllium
Factlttates excretion of toxins The roots of dandelion are dried and roasted to
make a caffeine-free coffee substitute.
Clem ers
Soluble fiber of the type found in psyllium
Galium aporme
husks is especially beneficial when you're
Lymphatic cleanser professoonal children, teenagers, pregnant
detoxing because 1t forms a gel-like
and breastfeedong women, people woth
Cleavers 1s traditionally regarded as a substance in the Intestines, trappmg toxic
chronoc ollness, diabetes, diagnosed
gen le ye effective tonic for the lymphatic compounds so they can be excreted.
ontestine, kidney, liver or gallbladder
system, which collects wastes and foreign I)( )'-o \I, L Psyllium husks are dosease, cancer pa oents, people akong
available in tablets, capsules and soluble prescribed medocatlons; people woth
powders, and should be taken accordmg a hostory of eatong dosorders or alcohol
to the manufacturer's instructions. or drug abuse; people who have had
A teaspoon of powdered husks can also a hogher than normal exposure to toxins
The most h1ghly valued of all Chmese Lemon balm IS traditionally used during
herbs, Korean g1nseng has a long-held t1mes o tens1on, restlessness and an 1ety,
reputation for help1ng the body and mmd and IS 1deal when you are feeling uptight,
cope w1 h stress It has been he subjec ag1tated or overwrought. In clinical tnals,
of n umerous clin1cal tnals, wh1ch have people affected by stress have reported
documen ed (among other effects) feeling mcreased levels of calmness and
i mprovements 1n alertness, relaxat10n, 1mproved mood after JUSt a smgle dose of
mood and performance on various tests. lemon balm, but it can also be taken over
No all ciln1cal tnals have supported a longer period when stress is ongoing.
Korean ginseng's trad1t1onal reputation. I)(,..., \I ,f. Infuse 1 to 2 teaspoons of
l l \I, Take commercially prepared resh aerial parts of lemon balm in boiling
Korean ginseng tablets accord1ng to water; drink 1 cup 2 to 3 times per day.
he manufacturer's mstruc ions (up to a The herb has a mild sedative action, so
ma 1mum of 1000 mg of dned root per 1f you are suffenng from fat1gue, take
day). Look for products standardized for 1t only in the evening.
the1r con ent of g msenos1des. Note that
Korean ginseng is traditionally taken for Cautions
8 to 12 weeks at a t1me, followed by a Do not take Korean gmseng 1f you have
for frail or anxious patients. h1gh and low blood pressurd. depress1on,
An infusion of oats seed is used topically to
an 1ety, hyperactivity, mental illness soothe itchy skin.
(mcluding b1potar disorder and s1milar
Oat conditions). msomnia, blood clots or
Trad t1onal restorative Korean gmseng is known or suspected rderred to as cholinergic (or parasympa
plant are used to help restore a depleted WI h your phys1cian or pharmacist before before using lemon balm.
takmg 11. Do not take it at the same time Do not ta e any of these herbs 1f you are
or debilitated nervous system and aid
d ri n k 3 cups per day. Children over 4 years Lemon balm may mteract with some
D pre s s ion a nd a nL i e ty
t you r mood o r ca l m
L ed a p prop r i a t e ! , h e rb c a n 11 c l p l i f
your ne n e \\ hen ou fi n d L h ing ' d i ff i c u i L Lo d a l i L h .
The scent of lavender has long been St. John's wort is known or suspected sunburn Avoid sunbathmg or prolonged
attnbuted to promoting relaxation. to interact with many pharmaceutical sun exposure while takmg St. John's wor
medicatiOns (including antidepressants. and consult your doc or f you develop
and there is a grow1ng body of evidence
cardiovascular med1c1nes and contra th1s symptom.
to support this traditional pract1ce.
ceptves). so consult your physician Stop takmg St. John's wort at least
Studes Indicate that inhaling lavender
or pharmaCISt before taking it. 2 weeks pnor to undergomg surgery
essent1al oil helps ease anxiety and
Depress1on IS a senous cond1t10n and IS Unless adv1sed to do so by your doctor.
1mproves feelings of calmness and well not SUitable for self-treatment Do not do not take St. John's wort if you are
bemg in a range of stressful situations, stop taking prescribed antidepressants pregnant or breastfeeding, and do not
mcluding dental waiting rooms and except under the adv1ce and supervision give it to children.
mtens1ve-care units. Research also shows of your doctor A 2-week wash-out Do not 1ngesr lavender essential 011 and
that lavender Inhalation has the effect of perod is adv1sed 1f you are sw1tchmg do not use 1 t du r n g pregnancy or breast
reducing he body's product ion of the from pharmaceutical antidepressants feeding. except under the advce of a
to St. John's wort healthcare protessional.
stress hormone cortisol.
Research into the use of St. John's wort m
I H IS \1,1 To enjoy the anti-anxiety
a n d fa t i g u e
1 r o u r e n rg l e e l s a re nagg i n g . a t i m u la t i ng h e r ba l
p i c k- m e - u p rn a b e a l l L h a t you n eed .
6 weeks, followed by a 2 -week break. well as tired, since it also supports the as anemia. underacli\e th raid
i mm une system, helping the body to condition or glandular fev e r.
fight off infections, such as colds well a the herb d tailed on thi
\\ i l h nnia
and flu. page, the remedie for Ten 10n and
Withonio somnifero
I DOS \(; E Boil 3 to 10 g dried stre ( ee page 2 JC!} and I n omnia
Blood-buil d i ng herb
astragalus root in 114 cup (60 ml) of ( e page 2 1 4) rna also be u eful.
it can also be helpful for fatigue caused Cautions medication, do not take withania, except
by anemia or low iron Do not ceed the recommended dose under professional supervision.
Siberian ginseng is unsuitable for people reduce the side effects of some immuno
of studies indicate
with hyperactivity disorders, bipolar suppressive cancer treatments, but should
that it helps to
disorder or similar conditions. If you have only be used in this way in consultation with
promote blood-cell your doctor. Siberian ginseng may also
cardiovascular disease (including high and
formation and raise the interact with chemotherapy.
low blood pressure) , or if you are taking
level of hemoglobin anticoagulant medication, only use it under Do not take withania if you are sensitive to
in the blood. professional supervision. plants belonging to the Solanaceae family
Siberian ginseng and astragalus are (for ample, potato, tomato, eggplant).
contraindicated during acute infections. Do not use these herbs if you are pregnant
Nativ to Mongolia and
Stop using Siberian ginseng at least or breastfeeding, cept under the advice
parts of China, astragalus
is also calld milk vtch. 2 weeks before undergoing surgery. of a healthcare professional.
N E RV O U S SYS T E M
M mo ry a nd con e n tr a tio n
ou p u t th ar k y or our
I f ou keep rorg L U ng \\'h re
oJa e . il cou ld be l i me Lo m i x up a m c m o r Lon ic.
I H h \l ,f Infuse 1 to 2 g dried
< i i 1 1 kgo
brahm1 in boiling water; drink 3 cups
Gmkgo bilobo
each day. Alternatively, take commercial
May delay the progression
preparations, up to a maximum of 6 g
of dementia
per day, according to the manufacturer 's
Ginkgo is the world's most popular instructions.
memory tonic, and is believed to work
via a number of mechanisms, including Rosr m a r
improving blood flow to the brain, actmg Rosmorinus officina/is
as an antioxidant and helping to prevent Traditional memory tonic
injury to blood vessels. It may help delay
the progression of Alzheimer's disease Rosema ry has had a reputation as
and other forms of dementia, so has the a memory ton1c since the time of the
ability to improve the quality of life for ancient Greeks, and it can help i ncrease
sufferers of these debilitating conditions. alertness, reduce anxiety and encourage Gin kgo trees, which date back to the Jurassic
a cal m mind. period. can live for more than a thousand years.
Ginkgo can also be taken for more minor
memory problems or as a supportive tonic Ill h \I .1 Add a few d rops of
dunng s udy periods. However, there is rosemary essent1al oil to an oil burner in reactions have occasionally been recorded,
little sc1en 1fic ev1dence available to help the room or area where you are studying mclud1ng bleedmg problems and seizures.
us understand whether the herb 1s also or working. If symptoms occur, stop takmg the herb
bene ICial m healthy people. and seek med1cal advice
Brahmi occasionally causes gastromtes!lna
f l ( IS \( .L Look for supplements Cautions
disease or any other form of dementia, Do not take brahmi 1f you suffer from
of a concentrated (50: 1 ) extract, prov1d1ng do no take g1nkgo or bra mi without first celiac disease, malabsorption syndromes,
the equivalent of 6 g of the dried herb. alkmg ro your doctor. gallbladder blockage or gastriC reflux
Gmkgo akes a month or two to reach Gmkgo IS known or suspected to interact problems.
1ts maximum effec , so use it for 6 to w1th many pharmaceutiCal medicatiOns Both brahm1 ( Bacapa monnieri) and gotu
12 weeks before assessing whether or (including ant1psychot1c med1cat1ons, kola ICenre/la asiaC1ca) are somet1mes
not 1t 1s helpmg you ant1convu1san s, an !Coagulants and referred to by the name 'brahm1" n
ant,choLnerg'c med,catlons), so consult Ayucved1c herbal exts, so make sure
your doctor or pharmaCISt before a king you don't confuse he wo.
B ra h rn i t Stop ak,ng g1nkgo a least 2 weeks Do not take gmkgo or brahm1, o r app y
Bacopo monmen before undergomg surgery. rosemary essen 1al oil o the sk1n, f you
A1d for learnm g Always use commerc1ally prepared gmkgo are pregnant or breas feedmg, except under
products from a reputable company the adv1ce of a healthcare profess,ona
Brahmi appears to enhance the way Do not consume unprocessed g1nkgo
the brain processes new m ormation, leaves. as hey may cause an adverse
wh1ch makes 1t a perfect herbal ton1c reac 10n. Do not ea large quant1t1es of
for s udents. I also helps relieve anxiety, he seeds or allow children to do so.
G1nkgo sometimes causes mild adverse
so ' can be of real benefit at exam ime -
reaCtiOnS, WhiCh may InClUde diZZiness,
bu 1t does ake up o 3 months o star
gastro1n eslina upset, neadache and
work1ng, so don't leave 11 too late I alierg1c sk1n react1ons. More severe
_ -- - N,E I W O U S SYST EM
\ d l t ' J i;l
Valeriano officina/is
regarded as helpful i n treating anxiety and research into passionflower's actions, there exceptionally vivid dreams, discont1nue 1t
restlessness, although there is conflicting is some preliminary data to support its and try an a lternative herb.
an hour before bedtime. Dried hops can water and drink 1 cup an hour before anti-estrogenic medication.
also be used to make pillows to aid restful bedtime. For anxiety, take the same dose Do not use these herbs if you are pregnant
H a d a c h a n d m igra i n e
\\'hether y o u u ff l' from heaclcch e o r migra i n e fr q u r n L I or
effects become evident - perhaps even as paracetamol (acetaminophen) for medical tnvesugatron - always consult
your doctor.
longer tf you are takmg the fresh leaves. he relief of tension headaches. This
Feverfew sometimes causes allergic side
effect occurs very quickly - a significant
effects, most commonly mouth symptoms,
reduction in the headache's intens1ty
\\ hit e \\ illo\\ h a r k such as mouth ulcers and soreness of the
may be noted as quickly as 15 mmutes tongue These symp oms are more k ely
Salix alba
after the oil has been applied. to occur in people chewmg fresh leaves
Herbal aspirin
I ) ( l'> \( , I Apply a solution (as opposed to tak1ng tablets or capsules).
Whtte willow bark contains compounds containing 1 part pepperm1nt oil diluted Do not take feverfew 1f you develop a rash
ailed salicylates, which are similar to in 9 parts alcohol (or water if alcohol is after comtng tnto contact wi h the plant
the acttve Ingredient tn aspinn. It has not available) to the forehead and temples or rf you are allergrc to other r>1embers of
the As eraceae famtly of plants (for example,
traditionally been used to relieve every 15 to 30 minutes after the onset
chrcory, darsies, chrysanthemums, sunflower
headac es of all types, especially hose of symptoms Take care not to allow the
and echnacea).
accompanied by fever. In one small-scale solution to come into contact wi h the
Do not take whte willow bark 1f you are
allergc to sal1cylates [ i ncludr ng asptrn).
Do not take feverfew or whrte wrllow
bark wr h antopla ele or antrcoagulant
medrcaton. or t you suffer rom a
blood dtsorder
\llhough II !' nrten U\!' I he II Urcl "ni iQraim to l il' sU I I w <1 pa rl ituiMI\ st'l t'rt'
Peppermrrt or I sho uld always be dduted
ht'<Hidrhr. m ml'lliral ll'fllls a migl atnt' h t1 ' l l''rifll ll pt ol lil' l l l l l l ci l l ll" lll'cl.tlllt'
before applrcation. It should not be used
that OW IJr dffllmptlllii'U bl ll l h t r S\ lll piOIIlS, \Ulh (IS 11,111 \l'd ,1 1111 I I JITIII illg, on or near ne face of chtldren and babres
blurred l l'ii! Jn or o t llf'r 1 is11c11 d l s t u r l ta l l l t ' . . <Inti l l llglllll.! 111 n u lllhiH's'i ol t h1 111nhs. [even rn ItS dduted form).
u flt' I'CI' mav aho hi' Jld r t trularll 'it'll 'ii l l l l' to nn1s1' or l i.g l l t d u 1ing .111 .t l l.tlk. a nd Do not take feverfew Or whr e wrllow bark,
mol fl'l ll'dl i n to .1 d&k. q u w 1 room u n l l l ll11 t'PI"I!It or apply peppermrnl od o the skrn, , you
llus p.ts td
are pregnan or breas eedrng, excep unoer
he advce of a healthca re professronal
ne
B rra i ng L 11 r c c l c o r s k i n ru p l ion a n b e a l i v i ng h I I .
TrJ L h e , r 11 e rba l 'Oi u l i o n ' fo r L r a l i n g pl'o b l e m s k i n .
ognus-costus, is more widely known for reversible side effects, such as headache,
its role in the treatment of premenstrual nausea and gastrointestinal upset. Stop
syndrome (PMS) and female reproductive takmg it if you experience these symptoms.
issues, but can also be taken by both Do not take chaste tree at the same time
compounds casticin and/or agnuside. undiluted tea-tree oil to the skin, 1f you are
Results may take up to 12 weeks or pregnant or breastfeeding, except under
The chaste tree is also called monks' pepper
longer to become noticeable. the advice of a healthcare profess1onal.
because 1t was once used to suppress libido.
-_ _- S K I N C, O N D I T I O N S.
Ecz rna a n d p o r 1 a s 1
. .
He rba l i t u a o m b i n a t io n of i n t e rn a l a n d t o p i c a l
treat m e n t t o re l i ve i t h . i n fl a m m a to ry k i n cond i l i n .
A t h l te 's roo t a n cl fu n ga l i n fe c t i o n s
O n ce a fu nga l i n fec t io n l 'J c s ll o l cl . i t c a n b f' h a rc l t o ge
l r i e l o f.
TrJ l l w s c h e r ba l o p t i o n , . b u t he p rr pa rf' c l t o \\'a i l for rc u l t
.
tea-tree oil and some salt to an electronic skin cancer. Laboratory studies support a system1c fungal mfection. However, such
conditions are not suited to self-treatment,
foot bath (the heat and salt may enhance number of pau d'arco's traditional uses,
especially because certa1n components of
the antifungal activity of the essential oil), including fungicidal activity.
pau d'arco may be tox1c 1f taken in
and use for 20 m i nutes twice a day. For I )( '" \ ( ,J Add 10 g inner bark of
excess1ve amounts. Consult a profess1onally
onchomycosis, apply 100 percent tea-tree pau d'arco to n cups (600 m/) water and tra1ned herbalist for more mformation
oil to the affected area twice daily for simmer gently for 1 5 minutes. Cool it to a before using
at least 3 months. Specially formulated comfortable temperature and then use Do not use any of the herbs listed on th1s
tea-tree oil products can also be useful the decoction as a compress or poultice page 1f you are pregnant or breastfeeding,
for some other types of fungal infections on the affected area twice daily. For more except under the adv1ce of a healthcart
- talk to your medical herbalist. detailed instructions, see page 794. professional.
S K I N CO N D I T I O N S
Col d o r gu m a n d m o u th h ea l th
\\'het her you r u ffering from L h e pa i n of cold ore . Loo Lhache
or b leed ing g u m . h e rb c a n help ke p our m ou l h hea i L h .
\l) rrh has long IJe('n a 1 a l uable
Melissa officina/is
you. Alternatively, try making a strong and cnsmrtic . ll w a often 11 orth
infusion of lemon balm and use the more t ha n I I 11 e i g h l i n gold. hence
Cold-sore treatment
liquid in a compress. For more detailed ih status a a s u itable gift ror t h
Clinical studies show that lemon balm instructions, see page 194. infant J e u . . According t o t h e Bible.
is an effective topical remedy for cold myrrh wa HI o u ed to ano1nt
sores, helping to decrease healing time,
C l m e oil Jrsus bod) afl r r t h e crucifixion.
prevent lesions from spreading and Lses t h roughout t he agr i n c l ude:
Syzygium aromaticum
relieve symptoms. Symptomatic relief is m u m m ifica t ion: t he p1e. en a l ion
Rapid toothache rel ief
particularly i mpressive on the second day of w inr: ,1 t reatment for nal..e bite.
of the outbreak, which is usually the time Clove oil is a remarkably effective painkiller intesllnal worm and . c u f\-y: a n d
when symptoms are at the1r most acute. and anaesthetic. When applied to as a n a p h rodisiac. I t i kno11 n to
These effects aren't surprising, smce toothache or inflamed g ums, it reduces l.. i l l variou pest t h a t carry h u m a n
laboratory tests show that the herb, pain within minutes - although only parasite . . mcluding mo q u i toes and
and particularly its fragrant essential oil, for a relatively short ime. It works by t ieL pellrL of myrrh 11 ere burned
has the ability to qu1ckly kill the herpes decreasing the affected tissue's perception i n anc1rnt Eg) plian home to h e l p
simplex VIruses 1 and 2. of pain, and also has anti-Inflammatory r i d t hrm or flea.
I H I \( ; J The lemon balm cream and antibacterial properties.
used m the clinical studies mentioned 1 I )( I \( . 1 . Dab a small quantity of
was extremely concentrated (containing clove essential oil directly onto the site
he equivalent of 700 mg of lemon balm of the pain. If the essential oil is not ulcers and infections without being
extract per gram). Look for commercial available, gently rub powdered cloves or diluted, or added to water (30 to 60
prepara ions of the same strength, or clove buds on the affected area, but take drops at a time) for use as a mouthwash
note that they may not be as effective as or gargle for more generalized g u m
the essent1al oil, which IS rich in eugenol, problems. See also t h e mouthwash
the most 1mportant active constituent. rwpe for bleeding g ums, page 257.
Ca u t i o n s
\ ] \ ll'h
Only apply clove o d a s a top1cal treatment
Commtphoro myrrho
to teeth and gums. Do not take , onternally
Tra d i t i o n a l ant 1sept 1 c for g u ms
Clove otl sometomes causes contact
dermatttos or worsecs trrotatoon of tne
The gum (or resin) of the myrrh tree
gums and mucous membranes. I th1s
IS used for the treatment of mouth and
occurs, stop usong 11 and ronse your
gum problems in many of the world's
mouth thoroughly w1 h water
traditional healing systems. It's a useful, Use clove od only as an emergency or
fast-acting treatment for mouth u lcers, short-term remedy unttl you are able
gingivitiS, periodontitiS and bleeding g u ms to access protessoonal dental care Avoid
reduce swelling and mflammation, has a of t.me, as t may damage gum tiSSue
Aloe vera, A. ferox of arnica can be taken internally for and can br diluted and u ed lD
Aloe vera and A. ferox) on your kitchen area 3 times per day. Choose a product contains a compound called Unique
wmdowsill so that it's handy if you that contains 10 to 20 percent arnica \lanul<a Factor (UMF). \\ h ich uprr
accidentally burn yourself while cooking. tincture or oil. charge it ability to heal infection .
