2026
The bright golden-orange rhizome known as turmeric, Curcuma longa, has been revered since ancient times. Known as the “golden spice of life” and the “herb of the sun” by cultures where it has been used and traded for 6,000 years, it is very relevant to today’s world in the kitchen, apothecary and dye pot. There is extensive evidence from countless current-day studies verifying its multitude of very promising medicinal constituents. This beautiful and beneficial tropical plant can even be grown in temperate climates if given special care. Currently, both dried, ground turmeric and fresh rhizomes are available in grocery stores and specialty markets.
2025
The sweet fragrance of chamomile flowers made into tea is so well-known for its gentle and soothing effects that one might be surprised to know that this herb has a multitude of beneficial medicinal properties. The name “chamomile” is used to refer to several genus and species, each with cheerful white and yellow blooms that can be found worldwide. These flowers attract pollinators and have even been found to be helpful to other plants growing nearby. German chamomile, Matricaria recutita, and Roman chamomile, Chamaemelum nobile, have been used as medicine since ancient times.
2024
This very common wildflower has an amazing array of medicinal uses, is featured in making bitters and can be used in the kitchen as well. Its white flowers and feathery green foliage can be found growing as a native plant in a variety of habitats all over the Northern Hemisphere. In the garden it is undemanding, attracts pollinators, and is lovely in fresh and dried flower arrangements. The colorful cultivars add pleasing texture, different heights and brilliant hues to any flower or herb garden. Long before written history, this ancient herb was used as a remedy for many maladies and today, yarrow continues to be used by herbalists worldwide for numerous health conditions.
2023
The tropical plant known as Ginger, Zingiber officinale, has been cultivated and used by humans since antiquity. As one of the exotic and mysterious spices, ginger inspired world trade and exploration.
It has had great ceremonial and spiritual significance for ancient peoples as well as medicinal and culinary uses. Contemporary scientific studies have proven its effectiveness as a remedy for many ailments. Today ginger is grown in the tropics of the world and is a much-loved ingredient in cuisines all over the globe.
2022
The members of the genus Viola have so many redeeming qualities, it is no wonder that violets are one of the most beloved flowers of all time throughout the world. The lovely blooms and heart-shaped leaves of the common violet carpet the ground and welcome spring; the cheerful colors of the pansy and Johnny-jump-up bring smiles to young and old alike. Sweet violets, known for their alluring yet elusive fragrance, were used in fine perfumery and adorned ladies’ hats, tussie mussies and gentlemen’s lapels. The flowers of pansies, “Johnnies” and violets are edible, and the leaves of violets (Viola sororia) possess amazing medicinal properties.
2021
Best known as a garnish, parsley is so much more! A veritable star in the kitchen, parsley enhances flavors across the palate from sauces, salads and soups to vegetables, meats, grains, and even dessert. This one-of-a-kind compilation is packed with parsley facts, legends, lore, history, cultivation, up-to-date medicinal uses and delectable recipes featuring fresh sprigs as well as dried herb.