The Simple Uses of Herbal Teas and Indian Spices

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Cloves Cloves havean image of nails, and the ancient name is called clavus. A tropical tree with unopened flower buds, when opened, has pink flowers, after the flowers are opened they are dried and turn to a dark brown color. Cloves can be used whole or crushed, it has a strong flavor so you shouldn't use too many when flavoring of foods, sauces, for pickling spices, and is mainly used in Eastern foods. Clovesare used for treating respiratory and digestive problems can be placed on the gum to relieve toothaches and for stopping vomiting, it can be used to kill worms in your intestines, the common parasite. Cloveclusters are gathered by hand, before the buds open, this plant grows best close to sea. 51

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Coriander Coriander is grown in most parts of the world, a soft plant which grows to fifty centimeters in height, and is commonly found in the wild in the areas of the Eastern countries. Most commonly used in cooking, ground or in a form of powder. Coriander is used in soups; this is an ingredient of other Indian spices which includes garam-masala, in pickling, and pudding spices. The seeds of the coriander are used for brewing drinks. A spice used in many foods. Indians have a common name for coriander, called Dhania, in most Indian regions; the fresh leaves are often used as garnishing foods and to flavor the food with its exquisite aroma. Coriander seeds are boiled with water and drunk for colds, and used for the controlling levels of cholesterol, an Asian herb that is used to prevent hemorrhoids, headaches, swellings, conjunctivitis, and ulcer problems. An herbaceous plant of the parsley family, the leaves are like the parsley plant, it takes ninety days to harvest the seeds of this plant, and the task must be carried through to the end. 52

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Cubeb Cubebis a tailed pepper mostly grown in Java that is the reason for Cubeb being known as Java Pepper. The fruit of this plant is gathered before ripened, and are dried at a later stage. One of the finest spices used in Europe for adding flavor to meat and used in marinades, vegetable dishes, spiced in biscuits, and cheese. A small plant with red to brown seeds in color has a touch of nutmeg, and has a taste of camphor. The berry of the plant is used for stimulation, as an antiseptic, for chronic bronchitis and digestive ailments. Cubebis grown in tropical regions, it is a perennial plant, a climber that clings on to posts, and bears brown fruit. 53

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Curry Leaf The Curry Leaf is a citrus plant, grown all over India it has been used for centuries, in flavoring of curries, chutneys, vegetables, and beverages. A green tree that is grown in India, known as Kari leaf has a fragrant when fresh. An important spice in India, and is used in curries and all other foods prepared in Indian cuisines. The Curry leaf can be refrigerated or used fresh, this herbal spice blends with all Indian cuisines. It has a pleasant curry aroma. Most Indians can't do without this herb because of its rich aroma; mix with curry spice only when dry. The leaves are used for blood circulation, and menstrual problems, for stopping vomiting, relieving of kidney pains, and a treatment for diabetes. A plant suited to tropical and sub-tropical climates. 54

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS 55

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Dill Tea Dill teacultivated in EasternEurope, is a perennial herb which is often used to prevent or ease colds and flu, may help stop diarrhea, controls bad breath, and controls menstrual pains. To prepare this tea, have two teaspoons of mashed Dill seeds in a cup of boiling water, allow to soak for ten minutes, you can have two or three cups daily. Dill spices can be used for pickling and in salads, though not many people acquire the taste of this tea. A Common SideEffectof Dill tea is Dermatitis. 56

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Epazote An herb found in some parts of America. It is brewed as tea and sometimes known as Mexican Tea or Worm seed. Epazote,usually used as a leaf vegetable and can be eaten raw, a spice that has flavors similar to aniseed and fennel. An herb used to flavor Mexican dishes with sharp tastes of camphor and stronger than tarragon, used in salads, soups, and meats. Epazote is used for malaria, and respiratory infections. An annual perennial plant, the young leaves are milder, and less bitter. You can use both the leaf and stem for cooking, but the seeds are used only when dried. 57