Not only does the cooling aloe vera gel Exten i\t' research at the Lni\t'rsit
soothe the pain of burns, it also reduces of Waika!D in ew Zealand ha
Calendu la
i n flammation. And if the skin is broken, demon trated that high-L\IF'
Calendula officina/is
aloe vera helps protect the burn site from honey disinfects 11 0unds ancJ also
Skm healer
mfection as well as encourages the skin's encourage them lD heal. making it
collagen to repair itself. The result is that A traditional remedy for burns, wounds, an ideal dre ing ror leg ulc r and
burns (and other kinds of wounds) heal grazes and rashes, calendula has been othrr s l n\\ - hea l mg kin infection .
more rapidly when aloe vera is used; in documented as encouraging skin healing l l igh-UMF honey i labrled a actrve
fact, researchers estimate that using aloe in a range of circumstances, and may also manuka" hone. Other manuka
vera gel speeds u p burn healing time by be useful in helping stop bleeding. hone} \l.lthOut the acue label (or
more than 8 days. I I H I-.. \CE For broken skin, first a UMF rating or at lea t 1 0) are nor
I l l '" \ I , I Apply the mucilaginous cleanse the wound with an antiseptic l i kely lD be a pottnt.
gel from the center of the aloe vera leaf solution to ensure that it's clean, then
to the a ffected area 3 times per day, apply calendula tincture to the affected
or use a commercially prepared gel that area 3 times per day. For closed wounds,
Lm c n d e r o i l
contains a high percentage of aloe vera. grazes, rashes and burns, apply calendula
Lavandula angustifolia
Avoid using small, young leaves, as the cream, ointment or infused oil to the Takes the sting out of insect bites
active constituents are most prevalent affected area 3 times per day.
at about 3 years old. When shopping Lavender essential oil can quickly relieve
for commercial products, choose those inflammation and swelling when applied
C h i c k\\ CCd
certified by the I nternational Aloe to insect bites and stings. It also has
Stella ria media
Science Council (IASC), which ensures antimicrobial activity to help prevent
Soothes itches a n d rel ieves rashes
that the product is of high quality. wounds from becoming infected. Its use in
Cooling chickweed is a traditional remedy burns is reputed to have started when the
for all manner of itchy skin conditions, French scientist Gattefosse (one of the
\rn ica
so it's useful to have on hand to relieve pioneers of aroma therapy) stuck his hand
Arnica montana
rashes and bites. It may also be useful in a nearby bawl of lavender oil after
B u m ps a n d bru r ses
in soothing the irritation and itch of burning himself in his laboratory, and was
Arnica has a long history of use as a urticaria or hives. intrigued by how quickly his skin healed.
topical treatment for bruises and for I DO \ C L Juice the fresh aerial parts I DOS u a: Dab undiluted lavender
helping them to heal quickly. Users of the chickweed plant, and mix into a oil onto insect bites or stings as quickly
often report that their bruises change cream or ointment base using a ratio of as possible after they occur. For wounds
color more quickly and consider this 1 part chickweed to 5 parts base cream. and burns, first cleanse the wound with
an indication that the healing process is Apply to the affected area as required. an antiseptic solution to ensure that it's
enhanced. It is also traditionally indicated Alternatively, use a commercially prepared clean, then apply undiluted lavender oil
for the treatment of swollen or sprained cream in the same way. to the affected area 3 times a day.
Sl i p per el m
Ulmus rubro
Draw ing age nt for
splinters and boil s
Tea - t ree n i l
Meloleuco olternifolia
Natu re's potent antiseptic
more appropriate. Creams and lotions or mouth. Do not use top1cal applications laurel). Take note that topical use of
containing tea-tree oil are also available. of arnica for more than 10 days at a lime essential oils may also rrntate the s m,
Toprcal applications of any herb can some especrally if it is already inflamed.
trmes cause reactions, such as dermautts, or With the exception of top1cal applica ron
Cautions rtchrng and burnrng sensations, so perform of calendula and aloe vera, do not use th
Do not consume essentral oils of tea-tree a patch test at least 24 hours before use. herbs l 1sted on these pages 1f you are
or lavender Drscontmue use rf a react1on develops. Take pregnant or breastfeedrng, ecept Jnder
Do not consume aloe vera gel unless particular care with arnica and calendula rf the advrce of a healthcare professional.
rn a commercial form that IS specifically you are allerg1c to the Asteraceae family
in ended for internal use. (for example, dars1es, chrysanthemum and
M U S C LJ LQ S K E L E T A L S Y S T EM
S po r t s i n j u ri e s pr a i n and tra i n
Ta e n a n a L k n oc ? T ill' e h c rl l an help o u ge l u p a n d
a ho u L a n c l b a c k on t h e p i a i ng r i c l d .
its use is restricted to topical applications. from thf Old English wirf, mfaning "bfndablf."
M U SCU LOSK ELET A L SYST E M
'-( -. .... J.
artrr a soft
4
t hr prohlem hrals.
Hypericum perforatum
Reduce hlood flo11 and 1011 both
Topical treatment for n e rve p a i n
SII CI I ing and bleeding b r sling
f Topical applications of St John's wort t hr i n j u red part a quickly a
have historically been used to treat nerve you can.
The hairy foliage of the comfrey plant may pai n of various kinds, but especially
cauSt skin irritation in some people.
the pain of sciatica. This traditional use \ppl) a n ire pack t o the i n j u red
mcreased mobility in 4 to 8 weeks. than 10 days at a time reducing lllood no11 to t he area.
I IH h \( , (, The most important active Toprcal applrcat1ons of any herb can
Consult your phy iotherapi t
constituent of devil's claw is a compound somet1mes cause react1ons. such as
or doctor a oon a po ible.
called harpagoside, and according to dermatitrs or itchrng and burning
brcau e man , art t i ue i n 1 u ries
sensatrons, and rdeally a patch test should
researchers, preparations standardized
be performed at least 24 hours prror to require prorr ional trea t men t .
for their content of harpagoside are
use; discontinue rf a reaction develops.
more effective than non-standardized
Take particular care wrth arn1ca rf you are
preparations. Look for commercral tablets allerg1c to the Asteraceae [for example,
or capsules providing at least 50 mg da1sres, chrysanthemum, echinacea) or under profess1onal advrce Stop ak1ng
harpagoside per day, and take according Lauraceae families of plants [for example, devil's claw a least 2 weeks before
to the manufacturer's instructions. sassafras, avocado, camphor laurel). undergong surgery.
Cramp bark bernes are posonous and Devrl's claw does not appear o be effect1ve
should not be ingested for back parn that radiates down the regs,
C ra m p b a r k Do not take white willow bark 1f you are a symptom that may 1 ndcate nerve
Viburnum opulus allergic to salicylates [including asp1rrn) Involvement. It should be nvestga ed
Muscle relaxant a n d ant i-spasmodic If you are taking ant1pla elet or an ;. by a healthcare pro ess1onal.
coagulant medicat1on, or if you suffer Wth the exception of oprcal applicat1on s
If you're prone to tensron or spasms in from a blood d1 sorder, only take 1 under of S John's wort and wtch hazel, do not
your muscles, cramp bark may be just the profess1onal superv1sion. use any of these herbs 1f you are pregnant
herb you're looking for. Natrve Americans Devil's claw may occasionally cause or breast eed1ng, except under the advce
used it to relieve cramps and other types d1gestrve problems. such as d1arrhea, of a healthcar e profess1onal
and should no be used by people w1th
of muscle pain, and herbalists still
pre-ex1strng gastro1ntest1nal compla1nts,
prescribe it today. With an abili y to reduce
such as ulcers, gall stones or darrhea,
both long- and short-term muscle tension,
excep under profess1onal advce.
it rs considered particularly effective for Do not ake oev11's claw 1f you are takng
overuse injuries and backache. warfarin or an arrhythmiC drugs, excep
M U S C U L O S K E l E T A L_ SYST E M
A r th r i ti s a n ct go u t
Do n ' t l e t t h r ,' L i ffrw : ' . d b i l i t a t i n g pa i n a n d i n fl a m m a l io n
o f a r t ll r i t i ,' c ra m p o u r s t l r . Try some h t'ba l rc m e d i r .
treatments (for example, gold therapy), (400 mg) boswellic acids. Research is a complex condition that is not well
and could be particularly useful for indicates that it may take up to 2 months suited to self-treatment - ask your
sufferers whose arthritis responds poorly for sigmficant effects to be elt, but that healthcare professional to assess whether
boswellia is an appropriate treatment for
you, and only take it according to the
prescribed dosage.
l>c\ i l\ elm\
Horpagophytum procumbens
processes that both damag e cartilag e and and analges1c properties of 1ts aspirin
trigger the JOint change s charac teristic of like substances. Most (but not all) clinical
osreoar thn tis. Clinica l trials indicate that trials also support its role in relievmg
pam and other symptoms of osteoart hritiS the pam of osteoarthrit is, but there has
start to abate after about 2 month s of not been enough research to confirm
taking the herb . 1ts effectiveness in the treatment of
I )( ,..., \( , I The most Important rheumatoid arthritis.
act1ve constituent of devil's claw 1s IHJ \I , I Take commercial wh1te
a compound called harpagoside, and willow tablets or capsules standardized to
according to researchers, preparations contain 240 mg of salicin per day according
standardized for their content of to the manufacturer's instructions
harpagoside are more effective than
non-standardized preparations. Look ( ' p h I \ "il't'd
for commercially prepared tablets
Apium graveolens
or capsules providmg at least 50 mg H<ndy gout remedy
harpagoside per day, and take according
to the manufacturer's instructions. Celery seed is a traditional remedy for
all kinds of arthritis, but it is considered
particularly effective for the treatment
C i ngl i'
of gout. This extremely painful form of
Zmgiber officinole
arthritis classically affects a single joint,
The sp1cy anti-mfl a m m atory
such as the big toe, which rapidly
The humble sp1ce gmger is also a becomes hot, swollen and inflamed.
White willow grows in damp places and was
potent medicine with impressive anti I H IS \I , I Boil 0.5 to 2 g dned celery
mtroduced to the eastern U.S. from Europe
inflammatory capabilities. Laboratory seed in a cup of water for 10 minutes; during the Colonial times.
tests show that ginger inh1b1ts a number drink the decoct1on up to 3 times daily.
of the compounds that promote Alternatively, take a commercially prepared
inflammation in the body - including tincture, tablet or capsule accordmg to the G ing er should not be taken m medie>nal
doses by people su ffe ring from gastnc
several of the enzymes that are targeted manufacturer's instructions.
ulcer or gall stones, or those tak.ng
by pharmaceutical anti-arthritis
warfann or an !platelet medicat1on, except
medications. As a result, it provides relief Ca utions
under professional adv1ce Stop tak1ng 1! a t
from arthnt1s pain, and some studies Boswellia occasionally causes m i l d adverse
least 2 weeks prior t o undergOing su rgery.
have even found 1t to be as effective as effects, such as d1arrhea or h1ves. If this
Celery seed may mterac w1th med,catlons,
he non-steroidal anti-inflammatory happens, discontmue 1ts use. little 1s known
mclud1ng warfann and rnyroxine. It may also
about potential 1nteract1ons between
drug ibuprofen. mcrease the nsk of side effects assoc1ated
boswellla and other med1cat1ons, so 1f you
I JO \I , I' Add 20 to 30 drops w1th some forms of ultraviolet light therapy.
are takmg prescnp!IOn drugs, talk to your
of ginger tmcture to water, or infuse Consult your doctor before use
doctor or pharmacist before usmg 1t
'12 teaspoon powdered ginger or Do not use celery seed i you have a k1dney
Devil's claw may occas1onally cause
1 to 2 teaspoons of grated fresh gmger disorder, or 1f you have low blood pressure.
digestive problems such as diarrhea,
Celery occas,onally causes allerg1c react1ons.
root m boiling water; take 3 times per
C i r c u l a t i o n p ro b l e m a n d va r i co s e ve i n
l n a d c q u Le c i rc u l a t i o n - pa r t i c u l a r l y i n L h I gs - c a n
hrco m c a p r ' i t n t a n c l cl b i l i t a l i n g p ro b l e m a you age .
1 1 o i'S< ' < ' h r s l n u t and it's likely to have even more benefits
Aesculus htppocostonum for the circulatory system when taken
R e l i eves symptoms o f over a longer period of time.
c h r o n t c v e n o u s i n sufficiency I )( I S \ ( ; I, Look for commercial
grapeseed tablets, or capsules that are
The term "chronic venous insufficiency" standardized o provide 1 50 to 300 mg
is used medically to describe leg veins that OPCs per day, and take them according
are hav1ng trouble pumping blood back to the manufacturer's instructions.
up to the heart. In time, and with the
effects of gravity, the legs become heavy
G i n kgo
and swollen, and can feel itchy, tense and
Ginkgo biloba
painful. Varicose veins may also develop.
Ton i c for penpheral circu lation
At least 1 7 clinical trials have examined
the effects of horse chestnut seed extract Although most famous for its action as a
(HCSE), standardized for its content of memory tonic, ginkgo is also an important
The abundant qualities of g rapes are exemplified
escin, on the symptoms of chronic venous circulatory tonic. For example, it helps
in an 1 870s wallpaper design by William Morris.
Insufficiency. Collectively, this research relieve symptoms of both Raynaud's
demonstrates that HCSE can help to relieve syndrome and intermittent claudication -
the pain, swelling and itchiness associated two conditions associated with peripheral nausea, headaches and i chy or rrta
with chronic venous insufficiency. It circulation issues. Raynaud's syndrome skin. If this occurs, stop takmg the herb
appears to do this by helping to maintain is cha racterized by coldness of the and seek medical advice.
the integrity of the blood vessel walls. extremities and intermittent claudication Do not take homemade horse chestnut
or ginkgo preparations, as they may
I I )( )') \ ( ; 1 : Take commercial tablets by severe cramping pain in the legs that
contain toxic compounds and/or cause
or capsules of HCSE that are standardized is triggered or exacerbated by walking.
adverse reactions.
for their content of escin (sometimes spelt I I )( IS \ ( ; E Look for supplements Do not use horse ches nut 1f you are allerg1c
aescin). Look for a product that provides standardized for their content of the to latex. as cross-reac iv1ty may occur.
100 to 200 mg of escin per day, and active constituents g inkgo flavone Do not take HCSE if you have diabetes, liver
always take it with food. glycosides, ginkgolides and bilobalides, or kidney problems. or celiac or other
been shown to relieve symptoms such as feeding, except under the advice of a
HCSE occasionally causes side effects
itchiness and leg pain in as little as 10 days, including gastrointestinal symptoms,
healthcare professional.
CARDIOVASCULAR" SYSTEM
Leg ulcers
leg ulcer that wont heal can have a negative impact. on
your qualit of life. U e h rbs to aid the h aling proce s.
elps heal ulcers from the inside Accelerates ulcer healing 24 hours before any top1cal application.
standardiz ed extra ct of hors e chestnut subj ect of a sma ll-s ca le cli ni ca l tria l t hat w1th calendula 1f you are allerg1c to the
Cautions
<iotu "ola
Ulcers are not well-suited to self-treatment,
Centello asiatica
as they may be symptomatic of underlymg
Nature's t1ssue healer
vascular problems. Always seek medical
advice before commencmg any self
Gotu ko al contains compo unds that
prescribed treatment, including topical
en courag ewounds, u lcers and s cars to
applications.
hea l. and can b e us ed bot h int erna lly and
HCSE occasionally causes s1de effects.
ext ern a llyfor t his purpos e. Ta ken int erna lly, mcluding gastrointestmal symptoms.
it can a sl o aid s ymptoms of chroni cv enous nausea, headaches and itchy or irrttated
Insuff ici en cy so . li ke hors e chestnut, it ma y skm. It should not be taken by people
en courag et heh ea ling of u lcers. wi h a latex allergy.
llo:-, \C I' Ta ke comm er cia lly Do not consume homemade horse
p repar ed ta blets or capsu les of gotu ko la chestnut preparations, as they may
extra ct a ccording to t he manufa ctur er's contain tox1c compounds.
Ins t r u ctions. For topi ca l us e, add gotu Do not take HCSE 1f you have d1abetes,
l1ver or kidney problems. or celiac or
ko al t nt ctur eto a cr eam or ointm ent bas
e other mtestmal d1seases, or 1f you are
(for d e ai led instr u ctions . s eepage 193).
takmg anti-platelet or antiCoagulant
and app ly to t he af fect ed ar ea 2 o3 medication. except under the superv1s1on
Horse chestnut 1s also nown as buckey
tim es p er da y. e.
of a healthcare profess1onal because the seed resemble the
eyes of deer.
IIi bl od pr ssur and high cholest rol
Bl ootl pre ssure anti chol<' terol l evel, are i mport ant i n d i cator
With its bushy habit and white flowers followed by red bwies, the hawthorn makes a pretty hedge.
biologically active compounds to develop.
CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM
fa cili ta ti ng i ts ex cr etion from the bod y. tak1ng hese particular herbal remedies.
DO:-> \1;1, P syllium hu sks ar e and body odor. Some of these effects
Vitex ognus-costus
C1 mealy to
reduce Pc; symptoms
0
Results may take 12 weeks or longer to
become noticeable. If you're experiencmg
difficulty conceiving, consult a medical
herbalist who has been professionally
trained and who can help to determine
The fruits of the chaste tree are used as a pepper substitute and in Middle Eastern spice m1xes.
whether chaste tree is a ppropriate for you.
dep resston from oth er cau ses IS w ell tr eatm ent ha s on ly r ecent ly b een t es ed reversible side effects, such as headache,
nausea and gastrotntestmal upse . If you
es ab li sh ed, tt 's li kely that St. John' s wort i n human stud ies. In 2006, r esea r ch er s
expertence any of hese symptoms. stop
IS a lso an e ecti ve r eatm ent for th ese condu c ed a cl1 ni ca l tria l in whi ch co lleg e
taktng 1t.
PMS s mp om s. In a sma ll pi o
l stud y stud ent s who suff er ed from p eriod pain
Do not take wh1te peony or dong quat if
pub il sh ed in 2000. wom en ta king St. and m en strua l cramp s u sed eith er
you are takmg warfartn or other blood
John's wort r eport ed that th e severit y aromath erap y ma ssag e oi l contai n 1n g thinning or anticoagulan medictnes.
of h etr m enta l and emo tona l PMS cla r y sag e, la vend er and ro se essent ai l Dong qua1 is traditionally contra1ndtcated
sym ptom s had impro ved b y mor e than oil s; ma ssag e Wit hout aromath erap y; or 1n women WI h bleeding d1sorders.
50 p er cen aft er ju st two m en strua l no tr eatm ent at a ll. Th e symptom s of th e heavy periods or a htstory of recurren
cycles. Furth er in vestiga ion i s r equ rt ed wom en who r ecetved h e aromath era p y m1scarnage. It should not be used durmg
bouts of dtarrhea or acute viral tnfectton.
to d et ermm e wh e h er o l ng er-t erm u se ma ssag e w er e Signifi cant ly less sever e
Cramp bark bernes ate poisonous and
ha sadd ittona l h ea lt h b en eftt s. dunng th e ir st 2 da ys of th eir p enod
Increase your fluid intaJ..e !though urinary ac1tlit may help to relit'\t'
With its rich content of mucilage,
the intense pa1n during urination burning s mptoms. and can a! o
marsh mallow provides soothing relief
may discourage you from drinkmg make iL more difficult for 11act ria
to irritated mucous membranes of the
more. it' \1tal that you do. t\t the to sui'\ i>r. '\void acidiC foods.
urina ry tract. Herbalists often prescribe
fir t igo of vmptom , incrra r your 'uch as citru and tomatoes. ami
it to ease the pain and discomfort of
Ouid to about I l iter per bour. if conidrr Wking a commercial urinary
infections or inflammation of the bladder
po Sible. This helps nush hactrria alkalizer (olailahle from pllarmacie").
and kidneys.
from the hladclrr. anti can help 'I homr rrmed of a tea poon of
IH }"> \GF Infuse 2 to 5 g of dried
prr\ent mfrction. from becoming bilking sotla 111 v.ater i a! o an
marsh mallow root in cold (not hot)
morr seriou .. Choos water or rffrctil r urina1y alkalizer.
water, and steep for B hours to release
the mucilage; drink up to 3 cups per day.
grapeseed may reduce iron absorption, so
Dand<'lion leaf
Fluid retention is sometimes a symptom
o heart problems or other serious health separate doses by at least 2 hours.
Taraxacum o fficinal e conditions, in which case medical treatment Don't use dandelion leaf if you are allergic
Nature's diureti c with is required. Always talk to your doctor to members of the Asteraceae family
plenty of potas sium before commencing self-treatment of plants (for example, daisies, echinacea).
High doses of cranberry juice may cause Grapeseed and dandelion leaf (and,
Dand elion l eaf i st raditiona l y r egard ed d1arrhea and other gastrointestinal particularly, the potassium found in
as oneof th e most important h erba l symptoms - if this occurs, discontinue dandelion) may interact w ith some
r em ed iesfor th e elimination of excess use immediately. medications, so check with your doctor
If you are taking warfarin or have a history or pharmacist before taking them.
f luid, r egard less of it s caus e. Alt hough
of kidney stones, do not take medicinal Do not use dandelion if you suffer from
th er e is litt ledata a va ila b le to confirm
quantities of cranberry except under liver or gallbladder disease (including
ti s effi ca cy in humans, a sma ll numb er
professional supervision. gall stones).
of anima lstud ies sugg est that it ma y b e
If you have diabetes, avoid drinking high Stop taking grapeseed at least 2 weeks
as effecti ve as som e common ly pr escrib ed
quantities of sugar-sweetened cranberry before undergoing surgery.
i n leaf is a
pharma ceut ica ldrug s. Dand el o juice and do not take marsh mallow except With the exception of normal culinary
natura l sour ceof pota ssium ; th er efor e, it under professional supervision, as it may quantities of cranberry, do not take the
do esn't t end to caus e th e ad ver se eff ects affect blood sugar levels. herbs on this page if you are pregnant or
as so cia ted with potas sium d ep letion that Marsh mallow may interfere with the breastfeeding, except under the advice of
ar esom etim es obs er ved with th e us e of absorption of other medication, and a healthcare professional.
Grapesred
Vi tis vinifera
Relieves premenstrual
fluid retention
Cautions
UTis are potentially senous -
consult
your doctor at the first
s1gn of symptoms
or 11 y our symptoms
worsen during
treatment Always mvestigate
UTis
In children I
mmediately. There are hundreds of cultivars of the grape
v1ne, grown for fru1t Ifresh and dfled
) as well as w1ne.
WOMEN'S HEALTH
lenopausc
Til ere c rc natural herbal remeclie LhaL wi ll lle l p upport
you r b cl t11 rougl1 th clemancl or menopau e or Lhe change.
\ dgt'
pr el im in ary r esearch in dic at es th at Sage may reduce the absorpt1on of mmerals
Salvia officina/is
it m ay h elp m emory an d conc entr at o
i n. such as calc1um and 1ron, so separate doses
Traditionally used to by at least 2 hours.
