From Green Thumb to Green Nose: An Aromatic Adventure

Aromatic Plants

Aromatic plants not only add a special touch to dishes, but they are often rich in health benefits too. If you have a green thumb, you can’t resist growing them in your garden or on your balcony. But did you know that many of these plants can also stimulate our “green nose”? Here’s a list of some of the most common aromatic plants and how you can use them.

1. Angelica (Angelica archangelica)

Properties: Digestive, anti-inflammatory, stimulating.
Uses: Often used in teas and decoctions, it is also a traditional ingredient in candies and confections. The leaves and seeds can be used to flavor meat or fish dishes.

2. Anise (Pimpinella anisum)

Properties: Digestive, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, calming.
Uses: Anise is used to flavor candies, baked goods, and liquors like ouzo and sambuca. It is also used in teas for digestive issues and to calm the stomach.

3. Arugula (Eruca vesicaria)

Properties: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, digestive, tonic.
Uses: Arugula is commonly used in salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish. It is known for its peppery flavor and is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making it a healthy addition to various dishes.

4. Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

Properties: Antioxidant, digestive, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, relaxing.
Uses: Perfect for seasoning fresh dishes like salads and sauces. Key ingredient in pesto and can also be added to soups and meat or fish dishes for an aromatic touch.

5. Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis)

Properties: Anti-inflammatory, digestive, aromatic, antioxidant, carminative, relaxing.
Uses: Perfect for flavoring soups, stews, and meat dishes. Also used to make digestive infusions and flavor oils and vinegars.

6. Bay Leaves (Laurus nobilis)

Properties: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, digestive, antimicrobial.
Uses: Bay leaves are typically used in slow-cooked dishes such as soups, stews, and sauces. They are often added whole and removed before serving. Bay leaves also have digestive and anti-inflammatory properties, and they are often used to promote overall digestive health.

7. Borage (Borago officinalis)

Properties: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, diuretic.
Uses: The leaves and flowers are often used in teas and culinary dishes. Borage is also known for its medicinal properties, particularly for treating stress and hormone-related issues.

8. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Properties: Calming, digestive, anti-inflammatory, soothing.
Uses: While famous for its effects on cats, catnip is also used in herbal teas for its calming effects on humans, helping with sleep, reducing anxiety, and easing digestive discomfort.

9. Caraway (Carum carvi)

Properties: Digestive, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, calming.
Uses: The seeds of caraway are commonly used in bread, stews, and sausages. Caraway is also known for its digestive benefits, especially in treating bloating and indigestion.

10. Cayenne Pepper (Capsicum annuum)

Properties: Stimulating, anti-inflammatory, digestive, pain-relieving.
Uses: Cayenne pepper is used in cooking for its fiery heat and is commonly found in spicy dishes and sauces. It is known for its ability to stimulate metabolism and improve digestion. It also has pain-relieving properties and is used in topical creams for muscle pain.

11. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

Properties: Relaxing, anti-inflammatory, soothing, digestive, sedative.
Uses: Ideal for making herbal teas that promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. It also soothes digestive issues like gastritis and stomach pain, and can be used in compresses for skin irritations.

12. Chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium)

Properties: Digestive, purifying, refreshing, anti-inflammatory, stimulating.
Uses: Perfect for flavoring light dishes like salads, soups, and sauces. Its digestive properties help after heavy meals and add a fresh, aniseed-like note to dishes.

13. Chinese Garlic (Allium tuberosum)

Properties: Antibacterial, antioxidant, digestive, anti-inflammatory, detoxifying.
Uses: The leaves and flowers are used in soups, salads, and sauces. It’s a gentler alternative to traditional garlic and is also used for digestive and detoxifying benefits in infusions.

14. Chili Pepper (Capsicum annuum)

Properties: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, digestive, stimulating.
Uses: Chili peppers are used to add heat and flavor to dishes. They are also known for their health benefits, including boosting metabolism and improving circulation.

15. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)

Properties: Antioxidant, digestive, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial.
Uses: Ideal for garnishing soups, salads, and potatoes. The mild onion-like flavor is also great in omelets and dairy-based dishes, providing a fresh, delicate taste.

16. Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)

Properties: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, digestive.
Uses: Cinnamon is a popular spice used in both sweet and savory dishes worldwide. It has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and it is often used in teas to help with digestion and reduce blood sugar levels. Cinnamon also has antimicrobial properties.

17. Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum)

Properties: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, digestive.

Uses: The fresh leaves of cilantro are commonly used in salads, salsas, and as a garnish. It is also a key ingredient in various global cuisines, particularly in Mexican and Indian dishes.

18. Clove (Syzygium aromaticum)

Properties: Antioxidant, antimicrobial, analgesic, anti-inflammatory.
Uses: Cloves are often used in cooking and in herbal teas. They have a strong, spicy flavor and are used to improve digestion and relieve toothaches. Cloves are also known for their antimicrobial properties and are sometimes used in natural remedies for colds and infections.

19. Coriander (Coriandrum sativum)

Properties: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, digestive, antimicrobial.
Uses: The leaves (cilantro) are often used in salads, salsas, and fresh dishes. The seeds (coriander) are used in cooking and in the preparation of curry powders, pickles, and various international cuisines.

20. Cumin (Cuminum cyminum)

Properties: Digestive, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial.
Uses: Cumin is a staple spice in many international cuisines, adding a warm, earthy flavor to curries, soups, and meats. It’s also used in herbal remedies for digestive issues and to improve metabolism.

21. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Properties: Digestive, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, carminative.
Uses: The seeds are widely used in cooking, particularly in Mediterranean and Indian dishes. They are also used in herbal teas to soothe digestive discomfort and reduce bloating.

22. False Incense (Plectranthus abutmentosus)

Properties: Calming, anti-inflammatory, aromatic.
Uses: Often used as a decorative plant for its fragrant leaves, it also serves as a natural insect repellent and is used in traditional healing practices for stress relief.

23. Green Anise (Pimpinella anisum)

Properties: Digestive, carminative, antispasmodic, calming, anti-inflammatory.
Uses: Known for its digestive properties, helping with bloating and abdominal cramps. Also used in infusions to soothe coughs and improve breathing. A great flavoring for sweets, liquors, and savory dishes.

24. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Properties: Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, digestive, stimulating.
Uses: Ginger is a popular spice used in both savory and sweet dishes across many cuisines. It is often used in teas and smoothies for its digestive benefits, including its ability to reduce nausea and improve digestion. Ginger is also used to reduce inflammation and stimulate circulation.

25. Ginseng (Panax ginseng)

Properties: Adaptogenic, immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, energizing.
Uses: Ginseng is used primarily as an herbal supplement for its ability to boost energy, improve focus, and enhance overall vitality. It is often consumed in teas or capsules.

26. Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana)

Properties: Antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, digestive, stimulating.
Uses: Horseradish is used as a condiment, particularly with meats and in sauces. It has a pungent, spicy flavor and is also used to treat respiratory issues and digestive discomfort.

27. Helichrysum (Helichrysum italicum)

Properties: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, soothing, antibacterial.
Uses: Known for its strong scent, it is often used in herbal teas, and as an essential oil for skin treatments. It is also added to various Mediterranean dishes for its aromatic properties.

28. Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana)

Properties: Stimulating, digestive, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, diuretic.
Uses: The roots are used to make horseradish sauce, which pairs well with meats, particularly in cold dishes. Also used in small amounts to aid digestion and as a natural remedy for colds.

29. Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum, also known as Tulsi)

Properties: Adaptogenic, immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial.
Uses: Holy basil, or Tulsi, is revered in traditional medicine for its adaptogenic properties. It helps to balance stress, support immunity, and reduce inflammation. It is often used in herbal teas and can be added to soups and stews for its unique flavor.

30. Java Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)

Properties: Refreshing, antioxidant, digestive, antibacterial, soothing.
Uses: Ideal for making herbal teas that promote digestion and relaxation. The aromatic leaves are also used for making essential oils for insect repellents and relaxing massages.

31. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Properties: Calming, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, relaxing.
Uses: Lavender is commonly used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress. It can be used in teas, baths, or as an essential oil for its soothing effects. Lavender is also used in cooking, especially in desserts, and has mild anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

32. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

Properties: Calming, anti-inflammatory, digestive, antioxidant.
Uses: Lemon balm is often used in teas and has a mild lemon flavor. It is known for its calming properties, helping to alleviate anxiety and improve sleep. It also aids in digestion and has antioxidant properties that help protect against cellular damage.

33. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)

Properties: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, calming.
Uses: Lemongrass is used in a variety of dishes, from soups to curries. It’s also used in teas for its calming and digestive properties, as well as its refreshing citrus flavor.

34. Lemon Verbena (Aloysia citrodora)

Properties: Calming, digestive, anti-inflammatory, refreshing.
Uses: Lemon verbena is used in herbal teas and as a flavoring in desserts and beverages. It has a fresh, lemon-like scent and is known for its calming and digestive benefits, especially for easing stomach discomfort.

35. Lovage (Levisticum officinale)

Properties: Digestive, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial.
Uses: Lovage is often used in soups, stews, and salads, particularly in European cuisine. It is also used for its digestive properties and as a mild diuretic.

36. Mint (Mentha spp.)

Properties: Digestive, refreshing, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial.
Uses: Widely used in cooking, particularly in sauces, teas, and desserts. It is also used for its soothing properties, especially for digestive issues and headaches.

37. Marjoram (Origanum majorana)

Properties: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, digestive, calming.
Uses: Marjoram is used in Mediterranean cuisine, especially in savory dishes such as soups, stews, and sauces. It also has calming effects and is used to treat digestive issues and reduce stress.

38. Oregano (Origanum vulgare)

Properties: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, digestive.
Uses: Known for its strong flavor, oregano is a key ingredient in Mediterranean and Italian cooking. It also has medicinal uses, including supporting digestion and boosting the immune system.

39. Pepper Herb (Satureja hortensis)

Properties: Antioxidant, antimicrobial, digestive, stimulating.
Uses: Ideal for flavoring meats, stews, and Mediterranean dishes. It can also be used in infusions to aid digestion and relieve bloating.

40. Peppermint (Mentha × piperita)

Properties: Calming, digestive, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial.
Uses: Peppermint is commonly used in teas and is known for its ability to relieve digestive discomfort, such as indigestion and bloating. It also has a calming effect, making it a popular choice for alleviating stress and anxiety. Peppermint oil is also used topically for headaches.

41. Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)

Properties: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, rich in vitamins.
Uses: Often used as a garnish, parsley also adds freshness to salads, soups, and sauces. Its leaves are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, making it a healthy addition to many dishes.

42. Red Sorrel (Rumex sanguineus)

Properties: Refreshing, detoxifying, rich in vitamins, diuretic, antioxidant.
Uses: Ideal for enriching salads, soups, and egg-based dishes. Its slightly sour leaves are also great for fresh juices and detox teas due to their cleansing properties.

43. Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum)

Properties: Digestive, detoxifying, antioxidant.
Uses: The stalks are commonly used in desserts, jams, and pies. Rhubarb is also used in herbal remedies for digestive issues and detoxifying the body.

44. Rocket (Eruca vesicaria)

Properties: Rich in vitamins, detoxifying, anti-inflammatory.
Uses: Often used in salads, rocket has a peppery taste that adds depth to many dishes. It’s also rich in nutrients, making it a great addition to a healthy diet.

45. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Properties: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, memory-boosting, digestive.
Uses: Rosemary is used in a wide variety of dishes, from roasted meats to baked goods. It’s also used in infusions to aid digestion, reduce stress, and improve cognitive function.

46.Sage (Salvia officinalis)

Properties: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, digestive.
Uses: Sage is a versatile herb used in Mediterranean and Italian cooking, especially with meats and sauces. It has been used traditionally to improve digestion and alleviate symptoms of menopause. Sage is also known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

47. Santolina (Santolina chamaecyparissus)

Properties: Antibacterial, calming, aromatic.
Uses: Often used as a decorative plant, Santolina is also known for its aromatic leaves, which are used in herbal teas and as an insect repellent.

