Organic Herbs Gardening Manual

&

Presented & Compiled

by Chandpur Flowers & Nurseries Pvt. Ltd

Chandpur Tea Estate

P. O. Palampur, Himachal Pradesh

176061, India

Tel. (91)-1894-231217/231218

E-mail : [email protected]

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Herbs and spicesReference manual.

The International Standards Organization (ISO) defines spices and condiments as vegetable products or mixtures thereof, free from extraneous matter, used for flavoring, seasoning and imparting aroma in foods.

Webster describes spices as any of various aromatic vegetable productions as pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, mace, allspice, ginger,cloves, etc., used in cookery to season and to flavour sauces, pickles, etc; a vegetable condiment or relish, usually in the form of a powder; also, as condiments collectively.

The famous spice author Rosengarten describes a spice as a product which enriches or alters the quality of a thing, for example altering the taste of a food to give it zest or pungency; a piquant or lasting flavoring; or a relish. The term 'spice' is thus used to cover the use of spices, herbs and certain aromatic vegetables to impart odour and flavour to foods.


A conventional classification of spices is based on degree of taste as:

hot spices

mild spices

aromatic spices

herbs and aromatic vegetables


Though the term spice can be used to incorporate herbs, the distinction between herbs and spices can be described as follows:

Herbs may be defined as the dried leaves of aromatic plants used to impart flavour and odour to foods with, sometimes, the addition of colour. The leaves are commonly traded separately from the plantstems and leaf stalks.

Spices may be defined as the dried parts of aromatic plants with the exception of the leaves. This definition is wide-ranging and covers virtually all parts of the plant.

Herbs and spices have been used in foods since antiquity. ISO document 676 lists 109 herb and spice plant species useful as ingredients in food.


Conventional classification of spices

Classes SpicesHot spices Capsicum (chilies), Cayenne pepper, black

and white peppers, ginger, mustard

Mild spices Paprika, coriander

Aromatic spices Allspice (pimento), cardamom, cassia, cinnamon, clove, cumin, dill, fennel, fenugreek, mace and nutmeg

Herbs Basil, bay, dill leaves, marjoram, tarragon, thyme

Aromatic vegetables Onion, garlic, shallot, celery


Plant organs as spices

Plant organs Spice cropsAril Mace of nutmegBarks Cassia, cinnamonBerries Allspice, black pepper, chilliBuds CloveBulbs Onion, garlic, leekPistil SaffronKernel NutmegLeaf Basil, bay leaf, mint, marjoram, sage, curry leafRhizome Ginger, turmericLatex AsafoetidaRoots Angelica, horse-radishSeeds Ajowan, aniseed, caraway, celery, coriander, dill,

fennel, fenugreek, mustard, poppy seed

Organic Herbs and SpicesBackground

The herbs and spices we use in cooking are often irradiated and produced with the use of artificial chemicals and processed using more artificial chemicals to clean, extract, bind, preserve, etc. This makes them toxic and even though we tend to use only small amounts of them in our cooking they deliver a toxic load into our bodies.

Organic herbs and spices are available. They are often difficult to find and the range is not as extensive as the conventionally grown ones, but we need to search them out. Better still, we can grow our own range of culinary herbs and spices. Even if we live in a unit we can have a few pots on the windowsill or on the balcony, growing ourfavourite herbs and spices. Fresh and organic they contribute wonderful flavours to our food.

Organic HerbsBackground

Organic herbs are those herbs which are grown using organic farming practices. organic farming excludes the use of synthetic inputs, such as synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Organic farming involves fostering natural processes. Enhancing soil health is the cornerstone of organic farming.

A variety of methods are employed to improve soil health. These include crop rotation, green manure, cover cropping, application of compost, and mulching. Organic farming involves use of natural fertilizers such as seed meal, rock phosphate and greensand, instead of chemical fertilizers. Organic herb gardening is gaining popularity because organic herb gardening reduce or eliminate external agricultural inputs, particularly synthetic ones, and promote and enhance agro-ecosystem health.

Organic spicesBackground

Global awareness of health and environmental issues is spreading fast in recent years, especially in the developed countries. Sustainability in production has become the prime concern in agriculture development.

