Herbs, Roots & Barks

Before there were traditional medicines, there were herbs, spices, roots and bark from nature which were used to combat common illnesses and promote healing. These days, some are still in use to complement more scientific remedies:

• Cinnamon – good for lowering blood sugar levels and fighting inflammation.
• Sage – has been said to improve brain function and memory.
• Peppermint – the oil within is good for reducing bloating, pain and nausea.
• Holy Basil – not your regular basil, this is a special blend which has been suggested to inhibit bacterial growth and improve immune response.
• Rosemary – ideal for suppressing allergies and congestion.

Herbs are aromatic or fragrant plants used to add flavour or smell to a dish or decoction. They are different from similar salad plants like spinach and lettuce as they are not considered food.

Typically, only the green and leafy parts of the plant are used as herbs, any other part like the bark, dried seeds or roots are considered spices.

For example, rosemary, mint and parsley are herbs. Cardamom, cloves and ginger are spices.

Roots are regularly used in herbal medicine alongside flowers and leaves of certain plants.

Echinacea, for example, is a preferred choice for colds and flu.
Ginseng is a root used as a vitality-enhancing supplement.
Valerian root is a well-known sleep aid when mixed in a syrup or tea.