All About Herbs
Jeera or cumin seeds belong to family Apiaceae. In Sanskrit, Cumin is known as Jiraka. Jira means “that which helps digestion”. Cumin seeds have unique flavor and aroma and are used to spice and season many dishes like curries and chutneys. The strong aroma of jeera or cumin seeds is due to the presence of compound cumin aldehyde. Cumin can be used ground or as whole seeds. Read More
Carom seeds, thymol seeds, bishop’s seeds and ajwain commonly known as ajwain. Its scientific name is Trachyspermum Ammi. Ajwain or ajwan belongs to the Apiaceae family of plants. It is the only plant that has the highest amount of thymol which contains medicinal ingredients and is very effective in helping the stomach release gastric juices and speed up digestion. It smells very much like thyme as it also contains thymol. It is aromatic and tends to dominate the flavor of the dish. It is well known for properties that make it one of the most used home remedies with many health remedies. It is traditionally believed to be a digestive aid. Read More
Basil is one of the oldest herbal plant and is the native to India. The scientific name is Ocimum basilicum. Basil is a Greek word meaning king. It is considered as the king of herbs. Basil is an aromatic herbaceous annual plant with white flowers and shiny bushy leaves. The herb has a strong smell. It is a highly prized plant. It is rich in health benefiting phytonutrients. Read More
Cloves are aromatic, dried flower buds of an evergreen flower. The buds of the clove are the richest source of anti-oxidant namely quercetin and anthocyanins. Cloves are an excellent source of manganese, magnesium, sodium, calcium, dietary fiber, iron, vitamin K and C and omega-3 fatty acids. Cloves also contain protein and carbohydrates. Cloves are aromatic, warm, strong and spicy. They are harvested in Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan, and Madagascar. Cloves are used in Chinese medicine, Ayurveda medicine and dentistry. Read More
Olives belong to the Oleaceae family which is the shrub native to the coastal areas of Mediterranean Basin, Africa and Asia. Olives are used as food and a source of oil known as olive oil. Olives are available in a variety of colors ranging from green to brown to black depending on their ripeness and processing. Black olives are the best. Research has shown the health-giving benefits of olives, olive leaves, and olive oil. There are many varieties of olives and all types are worthy of health benefits. Olives are rich in iron, copper, vitamin E, and fiber. Olive oil is the prime component of olive which preserves aroma, vitamins, taste, and properties of olives. Extra Virgin olive oil is the best as it is the first pressing of the olives and is fewer processes. It contains a higher level of vitamin E and phenols. Olives have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Read More