Fresh herbs contain more antioxidants – substances that fight cancer and heart disease – than some fruit and vegetables
Rosemary is rich in antioxidants which help to maintain vitality & slow the ageing process
The Romans believed that the consumption of mint would increase their intelligence and the smell of mint in their houses was also a symbol of hospitality
Growing a pot of basil in the kitchen may smell good to us but it doesn’t to nuisance flies and mosquitoes who are repelled by the aroma
Mint leaves or oil deters ants and so a few scattered leaves in your cupboards can prove a useful, natural solution
Fresh herbs aid the digestion of food – especially fat - and help with the elimination of toxins from the body
Chives have a beneficial effect on the circulatory system, lowering blood pressure
Dill is effective for the treatment of colic, gas and indigestion
A Royal Herb-Strewer was a popular profession in England in the days before proper drainage and medicines were the norm. Back then, herbs were used for their deodorising and healing properties. A herb strewer’s primary duty was to distribute herbs and flowers throughout the royal apartments in order to mask the rather unpleasant aromas of the city
Today we use the majority of the traditional ‘strewing’ herbs to make scented sachets to deter moths, for pot pourri to sweeten the room and a variety of other aromatic uses
Herbal seeds have been found in pre-historic cave dwellings dating back as far as 500,000 years ago. Our ancestors have always used herbs in cooking and health remedies
The discovery of America is linked to Western civilisation’s search for easier access to rare spices and herbs. Columbus was, in fact, hoping to open trade routes for these substances when he blundered into the West Indies and the Age of Exploration unveiled the New World
The Egyptians studied herbs and used them in medicinal and religious functions as far back as 3500 B.C. The Chinese began the organised study of herbs in 2500 B.C. Written records in China have survived enumerating the uses of herbs that date from 100 B.C.
Dill was once an important herb in witchcraft, and a purported aphrodisiac, it has a distinctive sour flavour that makes an interesting and sometimes unexpected statement in cooking. The leaves, seeds and flowers of the plant can all be used
Parsley is a natural breath freshener, particularly in combating the potency of garlic
Ancient records reveal recipes for herb infused oils and creams in the tombs of legendary beauties such as Cleopatra
