The Most Common Herbs and Their Uses

Jacel de Jesus in Tips and Advices

Oct 18, 2021 • 3 min Read

The pandemic has awakened our senses and inspired us to bring out the best in each one of us. We hear people who started a new hobby or perhaps launched a new business.  But one of the most common things that happened to a lot of people is that they became plantito and plantita.

If you love to cook and care for your health, please allow us to share some of the characteristics of the most common herbs and their uses. You can cultivate these plants in your backyard or limited spaces like your condo.

1. Peppermint

Peppermint known also as Mentha Balsamea is a fusion between watermint and spearmint. It is cultivated in selected regions around the world and is known to have a strong sweetish smell and a cooling aftertaste.

Peppermint is being used either fresh or dried in tea, ice cream, candy, shampoo, skincare products, etc.

2. Spearmint

Spearmint or also known as Mentha Spicata or garden mint. It contains less menthol than peppermint. It was introduced in England and is now present in different parts of the world.  Spearmint’s aroma is similar to peppermint but has a sweeter taste.

Spearmint is consumed fresh or as an essential oil.  It’s presently being used to help prevent symptoms of headache, toothache, sore throat, and also applied topically to the skin to ease muscle pain or reduce swelling, and the likes.

3. Stevia

Stevia is also known as Stevia Rebaudiana or sweet herb is a native to Brazil and Paraguay.   It is known as a natural sweetener and a substitute for sugar for food and beverages.

A review found that Stevia as a sweetener may benefit children, people with diabetes, and those who hope to have a lower intake of calories.  Stevia may be used in coffee or tea, cereals, smoothies, etc.

4. Marjoram

Marjoram also called Pot Marjoram, is synonymous with oregano in middle eastern countries. It is cultivated for its aromatic leaves for culinary purposes and is known as a symbol of happiness during the ancient times of the Greeks and Romans.

Marjoram is often used to garnish soups, salads, teas, etc. Research suggests that it has antioxidants that may help prevent cell damage and anti-inflammatory properties It may also reduce inflammation in your body to lower the risk of certain diseases like diabetes, cancer, and auto-immune disorders.

5. Oregano

It isconsidered one of the most popular herbs. Oregano is known as an ornamental plant and is sometimes called Wild Marjoram. It’s a staple herb for many cuisines around the world and has a warm and slightly bitter taste.

Research indicates that oregano is also rich in antioxidants that help fight damage from free radicals in the body and stopped the growth and spread of colon cancer.

For tips on how to care for these herbs, please watch our YouTube Channel – Ang Pinoy Channel under “Tips sa Pag-aalaga ng Herbs and Paano Gumawa ng Carbonized Rice Hull (CRH) – link is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEEoIDDis6g.

Ang Pinoy extends its special thanks to Sanctuario Natures Farm in Indang, Cavite. You may message and visit their Facebook Page at Sanctuario Natures Farm.