Ill h \I; I Infu se 1 to 2 t easpoon s of
reduce hot flushes Lemon balm may interact w1th some
fr esh aeri al p art s of l emon b alm in boiling
pharmaceutical medications, so consult
Sag e is not on yl a popu lar culin ary h erb , w at er; drin k 1 cup 2 to 3 tim es p er day ,
your doctor or pharmacis before takmg 1.
but also awi dely u sed tr adition al r em edy with th e l ast cup 30 to 60 minut es For the safe and appropriate use of St.
for the r el i ef of hot flu sh es. Th e pl ant b efor e b ed. John's wor , see Depress1on and anx1ety,
i snch in t annin s, g ivin g it astring ent page 217.
prop ert ies an d supporting it s u se to Cautions Do not use the herbs on his page 1f you
r educ e exc essiv e bo dily secr etion s. Do not take any of the herbs listed on these are pregnant or breas feeding, except under
In addit oi n to hot flu sh es, th ese drying pages 1f you have a history o hormone the advice o a healthcare professional.
sensitive tumors, endometriosis or uterine
prop ert ies may b en efit oth er m enop au sal
fibro1ds, except under the superv1s1on of a
sy mpto ms such as night sw eat s an d
healthcare professional.
heavy p erio ds. Labor atory stu di es h ave
Do not take black cohosh 1f you are takmg
demon str at ed th at som e compoun ds in
any prescriptiOn medication, except under
sag e po ssess estrog enic eff ect s, which medical supervis1on.
may furth er h elp to exp lain it s tr adition al Do not take black cohosh except under
use 1n menop au se. med1cal superv1s1on 1f you have a history
IHI \1.1 Infu se 1 to 4 g of dri ed of liver d1sease, as some authon ies believe
sag e1n boiling w at er ; drin k 3 cup s p er day . that black cohosh may occas1onally cause
severe liver damage. These ms ances are
extremely rare, but potentially very senous
Ltmon halrn If you experience minor side effects, such
Melissa officina/is as mild, revers1ble stomach upset and skm
Helps anxi ety, Insom n i a problems, stop usmg the herb and seek
and col'lcentra t o n medical advice.
Do not confuse black cohosh w1th blue
A s atr adit oi n al r em edy for r estl essn ess cohosh ( Coulophyllum tholictro1des),
an d anx iety, l emon b alm i s i deal for wh1ch you should only take under
women who f n i d th em sel ves worry ing medical superviSIOn.
mor e or b eco ming mor e sen s1t1 ve to Do not take red clover 1soflavones if you are
st r ess dunng an d aft er m enop ause tahng wartann or ant1coagulant med1canon,
.
It sr el axing prop er 1 es c an al h except under medical superVISIOn.
so el p w ti h
sl eep disturb anc es. Lemon b al h Due o 1ts astflngent nature, sage tea has
m elp s
sometimes been reported to cause dryness
pro mot ef eeling s of c almn ess an
d c an b e and rntat1on of ne mouth. If th1s occurs,
b en ef ci ial as a moo d lift er wh
en you r' e try reduc1ng the dose of sage relat1ve to the
f eelin g emot oi n ally fl at It
h as al so b een amount o water used, and make sure you Popular'" dfled form for teas, lemon
u sed to pro mot e m ent al func balm wa
tion , an d dflnk plenty of water throughout the day called the "elixir of life" by Paracel
sus (page 49)
WOMEN'S HEALTH
r rc onancy
OniJ ll1c .'afrsl of llcrlwl medicine arr r ommrnclrcl
for'' omen to u,'C' during prrgnanc and brraslfrecling.
or stw m a n u alil Jd1 ust thP l la h1 111 10 111 Japan. DL i prrcrn t or bcbtr,
daily, the dose used 1 n this study is only
a lllOft' iljllll'fljlflil!l' jlOSI!IOO - d 11 ho. e mothers had a u pu n c t u re and
10 percent of that recommend ed by
herbal authorities. so it's possible h a t procc<lun' t h a t 's hoth lt'f\ art and 111 0 \lbU'>! Ion :ub. e q u r n l l rotated i n to
more remarkable results could be obtained t11gtll\ etTtcl l l t' t ht' ltacHir, l pos 1 l ion. compared to
w1th higher doses. \ l tt'rll J I II PI \OU CO U l d COINtfer on I) 73. 7 Pt'l' tnt or tho e 11 ho:.r
( ll l<., \I , I Infuse 4 to 8 g dried t rad i t ion a l .hint' ,. lll l'dinne. 11 h i c h mnthrrs llitl not . Ot her resrar her
raspberry leaf i n boding water; drink has a good sucn,s rcrortl ror 1 urn m g hal<' mmlltored u n born babtrs'
3 cups per day from the 32nd week of hrerch llalill's. \our acupu o r t u r 1st react ions to lhts procrdurr and
pregnancy. Alternatively, take raspberry 1\ t l l usr a n arupu nnure IH't'cllr on reported t ha t i t uor not appear
lea tablets or capsules accordmg to the a lll'CJric pom t on \ o u r I 1 U ir lor tO CdUSt' dO} rorla l d i s t res
about the heal h or wel l - be mg of your anti-platelet med1ca ion, except under
Cautions baby. Always 1nform your doctor or m1dw1fe profess1onal supervision. Women who are
If- rea ment w1th herbal med1cine 1s only of any herba medicines you are taking. at risk ot hemorrhage should not take
appropnate for women whose pregnanc1es Ginger occas1onally causes mmor, self gmger m greater than culinary quant1t1es.
have been assessed as low-rts . Use of any limiting symptoms, such as heartburn Gmger should no be taken or 2 weeks
herbal medicone dunng pregnancy and and gastrointes 1nal discomfor If this pnor to undergomg surgery However, 1 n
breas .eeding, 1ncludmg hose on th1s page, occurs, stop tak1ng he herb, or try takmg consul at10n w1 h your phySICian, a s1ngle
1S best earned out under profess1onal 1t '" a differnt form dose can b taken just pnor to surgery to
superv1sion. Seek 1mmed1ate profess1onal Gmger has documented blood-th1nn1ng reduce post-opera 1ve nausea
care or any but he most mmor problems ef ec s, and should not be taken Top1cal applications of any herb can some
dunng pregnancy, or 1f you are concerned concurrently with ant1coagulan or !1mes cause react1ons. such as derma 1t1S or
itching and burnmg sensat10ns, and Ideally
a pa ch test should be performd a least
24 hours before use. D1scontmue use 1f
a react1on develops. Take part1cular care
wtth calendula 1f you are allerg1c to the
Asteraceae family of plants Ifor example,
da1s1es and ech1nacea).
l1k gmgr. raspbrry Ieat has rad1t1onally
ben used as a treatment or mornmg
SICkness. Howevr. 1t 1s best avo1ded durflg
the frst tnmester o pregnancy, as here 1s
no rsearch to conf1rm s satety at th1s 1 me.
1\.ore a n gi n,' c n g
Ponax ginseng
Tom a to - along \V i th other rrd- anti pink-colored fru i t and vegrtable . u h as Potent male tonic
gua\ a. w a termelon and pink grapefr u i t - conta i n a [ligmenL ca l l ed lye pent'. \v h ich
In traditional Chinese medicine, Korean
ha' i m portant benefit for men hea l t h . Population t u d ie ugge t t hat
g inseng is regarded as the most important
men whose diet are highest i n LOmatoe have up lO 40 p rcrnl l<'
herbal medicine for men, and g inseng
chan r of developing pro tale cane r than tho e men \ho e
roots with a shape resembling a man's
tomato con u m pllon i Ia\\. A a potent a n t ioxidant.
body are highly prized. Its traditional
lycopene a l o su pports the heart and blood ves els and
indications include replenishing vital
may help to reduce th risk of cardiovascular disea e.
energy (referred to in Chinese as qi),
Par optim a l a b. orption. lycopene need
helping the body and mind to cope
to be con umed at the arne l i m e a a
with stress, and as a tonic to promote
l i L L ie oi l . o tomato-ba ed products uch general health and longevity. Ginseng is
as ra ta auce and tomalD pa te are also widely used to enhance men's sexual
\al uabl mclu ions 111 you r d 1e1 . performance, and has been shown in a
few clinical trials to have a beneficial
MEN ' S HEALTH
1 fl( ):-, \CE T ake Kor ean gin seng undetected without testing.
abr eakof sever al w eek s. Thi s h erb i s not Nettle plants cause urticaria, or hives, if they
appropri at efor fr ail or anxiou s p eopl e. touch the skin, so 1f you choose to harvest
nettle root, take appropriate precautions.
Oo not take nettle root if you have had
G inkgo an allergic reaction to the nettle plant.
Ginkgo bilobo Oo not take Korean gmseng if you have
not it h as h elp ed you. I f you su sp ect you Always use commercially prepared gmkgo
ar e exp eri encing any ad ver se eff ect of products from a reputable company Oo not
s consume unprocessed gm go leaves as they
vour pr escrib ed m edic ation , t alk to your
may cause adverse react1ons. Do not eat
doctor b efo r e t aking ginkg o , and r efe
r large quant1t1es of the seeds or allow
al so to th eCaution s section th follow
at s. children to do so.
L ' i ng a ro m a l i e h e rb, a n d Cu e n ti a I o i l
t o m a ke yo u r O\\n n a t u ra l bocl -ca re a n d
bcd U tJ- t rea l m e n Ls b r i ng, ma n . rrwa rd .
The c a y a n c l i n cx p e n i e rec i pe s '' i l l
c l a n e . d c to\ i f . oo t lw a nc l e n e rg i ze .
H r b s fo r beauty an d wel l - b i n g
1 o u r i s ll our b d w i l ll n a l u m l l1o m e m ade herbal pr pa rat ion that
\\ i l l c , fo l i a l . l e a n - . L o n e . con d i Li o n . Ilea l a n d soothe.
\\ e dnnk herbal tea. a d d fresh herbs oils, scrubs, soaps and masks, plus special extra-virgin olive oil and flaxseed; and
to recipes for extra flavor and treatments to solve specific problems such antioxidant-rich herbs and spices, such as
take medicinal herbs to ward off colds as acne. Some recipes have been inspired green tea, ginger and cumin. To keep skin
and other common ailments. So it makes by centuries-old texts from Western hydrated, it's also smart to drink a
sense to use herbs in skin and hair-care herbalism and Ayurveda, India's traditional minimum of eight glasses of water a day.
products. Effective for fighting the signs medical system. Others are tried-and-true It's important, too, to avoid partially
of aging, such as wrinkles and dark spots, remedies handed down by generations of hydrogenated oils, trans fats and
herbs also cleanse, tone, moisturize and European "herb-wifes" who knew the polyunsaturated vegetable oils, which
exfoliate your skin and add condition and healing secrets of wild plants. The rest are all pro-inflammatory. Also, steer clear
color to your hair. are recommendations from natural health of foods that cause a rapid rise in blood
Herbs contain thousands of active practitioners who continue to use herbs sugar and insulin - such as sugary or
biochemicals and, thanks to the principle as a primary healing method. starchy processed foods - and trigger
of synergy, they provide various benefits: inflammation. This occurs in a process
your skin and hair recognize these \ u l l ' i <'n l s fo r s J.. i n called glycation: sugar binds to collagen
substances as biocompatible and absorb What you eat affects how you look and fibers in the skin, which makes it stiff
them more readily than mineral oils or how your skin ages. That's why it's smart and inflexible and can lead to wrinkles.
petrochemicals. Herbs can mitigate a vast to consume an anti-inflammatory diet Premature aging of the skin is also caused
array of skin and hair problems, ranging that includes whole grains; fruits and by sun damage, stress, pollution
from facial l ines to dandruff. vegetables of different hues; omega-3 and lack of exercise, so be sure to avord
These hea l i ng botanicals, which contain fatty acids from cold-water fish; walnuts; these factors, too, where possible.
m inerals that calm and fatty acids that
soothe, are among the most effective of
cosmetic and personal care ingredients.
Herbs a lso enhance each other. The right
combination - such as antiseptic pine radicals (damaging metabolic by
A good mull ivitamin and mineral
and cooling sage - makes a homemade products that accelerate aging).
supplement help to provide your
recipe even more effective.
complexion with all the nutrient
Coenzyme 0 1 0 i an antioxidant
it needs. Extra amount or certain
\ l a ke o u r with anli-innammatory properties.
vitamin may be indicated in particular
o \\ n p rod u c L It i helpful for gum health.
conditions: notably A (which rebuilds
Making your own herbal skin and hair
ti sue and balances sebum production). Ft h oU contains es entiat ratty
care products is easy and rewarding.
C (which your body u e to produce acids doco ahexaenoic acid (DHA)
It's also a very practical way of avoiding
collage n . the connective tis ue that and eico a pentaenolc acid (EPA).
exposure to undesirable and potentially
ke p skin firm) and E (which reduces which plump skin. keeping It supple.
harmful solvents, surfactants, silicone, wrinkle formation. protect skin cells
a rtificial fragrances and other synthetic Grapeseed contains antioxidant
and prevents UV-Iight damage). The e
additives found in conventional products. oligomeric proanth ocyanin s (OPC )
rive supplement combat the aging
And it's a means of contributing to a that strengthen blood ve els and
proce s becau e they are antioxidan t
healthier environment and saving some low sign or aging.
o r natural anti-innammatory agents.
money at the same time.
lpha l i poic acid is a powerful Zinc balances oil-gland function.
On the following pages, there are
a n tioxidant that helps defend encou rage \vound healing and
dozens of simple, effective step-by-step
against damage caused by free regenerates kin cells.
recipes for herbal moisturizing lotions and
creams, toners and astringents, powders,
E enlial oil sta rter k i l
The e five e e n l ial oil will form a skin d i Oi'Ciers. and preve n t s scai'ring. Do not take es ential oils
u eful foundation for your collection. I t ' a l o a great in ect repe l lrnl. internally. E.\cert for la1 ender
skin. making iL a great choice for inhala tion to relie1e nausea and Pregnant and llreastreeding
homemade rna age oil and foot baths. respira tory probl m . or in a bath 110men hould aroid rs,enllal
Invaluable for female reproductive to oothe m u cle aches. oils. unles on the ad\ ire of a
health. i l helps overcome irriLabihl qualified aromathrrapisl.
RO E M A RY P r mental fatigue.
and bloaling caused by premen trunl
headaches. colds and flu.
Certain essrnllal oils. surh as
syndrom ( PMS).
TEA-TREE Renowned a an a n t i fungal hiller orange and erapefr u i l .
LAVEND ER l lelpful for cramp . and anti eplic. thl oil can be used for c a n cause s k i n pliutose n s i t JI i i J .
headaches. nervous di order and clearmg yea t i n fection . a t h lete root
Somr o i l s . s u c h as lrmongrass.
msomnia. Healing and antiseptic . and acn . and al o a fir t aid ror
can also liTitatc scn s i l il't' skin.
thi: oil help heal burns and other m i nor ll ounds.
\ ro m a L IH ra p
Essential oils are very versatile and add
a wide variety of benefits to homemade
skin and hair-care products. They offer
potent protection against a range of
common ail ments and help improve skin
and hair health. Their small molecular size
means that they can penetrate deep into
the dermis to provide a profound healing
effect. Their wonderful scents also help
balance your emotions.
Depending on the essential oil
you select, you can add antiseptic,
rejuvenating, tonic or relaxing properties
to a cleanser, moisturizer, ointment or
body splash. Different oils can help
prevent or clear skin problems; stimulate
the generation of new cells; i mprove
muscle tone; stimulate circulation of
blood and lymph; eliminate waste;
counter inflammation; balance sebum
(oil) production; and reduce stress.
r t \ d ro l h e ra p ) a l h o m e
Considered the life-giver in just about
every culture, water is included in all
manner of spiritual and religious
ceremonies to cleanse the skin and
replenish the mind.
Spa-goers can enlist the benefits
The ba ic tool for making our own non-meta l l i trainer - for
of hydrotherapy: a dip in a hot jacuzzi,
herbal kin and hair-care product example. ch e ecloth or m u l i n
followed by a dunk in a cool pool, a hot
are very impl . It i a good idea to quare a n d corree-rilter paper
sauna and then a cold shower all get your
keep them epa rate from the one
funnel . in dirre rent size systems flowing and working in harmony,
you u e for veryday cooking. though
and your body works more efficiently
- pia lie and \\ OOd ab orb rla\or gla dropper
afterwards. You can easily replicate this
and me l l : metal lic bowl and
wood n poons effect with some herbal hydrotherapy
poon can oxidrze ( reac t ) w i t h frui
treatments at home.
and \ egetabl j u ic s: and ub tance pa tula . in di fferent ize
2 tablespoons dried rose petals F'ollow a Jeep rou l i n or 8 hour. each nigh t .
1 tablespoon dried laven der 'lb c a l m o1 e rstimu lated adrenal gland . take 200 mg
1 tablespoon dried chamo mile
Pana1 gin eng dai ly. 'lb ease ten ion. add 10 to
13 cup (90 ml) whole mi l k
20 drop or an ess ntial oil - uch a lavender.
1 tablespoon vegetable glyceri ne age - to a bat h .
lemon verbena or clar
Store oral milk in the refrigerator. ta hydrated at nigh t . Clean t he filter regularly: add
S k i n t i l l t e n ds to be d r not nl
k i n ca n I ad lo evere c h a p 1 i ng
half a ripe avocado, peeled
, ncl c racki ng. or even fi u re
and stoned
Tile ol u Uo n i to avoid h a rs h 1 tablespoon thick fresh cream
clet rge n t -ba ed k i n-ca re prod u c t 1 tablespoon honey
1 000-mg evening primrose
a n d to u e h rba l h d r a L i ng age n ts
oil capsule
uch a m a r h m a l lo\.V . w h i c h
5 drops sandalwood essential oil
l u bri a te a n d m o i L u rize the kin. rice flour, sufficient to form a paste
VoY ad rlon/1Y
Do drink at least etghl
8-oz.
l r rna
Do u e regu a . age and dry
l..m bru hing ( l'P pJf?l' 245) to
umutale ebum (Oil) product ion
Peel, eed and chop pawpa11 . lash Peppermi nt' main componen t i
5 drops grapefruit essential oil .1. horse t dl l elp. nmhu I ' a tapll' \ramc i /;'"'ma ln n c/1'1 l l igh i n
J drops lemon essential oil mgrrthen l 1 0 Japant''>l' tuo I Og lhJt protl'm ,u1d 1od1nt. araml' con t a i n '
\Ctns. It can I)(' casil irritatec!IJ) artificial i ngrrcl ients ancl C'IC'n hot
llcJtcr. To ,ootlw stns i t i l t' kin. avo id harsh C'\foliant ancl tonNs
containing alcoho l . L :e g nllr. non-irritaling skincare procluct s
Thcrr a good reaon
formulated " ith natural! calming hrrbal exll' cts ancl c s rnlial oils.
"h herbalit ha1
llulJI)('d hamomile
h Cal nd Jla c. eam
nature 011 n corti one:
Use th1s light cleanser whenever your skin Calendula is excellent for i rritated skin,
accordmg to a tud in
feels tight and d ry. The g lycerine draws and it is i ncluded in many baby products
th European Journal or
moisture from the air to the skin. for just this reason. This moisturizer
\ll'dical RP earch. chamomile
soothes sensitive skin and helps 1t
1/2 cup ( 1 25 ml) rosewater crram 11-orked b ttcr than
to manage environmental stress.
I cup (60 m l) vegetable glycerine O.:i percent hdror rti-;one in
10 drops rose essential oil 4 tablespoons jojoba oil treating the innammation and
5 drops chamomile essential oil 4 teaspoons rosehip oil irntalion a ociated \11th eczema.
3 teaspoons grated beeswax
1 Combine all the ingredients i n a bottle.
4 tablespoons rosewater
2 To use, shake well. Massage a small
2 50-IU vitamin E capsule
amount into damp skin, then rinse. Pear hydrating mask
1 000-mg evening primrose
Store in a cool, dry place away from A luscious treat for sensitive or reactive
oil capsule
direct sunlight. skin, the pear in this mask is cooling and
7 drops calendula essential oil
emollient, while the cream is rich w1th
3 drops chamomile essential oil
Tonmg mtst skin-nutritive fats.
Chamomile and elderflower eliminate Place jojoba oil, rosehip oil a nd
1 tablespoon peeled and grated pear
redness and blotchiness, marsh mallow beeswax i n a double boiler. Place
1 tablespoon fresh heavy cream
and aloe vera are hydrating, and the over a low heat and allow to melt.
5 drops rose essential oil
vinegar restores the skin's pH balance. Warm rosewater in another saucepan.
2 drops sandalwood essential oil
2 Remove pans from heat. When the
1 teaspoon dried chamomile rice flour
contents of both are lukewarm. whisk
1 teaspoon dried elderflowers
rosewater into oil mixture. Using a n Combine pear, cream and oils in a
1 teaspoon dried marsh mallow
electric mixer set o n low, beat for bowl. Mix in sufficient rice flour to
root, chopped
2 to 3 minutes. thicken into a paste.
'/ cup (60 ml) water
3 Add contents of capsules and the 2 Smooth mask over face and neck,
I cup (60 ml) rosewater and leave for 10 minutes.
essential oils; whisk until cool. Spoon
1 teaspoon aloe vera gel
mixture into a smal l. wide-mouthed jar. Rinse off.
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
To use, warm a little cream in your
Place herbs and water in a saucepan. palms, then massage into skin.
Bring to the boil, remove from heat,
cover a nd steep for 15 minutes. Strain.
2 Pour l iquid into a pump-spray bottle.
Add rosewater, a loe vera and vinegar.
To use, shake well and mist face before
applying moisturizer.
