Which Herb Should You Grow?

Fresh mint adds that cool and refreshing flavor to any dish. Mint is also an healthy addition to many beverages and desserts. Even water is made even better if you add some mint leaves. Mint is an excellent remedy to soothe a headache and relax you after a hard day.

Basil is one of the most popular kitchen herbs around the world. Basil is known for its flavor and intense aroma. Dried or fresh, basil is great for cooking or for creating an invigorating atmosphere anywhere in your home. Basil also offers several medicinal uses, including use as a deodorizer, anti-arthritic, topical antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and insect repellent.

Oregano is often used in Greek-style dishes. It also makes an excellent seasoning for egg dishes, meats, poultry, legumes and breads. Oils distilled from oregano leaves can be used to treat respiratory maladies, digestive upset, and skin conditions.

Dried or fresh chives are great when added to fish, potatoes and vegetable dishes. Chives has a slight onion like flavor. Like many other Alliums (garlic, onions, shallots) growing chives can help to drive away harmful insect pests like aphids and mosquitoes.

The powerful flavor and aroma of Cilantro makes it an excellent seasoning for meats, salsas, and Caribbean dishes. Cilantro adds a warm spicy flavor to chicken, vegetables and soaps. Cilantro is high in antioxidant vitamin C, as well as several vitamins and minerals.

In the kitchen, thyme goes well with parsley, onion, garlic, and ginger. Try thyme as a flavoring in stocks, soups and sauces. Thyme is a good source of antioxidant vitamin A which is beneficial to eye, skin, hair and nail health.