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Essiac Tea A blended herb used to boost the immune system. A tea originally used by Native Americans. To make Essiac tea,in a batch, you will need a gallon of water to boil, add half a cup Essiac tea herbs, cover and boil for ten minutes, turn off the heat and stir the tea. Essiac tea needs to be covered for twelve hours at room temperature. Turn off the heat and let the tea stay for several minutes, without stirring; this is to allow all the herbs to settle at the bottom of the pot. Use a strainer and pour the tea into jars, and avoid getting the leaves in the jars, store in the refrigerator. When you choose to have this tea the second time round, pour in a cup and add hot water, do not put in a microwave or boil the second time. Mild Side Effects Indigestion can affect some individuals; don't consume other beverages before taking Essiac tea. If you are allergic, you may have reactions of the same kind. 58

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Fenugreek An Indian spice, an herb of the European region, it originated in India and has been used for years. Fenugreek is also used in a form of powder, with a bittersweet taste like burnt sugar, and has an aroma like celery. Fenugreek is used in curry powders, and many other Indian mixtures, also in home-made powders, used in pickles, pastes, and mixed in rice and other Indian cuisines. Fenugreek is used for home remedies, such as, cysts, to reduce the sugar levels, lowers blood pressure, for treating sinuses and diabetes. The plant leaves a spicy odor on hands after handling, rather use gloves for protection, use gloves whenever touching any plant to avoid allergic reactions. 59

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Galangal Galangal is grown in Java,aspice for most foods. Some people in the Eastuse Galangalspice in tea, as snuff, in perfumes and in brewing drinks.Greater Galangalis like a ginger spice, a hot spice and should be used sparingly. It comes in a form of thick powder, and in slices. The Lesser Galangalis not used in Chinese cooking, in powder form and is very hot in comparison to the GreaterGalangalpowder spice. It has a peppery and gingery taste. A spice used in the middle Ages, for most foods. Often used with tomatoes, onions, in shellfish cuisines, hot Indonesian cuisines, and in many sauces. An aromatic herb, and used for nausea, rheumatism and antibacterial agents. An herbaceous plant of the ginger family, which has red berry fruit, and called the Greater Galangal, and the Lesser Galangal,has flowers in white and red streaks, a small plant which is widely grown. 60

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Garlic A bulb and a species of the onion, the most commonly used bulb, which has been used for generations. An easy to grow plant and, grows all year round in mild climates. Garlic is used worldwide for its distinctive flavors in foods. Garlic has been used for reducing cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and for some cancers. It can be eaten raw and is great for most health issues. Garlic when eaten raw has more effect than when cooked, as the nutrients disappear when cooked. The Elephant garlic is not as strong; it has a slight sweet taste and is large in size. If you don't like strong garlic then this one is for you. Used for roasts, salads, soups, pickles, stews and many other foods. If you have too much of raw garlic it can cause indigestion problems, so have in moderation. 61

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Gentian Tea A tea used in Europe, most people use it for relieving pain, detoxifying the body, encourages the flow of bile, and for other liver problems. Gentian tea has been used for years for indigestion orders. Mainly for the older people and is the most bitter herb. To prepare the tea boil half a cup water for half a teaspoon coarsely powdered Gentian root for five minutes. Strain the tea and drink thirty minutes before meals, if you feel the tea is very bitter or strong, reduce the amount of herbs, and you can have Gentian tea three or four times daily. Side Effects Vomiting and headaches are experienced by some people. 62

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Ginger Root Tea A kind of tea that started growing in some parts of Asia, nowin most parts of the world, used for digestion, and high blood pressure, for nausea, or vomiting, it even relaxes stomach muscles. Used as a pain reliever. A simple way of making Ginger Root Tea, add the four slices of ginger to the water and let it boil for two minutes, strain, add honey and lemon to your taste, drink while warm to hot. Side Effects Rarely, affects an individual, but if you are pregnant, a sufferer of gallstones, or have inflammatory bowels, and have ulcers, don’t take Ginger Root Tea. It is also, a blood thinner; you shouldn't take blood thinners if you are drinking this tea. Ginger is a spice used in Indian cuisines and should be use in small amounts because of its strength. 63

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Ginseng Tea One of the popular teas in China found in some energy drinks, and, in cosmetics. Slice the pieces thinly from the root of the herb and place it in a lightly woven material used as a tea bag, tie with a string securely, and put in a cup of boiling water, soak for five minutes and drink hot or cold. Side Effects Most common, when you have more than the required limit of Ginseng tea, it causes nervousness and excitability, used for diabetes, Type 2 also for the sexual dysfunction in men. 64

