Herbalism is the practice of medicine using plants and plant extracts for their healing properties. Though re-popularized with recent trends of alternative methods for well-being, herbalism is an ancient practice dating far back into the history of human kind.

Herbs and Spices are most commonly used in the kitchen for flavoring meals. Have you ever considered what the medicinal property of an herb or spice that you are cooking with, may have? It brings a new meaning to “food is medicine”. Here is a list of five common household herbs and spices and their medicinal attributes:

1. Basil, Ocimum basilicum:

A green leafy plant, basil originated in India and Asia, and appeared in the Mediterranean region during ancient times. The flavor of basil is most commonly associated with Italian cuisine, however it is also used in many different cuisines such as Thai, as well. Presently basil is grown in many different regions, and as a result many different varieties have been developed. The medicinal properties of basil can vary from source to source, and has been found to demonstrate inconsistent results because of this.

Easy to identify by its strong and distinct scent, basil contains a volatile oil composed of terpenoids; ergenol, thymol, and estragole. It is also a source of vitamin A, magnesium, potasium, iron and calcium.

The essential oil of basil has displayed antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. It is also believed to relieve intestinal gas and serve as a mild diuretic. In addition, the oil has been used for the treatment of: nausea, motions sickness, indigestion, and respiratory problems.

The high fiber content of the basil leaves and seeds of are said to help prevent rapid blood sugar elevations after food consumption, which has been reported useful in some cases of diabetes. The seeds also have been found to relieve constipation by acting as a bulk-forming laxative.

2. Cayenne, Capsicum annuum, Capsicum frutescens:

From the pepper family, cayenne originated in South America and is named after the city Cayenne, French Guiana. Cayenne is considered spicy in flavor and has a heat-producing effect.

Cayenne contains vitamin E, vitamin C, vitamin K, carotenoids and B complex vitamins. It is also a source of calcium, potassium, manganese and dietary fiber.

Cayenne also contains a substance known as capsaicin. Capsaicin has pain-relieving characteristics that works temporarily by effecting the nerves that are responsible for transmitting pain. When applied topically in a cream, capsaicin can be helpful in relieving pain from a variety of conditions such as: psoriasis, fibromyalgia, shingles, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Cayenne is also used internally for various conditions of the gastrointestinal tract, including stomach aches and gas. It has also been used as a circulatory tonic, believed to improve circulation.

3. Oregano, Origanum vulgare:

Oregano is found in the Mediterranean region, in higher altitudes. The name "oregano" means, Delight of the Mountains.

It is also easy to identify by its strong and distinct scent. It contains a volatile oil composed of carvacrol, thymol and borneol. It also contains flavonoids, rosmarinic acid, triterpenoids, sterols, vitamin A and vitamin C.

Oregano oil has a strong anti-microbial characteristic which can fight against E. coli, Klensiella pneumonia, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus. Oregano oil also contains anti-viral and anti-fungal characteristics.

When taken internally, oregano has been used for chronic candidiasis, infection, ringworm and indigestion. Applied topically it has been used for eczema and athlete’s foot.

4. Rosemary, Rosmarinus officinalis:

Rosemary originated in the Mediterranean region, and is now also grown in North America.

The contained volatile oil includes the substance eucalyptol which is known for having strong antibacterial effects. Rosemany contains antioxidant properties and also contains carnosol which has been associated with the inhibition of cancer.

Rosemary has been used in connection with treating atherosclerosis, chronic candidiasis, indigestion, and infection. When used topically, it is used to treat pain such as rheumatoid arthritis. It is even said to stimulate hair growth, boost mental activity, and relieve respiratory problems.

5. Thyme, Thymus vulgaris:

Also originating in the Mediterranean region, thyme is now also grown in the United States. There are many components to thyme, the primary ones are the volatile oils including phenols, thymol and carvacol, and some flavinoids. These provide many antitussive (cough supressing), antispasmodic and expectorant properties.

Most commonly, thyme has been used for the treatment of coughs. It has also been used to treat bronchitis, chronic candidiasis, halitosis, indigestion, infection and whooping cough.

Preparation methods of herbs and spices for medicinal applications:

• as a tea infusion
• capsules
• oil extracts (to consume in small doses, or use topically)
• infused in a cream-type base, or a massage oil base for topical application
• Herbal steam wrap (a method commonly used in spas)
• dried or fresh for flavoring food

There are many more herbs and spices, each with specific healing attributes. For more information, it can be useful to speak to a professional regarding any health treatments that you may interested in persuing or enhancing with herbalism.

Otherwise, enjoy flavoring your food with herbs and spices with the knowledge that you are not only creating a tasty dish, but you could also be unwittingly contributing to your health in a variety of ways!

References: Gaby's, The Natural Pharmacy, and www.organicfacts.net

Photos in this hub by Jessica Ann Jacobs, copyright 2009. http://jessicaannjacobs.com