The organic method of farming is the best option to ensure that the air, water and soil around us remain unpolluted, leaving the environment safe for present and future generations.

In many countries exploitative agriculture using industrial inputs has been the norm since the 1960s, in order to cater for an increasing population and to combat the occurrence of famine and natural calamities.

Organic spices

Such a system of farming has been causing imbalances in the constituents of biosphere, bioforces, bioforms and biosources. As a result the health of 'Mother Earth' has been deteriorating. Organic agriculture aims to tackle the above concern, and also aims at protecting the environment from continuous decline.

The concept of organic farming is based on an holistic approach where nature is perceived to be more than just an individual element. In this farming system there is dynamic interaction between soil, humus, plant, animal, eco-system and environment.

Hence organic farming differs from industrial agriculture as in the latter, biological systems are replaced by technical production systems with liberal use of chemicals.

Organic spices

Organic farming improves the structure and fertility of the soil through balanced choice of crops and implementation of diversified crop rotation systems.

Biological processes are strengthened without recoursing to chemical remedies, such as synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. In this farming system control of pests, diseases and weeds is primarily preventative, and if required, adopting organic products, which will not adversely affect the environment.

Genetically modified organisms are not normally acceptable because of the manipulations made in their natural set up.

Organic spices

Organic matter of various kinds, nitrogen fixing plants, pests and disease resistant varieties, soil improvement practices such as mulching and fallowing, crop rotation, multiple cropping, mixed farming, etc., are freely adopted.

In brief, organic farming merges traditional and respectable views on nature with modern insights.

Bio-dynamic agriculture is yet another approach to organic farming. It is based on anthroposophy on the ideas formulated by the Austrian expert, Rudolf Steiner, in 1924.

Organic spices

In this system, the maintenance and furtherance of life processes on Earth are achieved by harnessing cosmic energy and various influences of the sun, the stars, the moon and other planets.

Bio-dynamic agriculture most often combines animal husbandry and crop production and use of compost and bio-dynamic preparations to revitalize soil and plants and subsequently animals and human beings.

Sowing, cultivation and harvesting are timed according to cosmicrhythms.

Being Organic

Benefit to Land : Soil, being a living organism, loves to cooperate when it comes to farming or gardening. A green thumb is prone to appear on those who allythemselves with its requirements for health. It improves Soil Capillarity. Soil erosion, Percolation also controlled. PH of the Soil will remain Neutral. (PH 6 to 7). Improves microbial activity of micro organism and macro organism in Soil. Water Holding Capacity also increased. Soil becomes Light, Soil aeration also increased.

Being Organic

Organic Manure Used : Farmyard Manure Organic Compost Compost from dry Leaves Compost Water Plant Vermi Compost Green Manure

Azolla Blue Green Algae

Bio -Fertilizer Azospirillum Azotobactor Acetobactor Phosphate Solubilising Bacteria.

Organic Pesticides and Herbicides used : Neem Oil Derris elliptica oil Ocimum basilicum oil Beauveria bassiana Metarhizium anisopliae Pseudomonas Trichoderma Viride

Herbicides (Weed Control) Mulching Manually

Organic herbal tea

Organic herbal tea basically implies a blend of herbs that are grown organically. So to speak these herbs contain an abundance of antioxidants that have multiple health benefits at the physical,emotional and mental level. In scientific terminology these herbs contain polyphenol oxidase. This means profuse amount of antioxidants.

Tea blends made from organic herbal blends are known to protect the cells of the body from oxidative stress. This is a natural process whereby the oxidation process produces free radicals. These are known to mutilate the cells of the human body.

Organic herbal tea

Thus, though oxygen is vital for life, you need to take necessary measures to prevent accumulation of the free radicals also known as toxins. These toxins are responsible for the build up of ailments and illnesses at the physical and mental levels. A proper in take ofantioxidants help flush out toxins. And this is one of the major benefits of organic herbal tea.

Regular consumption of organic herbal tea is known to prevent cancer, heart attack and even cataract. It is also used as a supplementary for patients suffering from these mentioned ailments and diseases.

You must be wondering how these work. Basically organically grown herbs contain antioxidants known as polyphenols. These can separate the harmful bacteria from the health promoting ones that accumulate in the body.

