Organic herbs and spices are packed with disease-fighting antioxidants. When prepared correctly, they add or enhance flavors in foods. Choose organic herbs to avoid chemical fertilizers, pesticides and preservatives.

Basil

Fragrant basil leaves are very high in vitamin K and two teaspoons of dried basil contain 60 percent of one’s recommended daily value. Dried basil also contains iron, vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, fiber, manganese, magnesium and potassium. Basil is often used as an Italian spice in pasta dishes, on pizzas or in pesto sauce.

Bay Leaf

Bay leaves are used in cooked dishes to provide flavor, but they are not actually eaten. The leaves are often tied into a bundle, simmered in a stew or sauce and removed before the food is served. Even though they are not eaten, they provide vitamins A and C to the food.

Garlic Powder

Studies suggest that garlic prevents and fights cancer by killing cancer cells and disrupting the metabolism of tumor cells. It has also traditionally been used to fight colds and the flu.

Thyme

The flavors in bean and vegetable dishes can be enhanced by the herb thyme. Two teaspoons of thyme contain 60 percent of the recommended daily value of vitamin K, 20 percent iron and 12 percent manganese.

Marjoram

Marjoram is very soothing to the stomach and digestive tract. It also contains anti-inflammatory properties and, therefore, can be used internally or externally. Externally, marjoram may be applied to aches and pains such as toothaches, bruises, arthritis, sprains and stiff joints.

Oregano

Oregano can be used as a garnish on Italian dishes such as pizza, pasta, bread and salads. It should be added to a dish just prior to serving. Overcooking can cause the oregano to lose its flavor. Oregano is a good source of vitamin K, iron, manganese, fiber, calcium, magnesium, vitamin A, vitamin C and even omega-3 fatty acids.

Rosemary

The pine-like fragrance of rosemary distinguishes it as an herb. Rosemary is commonly used in tomato sauces and soups. The herb helps stimulate the immune system, increases circulation and improves digestion.

All of these spices – and more – can be found in Organic Bug’s McFadden Farm Large Herb Gift Box.

Homemaking, healing and gardening: These are all such fundamental aspects of human life on this planet and are extremely important for that reason. The tools to create a more intentional and sustainable daily existence all stem from the tiny actions that we perform in our everyday lives. That being said, DIY projects should not be limited to people with a lot of time, space or experience. DIY is for everybody and creates a natural way to live on our own terms. However, it is important to remember that even natural formulas can hurt you. Here are a few things to keep in mind while participating in DIY projects, creating and using homemade remedies:

Natural does not mean Edible. Although compounds like borax and washing soda are more safe than most, if not all, the ingredients you will find in your local drugstore there are still some things that should not get into your body. Remember to wash your hands after mixing cleaners and clearly label the containers you keep them in. Check out this The Daily Green’s simple recipes for cheap green living, for more information on how to make your own green cleaning solutions.

If you are pregnant, there are certain herbs and oils you should avoid. During pregnancy, it is extremely important that you are aware of what goes into your body. While most herbs are rather safe for an individual to take, there are quite a few that can cause certain problems for pregnant women. Because each pregnancy is different with its own precise details, the best way to use herbs during pregnancy is under a physician, midwife, herbalist, or a homeopathic doctor.

A great resource is the Herbal Encyclopedia. This site will tell you what herbs are recommended and herbs that should be avoided during the different stages pregnancy and development. Or you might find this article on herbal remedies for women to be useful.

For additional information on alternative medicine and herbs during pregnancy check out Herb Reference.

Know your Body!

Pay attention to your body when/if something is making you feel sick, itchy or just straight up uncomfortable. The whole point of DIY is to make you feel better, not worse. Take care of yourself and pay attention to your body and how it reacts. You can learn more about potential allergic reactions to herbal remedies at  the guide to herbal remedies.

Remember: plants have families

If you know you have specific allergies, you will obviously want to avoid using that herb.  However, do your research because a lot of herbs are closely related and you will want to avoid using any herb related to the one you’re allergic to, for cosmetic or medicinal purposes, otherwise you could experience an allergic reaction or worse. A great resource to help you learn more about plants and their families is the Online Botany Guide.

DIY is about making our lives intentional and perhaps more simple. It allows us to pay close attention to our bodies and the systems that we know are right for us. Not to mention you’ll spend less money and reduce packaging all while doing your part to keep our beautiful Earth natural

I started reading a site called Organic Authority and am becoming a big fan!  Writer/Organic Living expert Laura Klein inspires us with her passion for cooking with organic food.  This site is a great resource for delicious organic recipes and tips.

Any good cook knows the secret to amazing dishes is how you use your herbs.  I keep a stash of dried herbs in my pantry when I am in a pinch or need a stronger flavor.  But nothing beats the taste of fresh herbs grown locally or in your own garden like basil, dill, parsley, rosemary, mint…I could go on and on.  Growing your own herb garden is not expensive and quite easy to do!

Laura Klein’s article Be A Cook In the Know really demonstrates the versatility of using herbs in cooking.  She also clarifies HOW herbs can be used- the stronger woodsy herbs like sage & rosemary are ideal for marinating and infusing the flavors into the dish before or during cooking.  However- the delicious leafy herbs such as cilantro, basil and parsley are great for finishing the dish.  I learned so much about herbs by reading this article that I wanted to share it with you!  Kudos to Laura for sharing this helpful information with us!