by Tara Rangam
Herbs have been growing as long as human beings have existed. There are hundreds of herbs, some having medical value, some aromatic and some culinary in nature. Technically speaking, a herb means a non woody plant having the above qualities.
Herbs by nature, some are perennial and some are annual. Herbs can be grown in pots, hanging baskets or trays. They need simple manure, no chemical fertilizers. Initially try growing herbs which are commonly used, like Tulsi, Mint, Celery, Oregano, Thyme, Sage and others.
This is just an example like in the sixteenth century, a herb called Liquorice was substituted for sugar. In later part of the century, sugar was replaced by Lippia dulcis. In the nineteenth century, Stevia was used in place of sugar.
Now there are thousands of herbs around the world, but we are not aware of them. So one has to consider and select the herbs which we can grow easily.
Let us take up the example of our holy plant Tulsi, also called Basil. Basil contains linalool, eugenol and chavicol. These are the chemical substances present which give it the properties and effect. Tulsi is an antiseptic, good for migraine, nervous tension, applied for sting of bees, hornets and wasps. Good for ear ache and reduces cholesterol. As far as culinary is concerned, garnishing soups and eggs, mushrooms and also used for pizzas, pastas, chicken dishes. In India, it is used for worshiping and decoration.
To conclude this, I would like to say herbs need lots of sunlight, proper manure, water and care.