WerY j/P/
Cafuuluk
yowtlv o{ Jhilv. new,
I a tu r
surfan rcJis clonl s l ough off effi irn l l y . l m m o rte l l e nourr sh1ng 011
A )Oil get older. your skin's rlearl
The i mmortelle (everlast i ng) flower has
clull. Rcgular usc of a nalul'al sin
11hicll can make your compiC'\ion Joo
impressive anti-agmg properties, w h i l e
peel 11 ill keep cellturnO\rr high nrl mae our skin giO\v. In acid ilion.
carrot seed a n d roseh1 p oils p l u m p up t h e
mature sin 11 ill benefil grrally from rich moisturizing lrc'almcnls all(J epiderm is, s o s k i n looks more youthful.
rash and sunburn. Antiseptic calendula is that protect skin and slow i n l a m mation catted aloe-- verw
"wand of en/
an all-around healer. while milk soothes. triggered by sun exposure. Feverfew
reduces redness and lavender is healing.
'/ cup (35 g) dried calendula flowers
f, cup (35 g) rice bran
10-in. (25-cm) square piece of muslin
4 teaspoons green tea
2 teaspoons dried feverfew
Ml1 UMYf if to h&d
string 1/2 cup ( 125 ml) boiling water
cleMrt JM.I1i;urnv and
'I cup (60 ml) rosewater
treat J,C()IV bit
Pde all the .ngredients tn the middle of
1 0 drops lavender essential oil
the muslin square. Gather up sides an d
1 e securely wi h string to make a bag. Place tea and feverfew i n a pot and
2 Toss into the bath as it is fi l ling. To use, pour on boiling wa er. Cover the po
squeeze herbal l i qu id over sktn and use and steep for 15 m i n u tes, then strain
bag as a compress on sore spots. and refrigerate.
2 Stir i n rosewater and oil. Pour into Kitchen unbur'n cure
a spray bottle. Dab '' ith cold. 11et tea bags.
3 To use, shake and l 1 ghtly mist over skin.
nip oprn 2 lO 3 1 itamm E
Store i n the refrigerator. Use the spray
500-IL capsule and rna ae
within 10 days.
the oil mto kill.
and llrf'dncss. L i ps arc also 1rrJ r s1n obtameu from trers or the
to t hr e l emen t . .
Chamomile-mil k oother
ancl Bah} lonians. fran kin en i
Chamomile contains anti-inflammatory
ram1liar to many \\'e tcrncr. through
The three Magi presented the baby Jus
azulene, which reduces redness, while with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.
the Christian star of the t.tagi. 11 ho
milk fats calm irritated skin. Using very
brought girt of go l d . franldnrense treat painful welling. nd other
cold milk constricts the blood vessels,
and m}rrh to the hab} Je u . The ailment . Steam di !illation of the
reducing puffiness.
nam come from the Old French dry re in producr an es, entiat oil
2 chamomile teabags franc encen . or pure incen e': that \alued m modern aromath rapy to
1/ cup (60 ml) i ce-cold milk 11a . and rr;nain . one of 11s rrincipt tr at wounds. scar . a n and
uses. In China. tanhun1iang. o it is ba lerial and fungal infection . The
Soak teabags in milk for 5 minutes.
knov. n. i categori eu a an herb for oil 1 al o an mgrrd1ent in cosmetiC'.
Squeeze out excess liquid.
\ltali ing the blood. and is usrd to oap, and perfume .
2 Place teabags over eyes. Rest for
10 minutes.
This inexpensive recipe polishes and Gargle a olulion or liquid Green tea is an a n tioxidant, and
whitens teeth, leaving your mouth feel ing chlorophyll and water to fight goldenseal is a nat ural antibiotic. Myrrh
super-clean. Cinnamon has antibacterial odor-cau ing bacteria. Dilute has antiseptic and astringent properties.
,,,
.. -
and pose t hem to, un. wind. olcl and heal. I l and
Pe 'lermmt hand gel 2 Let mixture cool slightly, then pour into
This scented formula has a restorative a clean glass jar with a non-aluminium
effect on d ry, work-roughened hands. lid. To apply, massage a small amount
into your hands.
1 teaspoon honey
2 tablespoons glycerine
Ant1-aging hand mask Melt honey
2 tablespoons powdered arrowroot
Masks aren't just for your face. This over low heat. In a small
'I cup (60 ml) cooled, strained
softening and moisturizing recipe also bowl, combine the aloe vera gel
peppermint tea
helps to even out skin tone and fade with the honey and lemon JUice. Add
5 drops pepperm int essential oil
age spots. the essential oil and mix thoroughly.
5 drops frankincense essential oil
2 Add sufficient almond meal to make
1 tablespoon honey
Place honey and g lycerine in a small a soft, workable paste; it should not
3 tablespoons aloe vera gel
saucepan over low heat and slowly (see below) be too sloppy. Smooth mask over clean
warm through, stirring constantly. 1 teaspoon lemon juice hands, paying particular attention to
Add a rrowroot powder and whisk 10 drops lemon essential oil the backs of hands and knuckles. Leave
together. Remove from heat and almond meal. sufficient for 20 minutes. Rinse off with warm
stir in tea a nd oils. to make a paste water and apply moisturizer.
to it base.
acid JEFJ\s). and make ure )OU If you do not haw a doubi<' butler. use
get adrquatr h)dtatton- a a pan that sits in the lop or another
much better tn wancr policy saucepan. The hasc of the upprr JWn
for nail health than usmg should be 11rll rlrar or th<' simmering
commercial nail potions that 11ellrr in thr basr or the 1011 rr pan
ptomi r tu increase nat I gro11 th
anti strength.
powder (available from your chemist). rrrnt11e old nail poli-IL Remo1r
swins b) ruhb111g na1ls '' llh a
1/, cup (60 g) baking soda
[('\\ tii'Oil. of lemon f'Ssf'nliaJ
'"cup (60 g) cornflour
oil. Burr'' llh a fine emrr hoa rd .
2 tablespoons powdered
Pill a Jargr flal-bollonwd ll0\1 I
arrowroot
'' ilh 1\al'lll 11a1r1' and add I cup
2 tablespoons white
(230 ml) apple rifler 1 ine g ar a nd
cosmetic clay
I cup (230 ml) SII'Ong l a\f'n dr r lea
15 drops lemon essential oil
(steer .J teaspoons tlr1rd lavender R1n t' orr r ei due and pat dry.
15 drops neroli essential oil
in I cup (250 ml) boi l ing 11al r for Cut nails strai g h l acrose "1th
10 drops lemongrass essential oil
I 0 minutes: strain). The acetic na1l rlippers. Smooth'' ilh an
Sift baking soda, cornflour acid 1 11 Lhe 'mrgar sof t ens lhe rmcr hoard. remembering lO
and arrowroot to remove lum ps. Add kin." hilr lm endt'r heal any always file 111 onr direction. Gently
clay and mix well. Add the oils and m111or Ill feet ion.. push l>ack culicles w1Lh a cuticlf:'
sift again. lick. e1er cui cuticle. a, I hey
1 \\ hlle 'kin 1s .lill damp . ma sage
2 Swre powder in an airtight, lidded protect nail. from ba Leria.
"llh Pe rrcrmmt roo t scrub
container in a cool, dark place.
(oppo 1tc) or make a simple root l \Ia sage our rrrt "ilh Ro e
3 To use, dip a powder puff into the
scrub "1th equal pans sra sail and geranium foot balm (Opposite).
mixture and apply after bathing, or
Caslllc oap (ma1lable from health \\ ipe 01r1 na11 "ith acewne-rrer
decant mixture into a sm all shaker.
rood store ) . Burr he e l and sol s rem01er. Lhrn paint 11ilh a toluen
wiLh a purn1e tone or loofah. rret' polish.
cH rn a I 11 a i r
Rlu\\-dring. :tratglllcning. cut'ling ancl u. ing 11arsll sllamroo, all take
of shampoo should be sufficient;
a loll on your lwir. So clo a poor diet and other lift tyle factor . such
too much strips the scalp's naturally
as Slt' ss. illness. hormonal fluctuations. alcohol and smoking. and protective sebum (oil).
inmi<'qucllc' t'\l'rcisr or , lrcr. Coa\ yOur !lair into llraiLilier .llapr '' illl To stimulate your circulation and
enhance shine, nnse out shampoo
a nutrient-rich dirt and !lair-care products that arc ba cd on 11 rb.
and conditioner with cool water.
antic sential oils specific lo our !lair tpr. If you use a hair dryer, turn down the
heat setting. Ideally, let your hair air
utr i nt ln1 B10t1n(vitamin B 7 ) maintains hair growth dry naturally.
II and may be beneficial for hair loss. Food Wear a hat to protect hair from drying
Boost your Intake of the following and sources: eggs, organ meats, dried fruit and color-fading sunlight (especially if
start seeing results in weeks. and molasses. you have color-treated hair). Always
Protem fortifies hair a nd promotes Zinc is essent1al for skin and hair health remember to wear a cap when you
growth. Food sources: beans, dairy and for balancing hormones. Food sources: swim in chlorinated pools.
products, eggs, fish, meat and poultry. meat, eggs, poultry, crab, oysters, brazil Stress and depressed spirits can cause
Iron oxygenates blood and boosts nuts and soybeans. dull, lifeless hair and, sometimes, hair
circulation in the scalp. Food sources: loss. Learn to meditate, or take up yoga
dried fruit, egg yolks, legumes. meat, S+pp o sue e or another calming pursuit.
leafy g reens and whole grains. Wash hair gently with a mild shampoo.
Omega-3s (essential fatty acids) prevent Vigorous scrubbing can damage hair
dryness a nd add moisture. Food sources: and cause the sebaceous glands to
flax seeds, sardines. soybeans, walnuts produce too much oil.
and wild salmon. Unless you use a lot of hairspray,
Silica strengthens the hair cuticle, one lathering with a small amount
boosting strands' elasticity. Food
sources: cabbage, celery and oats.
Vitamin A supports the health of
the scalp. Food sources: leafy greens,
pumpkins, carrots, capsicums and
sweet potatoes.
Do-it-. our:clf
C"llp rna: 'age
A regular calp rna sage encourages
rre h blood uppl1c to no1\ to the
5 reduced to 'I cup (60 m l ) . Strain. pump-spray bottle. Store in a cool, Cover and steep till cool. Strain. Stir
Add essent1al oils. Store in a plastic 2 To use, shake well and mist hair 2 to 2 To use, pour through hair as a final
squeeze-bottle. 3 t1 mes, then use a comb or fingers rinse after shampooing.
Aroma e a1 y rl ra 1r:> ' natural source of silica, a nd sa ndalwood appear brighter. If your hair is permed,
Ths detangling spray keeps hair shony and clary sage add a lingering fragrance. chemically colored or very d ry, patch-test
and manageable during cold, dry weather Apple cider vinegar restores the scalp's a small a mount of hair first.
of ro itd
od to 'jOur luur6rudv
6efrf!/ br
D ry h a i r
\lan culprit con p i re to damage t h hair hart a n d t u r n h a i r cl u l l
and dr) a t ra'' : u n . u rf. c h l o r i n . O\ crzea lous t l i ng a n d C \ e n Too .uuv?
ai r-condit ion i ng. To repa i r h a i r a n d re torr hee n . t r t h e e rec ipes.
L n l i kt' thr k i n . 11 h 1ch undergoe
1 egg yolk
1 small banana
1 large avocado, peeled and stoned
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 tablespoon rum
al ic late. \\ h ich is u ed in ma ny 2 Strain liquid and add oil; stir. To use, with Herbal vinegar
conventional dandruff treat ments to pour through freshly washed hair; do rinse ( see left).
l i ft and breal- dO\\ n d ad kin cells. not rinse out.
encou rage Of'\\ one. and ke 'P hair
follicle h ea l t h y.
Hai r loss
allou t I 00 hairs
us norm al to lo, e
imbala ncE'. the con t racc p t i l e pill F eel your follicle . llair that
6 hornw
treat half thmning and scalp problems.
Aloe vera relieves dryness and has a m ildly
a n t 1 fungal effect. It IS also useful for any
scalp conditions that req u 1 re soothmg
and astnngency.
Lav ndo bath Sdlts Place sea salt and baking soda in a
Epsom salts are rich in magnesium, which bowl; mix well. Add essential oils,
eases muscle aches and tension. Borax several drops at a time, mixing well
and baking soda leave skin silky smooth, after each addition.
while lavender's relaxing a roma will lull 2 Store mixture in an airtight jar in a
you to sleep. cool, dark place.
3 To use, sprinkle 2 to 3 tablespoons of
1 cup ( 1 40 g) Epsom salts
the mixture and 1 tablespoon of kelp
1/ cup (30 g) baking soda
powder (available from health food
1/ cup (30 g) borax
stores) into warm bath water; swish
20 drops lavender essential oil
with your hands to disperse evenly.
1 0 drops clary sage essential oil
Drop the wakame strips (available Do-it-yourself home beauty treatments are
1 0 drops chamomile essential oil inexpensive and easy to make.
from health food stores or Asian
Place dry ingredients i n a bow l ; mix supermarkets) into the water, and
well. Add essential oils, several drops at swish again. Soak for 15 minutes. Slit beans lengthwise and scrape
a time, mixing well after each addition. out seed paste. Snip pods into short
2 Store mixture in an a i rtight jar in a Rich va n i l l a bath o i l lengths. Place paste and pods in a
cool, dark place. This bath o i l is a luxurious blend with g lass jar or bottle and add oils,
3 To use, sprinkle 2 to 3 tablespoons of a warm, sensual aroma that lingers on essential oils and contents of
mixture into warm bath water. Swish the ski n ; it is also ideal for massage. capsules. Seal securely; set aside
water with your hands to disperse The cold-pressed nut and seed oils are in a cool, dark place for 1 month.
evenly. Soak for 10 to 1 5 minutes. rich in essential fatty acids that nourish 2 Strain oil through a fine-mesh sieve;
and moisturize your skin. Take care when strain again through a coffee filter to
M e r m a i d bath stepping in and out of the tub, as the remove residue. Pour into a glass bottJ,
Sea salt a nd seaweed help ease irritating oils will make the bath slippery. 3 To use, add 1 to 2 tablespoons to bath
skin disorders such as psoriasis, while water; swish to disperse evenly. Soak
4 vanilla beans
iodine-rich kel p is a natural antiseptic and for 10 to 1 5 minutes.
1 tablespoon jojoba oil
tonic. Calendula oil is an excellent calming
1/2 cup ( 1 2 5 ml) almond oil
remedy for red or inflamed skin. Do not
use this if skin is broken or very inflamed.
1/ cup (60 ml) macadamia oil
lf cup (60 ml) avocado oil
Cluuw;nu:/e, iat (JI
1 cup ( 1 30 g) sea salt
112 cup (60 g) baking soda
1 5 drops rose essential oil
5 drops ylang ylang
C{)n./tli./'v.Y J..trotzt anlir
20 drops calendula essential oil essential oil r/0 edienll
rerl(,t,U/
10 drops pine essential oil 5 drops sandalwood
1 tablespoon kelp powder essential oil thai
2 to 3 strips wakame (dried 2 x 500-IU natural
culi nary seaweed) vitamin E capsules aciuu- and
batr
Her be l' vine g r
If your skin's
natur al pH balan ce has been C i t ru s ha t h hom hs
thro ugh the use of
disrupted, perh aps Thcsf' IJih homlls h.llt' a n ngy.
soaps, you may have dry,
harsh deodorant
upl 1fl mg qcrnt ! ha t rf'll't'slws l hr
apple cider vinega r helps
itchy .n. The
sen se' and rlears l hr n 1 1 n c l . r>; r roll
alkal ine ratio ; 1t
restore the correct acid/
noel lemon crPatc a n rnrrgizlng
es the sting of sunb urn.
also reliev
and surnula1 1ng < l l rnosphrn. 11- h i iC
2 cups (500 ml) apple cider vineg ar grapefr u i t has a drto\ifmg cfl\cf.
/2 cu p (SO g) dried chamomile flowers To prn e n t 1 Ill' srrnl fntling 1ou fast.
/ cup (30 g) dried comfrey root powder store lh ha t h homiJ i n a n a i rl ight
/ cup (60 ml) aloe vera juice cun l a inrr in a dry. da r placr: l hty
wa t e r. c. ,e n t ia I oi l s a n d IJora\.
After 6tdfunt,
may improve the symptom s
r Fr r Jkiw
Ca tile soap i thought to have
originated in the Ca tile reg1on or
pam. Ori inaII madr from olive
011. 1t 1 no11 made 11-1th olive . +tiiJ, bitelY aM Jf
hemp. cocon ut and palm oil .
Laven d e r fresh deodorant Rose m a ry and thyme deodorant Place dried herbs in a glass jar; add
This lightly scented deodorant spray Coriander and hempseed essential oils witch hazel and vinegar. Seal securely.
uses lavender, patchouli and clary sage both neutralize odor-causing bacteria, Store in a cool, dark place for 2 weeks.
to control odor, and antibacterial citrus while sage, rosemary and thyme essential shaking daily.
seed extract and aloe vera to soothe skin oils are high in chlorophyll and have 2 Strain liquid and pour into a glass
that may be irritated by shaving. strong, clean fragrances that effectively spray bottle. Add oils. Shake well
mask odors. before using.
3/ cup ( 1 80 ml) witch hazel
1 tablespoon vodka 2 tablespoons dried rosemary
2 teaspoons aloe vera juice 2 tablespoons dried thyme
1 5 drops patchouli essential oil 2 tablespoons dried sage ()nlik(9 COfWWionat
1 5 drops citrus seed extract 3/ cup (1 80 ml) witch hazel
10 drops lavender essential oil 1/ cup (60 m l) apple cider vinegar ad-ifU'JfW"an/y,
1 0 drops clary sage essential oil
5 drops bergamot essential oil
1 tablespoon hempseed
natural tle()cloran/Y
essential oil
Place all ingredients i n a glass spray 1 5 drops coriander essential oil rlon/f /:;l.r;clc weal -
Tclk<' carl' 11 h t1 L
or ha rpc nrd st
rcl. The a1 eragr man sha1 es 2 1 .900 l i m e s in h i s I i i'< ' . Br rr
s h a 1 ing tTf'am a n d c a l m i ng al'l< 'rSh8 \ r bal m i. a
, 0 nnding a oo t h ing
Try l a l h('ring 11 i L h a sh l lll{l hrush.
nw L. \ncl ror an ea ' i t'r 1m e. sha'r rig h t after (or during) a steam 1l l1 1ch l 1 ft s t h e h a 1 r awa from your
,h011 er. Thi: remo1 e. \CP' o i l , oprns porrs ami ort e n s your heart!. face morr r ff('Cl i l ely t han your
Th1s su per-shave solution softens bristles Comfrey IS a natural soother that helps rnadr from lladge1 hair or another
and keeps your skin smooth and n ick-free. to regenerate the t hi n layer of skin that na t u ra l h r 1 sl l r i softer and ahsorlJs
Olive, jojoba and grapeseed oils are all has JUSt been removed with shaving. cream and water morr l'fftrirnt l.
/
hazel and a lso the ol ive, jojoba and
grapeseed oils.
3 Add aloe vera JUice and the essenti al
Otis. Us1ng an electric mixer, beat on
low speed for 2 to 3 mi n u tes. Spoon
,nto a wide -mou thed jar
4 To use, scoop up about
1 tables poon
of he shavin g cream , warm
tt betwe en
your palms, then smoo h tt
over your
face and neck. After shavi
ng, remove
any traces of shavi ng
cream with a
war m. damp face
flannel.
Bod l o ti o n s a n d m o i s tu r i ze r s
Bod cr a m ancl l o l i o n , h e l p t o i m prO\ e t h e I.- i n ' barrier fu nct ion by
locking i n moi ' L ure ancl fll'e\ e n l ing cle hyclra t ion . F'or ma:-.i m u m i m pa c t. pot l i gh L on hea
a p p l y a moi. lurizer '' hen your 'I.-in i . s t i l l l igll l l dam p from ba t h i ng: L h i
'' i l l h e l p t o cal i n t he moi l ure. U s i n g long l l'okes t o wor l-- i n t h e
Place grapeseed oil and honey i n a Place shea butter, beeswax and your skin I\ ith deeply hydrating
small saucepan over low heat. Warm avocado and coconut oils in the top effects. A 1er a tile product. it ha
gently until honey has liquefied. of a double boiler over simmering been u ed ror centuries for culinar).
Remove from heat. water. Heat gently until beeswax medicinal and co metic purpose .
2 Stir in jojoba oil and the contents of and shea butter have liquefied. Traditionally. it ha been regarded
the vitamin E capsules. Add essential Remove from heat and cool slightly. a sacred to women. In Africa. onl)
oils, several d rops at a time, mixing 2 Whisk in vegetable glycerine, then add 1 i llage women may harve t the nut
well after each addition. Pou r i nto essential oils, several drops at a time, and extract the bu tter. and profit
a dark-colored glass bottle. To use, whisking after each addition. Pour into from the enterpri e are returned
massage a small amount into the an airtight, wide-mouthed glass jar, to them. Shea tree are an important
skin and rub in well. and store in a cool, dark place. re ource for \\e t Africa. <here the
are grown wild. w ilhout the u e or
chemical pe tlcide .
'/ cup (60 ml ) almon d oil 2 tablespoons cocoa butter e :en t ia ! oil ha1 r been u ed for
I cup (60 ml ) grapeseed oil 'i cup (60 ml ) apricot kernel oil crnturies. both in traditional
If, cup (60 ml ) rosewater J, cup (60 m l ) soybean oil A u n edic herbal medicine and
1{, cup (60 ml ) vegetable glycerine 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerine a. a perfume and lncen e.
