KNOWING WHERE YOUR HERBS COME FROM

By: Adrienna Harris

Have you ever wondered where herbs come from and their significance? I know that I have, and they do not just come from leaves, they also come from woody plants. To give a little history, I decided to do some research. Herbs are originated from temperate climates such as Italy, France, and England. An herb is an herbaceous plant that dies down at the end of the growing season and may not refer to its culinary value at all. Herbs can be looked at, as a token of good luck or well-wishing. We see herbs being used in Weddings in bridal bouquets and you would never know it is used for fertility. Herbs and other plants have a centuries-long history of symbolizing love and devotion. In ancient Athens, people wove mint and marigolds into bridal garlands and wreaths, and in classical Rome, brides carried wheat for fertility and rosemary to ensure the groom's fertility.

Here are a couple of popular modern herbs that you can use to communicate your love and romantic intentions.

Patchouli

The intoxicating scent of patchouli is not surprisingly included in a list of romance herbs. Patchouli means "passion". To use patchouli to its fullest extent, tuck some dried patchouli into small sleep pillows or sachet. The rich, lusty scent can entice your love to feel romantic. Native to southeast Asia, patchouli has a long history as an essential oil and folk remedy for skin ailments. In aromatherapy, it is regarded as a substance that both relaxes and stimulates.

Lavender

In the modern language of love, Lavender means "devotion and undying love." It is no surprise that lavender has always been considered an herb of love since its delicious and romantic scent is adored by almost everyone. You can use lavender in a romantic bath by candlelight or make a sachet and place it in the dryer with your bedsheets to infuse them with ​a wonderful scent. Lavender is also used in perfumes, aromatherapy, and skincare and is one of the best all-around home remedies for all types of minor ailments.

The fragrance of herbs can have a significant effect on our emotional wellbeing. The uplifting, fresh scent of mint can help improve focus, while the soothing scent of lavender can help alleviate stress and promote a good night’s rest. Some of the most fragrant herbs are mint, lavender, rosemary, lemon balm, and basil. Whether you are looking for an herb to boost energy, ease anxiety, relieve pain, or maintain healthy circulation, each of these common herbs brings something to the table.

For example,

Rosemary has a strong, distinct scent and is a wonderful addition to roasts and infused oils. Rosemary is known for its ability to enhance memory, improve digestion, boost mood, and fight off bacterial infections.

Lemon balm has a bright, soothing scent, so it is no surprise that in aromatherapy lemon balm is often used to soothe feelings of stress and anxiety. A warm mug of lemon balm tea can help ease frazzled nerves and combat negative feelings.

All in all, herbs offer a wide range of therapeutic benefits. Keeping fresh herbs around the home and adding them to your favorite recipes can help promote overall wellness, but their essential oil counterparts pack a powerful health punch when used in aromatherapy.