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Hawthorn Tea Found in Africa Asia and Europe. A tea made with crushed Hawthorn Berries or leaf and flower, add a cup of boiling water, you can soak for 15-20 minutes, if you like it can be reheated, add some lemon, or honey for your required taste. A tea which has a history in clinical and folk medicine purposes used as a heart tonic, it reduces bloodstreams, fatty levels, and, cholesterol levels. Side Effects Hawthorne Tea is used for treating nausea, upset stomachs, dizziness, mild rash or drowsiness, for fatigue, sweating, in difficulty of sleeping, and for headaches. 65

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Hibiscus Tea An infusion made from the Hibiscus Sabdariffa flower, an herbal drinking tea, around the world. A tea that is referred to as Roselle and other names for the Hibiscus flower are flor deJamaica, in Latin America, known as Karkady, in the Middle East, another name called bissap, in the West Africa, for each region a different name is provided. This is a tea blended with Rose hip, and is used in the Middle East, drunk hot or cold. The natives associate this tea with longevity. When preparing Hibiscus tea, heat water to a low boil, add a teaspoon of loose leaves in a cup, add slightly over a leveled teaspoon, infuse the tea for five minutes, or depending on your taste preferences. If you need to take this tea to control your blood pressure, first consult your doctor. Women on hormone replacement therapy, or estrogen issues shouldn't drink this tea. Side Effects The tea if consumed more than the required amount and over a long period, can reduce fertility, if women are pregnant they are shouldn't drink this tea, it may cause damage to the fetus or baby. 66

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Honey Bush Tea The Honey Bush tea is caffeine free making it pure and natural to drink. People that often suffer from headaches, insomnia, nervous tension and mild depression, irritability or hypertension can have this tea. It is good for you if on a diet, of its natural sweetness. A healthy lifestyle, Rooibos or Honey Bush teas are helpful for constipation, ulcers and heartburn. This tea is popular as a health drink in South Africa, when it was discovered it had soothing effects on babies with ailments. It grows in other regions of South Africa. To prepare Honey Bush tea or Rooibos tea, add some boiling tea with one teabag with or without milk and according to your taste of sweetness. No need to add sugar when drinking this tea, it has a natural taste. 67

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Hoja Santa An aromatic herb, the size of a dinner plate has heart-shaped velvety leaves, and grown in tropical regions. Hoja Santa is often used in Mexican cuisines, and is called Root Beer Plant because of its aroma like beer. It is mostly used fresh. It has an aniseed flavor and easy to cook with. Hoja Santa grows in warm regions, and in parts of Mexico. This herbal spice has a taste of other flavors like licorice and nutmeg. The leaves of this plant can be used as a wrapper to fish when cooking, but not used for salads because of its toughness, when cooking with this leaf it stays green and keeps its taste. Used as a garnish as you would parsley, you have to acquire the taste of this herb, because of its unique taste. It is used for treating stomach aches, bronchitis, apnea, and asthma. 68

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Horehound Tea The Romans found out about this plant, centuries ago. A tea for the upper respiration disorders, like asthma, coughs, sore throats, and for headaches caused by sinuses. Prepare Horehound tea by boiling in a kettle or saucepan and keep the Horehound leaves in a clean heat-proof container in a coffee mug and leave aside. Add the boiling water over the Horehound leaves in the cup and cover with a saucer for fifteen minutes, thereafter strain the tea into another heat proof cup. The leaves can be discarded, after the tea is soaked. Have it with lemon and honey, your choice. You shouldn't have more than a cup daily. Side Effects Maybe diarrhea and dermatitis, it may not be the same for everyone. 69

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Horseradish A perennial plant found in Mediterranean fields. A family of cabbage, and is a popular herb worldwide. The root of this plant doesn't have much of an aroma, the root and leaves are used in medicine. For treating urinary tract infections, and other minor health problems. Enjoyed best mixed with vinegar, used in sandwiches, salads, with boiled foods and roasts and in rich or fatty foods. The leaves can be eaten but not many people fancy the taste. It has a sharp flavor with a very hot and spicy flavor. 70