Place beeswax, almond oil and Place cocoa butter and apricot kernel mature or weather-beat.en kin.
grapeseed oil in the top of a double and soybean oils i n the top of a double It 1, u d to often \Hinkle .
boiler over simmering water. Heat boiler over sim mering water. Heat nplrni h moi l u re . help reduce
gent! until beeswax has liquefied. gently u n t i l cocoa butter has melted. purnne s . and s t i m u late the
and borax in another small saucepan seed o i l ; mix well. Add essent1al oils,
it. u l t f) . en uou aroma
and heat gently until borax has several drops at a t1me; m i x well after
is soo t h mg and harmon izing.
dissolved. When both l i q uids are each addition. Pou r into a n a i rtight,
helping to promote re tful Jeep.
lukewarm, st1r rosewater mixture wide-mouthed jar.
1nto oil m1xture; whisk to combine.
3 Add essential oils, several drops a t a
time, and whisk again until cool, using
either a small wire whisk or a blender
se on low. Pour into a n airtight jar or
bottle. Shake well before using.
Bod ru l) a n ci p l a h
1 \
i ngl'<'d i e n t : fort u na t e ! . n a t u ra l fo r m u las con t a i n i ng llerbal <' 'S<'nccs. r\ce's p<'f'JHrallon ilnd 011 .
LJrprn!ling on Lhe r. senlial uil
c r u shed n u t s . s ugar and C\ Cil colTer grou n c l ' w o r k j u t a . \\ C I I .
and hrrh ou u e. hOdj sptasht
1 tablespoon used coffee groun ds that Ill' I'(' parked 111 rhr,ts 11 1th 1>a trhouli
3 tablespoons crunchy peanut butter h'a1 r to deter moth, Thr rmr hou l i - . cemed . hawl
1 teaspoon wheatgerm oil ewntuall created a clrmand ror tht' r rrume 1t elf.
Place all mgredien ts in a bow l ; m ix acids, w a l n u t is an extra-gentle exfoliant, to use chilled i n the warmer months.
healing to the s m when used with care, Place walnuts and oats i n the bowl of softening properties of aloe vera and
but t can sting and irritate sensitive, fai r, a food processor: blend at slow speed marsh m a llow make this perfect for
ma ure or sunburned sk1n. If you have to create a me- extured powder. skin that tends to be d ry.
any concerns, substitute raw sugar for 2 Add avocado, avocado oil and honey;
1 tablespoon dried marsh mallow root
he sea salt. process again briefly to form a work
/, cup (60 ml) apple cider vinegar
able paste. Add the essentia l oi ls, and
1 orange 1/2 cup ( 1 2 5 ml) distilled water
m ix well.
2 tablespoons fine sea salt 2 tablespoons aloe vera juice
3 To use, stand i n the shower and gently
3 tablespoons plain yogurt 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerine
massage the m 1 xture i n to skin. R i nse
1 teaspoon almond oil 10 drops rose essential oil
off and pat d ry.
5 drops lemon essenti al oil 5 drops sandalwood essential oil
rice flour, sufficient to make a paste 5 drops patchouli essential oil
Cut he orange in half; jUice one hal , Chop marsh m al low root and place i n
and se he o her aside . a glass Jar with vmeg a r ; s eal securely.
2 Comb1ne orange JUice, salt, yogurt oil Steep for 10 days.
,
and essen ial oil; mix well. Add a little 2 Stram liqu1d through m uslin in o a
rice our to thicke n and form g lass spritzer bottle
a
worKable paste. 3 Add water, aloe vera JUICe, glycenne
3 To apply treatment, and the essent1al 01ls. Shake well
firs rub the
exposed side of the cu half before use.
of the
orang e over knees, elbow
s, heels and
other rough spo s. Then
mass age 1n
he salt mixt ure to
remove dead skm. The pelargonium produces an ssnt1al oil
R1n se off and pat productiOn m he sk1n.
dry that helps balance oil
( il
Ia age i one or the gtea t plea u re in l i f - a nd it' good for you. S 1'l I n1 m a c; a g e 01
It relaxe tight mu c l e . ti m u la L blood a n d lymph nov . a n d pe d This invigorating, skin-conditioning oil
the el i m i nation of tox i n . I L a l o c a l m t h e n e rvou lre blend is an effective pick-me-up for when
your energy levels are sagging. Eucalyptus
hormone . a l leviate d e prc ion. boo l i m m u n ity ancl d i m i n i he pa i n .
and peppermint have a warming, head
E ffec l i\ e m a age don't h a v Lo be given b y ma age Lherapi L . S i m ple
clearing effect, making this recipe ideal
ma age . uch a the I n tanl en ergizer llown here. can be exc hang d for anyone with respiratory congestion.
al home between friend a n d fa m i l. or c a n even be e l F-a d m i n istere d .
1/, cup ( 1 2 5 ml) almond oil
2 tablespoons grapeseed oil
10 drops eucalyptus oil
I n tant n rgi zer houlder . Repeat thi equence 10 drops peppermint essential oil
5 time . then do the . arne again 1 0 drops rosemary essential oil
\\'hether they're tapping a t a ke}board.
on our left arm. 5 drops lemon essential oil
cleaning. lifting or driving. your arm .
5 drops basil essential oil
houlder and hands work hard. Look
Spli pods in ha lf lengthwise; scrape to release tensiOn before llreper nat h ee l of o u r hand to apply strong.
out he seeds. Chop pods into small st rokes are used. focu ed pres o re on a pa rticular
'Tl '1g r, .. s
Mustard is he secret ingredient i n
this recipe. I ts pronounced warming
and reviving effect helps to relax tight,
cramped muscles. Ginger is also a
highly effective ingredien because
1t st1mulates circulation, helping blood
flow to the skin's su rface, making this
rec1pe ideal for people with arthritis.
1
H r ( t
'' a n t t o \\ e e t e n o u r s u rrou n c l i ng . I l o m emade h e rba l sol u t io n s fragrant, spiced and pretty to look at.
This combina ion of fresh peppermint of water on the stove, toppmg up the
and aromatic rosemary is a good mi x water as needed.
for bathrooms or sick rooms. Alternatively, place 2 tablespoons of
the potpourri mixture in a heatproof
Room frrs h e n cr,
pf, cups ( 1 00 g) dried rosemary leaves
container, cover with boiling water and It \'\G sachets or aromatic
'/ cup (5 g) dried peppermint leaves
leave i n the room that needs deodorizing potpourri rrom door handle
J, cup (30 g) whole cloves, lightly crushed
until the spicy fragrance released by the or sunn) wmd011 s.
J, cup (20 g) crumbled cinnamon sticks
steaming potpourri replaces the
J, cup (60 g) orris root powder Pl I I herb or spice arhet d011 n
u n pleasant smelL
'' teaspoon rosemary essential oil t hr 'Ide and backs or lounge
"roffeV;;vt
fragrance
1 cup (250 ml) boiling water - an,
I I \ IHJ i lcliel t ' tlw l lld l'l\ttJng 11\ J H' . \ our laundr\ i tht> lorum for a 1 i c iou ...
i la t l l t I H ' l l\ l 't'n d J r't ancl tlw a rstnal ol l o \ i c 11 r apons that are c
l t arl::,
nqu r rrd t o s l op I t I ll it track. Hut do you ,., ,, , grt l ill' freling that yOll
m ight i ll ' d i m ing " lllcll' llinc gun el l c1n ant )ou llougllt a pOI\ P r gel 11 itil
optical l l r igll l <' lll'f's. o\ tll'tion and i lllpi'O\ r'cl gnas<' cu t t i ng - hut. 111.
and 11 c1te r <tl'l' till' t i rne-ilono rc c l t'n<'llli<s of d i r t . and nothing hea t s thl'
de i i C I O U fnsil Tt'nt and non- tO\iC disinft'l tant (jUcl i ities Of implt' ill ' l' l lS .
To wMteiV
J, cup ( 1 2 5 g) baking soda
1/ teaspoon or more lemon, lavender
a,r/r/ 3 ta6ontY of
or peppermint essential oil or
eucalyptus oil
septic systems and the environment. For generations this recipe has been in the soap flakes. Remove he pan
Costing much less than commercial used to wash woolen garments. I t's ideal from the heat and contmue to stir
laundry detergent, it leaves clothes for blankets, q u ilts and pillows, until the soap has d 1ssolved and the
smelling wonderful and feeling soft. too. The eucalyptus helps to keep the mixture is smooth.
wool soft and repels moths. There IS Add the me hylated spirits and
'i> cup ( 1 25 ml) liquid Castile soap
no need to rinse it out u nless you are the eucalyptus oil a nd mix well.
1/2 cup ( 1 2 5 g) washing soda
washing white items, 1n wh1ch case Spoon the mixture into a Wide
1/2 cup ( 1 20 g) borax
rinsing will prevent yellowmg. mouthed jar, where it will set
2 to 3 teaspoons lavender or
fairly solid.
lemon verbena essential oil 2 cups (500 ml) water
To use the wool wash, dissolve
7.5 qt. (7 Is) hot water 2 cups (200 g) pure soap flakes 1 to 2 tablespoons in a bucke
Mix all the ing redients in a 9.5-qt. 1/2 cup ( 1 25 ml) methylated spirits of warm water. Keep the u n used
(9-1) bucket and stir well until soda 2 1/, teaspoons eucalyptus oil mixture tightly sealed.
Eas be i ng gre e n
Add your favorllr SCI'nl to perfum c
frrt. f'l1VIrn mMut all frirnrl ly
laundry powder f from organ ic or
!twender.
Fragra n t
c l o t h e d ryi n g
r enough ribbon to tie twice around a small howl or paper bag. o i l t h e sure I t is e 1 e n l coated with pice .
the orange, and to make a hanging orange i n the pic rn i tu1e. thorough l y The pomanclcr 11 1 1 1 be reacly 11 hen i t
loop, if desired coaling it. (ComplelC' each pomander to feel light i n wright a n d o u n d hollow
C tape of the same diameter as the ribbon thi stage 11 i l h i n 2 hours to prr,ent lv he n tapped.
< 1 th nbbon.)
dried herbs and spices for filling bias binding or ribbon, for the hook. make a na rro< bms LUbe.
covering hook (optional) or wmd r1hbon or bms bind1ng lightly
L e n d P I \Va n I
Place these charming 'wands' among
your clothes and linen. When the scent
begins to fade, add a few drops of
lavender essential oil to refresh them.
sewing thread
2 Gently bend the terns ba c li: over the
'h-in. (5-mm) wide ribbon nower head U> en lo. them in a , o
no-wrrs and Lh rc L of Lhl:' ribbon hang nowrr hrads) and \\rave IL alt.erna
dOwn -wllh Lhe tern . Wind a piece or over and under thr 'trm . wor"kinl:
cotton around the tern just belo-w l.he aroun d thr no\\ r h ra d . Conunue
nowcr head and lie ofT secure\ . weavi ng in L h l m nnrr. JlU. hing t'J
1wnl\ ll tml thr lung tnp a ro u n d t ht l'n'" u ru it ' r liH' t all t>tlgts nn lht'
hanger lrom rnd tn tntl u n t t l t t is hl\\ l' l' rrlgr Flt l ht rmt'l' m tr 1 hr hnol.
t'l rnh pddtltti Srrure t he end'> t n <J n d n n l o l h t patldttl lwngtT 'I)Jpst llrll
plan 11 tlh a dab uf glut or a 1 1 tch l h r pns l'fl ttlgts l l ll!t'lhrr. lta\ t n l! <Ill
npenmg for llw filltng
Center the hangrr on tht' 11 rong ulr or
the rahnc rrctanl!lt"> amt t raet around l'tll \l t l h a rnupll' or handfuls or dnc!l
the top to gilt' )OU the r u n t1 o u t l t nt hrrh. lhl'n l i l t h l h t IIJll'll lnl! dnsttl
\1 o mar tht n n t r r tXHnt or the hno Slilr h a [lll'l'f' ol dtrnra lll t' h r;wl illnng
ilw hot tom tllt'. 1 f dt''ll t'li
'
. lit'h around tht' strlt ancl top or t ht
I H'rfumrs. \ o u can also chmu l lw tIH' ami strength of the scent you 1\eep o u r d i hll ahtr clran and
dipped m va n i ll a e rnce.
' te a m - l e a n t h e micmwaYe:
Place t cu p (250 m l ) 11 a 1e r and
her ba l cle a 1ser This foamy gel 1s ideal for keeping your
ar i n your hands clean while cookmg, and the
If you don't want to use vineg
se you rosemary essential oil 1s antibacterial.
herbal cleanser - perha ps becau
rtops that the acid i n
have marble counte 'i to 1/2 cup (50 to 100 g) pure
sti l l make
vinegar can damag e - you can soap flakes
an all-pur pose spray w i th water and a
2 cups (500 ml) very hot water
little extra cleanin g power from borax. 'i cup (60 ml) glycerine
allow to steep for a few days. Strain, wh i te. Cool to lukewarm. it should remain foa my. If 1t is too th1ck
then add the borax and a few drops 2 Stir i n the g lycerine and the essential for a pum p bottle, beat i n more water.
of essential oil, if using. oil, whisk again and leave to cool. As 3 To use, squirt a little i n to he palms of
3 Shake to mix well and decant mto the mixture cools, 1t becomes more your hands, lather and rinse off.
spray bottles.
Lemon-g ra pefru i t
dishwashmg l i q u i d
When washing dishes use a tablespoonful
B \I\ I 'liG S OD \ Groth'. n w d rrate l Cd t i lt uap h a 1 a i lalllc rrorn hta l t h
of this dishwashmg liqu1d i n hot water.
a lka linr. non-LO\ir abralll': c u r s rooil o r orga n1r storr . l'o1 morr
You could a lso use lavender or rosemary
t h rough grra\C ancl m l : a l isorh. odors. l n fornla l iOII ahollt t h is produrl. <'I'
essential oil: both are good at cutt1ng
Ca s l \ l t soap fan.-. Jlclc Ji3.
grease. fl.s this is a soap, it does not BOR \\ l l 1SIIlf'rling. s t a i n - rcrnOI ing.
produce as many suds as detergent, drudoming. rn o l ! l - i n h i i H L ! n g. st rungll S \ LT \ I IIII a l lra s i l t' a n d d l \ i lllrr!ant
but 1t is still very effective. alkaline sail t ha t hreaks I Iilii n rasil\
\ EC Jo:T \ BLE G L\ C E R I \ E \ on - l o \ 1 1' .
111 t ill' l'lll i ro n m t' ll l : sollrns 11 ,111'1' dll!l
3 tablespoons liquid Castile soap 11 eful rha n 1 ng prnt111rt t h a t IH'II" 1111\
2 cups (500 ml) warm water kill d n ts and n>rki'Oill'h t ' .
Oil ll l ! fl 11 <111'1 d lllf l l l SS(lfi('S lliC\111
2 teaspoons vegetable glycerine DISTILLED \1 I I ITt: \ 1 \ EC \R fllllllS I ll I f i l l
2 tablrspoons distilled \lodtraLPI} st rnng a r i d t h a t ''
white vinegar \1 \Si l l \C SOi l \ \ l odt'l <l l t' l \ clkal inc
gr'ase-ru t t ing. molil- i n h ll l i l l llg.
10 drops lemon essential oil l'r\'iliih: Sllf i L ' l l S 11 .1 1 1' 1 . f U \ S glt'd'>t'
tltoilorizing a n d a d i s i o l t C i a n l .
10 drops grapefruit essential oil i\11tf 1' 1 ' 1 11 ! 1 1 ('\ Sid I llS.
I I E R B \ L I:SSI:\'1'1 \ I . O I LS \1.111) t l l l s
M1x all mgredie nts i n a jar, cover and
a r c c l l ,nllcCLal1
' 1 . a n t i l lacttn;il dl1d < l l l t l
shake well to blend. Store in a plastic
r u n ga l as ll tll a s sll t't't-sHII'II!IIg: ust
squeeze bottle.
I ()() fll'\'(1'111 f lllll' ('SS!'Il l i < l l O i l s.
rl
Spray this disinfectan t 1n the kitchen or Regular wiping w1th this cleaner will
bathroom, or into a smelly garbage bin. remove g rubby fingermarks and leave
I ncrease its cleaning properties by add1ng the su rfaces of freezers, refrigerators
1 teaspoon l 1quid Castile soap to the and washing machines looking like
solut1on. For extra disinfectant power, new without scratching them.
choose vinegar rather than water.
2 tablespoons phosphate-free
3 '/, fl. oz. (50 ml) vodka or methylated dishwashing liquid
spirits 1 tablespoon cornflour
'/ teaspoon tea-tree oil 1 cup (250 ml) water
11 teaspoon lemon essential oil 1 cup (250 ml) distilled white vinegar
/, teaspoon g rapefru it essential oil a few drops of herbal essential oil
1 cup (250 ml) water or white of your choice
distil led vinegar
Put the ingredients in a plastic spray
Pour the vodka or methylated spints bottle and shake gently to combine.
and essential oils into a spray bottle ., Spray a fine film of the mixture over L o c ( c
and shake to combine. the grubby surface and wipe clean with This slightly abrasive cleaner is great for
Add the water or vinegar and shake for a soft cloth. cleaning baths, basins and stainless steel
several minutes. appliances, sinks and countertops, but do
not use it on fiberglass bathroom fixtures.
You can substitute a different essential oil
if you prefer.
buy an
I f o u don t 11 a n t to m d ke your 011 11 cJ i s h 11 a sh 1 ng l i q u id from scratch. Blend the ing redients well and store
local hea l t h food or
unscl'nLed . u ntlyecJ. pllo, pha te-frrr drtcrgent from your in a sealed glass jar. Leave for a couple
cou p l e of sprig of m a tc h i ng of days before using.
organ ic s tore. >\del your own essp n l i a l o i l p l u a
wa h i ng up! 2 Apply the powder with a damp cloth
herb. urcanl mLn a prrll llo l l l r and en joy your
and rinse well.
{
Use this fresh -smell i ng foam as a stain
remover for both carpets and upholstery.
For extra-tough stains, add 1/ cup
was hi ng soda to the ho t wat er and
Eucalyptus wool wash, and whisk until
the crystals have completely dissolved.
T a-t ee ant1-m old )ra I L J 1 do 2 Rub just the foa m over the carpet stain
Tea-tree, cloves a n d borax are powerfu l Banish pet smells a n d other stale odors and leave for 10 m i nutes.
mold inhibitors. Keep this spray in the from your carpet with this sweet-smelling 3 Wipe the foam away with a d a m p
bathroom to use on the shower recess mixture. Before measuring the dried herbs, sponge dipped i n distilled white
or for wiping the shower curta1n. you need to g r i nd them very fi nely in a vinegar (this neutralizes the a l ka l i n i ty).
spice or coffee gri nder. 4 Blot thoroughly with a clea n pad.
2 teaspoons borax
1 cup (250 ml) warm water 2 cups (500 g) baking soda
10 drops clove essential oil 4 tablespoons borax
This simple solution can be used on both
1 tablespoon tea-tree oil 4 teaspoons ground cloves
timber and lino floors. When washing a
4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
In a spray bottle, dissolve the borax timber floor, remember not to saturate 1t.
4 tablespoons each of finely ground
in the warm water. Your mop should be d a m p, not dripping
dried mint , rosemary, lavender
Add the clove and tea-tree oils an d wet, and the floor should be well-swept
and thyme
shake well. or vacuumed before mopping.
3 To use, spray onto areas susceptible to Combine all the i ng redients i n a bowl
1 teaspoon eucalyptus oil
mold and mildew, then leave to dry. and mix thorough ly.
2 tablespoons methylated spirits
2 To use, sprinkle the powder over the
5'/, qt. (5 I) hot water (about half a
Peppermmt-lemon carpet and leave for a n hour or more
bucket)
(even overnight) before vacu uming
Th1s fresh-smel lmg cleaner leaves g lass the carpet thoroughly. Combine all the i ng redients in a bucket.
sparkling clean. When used on wi ndows, 2 Wring out a mop i n the solution and
it will also help to deter flies. us e it t o dam p mop the floor. Leave
to dry; you don't need to rinse.
juice of 1 lemon
2 cups (500 ml) club soda
'I> teaspoon peppermint essential oil
This is a great fresh-smelling rinse for
1 teaspoon cornflour
tiled floors. I f you use it on tiled areas
Combme all ingredie nts i n a bowl and outdoors, 1 t wi l l help to keep flies away.
Stir unti l blended.
1 cup (250 ml) distilled white vinegar
Pour into a plastic spray bottle. Shake
1 cup (250 ml) methylated spirits
well before using.
1 cup (250 ml) strong peppermint tea
"4 od fo
(from tea bags or leaves)
/)Je; 5 to 10 drops peppermint essential oil
k.Y
renu;ve.- 111Ar
5 drops dishwashing liquid
aM Jtick!f yonv
Combine a l l the i ng redients 1 n a large
plast1c bottle, shake horoughly and
rdt f o luu-r/ or
then decant into a spray bottle.
Q
Make up this polish in small quantities, Keep this lightly scented cloth for general
as you need 1 The v1negar cleans, the oil dustmg. Being slightly oily, it works much
nourishes and the lavender dismfects, better than a plain cloth and will hold the
leaving that mcomparable scent. dust as you pick it up.
1/2 cup (1 25 ml) distilled white vinegar 1 cup (250 ml) hot water
(or better sti l l , Herb vinegar on 2 tablespoons olive oil
page 292 made with lavender) 1 0 drops lavender essential oil
2 teaspoons ol ive oil
Whisk all the ingredients in a bowl.
