Herbs, Herbs, Read All About It!

It’s National Herb Week!
National Herb Week is celebrated each year in May. It is a week to really appreciate and discover new and old herbs!

Many clubs, organizations, and societies of herbs celebrate and spread the word about all different herbs and their wondrous values. An herb is a plant that can act as a flavoring or medicinal agent. When used in food, herbs are usually taken from the leaf, flower, or seed of the plant; medicinally, it can be taken from the shrub or woody part of the plant.

Herbs can impact your life dramatically. Replacing salt in recipes with natural herbs can help get a handle on sodium intake, without damaging any tastes; if anything, giving more taste!

Most plants contain phytochemicals, so it is no wonder that herbs do too! Phytochemicals are substances in food that are not vitamins or minerals, but do greatly help to protect the body against disease and illness.

Many ancient stories tell tales of herbs being used to cure and heal. Thus, herbs are still used today to do such things. For example, topical application of black pepper on bruises is said to help heal the bruise because it stimulates circulation. Ginkgo is another herb that claims to increase brain and memory function.

Every year since 1995, there has been an “herb of the year”. This year it is “savory”. Savory can be a winter or summer herb. It is an herb that gives flavor and life to many foods such as sausage and stuffed cabbage. It can easily replace sage or thyme. Savory has a potent smell and a salty, flavorful taste; what’s not to like?

Your turn to take action: Try to incorporate savory or any natural herb into a dish you make this week, whether it is meatloaf or an omelet, it is bound to turn out yummy! Let me know in the comments section below.

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