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Anise

Romans paid taxes with anise, and it was used in cough drops.

Anise seed steeped in milk is said to be a sleep-producing drink, but it is also quite likely that the warm milk alone would do the trick.

Basil

This herb is precious to lovers in Italy and considered sacred in India. Many years ago, Italian men wore a sprig of basil to indicate their intended marriage. A cup of basil tea after dinner helps digestion. Ease a headache by drinking tomato juice blended with fresh basil. Learn to grow your own basil.

Borage

The Romans believed the herb to be an antidepressant, and ancient Celtic warriors took it for courage.

Caraway

Caraway was used to scent perfumes and soaps. The Greeks used it for upset stomachs.

Chervil

Eating a whole plant would cure hiccups; chervil was said to warm old and cold stomachs.

Chives

Bunches of chives hung in your home were used to drive away diseases and evil. Check out our Chive Growing Guide!

Dill

Romans made wreaths and garlands out of dill. It is believed that dill keeps witches away.

Fennel

Bunches of fennel were used to drive off witches. It was used in love potions and as an appetite suppressant. Learn how to grow fennel.

Garlic

It was thought to give strength and courage. Aristotle noted garlic’s use as a guard against the fear of water. It’s also been widely used against evil powers. Garlic is one of our favorite crops, too!

Lovage

Chewing on a piece of the dried root will keep you awake. Lovage warms a cold stomach and helps digestion. Added to bathwater, it was believed to relieve skin problems.

Marjoram

The Greeks believed it could revive the spirits of anyone who inhaled it. At weddings, wreaths and garlands were made of marjoram.

Mint

It was believed to cure hiccups and counteract sea serpent stings. The Romans wore peppermint wreaths on their heads, and it was added to bathwater for its fragrance.

Oregano

Used for “sour humours” that plagued old farmers. Also used for scorpion and spider bites.

Parsley

Used for wreaths and funeral ceremonies. Believed to repel head lice and attract rabbits.

Rosemary

Rosemary in your hair will improve your memory. It will protect you from evil spirits if you put a sprig under your pillow. Grow your own rosemary!

Sage

It is thought to promote strength and longevity and is believed to cure warts. American Indians used it as a toothbrush. Anyone who has sage planted in the garden is reputed to do well in business.

Summer Savory

It was believed to be an aphrodisiac. Some thought it was a cure for deafness.

Tarragon

Put in shoes before long walking trips to give strength. It has been used to relieve toothache and as an antifungal.

Thyme

Burning thyme gets rid of insects in your house. A bed of thyme was thought to be a home for fairies.