5 to 10 drops lavender essential oil
2 Dip clean soft rags into the solution,
Combine all the mgredients 1n a Jar wring them out and hang them to dry.
or bottle. Store them 1n a sealed conta1ner and
2 To use, pour a little onto a soft cloth use them for dusting as required.
a nd rub the surface until you achieve 3 When the cloth is grubby, simply wash
a soft shine and re-dip 1t.
H erba l p t c a r
Ju t a, you an u e h rlls to t re a t
n u e ca l d . s u n b u rn
huma n a i l me n t s. o u c a a l o
or
or hol 'pol sal\ e
them effrc l i \ e l y for t h o, c m i n
thai o m c l i m e s t roubl e toe 1 era g I take the sling out
ailmen t
of cald and unburn and oothe
your cal or dog. B u t reme m l1er.
a n Itch 'h it h it moi. t u rizing
if an y mptom pe r i s t . you
properlie . Cut a n nlo 1era
mu t eek > eter i n a r help. ou leaf and appl_ the gel dirrcll
cleter Jedifer
011. Transfer to a spray bo tie.
F
ill your sleep pillow w1 h a smgle herb
or with a combmat1on of herbs. Take w 1 2 in. (30 em) square contrast
care to choose ones that will help to ease cotton print
you r mental and phys1ca fatigue and also The pil lows vary in size from 0 4 '/, ft. ( 1 .3 m) ric-rac or bobbl braid
complement each other. Herbs known for about 1 0 in. (25 em) square to 9'h
to 1 2 'h in. (32 x 24 em). These 0 matching sewing thread
hw calm1ng propert1es mclude lavender
instructions are for a 1 0-in. 0 1 x 2 ft. (30 x 60 em) calico, or othtr
and roses. Avo1d herbs such as eucalyptus (2 5-cm) square pillow. fine material
and Cinnamon. as the1r more msistent
C 1 2 x 20 in. (30 x 50 em) cotton print 0 dried herbs of your choice, for filling
a romas tend to energize rather han relax.
To m a kr \ o u r p i l l m\
Po r p i l l o 11 fronl. c u t om' I 0!1-in. ( 3 em). Stitch hem in place . ( Back n0\1 B From calico. ut and . l i t h a n mner
( 2 7-cm l quarr l[inihrd mea urt"i I 0 x I 0 in./2 ' 27 em. l p i l lo,o the amt' finished size a the
mea u r e m r nt + ''-in./1 -rm 'ieam fin ished cover measurement
() Plac pil l011 fron t . r ig h t sid<' up.
allo11 a net' on a l l .' ide ). From t he ( i ll th1 ca r. 10 m./25 em quare).
on your work u rface. \\ ith t he
same fabric. c u t one rrc tang l t . I 0/. 'ou 11 ill need to leavr dO opening
nap extrndell. Place the back on
\ 6 111. ( 2 7 x 1 5 ern ) . for t h e Flap for fi l l i ng a n d t u r n mg.
top. l'l"hl ide d011 n . so that ra\1
( amr height as fro n t ' -l- i n ./ 1 2-
e<fue: match the front and t he !) 1\1rn the caliCO pillow to t he nght
cm flap + -in./ 1 -crn seam
hem med ertgr of thr bac a l i gn side o u t . and u e a grra e rroof
a i i011 a n re + 1 -i n ./2- m hrm ) . From
11 i t h the am 11nr of thr Flap. paper cone to loo. rl:, fill it with
the con t rast fahric. rut onr Bark.
the hnb of our hoic . Stitch
1 0:1 ' I I Yo i n . ( 2 7 30 em) ( samr
opt'ning 1 ed. t h!'n in ert the
height as front ' finished 11 idth + /.
l.liii0\1 inw th e r01 er. u mg the
in./1 -cm eam a l lo11 ann' +
P lap to ho l d 1l lll place.
2-in./4-cm h e m ) .
'{ Pres u n der and tilch a Y-111. Fold thr flap ha k. over the bilCk..
( 1 -c rn ) do u b l e hem ( I i n ./2 em i n so that t hr r igh t Sitlr of the flap is
a l l ) on one long edgl' of t h(' flap. aga i n t t he 11 rong s1dt:' of t il back..
\\ ith r igh t sidt' together a nd a iiOII \Og 7 \IIOII I!lg !l-m. ( 1 -cm) seam . . utch
a X-i n . ( 1 -rml scam. <.; l \ tch flap to one a round the three rclge.' . t h rough all
1df' ol thr pillo\1 alon the I 0/-m. 1c1er.. (If ou hmr ued a 1 IJ bulk
( 2 7-cm) eclg('. I ress st'dlll opPn. lll'ald. yO\\ might need to uc a zipprl'
H
erbs with properties that repel
insects a re generally very a roma ic. To m a ke \ ou r a c h e l
Wormwood, whole cloves, bay leaves,
ing an appropriate! lzed c u p or i Stitch opening clo ed. trying to
eucalyptus, lavender, chamomile, crushed
saucer. lightly trac a 4-in. ( I 0-c m ) be a accurate a po sible. If
cinnamon sticks, peppermint and feverfew
diameter c i r c l in t h c n t r or one you want to add a hanging loop,
are useful weapons in the fight against
square. I f using embroidered insert the nd or the ribbon into
moths and other insects that can damage orga nza or brocad . try to center the opening and secure them in
fabrics such as wool, mohair and other molif or embroider in the circle. th earn. Tie orr thread end _
pesky flies a t bay. For the best effect, give Lh first. wrong ides tog ther. t mplat.e ( ee opposite) to trace
the sachets an occasional quick squeeze Carefully machine-stitch around and c u t a Small flower and a Large
or shake to release more scent traced line. leaving an opening ) flower from two diff rem-colored
Not only are insects keen to make a or about 2 i n . (4 em ror t he fi l l ing . era ps or felt.
meal of particular fabrics, they will also Tie orr t h read neatly on t h e back
7 Place the Small flower on top of
target ones stained with perspiration or ( remember youre working on
th La rge on and center a button
food. Be sure to launder your household the right ide of the fabric).
on top. Place the flower unit in the
l i nen and clothes before you store them. center of the achet and stitch it in
CJ sharp pencil
0 machine thread
0 pinking shears
p i n k i ng shears. c u L l i ng about
0 small or decorative
button (optional) :X in.( 1 . 5 em) fr m s l i tc h d l i ne.
::::J scraps of felt in two toning 4 Carefully fill t he sach t. with moth
colors (optional)
rep llent herbs. using a runnel or
0 stranded embroidery cotton cone or paper. Don't fill too tight ly.
(optional)
i{J.e J..W :rat
& Jlron;,er the
yayai'U:h tlu7 ywe.r
;;rotec:twn,
rlediructwer u
ftlt flowtr tmplat
L a ve n d r h e a r t achet
Tu c k o n e o f L h t>sc s a c h e t s u n c l e r a p i l e o f l i n e n O l ' c lo t h i ng.
a n d L lw ge n t l e . a ro m a t i c fragra n c e w i l l p e r mea t e L 11 c fa b r i c .
L
avender has a fresh scent associated
with cleanliness, which isn't surprising
when you consider that the name is
derived from the Latin word for "to wash."
The sachets work best in small, enclosed
areas and their fragrance should last for
about three months. After this time, they
can be opened and refilled with some
newly dried lavender.
Alternatively, you could try a filling of
cotton lavender. A moth-deterrent, it also
has a fresh, aromatic scent.
0 dried lavender
yow tnakf/
CIUl/
otw 6r
r/raAAJii'tf ;rur OWfl/
canl6oarrl f&.Y.
To ma c } O U r sac het
Trace heart outline o n to thin cardboard :l Making ur the ba k eam is the point. clip the curves and turn the
or template pia lie and cut out. (U ing centered. trace around the h art sachet right side out through the center
template pia tic make it asier to templat onto the wrong side or the back earn.
center the embroidered de ign and joined fabric quare. but do not cut out.
3 Using a paper runnel. loosely fill the
the center back earn on the fabric.)
achet with lavender and sl ipstitch
2 To make lhe couon print achet. cut the opening closed.
one fabric quare in half. then ti tch
6 Stitch a mall bu tton to the center or
lhe halv back together again. allow
the h art. through all layers. using a
ing a 1/4-in. (6-mm) earn and leaving a
double strand or machine thread or
.mall opening in the center or the earn
embroidery cotton. Tie orr securely
for turning and filling. (Thi will be the
at the back.
remer back earn.) Pres earn open.
7 To make the embroidered sachet.
construct the back from a cotton
print fabric. as de cribed above.
F'or the embroidered front. trace
the stalk position on the diagram
-t Place the two fabric squares right sides very lightly onto the center or the
together. If you are using a hanging embroidery linen. (You don't need
loop. in ert the ends into the seam at to trace the flowers.)
the dip in the top or the heart shape.
8 U ing two strands or 860. embroider
Stitch around the traced outline. taking
the stalk by working two or three
care not to catch the ribbon loop in the
long straight stitches along the traced
seam. Trim away exce s fabric about X
line for each stalk. making a tiny back
in. (6 mm) out ide the til ching. Trim
stitch to anchor each straight titch.
Thread the needle with two strands or
each color (six strands in total ) and
work flowers in small stra1ght stitch s
on each side or the stalk . using the
diagram as a guide.
'\ I "hen you choose your herbs, think parsley, chives and Vietnamese mint for Until the roots are established, hang
V \ about their leaf shapes, colors and their versatile culinary value. the ball in a position that receives only
g rowmg habit. We selected wild creepmg morning sun for one to two weeks.
thyme as a g roundcover and oregano to To ca re for you r ba l l Herbs love the sun, so move it to a
cascade over the sides, then contrasted Select a secure position to hang the sunny spot, away from drying winds.
the broad-leafed herb comfrey with the finished herb ball, as it is heavy when Feed the ball fortnightly with water
feathery foliage of the curry plant. Then watered. Choose hooks and brackets soluble fertilizer.
we selected lime-scented geranium for that are designed to withstand the Water daily through the holes on top.
its delicious fragrance, yellow-flowered weight. Never attach brackets to Use a spray bottle to water the foliage
m angolds for a color burst, and basil, crumbling brickwork or rotting wood. so the herb ball gets a good drink.
lh IIWKI'
\ o u r lurh ha l l
selection of herbs (see opposite) srcu rit . a t tach l ht' hangmg chams
on t ht \\ trr hase t to thl' r t m or
'J wire-cutting pliers
both hasktls.
0 scissors
I I' you l t kr cooktng \st,lll ilisltrs. plall t
n garden gloves
a range or sptr' Ill' s t rongly fla\lll'l'tl
florist's watering can
htrhs. such as rortailllt'r. pl'rt l l a . Tltat
spray bottle hast! and r h i l tcs. Or. t f \ou 'rr fund ol
0 water-sol uble ferti lizer \1rdt l l ' t'l'ancan reripts. pla n t ungiino.
(see To care for your ball opposi te) sagt. thyme a 11d sa<or. <II or " IHcli
l h l'i\t' Ill I IH' Sd!OI' condtl ltliiS.
I-I r b a n cl fl owe r w r e a t h
L ,c \Hea t h t o clccora t o u r hom . j u t a o u wo u l d po l l ee! p l a n L
o r fl O\: c r . Q u i k. a nd eas
. Lo c r a t . the mak a d l igll l fu l wc lcom
w rea h can be nch 1 n meaning. The Romans a lso crowned their successful what's 1n season in your garden - for
circular shape IS a symbol of 1 nfinity, m i l itary commanders with wreaths. example, in autumn, berries and rose
without beg m ning or end. It represents Today, a wreath can be either purely hips can look stunning.
u n i ty, perfection and the cycles o both decorative or s1gn1ficant in some way. Obviously, an herb and flower wreath is
natu re and t1me. A l a u rel wreath was used You can choose flowers a nd herbs that not designed to last, but most frames can
as a symbol of excellence by the a ncient symbolise a relig1ous fest1val or a personal be reused many times and each one is
Greeks, who a wa rded 1t to g reat scholars, event, such as a birthday or wedding. Or simple to make. Once one wreath begins
a rt1sts, sold1ers and athletes. The ancient you can sim ply make wreaths that feature to fade, start planning the next one.
Fra m es
y-made fram es mad e
You can buy rad
wire, dried grasses
of raffia. styrofoam,
e t1mber. You can
or some form of pliabl
also make a timber frame
from wisteria Von/t over-
twigS or olive branche s ( you will need to
violets
.
Ta b l c n t r p 1 cce
R 'l l a n c c l lw co l o r s . l l a pc s a n < l L C \ L u rc o f yo u r e ll a e n
w hold th m i n place.
l If you arc u. i ng flori:t's roa m .
0 container (we used a low, ( 2 e m ) below t h r top. othefll'i e i t and fil l i ng in an spar e patche
rectangu lar meta llic container) wi l l be visible on e the arrangement ar}. Inter twin e som
e
Whr re nee
0 clippers is fin i hed.
pieces of fol iage to pro\ ld
more
l
The ' pre l l IiLLI bo u q u e t ar a no talgic w a to
com b i n f l owe r nd herb w i t h a p r on l i z d me age .
T
usste-m usstes a re small posies of to express h is feelings for his intended Among the most common meanings
flowers and a romatic herbs. They with a tussie-mussie, known as a "word were those relating to love and fidelity,
were used 1n medieval and Elizabethan posy." There were risks attached to this making tussie-mussies most suitable for
times to mask u npleasan t odors and method of courtship, however: a slight wedding bouquets. Some appropriate
a lso because their scent was believed mistake in shade or pattern could plants for such a bouquet might include
to protect the holder from diseases. significantly alter the intended meaning. bluebell (constancy), chervi l (sincerity),
such as the plague, that were though t Also, some flowers have a mbiguous or forget-me-not (true love), holly (domestic
t o b e spread by "bad a i r." This use led t o contradictory meanings: for exam ple, happiness). honeysuckle or violet (fidelity),
their other name. "nosegays." They were hydrangeas can signify both "thank you ivy or lime blossom (wedded love) and
a lso credited with refreshing the mind for understa nding" and "heartlessness." mint (warmth of feeling).
and sharpe n i ng the memory.
T ussie-mussies reached the peak of
their popularity with floriography, or
the a rt of sending messages by flowers, To m a l-..e o u r L u, s i c - rn ussie
in the Victorian era. Va rious plants were
Soak th tern in water for at lea t
considered to represent certain qualities
an hour. or overnight if possible.
or emotions. Some mean ings were
adapted from classical mythology, others 2 \ hen read to begin, remove from
from ancient lore and religious symbolism. the water and wipe th tern d r}.
3 If u in one central flower. hold it Use a thorn remover (right, available from
in one hand and u e the other to florist suppliers) to strip thorns from stems.
surround it with the first ring of
0 prominent flower(s) for the mailer flower and herb . I f 7 \ rap thr tern tightly from top
center (traditional tussie replicating the pictured tu ie- to boLLom with flori t' tape.
mussies had a single central
mu ie. tart with a small handful
flower. generally a rose, but H Wrap the tem with ribbon or
o f greenery a n d build a circle of
ours uses several roses) fabric. ecuring it 11 ith pear l
ro e and filler flower around
pin tn erted into the tern
0 1 or 2 types of smaller
thi . Rotate the po y a you go to
complementary flowers (at the top) and up the tern
ensure a balanced hape. Tightl
( a t the bottom).
0 a variety of herbs and leaves wrap the tern o f each layer with
0 wax florist's tape flori t's tape. pre ing so th ta p q Tie matching or contra ling nbbon
will adhere to itself ( th ribbon will near the top of the tern lea1 ing
0 about five large. broad l eaves to
di guise any u n tidine ). the end to trail decorative!
frame the bouquet (optional)
0 ribbon or strips of leftover h Continur adding concentric layer f ( l If your tu ie-mu ie i a gift.
wedd ing-d ress fabric u n til all the f1011 e r and herb are include a mall card on \\ hiCh
0 pearl pins u ed. Lastly. fram the bouquet you ha1e \Hitten the name of
0 gift card
Th posy pictured uss white roses To wish someone luck for an exam (dangerous pleasure or voluptuousness),
(innocence and purity), sweet peas or Job interview, consider basil (good conander (lust), forsythia (anticipation),
(tender memory). lily of the valley Wishes), four-leaf clover (happmess). chickweed (rendezvous) or red camellia
(purity of heart, sweetness), rosemary juniper (protection). buttercup (prom1se (you're a flame in my heart) I
(rmembranc) and parsly (festivity). of riches), hawthorn or snowdrop
(hope), lavender (luck). sage (wisdom)
For a bouquet of condolnce, you could or dandelion (wishes come true).
choose from rd popp1es (consolatiOn),
rosmary (remembrance), wormwood It's not only traditional occasions that
(grieO, weepmg willow (sorrow). lemon can be enhanced by a little floriography.
balm (sympathy), fennel (strngth) and For a racier message, ry your luck
borage (courage). with gardenia (ecstasy), tuberose
H e rb p o t t r i o
C u to m i z d po t a re a p re L L a n d pra t i ca l wa of d i playi ng a n d
l a be l i ng o u r h e r b . C h os from b l a c kboa rd pa i n L , Len i l a n d fe l t .
ventilated area, preferably outdoors. between coat . then peel off the l neil.
Po t wi th
b l a c kboa rd pa i n t 0 terra-cotta pots
\ l a r l h is poinl. ll hich 11 iil l>t' the left hme l tn ishetl. }OU should ha1e nne
This unusual pot stands about 5 tn. ( 1 3 em) l'dge or I he template Starting a1 the pot piece anti one base fllecr
h1 gn . Fill t t wtth herbs and etther leave it pms. slo11 11 roll tht' pot aero the
h Pin the paper plt'crs to the frll and
aoove ground or plant it m the garden - paper. tracing along l>olh top and
c u t rare l u l l\ <li'IJU n d them
he herbs' roots will eventually grow right bottom edgt's as )llU go Stop 11 hen
th roug h the fabric. )OU reach tht' ptns dgam 7 B u t t I he straighl l'dges of the pot and
2 pms or toothpicks
sticky tape
pencil
paper scissors
T
his is he simplest of projects, requiring Because the i mage will be printed Prepari n g the fabric
no more than a photograph or other facedown, it w i l l be a mirror image Choose the article on which you want the
i m age, a hand towel or napkin to apply i t of the original photo. This means that print. We used hand towels and napkins,
to, and a trip t o t h e nearest digital print you may need to ask the print shop to but other options are T-shirts or
shop. Many craft projects require weeks flip the i mage if you want it to be facing tablecloths. For the clearest print, choose
of work, but if patience isn't your strong a particular way. a smooth. closely woven fabric in a
point, this is the project for you. Whether
you rna e it for your home, or as a gift for
someone else, the results are impressive.
Choosi n g a n i m a g e
You'll g e t t h e best results from an image
that has a simple shape and not too many
complicated a reas, such as the bay sprigs
used on the napkins here (see opposite).
Avoid using dark i mages, as they tend to
become darker d u ring the transfer
process. Images with a good contrast
between light and dark w i l l work best.
If photog raphing you r own i mage,
place your chosen herb on a w hite
background and shoot from straight
overhead. If using a digital camera,
set it to the hig hest resolution you
ca n. This will ensure a crisp, clear i mage.
Remember t h a t w hite does not print;
the fabric w i l l show t h rough a ny parts of
the design that a re w hite, so you will not,
for exam ple, be a ble to print white flowers
onto a colored fabric. I mages will show up
best on w h i te, cream or pastel fabrics;
dark colors and busy prints, on the other
hand, a re both unsuitable.
M
a king your own masterpiece has
never been eas1er. Many home
stores, photographic shops and online
d igital photography com pa nies now offer
a service that enables you to transfer your
photographs onto canvas, to a size and
format that suits you r setting.
To m a ke o u r L ri p t r h
clea necl by d u s t ing t hem l ig h t ly w i t h a a ngl at 11 h ich you are photog1a phing thr cen t er or t h e frame ma) 11 0r a t
be wiped down very gen t ! with a arrange t h e hot b<'fore you take i t . you r angle an t u rn an ordmar) image
reating a relaxed atmosphere i s easy imp/e. bold leaves (bay): or fea thery
C with candles, particularly if they are foliage (fennel). Arrange the herbs
scented with herbs, such as roses, lemon on the copy plate or a photocopier
verbena or lavender. With a few herbs, and print a n image onto ordinary
some vellum paper and a photocopier. paper u n t i l you are happy with the
you can customize your candles to suit a r rangement. Then i n rL the vellum
your decor. setting and the fragrance into the paper tray and print your
To make you r
ca ndle holder
1\'ork out tile size or vellum you
0 col or photocopier
0 double-sided tape
0 tea light or smal l
j
herb-scented cand le
H r b c a rd a n d tag
pe r o n a l i d h a n d rn a d c a rd i orn e t h i ng t o t r a u re , a n d
pr ed a n d d r i ed fl ow r a n d h e r b a t'e pe rfe c t for d cora t i ng t h e m .
I
f you w a n t t h e cards t o last a long
time, use acid-free paper, cardboard
La nd r ca rd Score th purple cards tock in half
cross wi e. then fold i t in half to form
and cardstock. There is a vast range of a ingl -fold card.
beautifu l papers and cardstocks available,
and many of them a re handmade. For 2 Secure the maul'e decorative pa pe r to
con tains short and long fibers. M u l berry 0 6 x 9 in. (22 x 1 5 em) purple :l ing purple machine thread. work a
paper comes in a range of textures and cardstock
l i ne or zigzag around the edge of the
thicknesses. It is meant to be torn, not 0 4 x 5'/, in. (9.5 x 1 3.5 em) purple decorative paper to hold it in place.
cut, producing a pretty frayed edge. We spot scrapbook paper ( I t's a good idea to te t your stitch
have given finished measurements but 0 3 x 4'/, in. (8 x 1 2 em) textured width and tension on crap or paper
you can adapt them to a ny size you wish. mauve decorative paper before you start.)