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Hydrangea Root Tea A Tea from dried leaves, a wild shrub in many species that grows in Asia and America, especially, for the Native Americans, a tea that shouldn't be drunk for a long period. Special care is taken when picking this herb, because most species contain a toxin. The safe Hydrangea, known as sweet tea, it helps to reduce urinary stones, helps fight gout, for treating malaria, for the inflammation of prostate of the urethra, and for bladder problems. When making Hydrangea tea, simply put one teaspoon of dried Hydrangea root, into a cup of boiling water, cover the mix and soak for five minutes. Have while warm and add a sweetener, if preferred. Side Effects Consult your doctor if you have an upset stomach, or if there are signs of a rash, if the oil is used on the skin you may feel dizzy or have a tight or uneasy chest, not a tea for everyone. 71

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Hyssop Hyssop is of the herbaceous plant, it is best known as a medieval herb grown in the region of the Mediterranean and the parts of Asia. An aromatic herb used as a companion plant to the cabbage. It is used as a sacred plant for rituals in the Catholic churches, and in Judaism. Hyssop is used in bitters, for digestives and in liquors, but is too strong in flavoring foods. If you use for cooking, use one or two leaves for the reduced strength of the flavor. It is used like you would sage, for health issues it is used for a gargle when you have a sore throat, the Hyssop tea can be used for poor digestion, breast and lung problems, the oils are essential for gas, bloating, and colic. The leaves and flowers, when moistened can be used for minor burns, bruises, and skin sores. Place the leaves or flowers directly on the skin it can be used as a wash when these conditions are present. Even kills body lice, and is helpful on bites. 72

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Jamaican Sorrel Jamaican Sorrel is not the popular Sorrel, or a true Sorrel, it is a perennial herb, and is grown in tropical and sub-tropical regions. It looks like cranberries, and bears fleshy fruit. Requires a full sunny spot to grow and shouldn't be planted in the same place annually. It can be used as a hedge in your garden for attractiveness and needs plenty of space to spread out. The Jamaican Sorrel is used for flavoring drinks, wine, and sauces. Sometimes added to desserts, it is used in drinks for thinning of the blood and to lower blood pressure. 73

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Juniper Juniper has evergreen needle-like leaves and is used worldwide, as an air- freshener because of the aromatic flavor, and has a bittersweet taste; the fragrance is of turpentine and gin. The seeds of Juniper are used for its unique flavor and are preserved when moist, and while the berries are still soft. The herb is used in flavoring roasts, in all kinds of meat including game, or any dish required. The berries unripe can be used for warts, skin growths, for urinary tract infections, upset stomachs, for the prevention of some cancer cells, kidney diseases, and for many other ailments. 74

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Kava Root Tea Fresh kava is stronger than the dried kava, when preparing kava, use dried leaves, soak for a couple of minutes in boiling water, and discard the ingredient after squeezing the flavor in a cup and have this tea like you would any other tea. Traditionally it is ground by hand. From the South Pacific, and, is popular for its affects, it makes a person talkative and allows relaxation. Side Effects Dizziness, gastrointestinal disorders, is common effects of Kava Root Tea. 75

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Kokum A fruit tree, with many purposes, found in forests, and in low rainfall areas of India. An evergreen, slender tree which has sloping branches. It is same as tamarind used in India, and is great in flavoring foods, used as a sour agent in fish or other curries. Used for burns, scalds, dry skin, allergies or rashes, and for loss of appetite. 76

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Lapacho Tea A tea known as Taheebo, the inner lining of the bark or Cambium, of red or purple of a Lapacho tree, it is grown in the Brazilian jungles, by indigenous people, it is boiled to make an infusion with many and varied health benefits. To brew this tea add four level teaspoons to a cup of boiling water, simmer for five minutes and soak for fifteen minutes sweeten and drink as Iced tea. It helps for treating leukemia and in the case of AIDS can be helpful in Brazil and Paraguay. Indigenous people still use it for illness. Side Effects For diarrhea and nausea. 77

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Lavender A well-known herb found in the European fields, grows in small shrubs, and is a tea used for some ailments. The nectar of the Lavender flower is used to make quality honey. Lavender has been used for generations and can be found in the European region. People still gather this wild herb from the fields, and dry for using at a later stage, and are kept in glass bottles. An herb used for flavoring foods, mostly in Frenchcuisines with a sweet taste. It has a strong aroma and used to keep fish moths at bay, and for attracting bees with the beautiful flowers it bears. 78

