Unusual Herbs

There has been a surge in the use of herbs such as Hibiscus, lovage, Chervil, anise and lemon balm. These herbs are now being recommended as supplements in their original forms, though their usages are still being regulated by the law.

#1: Anise

Anise is native to the Mediterranean region and it is characterized by a spicy flavor. Anise can be found in so many Mediterranean dishes and it also comes with numerous medicinal properties. The flavor of anise is similar to those of licorice and fennel. You can find anise seed and powder in salads, spicy vegetable dishes, and condiments. Anise tastes sweet; however, the mild anise species taste stronger, and for this reason, anise flavor is used in confectioneries such as cakes and biscuits.

 #2: chervil

Chervil is also referred to as the French Parsley. It is quite delicate in nature and it can be found in French dishes as well as many egg dishes. Chervil is similar to parsley herbs as well as Chives and Tarragon. Chervil flavor is likely to evaporate easily, and that is why it is very delicate; hence it should not be used under intense heating. The Chervil herb is very popular in fish and poultry recipes, hence it can be found in chicken, turkey and fish recipes.

 #3: lovage

Lovage is a perennial plant. The herbal plant is native to the southern part of Europe as well as the Mediterranean. This herb is very similar to other plants such as celery, dill, carrot, and Angelica. The root, leaves, and seeds of Lovage are used for culinary and medicinal purposes. Due to their celery-like flavor, the lovage is used in salad greens, stews, and soups. The root, leaves, and seeds of Lovage are used in the making of lovage herbs and spices used for culinary purposes. Lovage is also used in the making of chili soups and stews.

#4: lemon balm

Lemon balm is also referred to as balm mint or common balm. It is a perennial plant is native to central Europe, Iran Mediterranean, and Central Asia. Lemon balm is mostly used for its scented leaves; hence it is found in Green teas. Lemon balm is also similar to mint leaves, peppermint, sage, Thyme, and Rosemary, in characteristics. Lemon balm has a calming effect and that is why it is used in promoting good sleep, reduce anxiety, stress, and depression. Lemon balm is known to boost memory retention- one good reason everyone should grow the herb.

 #5 Hibiscus.

Hibiscus is a flowering plant that belongs to the mallow family. It is a tropical and sub-tropical plant that can be infused in hot water to make an herbal tea. Hibiscus produces colorful bloom when it becomes ripe, and aside from being used as a tea, it is also found in cakes, biscuits and some other confectioneries, because of its sweet flavor. Aside from being used for several culinary purposes, Hibiscus is also a popular colorant for food items that lack attractive color. A spoon-full of hibiscus powder can be used to mask the color of some confectioneries.