0 dried herbs and flowers (we used ,! u e pray adhesive to glue the
chervil, heartsease and chamomile)
unryu hi quare to the center or
0 F'I/A glue the card.
Score the pale green cardstock in rrang dried herbs and Oo\\e rs
ull)
half crosswi e a n d fold i t i n half to i n to a \\ reath hape and caref
make a si ngle-fold c a rd . glue each piece in place .
gingham-pat terned
\\ cJ d i n c a rd pu h thr ne die through the center
C u t a rectangle of cra pbook paper b held in place when you glu the
0 spray adhesive
X in. (5 m m ) m a i ler all rou n d t h a n blo om to the background.)
0 tacky craft glue
t he size of t h e c a r d front.
C 4 in. (10 em) square olive green
i n g t h e card a a tem plate. trace cardstock
t he heart o u l l i ne onto the wrong side 0 small amount white cardstock
of the paper rectangl . ow add 3 to
0 daisy punch (from craft and
5 mm a l l rou n d t h e tra ed outline a n d scrapbooking stores)
c u t o u t carefully w i th a craft knife.
0 yellow stranded embroidery cotton
s i ng pray adhe ive. g l u th paper 0 large embroidery needle
rectangle to the fron t of the card.
0 small pressed leaf sprays (we used
taking care to po ilion i t accurately. new shoots from murraya)
crosswi a n d fold in half to mak li Pold up the edge of the petal around
.
a ingle-fold ard. the center and along the core line
2 Lightly p1ay the front of the 3-in. 7 Arran ge and glue th dried I ar pray
ired
(9-cm) cardboard quare with spray on the silk background in the de
-
adhe ive and plac it facedown in the palle rn. (Th i can be quite fiddiy
secure in place with tacky craft glue. hold them secure ly.
dab the
: G l ue th i l k-covei'Cd quare to t h e B If you wish to add fragran c.
Or plant a variety of the same herb. l ll'lll i l1ob l ll t' dt h of l ilt tntl
Try common mmt, peppermmt and )lll'll''> I Ill ({0 1 1 1 111 1 u p / 1 1 11n 1 111'
spearmin t, or sweet basil, Thai basil, hollulll 11111 ho l t' ' Ill 1 10 1111 1 1 1 1 1 1
holy basil and 'Red Rubin:
/ rom l'ilCh 'lilt' and l llll' 1 1 1 J ilt
Choose a color theme that will Cl'fl/1'1' \ , I I / I ill' l'lhh lo J ill' h,N
complemen t your house's exterior IIIli' t'llti .11 .I l l lllt'
paint scheme. For exampl e, white
flowering herbs such as valeria n 1'11 1 1 11111 .t /!1 -Ill I /IIB-11 1 1 1 1 ) lt ' ngl il
and Roman chamom ile look fresh on t.tdl '>lilt ol J i ll' ""' It'\,., 11 1 1 11
Wtth a blue color scheme.
Cui in a ro u n d t h wor l c l d e rive m u c h of Lh e i r'
d i t i nc t i e c h a ra t c r fro m L h e a d cl i L io n o f h rb
and pic . G o o J o be t ro t l i ng wi t h Lh i , co i l c L i o n
of e c i pe . fro m pa L a a n d p i c k ! L o m e a t a n cl
fi h . fmm o i l a n d b read to c a ke a n d cl r i n k ' .
I c
'I'll<' C \ l i'C:lO I'C l i l l c l i'J l'i: l llg< o l' l l cr l l.' a n < l ,' p i C< ' S Cl \ Cl i l a l l i C ' LO
us l oda co n l i n u < s t o < ' \ PC l l H I . d r i \ < ' n IJ consumer clcmaml.
\ m u l l i l u dt oI I I ( 1\ o ''-
for more detailed informa tion, see \Oll ' n iOY makmg herbal tras. add
Harvesting, preserving and storing , clwrnurntiL'. dtHieilon <IIlii Iemon
basil do not dry well, but more robust Batl. hd). h t lics. chi\C'..
herbs such as thyme and rosema ry conandr. dill. garlic. gingtr.
retain their fla or well and are a lcmungrass. lt'mnn t ree ( t t '. an hrrh.
When you are ready to use them, wash mint. patsley. to,emat'). sage.
herbs in a bowl of cold water rather tarTaoon. lll) me and \irtnamre m i n t .
than running water, which can bruise
them. Pat them dry with paper towels.
Dried h e r bs and s p i c e s B u y d r i e d herbs a n d spices i n small Whole spices, such as coriander and
While you may prefer the taste of herbs quantitieS to avoid waste, and store 1n cumin seeds. retain their flavor a n d
ptcked fresh from the garden, there is a i rtight containers r n a cool, dark place. a r o m a longer than ground. Grind them
always a place for dried or frozen ones Ignore the use-by date on commercial in a spice grinder, or i n a coffee-grinder
as well as for dried spices. I n Greek products, as the dried herb or spice may kept specifically for the purpose, or use
cooKrng, for example, dried oregano deteriorate long before the given date. a mortar and pestle.
(rrgani) IS used extensively in preference The best way to check for freshness is Spices add color as well a s flavor.
to fresh, while paprika, rather than fresh by smell, taste and appearance - for Paprika adds a glorious red color, while
chilies, is an important ingredient i n example, color fading is a good saffron and turmeric transform
Hungarian food. indicator of flavor loss. a dish 1nto a golden yellow.
LOm NG 329
I )
Q u a l i ty i ngred i e n ts m a ke grea t-ta s t i ng o i l s that e n h a n c e d i p .
m a r i n ad e s . a u c e s a n d d re s i ngs. C h a nge h e rbs w i th the seaso n .
l 1 < il
3 tablespoons fresh basil leaves
Cook fi(P
1'o terilize jars. wash jars and lids thoroughly in warm. soapy
1 cup (2 50 m l ) boi l ing water
water. using a botlle brush. Rinse well in cold water to
2 cups (500 ml) olive oi l remove
all traces of soap. Stand jars on baking tray and place in oven.
Heat oven to 2ooF ( 1 ooc). Leave oven on for 45 minutes;
turn
1 Place basil leaves in medium bowl and cover with boiling
orr. Remove jars when cool enough to handle. Or. wash jars and
water. Sta nd 2 minutes. Dra i n ; pat leaves d ry. Process basil lids in dishwasher on the hottest cycle. Cool before handllng.
and oil in food processor until combined. Alternatively,
finely chop basil leaves, add 2 tablespoons oil and mash
basil into oil with a fork. Add remaining oil.
2 cups (500 ml) olive o i l cool, da rk place. Use with fish and seafood.
Her6 V
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
. .
in a cool, dark place. Use with pork and lamb.
wtth
MAKES 2 CUPS (500 m l ) The more robust the herb, the better the finished oil. Expeflment
Preparation 1 0 minutes plus 2 t o 3 days for infusing marjoram or oregano, chilies, garlic, chervil, coriander, chives
or mint
pestiCides
Clean the leaves very carefully to remove all traces af dirt or
- - - - - - - - - - - - - --- - -
- - - - - -- -
- - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Too of trariV . .
Muslin is a type of very finely woven cotton fabr1c. It JS used
i n the same way as a sieve. allowing liquid to pass through
while retaining any unwanted sediment. Look for i t in kitchen
supply or fabric shops.
Basil oil
Rosemary oil, lemongrass oil and
J c r l1
t\ \\ i l h o i l \\ i n e v i n e ga r ar grea l ly i n p r i c a n d q u a l i ty.
.
o buy
t h e l )e t o u c a n a ffo rc l . 1;, p e r i m e n t w i t h d i ff re n t L y p of v i n egar.
'I a r rago n mHI r C ' < l \\ i n l \ i n ega l' F ( ' ll iH l a n fl sa ffro n v i n ega r
1 5 fresh tarragon leaves 4 sprigs fresh fennel leaves
1 0 j u n i per berries 2 to 3 whole dried chilies
2 cups (500 ml) red wine vinegar 2 cloves garlic
'I teaspoon fennel seeds
Lightly bruise leaves and berries by hitting them with pinch of saffron
the flat of a knife. Place bruised leaves and berries in 2 cups (500 ml) white wine vinegar
clean 17 fl. oz. (500 ml) bottl e ; pour in vinegar.
Place fennel leaves, chilies, garlic, fennel seeds and
2 Leave 3 to 4 days to a llow flavors to develop.
saffron in clean 1 7 fl. oz. (500 ml) bottle ; pour in vinegar.
MAKES 2 CUPS (500 ml)
2 Leave 3 to 4 days to allow flavors to develop.
Preparation 1 0 minutes plus 3 to 4 days for infusing
3 fresh l i me leaves
4 x '/.-in. (5-mm) slices galangal
lr:t too . . .
2 cloves garlic
Red ch i l i vinegar
1 5 to 20 fresh coriander leaves
1 cup (250 ml) rice w i ne vinegar Cut 1 long red chili i n half lengthwise and place in clean
25 fl. oz. (750 ml) bottle with 2 whole long red chilies. Pour in
Lightly bruise lime leaves, galangal and garlic by hitting them 3 cups (750 ml) white wine vinegar. Seal and store.
with the flat of a kn ife. Place herbs, including coriander
Berry vinegar
leaves, in clean 8 fl. oz. (250 ml) bottle; pour in vinegar.
Combine 1 lb. ( 500 g) berries (such as a mixture of raspberries,
2 Leave 3 to 4 days to allow flavors to develop.
strawberries and blueberries) and 3 cups (750 ml) white wine
vinegar in a large ceramic or g lass bowl and stir well to lightly
MAKES 1 CUP (250 ml)
Preparation 10 minutes plus 3 to 4 days for infusing bru ise fruit. Cover mixture and leave in a cool place for a few
days to infuse. Pour mixture into saucepan, bring to the boil
and remove from heat. Allow to cool. Strain mixture through
a double layer of muslin into clean jars. Seal and store. Makes
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - 3 cups (750 ml).
CookJ, f
The seeds o f herbs, such os dill, fennel, celery and coriander, con be
used to make seed vinegars. Prepare in the some way as herb vinegars.
To retain their flavor, store herb vinegars and oils in a cool, dark place.
and rtd
Rice vinegar with coriander, Tarragon
saffron vinegar
wine vinegar, and Fennel and
H erb a n d p i c e p i c kl e
!any pickle rely o n s p i ce s for t h e i r a se rtive flavor. The fre h e r
the spice. t h e better t h e res u l t. o i t' b e s t to b u y l i tt l e a n d often .
2 Heat oil in small saucepan over medium heat. Cook onion 1 tablespoon vgetabl oil
1 to 2 minutes, until softened. Add garlic; cook 30 seconds. 2 taspoons finly grated frsh gingr
'I taspoon ground clovs
3 Add capsicum mixture, sugar, fish sauce and tamarind ; cook
'h taspoon ground cinnamon
10 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally. Stir through
112 taspoon ground cumin
herbs; bottle until needed. Serve with barbecued food. 'h taspoon chili flaks
2 cups (350 g) roughly choppd pittd datrs
MAkES APPROXIMATELY 1 CUP (250 ML)
Preparation 5 minutes 1 cup ( 1 25 g) raisins
Sage butte r
Cor iande r and chili butte r and
I t I Jc ) a uc
.
11
Pea t u r d i n m a n c u 1 1 n e , the e de l i c io u s a uc e s c a n be u sed a s
dip , e rved o n t h e i d e O l' i n c o r po r a tecl i n to a w ide va r i e ty of d i s hes.
l iar i c
Fra n k fu r t g re e n Ha u c
8 dried chilies
'/, oz. ( 1 5 g) each fresh borage, salad burnet, parsley and sorrel
2 cloves garlic, peeled 't. oz. (20 g) each fresh chives and cress or watercress
112 teaspoon salt t. oz. ( 1 0 g) each fresh tarragon and chervil
2 tablespoons olive oil '1. cup ( 1 2 5 g) mayonnaise
1 teaspoon ground caraway seeds 1 teaspoon German mustard
1 teaspoon ground coriander 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
112 teaspoon ground cumin 1 small pickled gherkin, with dill, chopped
1 small onion or shal lot, chopped
Soak d ried chil ies in very hot water 30 minutes. Drain. 1 clove garlic, chopped
Remove stems and seeds. Place chil ies, garlic, sa lt and salt and pepper
ol ive oil i n a food processor; blend to a paste. grated rind and juice of 1 lemon
2 Add the remaining spices and blend. Pack into an a i rtight 2 tablespoons sour cream or yogurt (optional)
1 egg yolk
container a nd top with a thin layer of olive oil. Keeps for
a month in the refrigerator. Thin with a l ittle oil and lemon
1 Chop all the herbs finely.
j uice or hot stock before use. Use as a condiment with eggs
and couscous-based dishes. 2 Add ingredients in given order, seasoning to taste and
beating in egg yolk last of all. Serves 4.
This fiercely fiery, chili-based sauce is a feature of North
African cooking. If using fresh chilies, omit the soaking step. You can vary the herbs used in this German sauce, but be
sure to a lways use 7 or 8 different ones. Serve with fried or
poached fish or cold fish with hard-boiled eggs, cold meat,
or use as a sandwich filler.
r au
1 Combine herbs. garlic. lemon juice and yogurt. of hollandaise sauce, which uses a reduction of lemon juice.
One of the most versatile of sauces. it goes well with meat.
2 Season to taste with salt, pepper and paprika.
chicken or fish.
A light alternative to egg-based or creamy sauces, this recipe
can be varied according to what herbs you have to hand. but
use at least three types. Serve with salads, curries or as a dip.
Bra r'naise sa u c e
. ...
1 \ ,' t o i .' a , ho\\ ca,r fOI' rrr:l1 ba,' i l . P i s l o u . t h e F re n c h
\ at' iR l i o n or L 11 i s l lc I i a n a u c r . i ,' m a c l w i L hou L pine n u L
2 1/2 cups [3 1 0 g ) plain flour Preheat oven to 400F (200C). Sift flour and baking powder into large bowl.
3 teaspoons baking powder
Add egg, buttermilk and basil pesto; mix until well combined.
1 large egg
1 1/2 cups ( 3 7 5 m l ) butterm ilk Line a 4in. x 8 in. ( 1 0.5 em x 21 em) loaf tin with baking paper. Spoon loaf
5 tablespoons basil pesto mixture into tin. Swirl tomato pesto through top of loaf; sprinkle with sun
4 tablespoons sun-dried tomato pesto dried tomatoes and parmesan.
'I cup (40 g ) chopped sun-dried tomatoes
Bake 40 to 45 minutes, or until cooked. Turn out onto a rack to cool. Serve
packed in oil
warm, spread with extra basil pesto.
'I cup (30 g ) freshly grated parmesan
extra basil pesto, to serve
MAKES 1 LOAF
Preparation 15 minutes
Cooking 45 minutes
:\ l a k i n g pe to
MAKES 1 LOAF
Preparation 15 minutes plus
MAKES 1 LOAF
Preparation 15 mnutes
Cooking 30 minutes
Inyediu1 {!/
l'rnnuuu '' " lWI' nl l l .th.tn h.ttn lh.tl h.t,; ltttn '''" nnttl. '>.tl l r u rl'tl .tntl atr tlrll'tl
\oll ( , In 1111\ It l i l l l l l l 'hit'tl liom di'IH-.Iit'"l'll' ,11111 'lil'l'lnld l'kl'l \' ,lfl .tllt'l ll.t l i l t',
2 Sift flou r, baking powder and sa l t into la rge bowl . Add '2 Using a plastic spatula or wooden spoon, fold in remaining
bacon and rem a i n i ng ingredients; mix until well combined. ingredients until combined. Turn out dough onto lightly
floured surface; knead lightly until smooth.
Spoon i nto l ig htly oiled m u ffin pan. Bake 1 2 to 1 5 m i nutes,
or until cooked. Turn out onto w i re rack to cool. J Press or roll out dough evenly to about 1 -in. (2-cm) thickness.
Cut out scones, using 2-in. (5-cm) round cutter.
MAKES 1 0
Preparation 1 0 minutes 4 Place scones on tray lined with baking paper. Bake 18 to
Cooking 1 5 minutes 20 minutes, or until scones look evenly browned and sound
hollow when tapped. Turn scones onto wire rack to cool.
MAKES 1 2
Preparation 1 5 minutes
Cooking 20 minutes
lin nw a n d goa t llwese mul I ins
2 cups (250 g) plain flour Preheat oven to 400F (200C). Sift flour, baking powder,
1 'h teaspoons baking powder sugar and bakmg soda into large bowl. Add remaining
1 tablespoon sugar ingredients; m1x until well combined.
teaspoon baking soda
'1.
Spoon mixture into lightly oiled muffin pan. Bake 1 5 to
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh thyme leaves
18 minutes, or until muffins are cooked. Turn out onto
3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves
wire rack to cool.
3'/, oz. (100 g ) goat cheese, crumbled
1 large egg MAKES 1 2
1 1 cups (310 ml) buttermilk Preparation 10 minutes
3 tablespoons (50 g) butter, melted Cooking 18 mmutes
t I ) LJ (
R i c l1 i n a n l io \ i t l a n L ' . p e p pe ry wa te rc re s i one or the mo t
n u L ri l io u ' of a l ae! gree n s . Coo k on l y b r i - fly L o prese rve i t v i ta m i n s .
SERVES 6
Preparation 10 minutes
Cooking 30 minutes
lr:r t, too . . .
Spicy-style watercress soup
In place of horseradish sauce, stir in
2 teaspoons very finely chopped fresh
g inger. Omit creme fraiche. Sprinkle with
chopped fresh Thai basil and coriander
leaves. Serve with lime wedges.
3 5 oz. ( 1 kg) roma tomatoes, halved Preheat oven to 3soF ( 1 Boc). Place tomatoes (cut -side up). garlic and onion
4 cloves garlic, u n peeled on ba king tray, sprinkle with salt and drizzle with 1 tablespoon oil.
1 red onion, peeled and quartered
1 teaspoon sea sa It
Roast vegetables 30 m i n utes. Remove from oven, cool slightly; roughly peel
Her6
Using a teaspoon, scoop dough roughly into balls. Shape with floured hands.
Drop balls i n to soup, and sim mer, covered, 1 5 min utes. Divide soup among
In France, lovage is called celeri batard, or false serving bowls.
celery It has a much s tronger flavor than parsley
when used raw but its pungency diminishes in
SERVES 6
Preparation 20 minutes
cookmg. Try the leaves and stems m salads.
Cooking 1 hour 30 minutes
Prepa ri ng t he d u m p l i ngs
Shape
Use a wooden spoon to fold in parme san Scoop mixt ure roug hly into balls.
R u b butter a n d flou r togeth er until q uickly with floure d hands .
m ixture resemb les breadc rumbs. and herbs. Add milk to form dough .
ta an h I c ra cf i h sa l a d
Thi crun h sa lacl go s we l l wi t h ba rbc ued m e a L . F re s h hor rad i s h
root can be g ra L r c l a n d froze n . G ra t i n g r e l e a e th i r p u ngen t vola t i l e o i l .
SERVES 6
Preparation 15 minutes
Cooking 10 minutes
Cook J, fi(-v
Potatoes a r ued warm in this salad
becau e Lhey will better absorb the
flavor of L h dre ing. dre 'ing
4 pita brrad s
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon suma c
18 oz. (500 g) small roma tomatoes, halved
2 Lebanese cucumbers, quartered and cut
into l -in. (2-cm) lengths
1 red onion, halved and finely sliced
5 tablespoons finely chopped fresh
coriander leaves
5 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint leaves
5 tablespoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf
parsley leaves
12 butter lettuce leaves, torn in half
5 oz. ( 1 50 g) fetta, crumbled
n oz. (75 g) kalamata olives
Sumac dressing
1 clove garlic, crushed
'/, cup (60 ml) lemon juice
'!, cup ( 1 2 5 ml) olive oil
'I teaspoon sumac
pinch of sea salt
SERVES 4 TO 6
Preparation 1 5 m1nu tes
Cooking 15 minutes
!r flu:<y, too . . .
lnsll'drl of h.JIIll!. I I) lrmg p ii,J hrt'ilil tn J Ill ! It nhlt' utl unttl t'f'l\p. Til t s s.JI.Hl
I>one ol man1 such !rugal pt'JSillll l11\hts nrnund tht 11 nrltl thal u t' hnarl (oltt'n
swlr IJn.Jd J to adcl llul ,mtl lt'\lllrr'.
I 8 1\ l c i a k i ngrc l i c n t i n L a b bo u l h . a L rac l i l i o n a l
\ I i d d l c I a L c r n , a l a d . a n d i n o t h e r ga rn L' h e ,' I H I h e rb m ixe
Chermoula
A Moroccan herb and spice mixture, chermoula is used as a marinade for meat,
poultry and fish. It can also be a ppl ied as a paste, w hich forms a crust during
Her6 f!/ cooki ng. Chermoula traditiona lly includes a mixture of fresh coriander and
pa rsley but the combination of spices can vary. For this version, combine 112 cup
When eaten in portions of at least 1 oz. (30 g), frsh each fi nely chopped fresh coriander and parsley with 1 small finely chopped red
parsley can tams useful amounts of VItamin C,
onion, 2 cloves crushed g a rlic, 1 teaspoon each ground cumin, paprika, turmeric
iran and calcium.
and chili powder, 112 cup [ 1 25 ml) olive oil and 2 tablespoons lemon juice.
