Herbalists are taught that the list of herbs they use comprises their Materia Medica (Latin for Medical Materials). This list is suggested by the program the student enters and it is implied, recommended, and very much encouraged that students build their own Materia Medica based on the various herbs they work with. I have our pantry stocked with various dried herbs that I have incorporated into many of formulas of infusions, tinctures, teas etc. We also have started a Medicinal herb garden in our backyard in order to have a supply of fresh herbs. While studying in the program, all students are taught to develop their own Herbal. An Herbal is the book or database, or handwritten notes (in some cases) that is a compilation of the Monograph on each medicinal herb. The monograph does have specific criteria/information that needs to be included within your monograph for each herb such as the common name, Latin name, the herbs energetics, etc.
The tie between between plant medicine and cooking has long been established. The very word drug means dried plant. In many cultures throughout history, plants have been woven into medicine and diet so tightly that most herbalists feel that herbalism is an outgrowth, to some extent, of culinary plant use. Which I do firmly believe to be true. A clear example if this would be in my article written on Dandelions.
However, in the late 1600’s to early 1700’s it was also survival. Up until the beginnings of modern medicine, it was the role of the matriarch of each family to provide medical attention. If any illness was beyond the skill of this person in the family, they would then call upon the village healer or medicine person to use more aggressive means to cure the ailment.
However, by the turn of the 18th century using natural herbs become demonized by conventional medicine and religions. It was thought to be witchcraft. Therefore, many family herbals where also recipe books to hide the fact that herbs were being used as medicine. Herbal medicine was forced to go underground. Herbalism is not “New Age”. Herbalism is, in fact, been in existence early on in human history. This amazing fact was presented to me early in my studies by a teacher who cited a article stating that chamomile flowers were found in the teeth of the remains of a Cro-Magnons that dates back to early human history.
In addition to our medicinal herbal gardens, we also grow many different kinds of Culinary herbs. The plants we use to cook with are grown both hydroponically in our Tower Garden (year around) and in the soil. I tend to reserve the top two rows of our Hydroponic tower for culinary herbs and then have an area outside reserved for herbs that will be planted this spring. And it is these herbs coupled with a few other items that I will not go without! And what I am wanting to write about today. I am calling this my Materia Culinaria (Latin for Culinary Materials). Ok so this is not an official name and made up my me, but I think you will see its value as you read on!
My Materia Culinaria is made up of everyday herbs that are regularly incorporated into our daily diet that have wonderful vitamins and nutrients, healing aspects, and of course great flavor! So, what is this list I am referring too? Well, before I jump right into the list, I feel it is very important to understand that many people based their seasoning and spice pairings on what tasted good together. Did you ever ask your self why? Well, I feel it is because of the plants. Yes the plants. The plants are guiding us, as human, to formulate naturally and instinctually based on our tastes. The end result is we tend to cook with herbs in ways that have been used medicinally for 1000’s of years.
There are many various items in our pantry and garden that are used for this exact reason. My Materia Culinaria consists of:
- Sweet Basil (Ocimum basillicum)
- Oregano (Oraganum vulagre)
- Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
- Sage (Salvia officinalis)
- Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
- Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum)
- Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)
- Garlic (Allium sativum)
- Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
- Cinnamon (Cinnamomum spp.)
- Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
- Oats (Avena sativa)
I will be writing a separate article on each herb in the upcoming future posts to give you a description of the herb and its healing properties. I am then going to include a recipe to use this wonderful culinary herbs for you to try out at home.
Most people buy fresh herbs from their local grocery store, bring them home and then use a portion of the plant for that one recipe and the rest of the herb goes to waste. This usually tends to waste money and frustrate many people. I know this speaking from experience! You do not have to waste anything! You have options. The first thing to discuss is storage. When you buy fresh herbs, storage is key. Take the herb out of its container, wrap it in a damp paper towel and pace into a ziplock bag or a airtight container. This will preserve your herb longer. Should you find that you have too much herb left, you can bunch your the herb together, place a rubberband around the stems and hang them upside down in your pantry. Once dried, the herb can be hand crumbled and placed into an airtight glass container for 2-3 years! Finally, another option is to simply grow your own fresh herbs! Buy a small countertop pot and choose a few herbs you know your use frequently and grow them yourself. A hydroponic system is not necessary. You can your use potting soil in a rectangular pot that can handle maybe 3-4 herbs to start. Select your your go to herbs to start. I always start off with Basil, Oregano, cilantro and parsley. You may want coriander, tarragon or dill. Grow whatever you feel you are drawn to! You then can take only what you need for a specific meal. But always remember one rule: Always give gratitude to the plant for its use. I even go so far as to ask teh plant its permission to use the herb to make an outstanding meal of Love. Once I feel I have received permission, I graciously and humbly take only what I need for a specific meal. I then think the plant as well.
Not sure what to make for a meal but want a specific herb? Ever consider asking the herb what would pair best with it. I know for many this may sound far fetched but plants are living beings as animals, minerals and humans are. They contain energy as all things in the Universe do. Meditating with a plant is relaxing, enjoyable and even brings forth many great ideas, inspirations and pairings of food. So enjoy fresh herbs and be thankful for their use. Next we post I will begin to talk about a specific herb, its benefits to us and how best to incorporate into daily meals. In the meantime, its almost springtime, go out and look for herbs you are drawn to and start a pot or two of your own herbs. Enjoy!
Disclaimer- Blue Angel House Healing cannot and does not contain medical advice. The health information is provided for general information and educational purposes. We do not provide medical advice. We are not medical physicians, certified nutritionists, or physiotherapists. All messages , content, and information posted here is for personal benefit and to share real stories and experiences with others. Do not try to self diagnose or self treat any or all serious or long-term illnesses. Accordingly, before taking any actions upon such information, we encourage you to consult with appropriate professionals.