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Lavender flowers are collected before the buds open and while the aroma is still at its best. Dried lavender should be used with caution because of its impotency, it is of the mint family and can be used like you would use sage, or rosemary, a combination of other herbs and spices, including, thyme. Used for headaches, like migraines, for dizzy spells, sore joints, inflammations, and, a cure for hoarseness. 79

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Lemon Balm Tea An herbal tea used for increasing your spirits that relieves stomach disorders, and, relaxes the nerves. Found in Europe and some parts of Africa have been grown for thousands of years. It is called the Lemon Balm Tea because of the scent of lemons on the leaves. To make Lemon Balm tea is easy, use one teaspoon of Lemon Balm Tea, dried herb, cover in a cup of boiling water to avoid the escape of the aroma from being carried away with the steam. Enjoy this tea after ten minutes soaking and straining. You can drink this tea and still perform normal duties. People with Glaucoma shouldn’t use this tea as it affects the pressure of the eye. Always consult your doctor before consuming any herbal remedies. 80

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Licorice Root Tea Another unique tea which originated in Southern Europe but grown since the early times in most parts of the world, including India. A special herb that improves digestion, reduces coughs, seasonal allergies, sore throats, and soothes peptic ulcers. When making Licorice tea, use boiling water add a stick of Cinnamon and two and a half teaspoons dried Licorice Root, cover the pot, partially. Let it stand on low heat for ten minutes, add some peppermint leaves, cover and soak for another ten minutes, strain and discard the herbs, add honey or sugar to your taste, and have while still warm. Side Effects Large quantities of Licorice Root Tea can cause shortness of breath, and can lead to other health problems, for some people can cause upset stomachs. Pregnant women shouldn't have this tea, it increases the levels of blood pressure, and also for those who are diabetic or who had a history of stroke, importantly, consult your doctor before use. 81

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Lovage Lovage,a relative of parsley, used in Eastern Europe for flavoring foods, and beverages, a perennial plant that is used as a spice and a tea in most parts of Europe. The leaves are used for flavoring of foods, like celery, can be used whole or in little pieces. Lovage can be eaten cooked or raw, for favoring stews, as cubes for stock in soups, pickles, sauces and goes well with salads. Lovage can be applied as an antiseptic, to wounds. 82

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Mahlab A spice mostly used in the Middle Eastern region and is made from seeds. Prunus Mahaleb is an aromatic spice from cherry stones, grown from a black cherry tree, and is commonly used in spicing breads. It has a sweet taste, and is a fragrant of rosewater. An herb with a pleasant taste often used in pastries, or starchy foods, and has sweet cherries. 83

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Marjoram An herb was traditionally used in Europe implicates a symbol for love, grown in most parts of the world, including the Mediterranean region. You can use in whole, ground or in little pieces when fresh, and seeds have a milder flavor than leaves. Marjoram is used for the flavoring of food, with a bitter, spicy and sweet taste. An herb that is similar to thyme and sweet basil. It is used mostly in European cuisines, added to fish sauces, in form of powder or when freshly picked. Even used as a garnish to salads. At the end of cooking it can be added to flavor the food, like you would use rosemary. For many cuisines such as, roasts, soups, seasonings, and for pickle remedies. For treating headaches, head colds, calming of the nerves, and for the clearing of sinuses. 84

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Mastic A bitter herb found on the Island of Chios, used in paints, and for making varnishes, for musical instruments. Now used for fragrances, soaps, insecticides, and, a filling in dentistry. Used in confectionery, and in liquors. Small amounts are used in Turkish kebabs, for baking, syrups and as a flavoring. Mastic is used as teeth filling. 85

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Melegueta Pepper Melegueta pepper was found in the tropical of Africa but grows mostly in Ghana. A hot and spicy herb, the seeds are used crushed or whole, as cardamom is used. Good for spicing foods. Used as an herbal medicine in West Africa, and a plant, of the ginger family. Used for many ailments such as Measles, Leprosy, and Worms in the intestinal tract. 86

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Mint A green herb that has been used for centuries, there are many varieties of this aromatic plant, with peppermint and spearmint flavors. It has a refreshing mint taste. Mint is used for many purposes, with vegetables, mint sauce for roasts is most popular, leaves used in salads and made as a refreshing tea. After a tiring day try having some mint tea, its most relaxing. Used in most foods, and grows worldwide, the peppermint and spearmint herbal plant were discovered in the early eighteen hundreds in the European regions. Mint is used as a stimulant, is good for colds, flu, digestion, hiccups, stings, ear aches, sinuses and other ailments. 87