Chermoula
Persil lade
Tabbouleh
1 r i ng r l l
.
t I I
T h i ' L a l ig h t . h ea l l h a l lc r n a l i to d c p- f r i d pring
ro l l . Yo u c a n a d d , h r i m p o r c h i c ke n to t h i ba i
1 1/, oz. (50 g) verm i ce l l i Place vermicelli in heatproof med ium bowl a nd cover with boiling water.
1 2 m e d i u m round rice paper wrappers Stand 10 to 1 5 minutes, or until soft; drain and set aside.
2 Lebanese or small cucumbers, seeded
2 Place rice paper rounds in medium bowl of warm water until just soften ed
and cut into thin strips
4 spring on ions
(about 30 seconds). Carefully lay out each one flat on work surface or cuttmg
1 2 snow peas, cut into strips Divide vermicelli, vegetables a nd herbs a mong rounds, placing them in
1 carrot. cut into strips the center of each one. Fold in one edge of the round to partly enclose
1 2 fresh m i n t leaves vegetables, then fold i n the two opposing sides. Fold in remaining side,
1 2 fresh coriander leaves then roll i nto cigar shape to completely enclose filling.
1 2 fresh basil leaves
4 To make dipping sauce, combine a l l ingredients in medium bowl ; stir to
Dipping saucr
dissolve sugar. Serve i n a small bowl with rolls.
2 tablespoons l i m e juice
1 tablespoon fish sauce SERVES 4
1 teaspoon sugar Preparation 30 minutes
e to
Fold in one side of the round and then Roll into a com pact cigar shap
Place vegetable mixtur e in center of rice
t wo o pposing sides. enclose fi lling
paper wra pper.
[ 1 L I ( a a n (i re t ta q u i c h e
F o r a t o u c ll o f lwa t . t rJ a c l c l i n g a l i t t i C' fi n e ! c l l o p p d reel c h i l i t o t h
m i \ t u rc . U , c c l c o m b i n a t i o n o r h a l f c re a m a n d lla l f m i l k. i f prefe r re d .
4 large eggs
1 '/, cups (300 ml) cream
'h teaspoon salt
3 tablespo ons roughly chopped fresh chervil
1 tablespoo n finely chopped fresh chives
1 to 2 sheets ready-made shortcrust pastry
1 cup ( 1 55 g) fresh shelled peas
4 oz. ( 1 20 g) soft fetta, crumbled
'h cup (60 g) grated cheddar
Preheat oven to 350F ( 1 80C). In
medium bowl , whisk together eggs and
crea m ; season with salt and stir through
herbs.
SERVES 4
Preparation 20 m1nutes
Cooking 35 minutes
rdf!/
-----
- - - - - - - - - - - - -
Her6
is
Chervil belongs to the parsley family, bur
more aroma tic than parsley. One of the
much
is used With
staples of classic French cooking, it
seasom ng
tarragon, chives and parsley in the
blend fines herbes.
-
-------
- - --- - - - -
Lo vage a n cJ r n n l om c l t tt s
-\n o m e l e t te i l'a ' L food a t i t be t . r>i i c t n a rn 'Se m i n t .
8 larg ggs
''' ctJP (80 ml) milk
1 taspoon salt
SERVES 4
Prparation 10 m1nutes
Cooking 10 m1nutes
Coof< j,. f
\\mk uu kl1 1\ h<'ll llldklll ouult' lll' .md o l 1 1 1111t l lll'l'll ol- 1111'111 1'1111111 1 1 11111 t ill'
!Iolii 11 hrll Jll t ot 11r t ho'\ 11 111 1'11IIIIIHII' ro,kmg. Sp1 111klt 1 111 .til till' lwrl" .tt t ill ' Plld
of l'llOkin. 11 pl f'fl'l l l'ol. r.l l hi ' l 111.111 ,uldlllg l lll'lll lo l ho Pggs diiii H I I I I-
ITI ( a n i 0 1 ( ga n o so u ffl e s
l n l l i v i c l u a l s o u rrl r R n ever f'a i l l o i m p re , . T h e fru i t c h u t n ey ba e
i , a ' u r p r i e C \ l 1'8 L h a L co m r lic m c n t. s t h e flavors of L h herbs.
'/. cup (60 g ) butter Preheat oven to 400F (200C). Lightly oil 4 x 1 -cup (250-ml) ramekins. Melt
2 tablespoons plain flour butter in small saucepan over low heat. Using wooden spoon, fold in flour;
1 11J cups (330 ml) m i l k stir mixture continuously, about 1 min ute. Remove from heat.
1 c u p ( 1 00 g) grated strong cheddar
2 Gradually add milk to mixture, stirring until smooth. Return pan to medium
1/ teaspoon cayenne pepper
heat, stirring until mixture thickens and thickly coats back of spoon. Fold in
4 large eggs, separated
cheese and cayenne pepper. Tra nsfer mixture to large bowl, cover with plastic
2 teaspoons fi nely chopped fresh thyme leaves
wra p ; cool. When mixture is cool, stir through egg yolks and herbs.
2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh oregano leaves
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh 3 In clean, small bowl, beat egg w hites until soft peaks form. Lightly fold
parsley leaves egg white into souffle mixture, j ust until white streaks are not visible.
2 tablespoons fruit chutney Do not overmix.
4 Place 112 tablespoon chutney in each ramekin. Divide souffle mixture among
ra mekins, taking care not to mix in chutney. Run small spatula around rim to
shape the top of souffles. Place ramekins on oven tray.
5 Bake souffles 20 min utes, or until risen and golden. Serve at once.
SERVES 4
Preparation 30 minutes
Cooking 20 minutes
1 a ki ng th oume
ekin to
Place fruit ch utney in the bottom of R u n spa tula a rou nd rim of ram
Carefu l ly fold egg w h ites i n to souffle
each ramekin . shap e top of souffles.
m ixture. Do not overm ix.
) u m p t i n 1 a n c a lTe s w i th sag e
T h e \\ a r m . m u s k . ' p ic t a s t e o r age Lea m we l l w i L h p u m p k i n .
B r u i .' e sage ! rave l igh l l w i l ll a ro l l i n g p i n LO m a x i m ize the flavor.
1 '12 cups (3 1 0 g) plain flour Combine flour, salt and pepper, eggs, oil and water in large bowl. Whisk until
pinch each of salt and pepper smooth ; mixtu re should be consistency of single cream. Stand 30 minutes
2 large eggs before cooking.
2 teaspoons o l ive oil
2 Heat lightly oiled non-stick frying pan ; pour 1/4 cup batter into pan, tilting
2 cups (500 ml) chil led water
pan to coat base with batter. Cook 1 minute, or until underside is golden.
4'/, lb. (2 kg) pu mpkin, peeled, seeded and
coarsely chopped Using plastic spatula, loosen pancake ; turn and cook other side for a further
2 tablespoons o l ive oil, extra 30 seconds. Repeat with remai ni ng batter to make 6 pancakes.
7 oz. (200 g) fresh ricotta
3 Meanwhi le, preheat oven to 3 50F ( 1 80C). Toss pumpkin and extra oil in
1 /, cups (1 80 g) grated parmesan
'
roasting d ish ; bake 30 min utes, or until pumpkin is cooked and golden.
half a small red chili, finely chopped
4 Combine cooked pumpkin, ricotta, parmesan, chili, mustard, chives, parsley
1 teaspoon dijon m ustard
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh ch ives and garlic in large bow l ; mash mixture with fork, then cool.
1 tablespoon fi nely chopped fresh parsley leaves 5 Preheat oven to 350F ( 1 80C). Lightly oil B-in. (20-cm) springform tin. Place
1 clove garlic, finely chopped one pancake flat on bottom of tin, then top with some pumpkin mixture;
'/, cup (60 g) grated parmesan, extra repeat layers, finishing with pancake. Press down lightly and sprinkle with
Bu rned butter and sage sauce extra parmesan. Bake 1 5 min utes, or until golden.
2 '/, sticks ( 2 50 g) salted butter
6 To make sauce, melt butter in sma ll saucepan over medium heat until butter
20 fresh sage leaves
foams and turns dark golden brown. Remove from heat; add sage leaves.
7 Carefully remove pancake stack from tin onto cutting board; cut into wedges.
Serve d rizzled with burned butter.
SERVES 6
Preparation 40 minutes
Cooking 40 minutes
Cook fi(v
The term "burned lJul tt'l'" or "h urrr noir"
is m i s leading. The huller slwuld be hralecl
u n t i l it i a rich golden uro11 n. not black.
11 h i l l' i l i cooking.
( I ta gn occ h i
fe\\ c h p ped fre h ba s i l o r ag ca n be add d Lo t he c h i e .
Tr fon L i n a c h e i n pia or b l u ch . IL ha a b u t te ry. n u L Ly ta te.
2 6 oz. ( 7 50 g) fresh ricotta Preheat oven to 350F ( 1 80C). Place ricotta, parmesan, eggs, flour and chives in
lf4 cup ( 1 8 5 g) grated parmesan mediu m bowl; season to taste. Using wooden spoon, mix until well combined.
2 small eggs
l. Bring large saucepan of water to the boil then reduce heat to simmer. Using
'1. cup ( 1 1 5 g) plain flour
two spoons, shape spoonfuls of mixture into ovals and drop into simmering
1 cup (60 g) finely chopped fresh chives
water; cook 4 to 5 m i nutes, or until gnocchi float to surface. Remove gnocchi ;
1 tablespoon butter, melted
1 cup (250 ml) cream
place on absorbent paper. Repeat w i t h remaining mixture,
6 slices prosciutto (about 60 g), 3 Lightly grease shallow ovenproof dish with melted butter; place gnocchi
torn into strips in d ish.
3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
4 Combine cream, blue cheese and prosciutto in medium bowl. Pour over
gnocchi, then bake 10 to 1 2 minutes, or until gnocchi is lightly browned.
Serve gnocchi warm, with green salad.
SERVES 6
Preparation 30 minutes
Cooking 30 min utes
Jamaican jer s e a so n i n g
1 teaspoon saffron
1 teaspoon harissa (see page 338)
4 Scotch bonnet chil lies (a variety of habanera and very hot) 2 cloves garlic
1 tablespoon dried thyme or 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves 3 tablespoons fresh mint leaves
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Pound ingredients in a mortar until fine and well combined.
112 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Store in a i rtight container in refrigerator up to 1 month.
salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons soy sauce
6 curry leaves
1 teaspoon ground g inger
1 teaspoon turmeric
) l 1 I an I ll
L tea m .c l w i t h h rb t h a t pa k a p u n c h , a t ll i trio
I o tr a com b i n a l i o n o f o r ga n o , L h m e a n d m i n t or cor i a n d r.
4'/, lb. (2 kg ) leg of lamb To make rub, mix herbs, garl ic, sa lt and pepper in med1um bowl. Pour in
1 lemon, halved and seeded the oil and mix until well combined.
Herb and garlic rub Using a sharp knife, make several slits about '/, in. (5 mm) long all over lamb.
3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh thyme R u b herb mixture a l l over meat, pushing it mto slits; leave lamb 1 hour
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh rosemary at room temperature to marinate.
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
Preheat oven to 350"F ( 1 80"C). Place lamb on baking tray, fat side up, and cook
8 cloves garlic, finely chopped
about 2 hours (30 minutes per 1 1b./500 g). Cover with aluminium foil after 1 hour.
1 tablespoon sea salt flakes
112 teaspoon ground black pepper Transfer lamb to cutting board. Squeeze lemon j u ice over lamb; rest 10 to
1/ cup (60 m l ) olive oil 1 5 minutes before cutting and serving. Serve with roasted vegetables.
SERVES 6
Preparation 20 mmutes plus 1 hour marinatmg
Cooking 2 hours
th rub
herb
Make slits in the meat R u b mixture all Wh en coo ked, the flav ors of the
Comb ine herbs, garlic a n d seaso ning. rub will hav e fully perm eate d the meat
over it, pushin g it into the slits.
Pour i n o live oil and mix well.
() ro c a n l a m b wi th c o u s c o u
Ras e l l1 a n o u t i s a l o rocc a n m i \ t u r r o r 20 o r
m o re p i c e s a n d h rb L h a L
t p i c a I I i n c l u d e s c i n n a m o n . c l o \ C\ ' . l a v e n de r. orri roo
L . c lo\e a n d L u r m r i c .
::=.t::""'
herbs through warm couscous; top with
sliced lamb a n d sprmkle with a lmonds.
'""'""' "'""'"' " "'" .,_""""" ' ""
couscous 1s umc-consu mmg.
made i n to 1 1 11 balls and rre-cookl'd. Pn'l>anng traditional SERVES 6
mstant) VJIJr t ies produce an e\cellent resu ll Preparation 20 minutes
but good-oual ity. q uick-cook (or
Cooking 30 minutes
Ta n doo r i 11 j p t zz
The lemon-a nd-gi nger fla\or of fresh cori a n d n i s a goo<! pa n n n
for "pic tandoori p a l c . Fre.h ortga n o ca n l w u :c c l a a n a l l c rn a l i \ C .
Grttn ritt
2 cups (400 g ) long-grain rice
5 oz. ( 1 50 g ) Engl ish spinach or baby spinach
5 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh
flat leaf parsley
5 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh coriander
2 spring onions, roughly chopped
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
1l2 cup ( 1 2 5 m l ) water
'I cup (60 m l ) peanut or safflower oil
3 cups ( 7 50 m l ) chicken stock
'I teaspoon salt
2 long green chill ies, finely sliced
Pour boiling water over rice i n heatproof 1 Add stock and spinach puree; cook,
med i u m bowl. Soak 10 minutes; d rain. stirring occasionally, until rice is tender Cook tifY
(about 1 5 minutes). Stir through chilli. Keep fresh garlic in a dry. dark, cool
R i n se spinach. Cook u nd ra ined, i n small
Serve chicken on a bed of green rice. place. It will last longer and retam
saucepan u ncovered on med i u m heat,
1ts flavor. Stare it m a terra-cotta
1 to 2 minutes or until j ust wilted. SERVES 4 pat made especially for rhe purpose,
Heat oil in larg e saucepan. Add rice, stir sprout and became bitter.
SERVES 4
Preparation 10 minutes
Cooking 1 5 minutes
Her6 f?/
A bouquet gorm compnsing fresh tarragon,
parsley, boy and bru1sed lemongross odds o
SERVES 4
Preparation 10 mmutes plus 30 mtnutes
marinatmg
Cooking 4 mmutes
Tr fiu:<Y, too . . .
. . . .
II r<liJS. I liilllrt ,His Slit h <iS
L I J lr SO[[ nat brt','Hf tO nlilk!' lllt'SI'
S(' any typr of il Jal
' at suprnna r ktLs. . \lttrn<l iHI).
mou n tam hrrau. l<tlosh ancf focacna an aallahll
as porkt t s for 1111' fish and Sdlad
spilL oprn small pila IJrt'iHis anct u st t ht'm
Pa d Th a i
The Thai word pa d ' i u ed Lo d e c ri be l i r-fricd food.
Tamarind pa t give L ll i d i 11 a fru i t . wee L -a ncl- ' O u r flavor.
SERVES 4
Prparation 15 mmuts
Cooking 10 m1nuts
InyedU!A1t- ?/
Kiet' noodlt'' Jrt' ,11.11L1hlt drwd frnZ1'11 Jll<l l n sh l ht'l 1 ,1 1 1 10 11 1dlh lrOIII I tT lull'
ll'rnllrl'lh (II hl'l'ls ol dnuh l-!11 1' nonclh, a 1 r ,1 rommon lllil'llit'lll in 1;,1 1 .tllll
Southe,l'l \s1,1n nmk1111: Till'\ .m I r,lllsp,l l t'nt ,111d h.lit' ,, :;:l'l.tllllnlls. lu11 \ 14'\llll'<'
c o 1 i a n cl e t a l m o n l)a rce l
Co k i ng d l i a L 1 fla o red fi h uch a a l mo n i n a l u m i n i u m fo i l
O J' ba k i no pa r i a n i dee I way to reta i n i L fl avor and n u t r i e n t .
5 oz. ( 1 50 g) baby spinach leaves Preheat oven to 350"F ( 1 80"C). Lay 4 x 1 2-in. (30-cm) squares of aluminium
4 x 7 oz. (200 g) sa l mon fi l l ets foil on a work surface. Divide spinach among foil squares. Place salmon fillet
2 l i mes, cut i nto 'h-in. ( 1 -cm) rounds i n center of each square; top each fillet with lime rounds, lime leaves, chilli,
4 fresh kaffir l i me leaves, cut into slivers coriander, basil and spring onion.
1 large red chilli, finely sliced (optional)
2 Combine coconut m il k, fish sauce and oil i n a small bowl.
5 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves
5 tablespoons fresh Thai basil leaves 3 Fold i n two opposite sides of foil square, forming seam down middle. Fold
2 spring onions, finely sliced over bottom end several times to secure. At open end of each parcel, pour
112 cup coconut m i l k in 2 tablespoons coconut milk mixture; fold a n d secure top ends.
1 tablespoon fish sauce
4 Place fish parcels on oven tray. Cook i n oven about 1 2 minutes (for medium
1 teaspoon sesame oil
rare sal mon), or until cooked to your l i king. Serve fish in the parcels, with
112 cup (70 g) roughly chopped
cashew nuts, toasted
steamed vegetables a nd rice. Garnish with cashew nuts, if desired.
SERVES 4
Preparation 20 minutes
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - -
s e m b l i ng t h e p a r c l
Wrap and seal the fish at one end. Comp letely seal the parce l, ready for
Pour in coconu t milk mixture. cooking in the oven.
For a pcc i a l c c l r l mH i o n . l l l i p re l l y ( i c s s c r t i s a \\i n n e r. O t h e r ed i b le
flo\\'el' pe t a l s l lw l cou k l be u se c l i n c l u c l c i lora gc ancl cen Lecl ge ra n i u m
1 tablespoon rosewater
1 8 small rose petals, carefu lly washed
raspberries and cream, to serve
SERVES 2
Preparation 20 mmutes
Cooking 5 minutes
Her6 e-
There are many varieties of scented geranium,
ranging in aroma from apple to nutmeg and mint
to pine. Rose- and lemon-scented plants are the
SERVES 6
Prepa ration 20 minutes plus 6 hours freezing
Cooking 7 minutes
. _, ., .. . . . ., ... ,.. , . . . .. . __ _
Trr too . . .
Mixe d herb sorbe t add juice o f 1 lemon. Po u r mixture in o
apple m1nt leaves, lemon balm and
Bn ng '/2 cup ( 1 1 5 g) caster sugar and cup scented geranium or rosemary. Cover, shallow dish and freeze at least 3 hours.
1
( 250 ml) water to a boil, remove from heat; let mxture infuse or until firm. Process in food processor
stirring until sugar
dssolves. Add 4 tablespoons finely chop ped about 20 to 30 mmutes. Test for flavor, or use handheld blender. Freeze aga1n
mixed fresh herbs, such as a combi add more herbs, if preferred. Stra m ; or several hours.
nation of
n I nn co ta
Pa n n a co LLa i s a wo bbl ILa l ia n d e c r t L ll a L L ra n l a te a 'cook d c rea m .
F' l a vor w i l h a I i LL I g m u n d c i n n a m o n or a rd a m o m . i n p l a ce o f t h va n i l l a .
MAKES 8
Preparation 20 mmutes
Ch i l l ing 4 hours
CookJ-- f
ful re ult.
Tu rning de ert out of mold can be a l i ttle traumatic . F'or a succes
or almond oil. I nstead or
alway lightly oat the mold with an oil. uch a peanut
into a bowl of hot water.
r u n n i ng a knife around the edge. dip the mold very briefly
C l1 o o l a t t rn i n t c a k
Tlli cake ink l ig11 Ll i n L h e c n L r d u ri ng oo l i ng,
onto wire rack. Cake will sink slight SERVES B cream W1th 1ts dark green to purple lea,es,
ly
1n he center. Preparation 25 mmutes 1t also makes an arrroct"e garn1sh
Cooking 35 minutes
\\ i th c r ' La l l i z - d flow r
Cr i l a b l e from hop that I I ca ke-de o ra t i ng
I t rnat iv I . il' L m a ke o u r 0\: n .
1 /2 lb. (225 g) butter. softened Preheat oven to 35Cl"F ( 1 8Cl"C). I n a large bowl and using a n electric mixer,
1 cup (230 g) sugar beat butter and sugar until thoroughly combined and light and creamy.
1 teaspoon vani l l a extract
2 Add van i l la and eggs, one at a time, mixing after each addition until
4 large eggs
well combined.
2 cups (235 g) self-rising flour
1 tablespoon m i l k 3 Sift flour into mixture. Using a plastic spatula or wooden spoon, fold in
1 2 t o 2 4 crystall ized flowers (see below) flour and milk until combined.
Icing 4 Divide m ixture to make 12 cupcakes, fi lling each until two-thirds ful l ; bake 1 5
9 tablespoons ( 1 2 5 g) butter, softened minutes, o r until golden. Turn out onto a wire rack to cool.
2 cups (230 g) confectioner's sugar
5 To make icing, mix butter and confectioner's sugar until creamy (about 2
2 tablespoons m i l k
min utes), using electric mixer. Add milk and food coloring, mixing until
food coloring
combined.
MAKES 1 2
Preparation 30 mmutes plus 1 to 3 days for flowers (if makmg your own)
Cooking 15 mmutes
Combine egg w hite with water; using a fork, beat lightly until white just
shows bubbles. Place sugar in shal low d ish.
2 Hold flower or petal in one hand; with other hand, dip a small paintbrush
i nto egg w hite and gently paint flower or petal, covering flower or petal
completely but not excessively. Gently spri nkle sugar over flower or petal.
3 Place flower or petal on wire rack covered with baking paper to dry. Repeat
with remaining flowers or petals.