The Forgotten Language of Herbs

In the 1400s, Brides would carry a bouquet of herbs called a Tussy Mussy... not only for their scent which disguised the smell of irregular bathing and sickness, but also for their beauty/colour and health benefits. What we have forgotten in recent times, is that every flower and herb has a specific meaning!

Scent and Herb Gardens are a joy and comfort to people with limited sight. A common feature at CCS and schools for the blind around the country.. as well as in Retirement homes. Herbs have massive health benefits.

To get your own herb patch will take minimal effort. A small raised garden in a warm spot is all you need. The basics to start (including roots) are priced at under $2 in your local supermarket. Here is a list of some of the best...  

Mint ‘Protection from Illness and Warmth of Feeling’ - (plant in a separate container and sink into garden bed or roots will take over). Mint can be used to flavour your vegetables, made into mint sauce, mint jelly or garnish in fruit drinks or salads. Mint relieves rheumatism and infections of the throat.

Parsley – Widely used in the kitchen for parsley sauce, butter and for flavouring potatoes, salads, buttered eggs and many other dishes. Used for kidney complications. Parsley is rich in Vitamin A and C.

Rosemary ‘Remembrance’ – Cooking, medicine and cosmetics. Good for headaches and colds when made into a tea. Highly flavoured, perfect on venison or lamb.

Thyme ‘Strength and Courage’ – Cosmetics, cooking and medicinal. Ensures a restful sleep.

Chives – Regarded as the poor man’s onion, chives are very hardy. Useful as a border plant, delicious in soups and stews.

Basil ‘Best Wishes, Love’ – strong in Italian cookery, especially in tomato dishes. A leaf applied to the sting of a wasp or hornet would suck out the poison. And in Hindu houses, it is regarded as having a protective influence.

Sage – ‘Wisdom, Long Life’ – An antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal. Used to treat sore throats, coughs, mouth inflammations and gingivitis. Sage also has memory enhancing benefits.

There are so many options to get you started and once you start you’ll be hooked! Plant your herb garden close to your washing line and let the scent envelope your clothes or place near the entrance to your home for a soothing entrance.

Above all, enjoy your herbs. They bring such a clean fresh gift for everyone to enjoy.

By Toni Bingley