48. Summer Savory (Satureja hortensis)

Properties: Digestive, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory.
Uses: A great herb for flavoring beans, meats, and stews, summer savory is also used in teas to relieve digestive issues.

49. Sea Asparagus (Salicornia europaea)

Properties: Rich in minerals, detoxifying, antioxidant, refreshing, remineralizing.
Uses: Used in cooking to enrich salads and fish dishes due to its salty flavor. Also used in infusions for detoxifying properties and in cosmetics for its high mineral content.

50. St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum)

Properties: Calming, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, antiseptic.
Uses: Traditionally used in herbal medicine to treat mild depression and anxiety. Also used in oils and ointments for skin irritations and wounds.

51.Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana)

Properties: Sweetener, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory.
Uses: Known for its sweet leaves, stevia is used as a natural sweetener in drinks and desserts. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and is often used in herbal teas and supplements.

52. Sweet Basil (Melissa officinalis)

Properties: Calming, digestive, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial.
Uses: The leaves are used in teas, salads, and sauces for a calming effect. Also used as an aromatic herb in cooking, particularly in Mediterranean and Italian dishes.

53. Tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus)

Properties: Digestive, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, calming.
Uses: Ideal for seasoning poultry, eggs, and fish. It also works well in salad dressings, sauces (like béarnaise), and herbal teas for its digestive benefits.

54. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Properties: Antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, digestive.
Uses: Thyme is a versatile herb used in Mediterranean, Italian, and French cooking. It pairs well with meats, soups, stews, and roasted vegetables. Thyme is also known for its antimicrobial properties and is often used in natural remedies for respiratory health.

55. Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Properties: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, digestive.
Uses: Turmeric is widely used in Indian and Southeast Asian cooking, particularly in curries and rice dishes. It contains curcumin, a compound known for its strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Turmeric is often used in natural remedies for joint pain and inflammation.

56. Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)

Properties: Bitter, digestive, stimulating, tonic, antiseptic.
Uses: Traditionally used to aid digestion and stimulate appetite. Also used to flavor liquors like absinthe and in meat dishes for its strong taste.

Growing and Using Aromatic Plants

Exposure

Most aromatic plants prefer a sunny location. Ensure they receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to grow lush and aromatic.

Substrate

Aromatic plants thrive in well-drained soil. Use a mix of fertile soil and sand to prevent water from stagnating and causing the roots to rot.

Watering

Avoid over-watering aromatic plants. Most of them can tolerate periods of drought, but excessive watering can damage them. Check the soil before adding water.

Pruning

Pruning aromatic plants encourages healthy growth and boosts leaf production. Remove flowers to prevent the plant from focusing energy on seed production rather than on leaf growth.

Harvesting Aromatic Plants

Harvest fresh leaves before the plant flowers to obtain the best flavour and aromatic properties. Younger plants are also richer in essential oils.

Culinary Use

Aromatic plants can be used fresh or dried. In general, fresh leaves are ideal for seasoning delicate, fresh dishes, while dried leaves are perfect for longer preparations such as sauces and stews.

Health Benefits

Not only are aromatic plants a tasty addition to your meals, but many also offer numerous health benefits. They can be used in teas, infusions, and natural medicinal preparations to aid digestion, promote relaxation, and boost the immune system.

Crop Rotation

Change the position of aromatic plants each year to prevent soil depletion and improve root health. Crop rotation also helps to keep the soil rich in nutrients.

Pest Control

Aromatic plants can be susceptible to pests such as aphids and whiteflies. Use natural remedies such as neem oil or garlic infusion to keep pests away without harming the plant.

Storage of Aromatic Plants

Fresh aromatic plants can be stored in the fridge or frozen for future use. For a simple method, try freezing them in ice cube trays with a bit of olive oil, so you always have them on hand in the kitchen.

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