Herbs Online

Did you know that mice don't like the smell of peppermint, spearmint or European penny royal (another member of the mint family)?

If you have a mouse or rodent problem around your home, planting these herbs around your house will deter them from the immediate area. No messy traps or poisons that can harm other small animals.

Chewing fresh mint leaves is a natural breath freshener.

Crushed mint leaves can help relieve the pain and itch of bee stings or other stinging insect bites.

A cup of hot water with crushed peppermint or spearmint leaves can relieve an upset stomach.

For a dessert garnish treat, wash mint leaves and brush lightly with beaten egg whites. Gently dip leaves into fine granulated sugar. Allow the leaves to dry and store in an airtight container (place between layers of waxed paper if you make a lot at a time).

Instead of having a Calgon bath, have a relaxing mint bath! Place a handful of mint leaves with a handful of oatmeal and place inside a small square of cheesecloth, twist cloth closed and toss into hot bath water. The aroma is delightful and the skin will feel refreshed.

There are five main herbal supplements that can be quite beneficial in helping people get good healthful rest to maintain maximum efficiency during the day.

Valerian is well and away one of the most used herbs to help with sleeping the evening away. It is easily found at a local grocery store in supplement form and, of course, can be purchased at any health food store.

Kava Kava is another well known herb, however, if you have any issues with your liver, this is NOT the herb to use to help you rest. Try one of the other recommendations here.

Melatonin, while not an actual herb, is a well known supplement that helps MANY people achieve great rest without having to use over the counter drugs that may cause dry mouth, scratchy eyes, and lend to having a heavy head or headache upon waking.

Chamomile and Lavender round out the top 5 herbal picks to help people get the rest they need in a more natural way.

I have the soul of a Professional Kitchen Tester. I am constantly changing up old recipes by either exchanging ingredients or just adding new ones to the entire dish. Just last week, I went and plucked about a dozen leaves from my basil plant outside, rinsed them well, and shredded it on top of a fresh, steaming dish of chicken alfredo I had just made for the family with a homemade loaf of french bread and a tossed salad.

I have to tell you, the addition of fresh basil leaves to a simple chicken alfredo dish was phenomenal!

Remember, basil is known for its digestive and anti-gas properties. The basil herb is also good for stomach cramps, vomiting, constipation, headaches, and anxiety.

Basil is also known for its antioxidant, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties, so eat 'em up! Whether you eat the leaves for their flavor or for its healthful properties, it makes a great addition to your daily diet.

If you are interested in growing your own herbs, starting with an Herb Kit may be the best way to start.