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Myrtle Myrtle, a herb that has been used since medieval times. For roasts like you would use the spices juniper and rosemary. Found in Europeand in most of other parts of the world including Australia. The seeds are used whole or crushed, and has sweet flavors. Used in wine, and desserts. Leaves can be used in stews, salads, and the wood of the myrtle leaves a fragrant to the meat like you would use rosemary. Used in most cuisines. The herb is used as an antiseptic for bruises, and the leaves are used to relieve gingivitis and sinusitis. 88

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Nettle Leaf Tea The Nettle herb has a painful sting when touched, so most people try to stay clear of this plant when in the wild, but it is useful in a special way. This herb is found in Europe, and most parts of world, which includes Africa and Asia, sometimes in your back yard grown with weeds. There are a variety of species of this flowering plant of the Nettle Leaf Tea. It is commonly of the herbaceous perennialplant. For treating urinary tract infections, allergies, like eczema, hay fever, combats menstrual disorders, tuberculosis, and, asthma. To prepare this tea use boiling water in cup or a kettle, depending on how many cups you are making add the Nettle leaf. The dried leaves are most appropriate. Soak for ten minutes, then strain and drink warm or cold with a teaspoon honey or naturally. Side Effects Hay fever is an effect, only if you are allergic to the Nettle Leaf Tea. 89

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Nigella Nigella is used by Asian herbalists, and can be used as moth balls, comes from the name Niger which means black. It is an herbaceous plant of the buttercup family. The seeds are small, black in color and in form of grains, like onions, when rubbed or squashed in your hands, this gives off an aromatic fragrance of a slight bitterness and peppery taste when tested for its flavors. A spicy taste, used for flavoring roasts when crushed, for bread or dhal dishes, and mostly used in Indian dishes. In other regions this spice is used in cuisines and in Europe it is used as a substitute for pepper. For generations this herb has been used for medicinal purposes, for stomach, and intestinal problems, kidney and liver functions, and for other ailments including the prevention of cancer and for general being. 90

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Nutmeg The Nutmeg, is of a large evergreen tree, this from the Spice Islands which produces Mace. It is known as the plant with magical flowers, many years ago it was used for certain superstitious beliefs. Nutmeg is safe to use and does not have any risks, it hasn't been known of many people having allergic reactions to this herb. The yellow edible fruit looks like a small peach, the whole nutmeg is used for protection against insects, and fungal cavities, often used in Indian cooking, with aromatic tastes and has a slightly sweeter taste. Nutmeg is not a very spicy herb can be added to sweet dishes, pies, puddings, custards, and cheeses, for punches, wines and eggnog too. Helps eases coughs, vomiting, digestion, increase appetite, nausea and diarrhea. 91

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Onion Onions have been used in just about every dish for centuries, used as a vegetable, it is strong, and with a sweetness too. A member of the Allium genus, a bulb with richness, and adds flavors to all foods. An edible plant, it comes in various sizes and shapes and colors. When slicing onions, you tear and an old saying. 'If you tear when slicing onions, it means your mother-in-law will like you, not sure of that one!!!' Onions can be used as sliced, whole or crushed, and can be pickled, used in meat dishes, soups, stews, and any other cuisines. A bulb that is used by many nationalities and has a great taste, but leaves you with a not so fresh breath after eaten raw, same as when you would eat garlic. Onion plants are grown in a garden. Onions are used for wound healing, boils, toothaches, increases appetite, strengthens the liver, for the heart, the nervous system, and increases white blood cells. It prefers sunny positions. With thick skin that protects the onion from pesticides, the bulb is known to be the cleanest vegetable. 92

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Orris Root Orris Root is used in a form of powder and as an exotic fragrant in Morocco. It was used in cooking, years ago, but now mainly as a fragrant. A perennial plant, with white flowers has an aromatic fragrant of violets, with a bitter taste. A special spice was used to relieve sore throats and colds, not many people use it as a spice any more. 93

