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20. Herb Profiles: History, Uses & Top Varieties
20.1 Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
History & Origin:
Native to India and Southeast Asia, cultivated over 5,000 years. Its name means “royal” in Greek.
Culinary Uses:
Genovese pesto, Caprese salads, Thai curries.
Lemon and cinnamon basil for teas and desserts.
Medicinal Properties:
Aids digestion, reduces inflammation, antimicrobial.
Fresh-leaf infusion soothes indigestion.
Top Varieties:
‘Genovese’, ‘Thai’, ‘Purple Ruffles’
Pro Tip:
Succession-sow every 3 weeks to prevent bolting.
20.2 Mint (Mentha spp.)
History & Origin:
Valued in ancient Greece and Rome for fragrance and flavor. Over 20 species worldwide.
Culinary Uses:
Mint juleps, tabbouleh, Moroccan mint tea.
Chocolate mint enhances desserts.
Medicinal Properties:
Soothes digestion, relieves headaches, clears airways.
Top Varieties:
‘Spearmint’, ‘Peppermint’, ‘Apple Mint’
Pro Tip:
Line bucket with coarse compost under soil to prevent staining.
20.3 Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum)
History & Origin:
Used since 5,000 BC, found in Egyptian tombs. Leaves and seeds both culinary staples.
Culinary Uses:
Salsa, guacamole, chutneys, curries.
Toast coriander seeds for spice blends.
Medicinal Properties:
Detoxifies heavy metals, antimicrobial benefits.
Top Varieties:
‘Calypso’, ‘Leisure’, ‘Santo’
20.4 Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
History & Origin:
Native to the Mediterranean, used by Greeks and Romans.
Culinary Uses:
Tabbouleh, chimichurri, garnishes.
Flat-leaf for flavor, curly for décor.
Medicinal Properties:
Rich in vitamins A, C, K; supports bone health.
Top Varieties:
‘Flat-Leaf (Italian)’, ‘Curly’
20.5 Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
History & Origin:
Native to the Mediterranean, valued for antiseptic properties.
Culinary Uses:
Roasted meats, stews, herbes de Provence.
Lemon thyme for fish and herb butters.
Medicinal Properties:
Thymol supports respiratory health.
Top Varieties:
‘Common (English)’, ‘Lemon’, ‘Creeping’
Pro Tip:
Trim back by one-third after flowering; feed with seaweed solution every 6–8 weeks.
20.6 Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)
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