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Paprika A variety of this herb is grown in the South America, a tropical plant that grows in cooler climates. The Hungarian Paprika is supposed to be the stronger paprika than the Spanish one. Paprika can also be used as a powder, some peppers have a sweet taste, and others are hot and spicy. There are red, green or yellow when ripe and in different sizes and shapes, are used as pastes, marinades, in soups, and in spicing cheeses. You can sprinkle on eggs, and use Orris Root as a garnish. Peppers can be used in just about any food with its good flavors. A fresh red pepper has seven times more vitamin C than oranges. 94

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Parsley Parsley is used in salads, as a garnish. The common kinds: The popular bright green biennial, the flat leaf in Italian, and the curly leaf, parsnip rooted the curly type which is grown closely bunched, with bright green leaves. The flat leaf, known as the Italian parsley, has a serrated edge and is not well for garnishing. The not so familiar parsley, is the Hamburg parsley, the leaves are sometimes too strong for some people, It has a sharp taste, can be eaten raw, like celery and is tasty, used in sauces, or in daily foods. The very long existence of Parsley has made it difficult to know where it exactly has originated. Parsley is used in most foods, like chervil, blends with other herbs like Marjoram, bay leaves, and thyme. A common ingredient used in scrambled eggs garlic bread, or fish for most people. 95

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Poppy Seed Poppy Seed is mostly used in European baking. An annual plant, that grows wild in fields. The opium poppy is found in Middle East and grown in China. The seeds of this plant are tiny are kidney shaped Poppy seeds are sweet tasting for roasting, sprinkled on breads, poppy cakes or strudels. Poppy cakes are commonly baked in Europe and in other parts of the world. Used in cough syrups, has appetizing properties, as a drug in morphine, heroin, and as an anesthetic. Opium poppy is a commonly used drug. 96

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Rosemary Rosemary, an herb commonly found in your back garden, and used in cooking from an evergreen plant with small narrow leaves. There have been old beliefs of this herb, and most people still believe in their traditional thoughts, especially, those in the Mediterranean region. With strong flavors, used in flavoring of foods at the end and discard before eating, in soups, or any other foods in your daily menus. Rosemary enhances flavors in salads and goes well with tomatoes. Leaves and flowers are used for cooking or in salads. Rosemary is used as a herb and as tea. Rosemary can be used as a laxative; anyone can have this herb as a tea, if you have allergic reactions, control your intake. 97

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Saffron Saffron is an expensive herb has a sharp taste, and a fragrant of honey, an herb used in the Mediterranean region and in Asian foods. Spanish use it for their cuisines, and in The English use Saffron in their traditional buns, while the Italians use it for their rice dishes. Saffron helps as a sedative, and as a gas impulsion to some people, too much of this spices, can be fatal, use sparingly. An image of an ornamental crocus plant, and grows in warm climates. 98

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Sage Tea Sage is one of the oldest herbal remedies ever used A Tea used for the calming of nerves, eases lung congestion and coughs, a useful remedy for Typhoid fever, pains in joints, and in fighting liver and kidney problems, to control Alzheimer's disease or menstrual problems but consult your doctor before use. Pour boiling water on this dry herb, let it stand for half hour before drinking and have with lemon, or honey. Sage contains Thujone, it is not recommended to take on an irritable stomach ache. Sage tea has been used to prolong gray hair it is natural and works wonders. An infusion for gray hairs can be made from the Sage herb and will keep gray hairs at bay. Side Effects For some people it causes dermatitis, and not recommended for pregnant women Sage grown in a herbal garden the flowers are in a beautiful color of purple. 99

THE SIMPLE USES OF HERBAL SPICES AND TEAS Sage Sage is used in Croatia, a perennial herb grown along the Mediterranean Dalmatian coast of the Adriatic Sea; it has been growing on the hills of Dalmatiafor centuries. Sabla is the botanical name for this herb, meaning to heal, because of the medicinal qualities.Sage can be added to fatty foods to break down the flavors. Sage is planted and harvested as wheat used for cooking, in Croatia, other people like the American Indian salsouse Sage for medicinal purposes, for skin sores, bathing, and as a disposable toothbrush. Some believed this herb cured illnesses like epilepsy, sea-sickness, and worms in your system, measles, or insomnia, and as AmericanIndians used it. Sage grown in the wild with different colored leaves. 100