Organic herbal tea

Organic herbs are considered to be a healthy option, as they are grown free off harmful chemical fertilizers and pesticides. In fact the pesticides and fertilizers are the natural ones. Those practicing vermiculture across the globe have been able to cultivate some natural options for fertilizers and pesticides.

You can grow organic herbs in your backyard, thus making your own tea blends from these naturally growing medicinal plants. To do so the most important thing is to plan what types of herbs you require that would benefit you and the family.

First you should study the ideal conditions for growing these herbs and follow certain ground rules laid by some of the experts.

Organic herbal tea

These include:1. Remove all weeds

2. The area should be exposed to sufficient sunlight

3. Use compost as a natural fertilizer, which is available at various organic product stores and nurseries

4. You must cycle the herbs being grown, instead of growing the same herb at the same spot each time

5. You should be completely aware of the appropriate climatic conditions for the herbs you intend growing

Organic herbal tea

Ideally the soil in which you grow the herbs should be well manured with compost or other organic options. This will make the plantsresistant to disease and insects.

In fact as most organic farmers claim, the health of the herbs and plants depend on the health of the soil.

And to go a step further a healthy and health-promoting infusion of organic herbs will ensure a disease free life for you and the entire family

Organic Herbs GardeningCultivation Tips

Are you an organic gardener thinking about growing your own herbs? Have you been dreaming about the wonderful aroma of sweet basil; or perhaps the taste of savory and chemical free oregano in your pasta sauce? Even if you’re a novice gardener concerned about the use of chemical pesticides and herbicides, you’ll be glad to know that organic herbs are as easy to grow as they are pleasing to your senses.

The information on your way to enjoying organic herbs in your home and garden.

Organic Herbs Gardening

THE ALLURE OF HERBSMany things come to mind when we think of growing and using herbs. For example, the spicy and piney scent of rosemary growing in the garden, a steaming hot cup of mint tea, an aromatic bath with lavender, or a delicious Italian meal with lots of oregano and garlic.

If you’ve ever come down with a cold and wanted to naturally boost your immune system, you’ve probably relied on herbs such as Echinacea or Goldenseal. Additionally, many herbs can be used ascoloring agents, cosmetics, and natural room deodorizers.

Not to mention that the simple act of growing herbs in your home or garden is a relaxing and rewarding experience.


WHAT IS AN HERB?Herbs have so many uses and play such a vital role in our lives, but how exactly do we define what an herb is? According to one dictionary, an herb can be defined as "a seed-producing annual, biennial, or perennial that does not develop persistent woody tissue but dies down at the end of a growing season."

Furthermore, we can define an herb as "a plant or plant part valued for its medicinal, savory, or aromatic qualities.“

Savory, aromatic, and medicinal, these are the basic properties we speak of when we talk about herbs. We can also think of the joy of using herbs as ornamentals. So let’s move on and begin exploring this wonderful, healthy, and exotic world of organic herbal gardening!


HERB HISTORYWe can look to practically every culture around the world to learn something about the history of herbs. The Chinese have a long history of using herbs for medicinal purposes.

Some Chinese herb books date from about 2700 B.C. and have extensive lists of medicinal plants. India is the home of Ayurvedic herbal medicine which is based on long-established Hindu traditions and is still practiced today.

Indigenous cultures throughout the world have used herbs for centuries for anything from tanning leather to curing hair loss. When we think of aroma, Italy, India and Thailand may come to mind for a proud history of using herbs in the kitchen.


The Greeks and Romans had the unusual practice of crowning theirheroes with dill and laurel. The Greeks also used mint leaves as a soothing bath lotion for their athletes. Greek physician Hippocrates (460 - 377 B.C.) used herbs extensively in his medical practice.

You don’t have to look far from home to learn something about the history of herbs.

You can think about your favorite recipes and their origins and maybe even ask a parent or grandparent the story behind their culinary secrets regarding herbs.


GROWING ORGANIC HERBSThe Secret to Organic Herb GardeningPeople have been growing herbs organically for centuries. It is only recently with the advent of chemical pesticides and herbicides that we’ve lost this knowledge and have chosen the convenience of chemicals.

Traditionally, herbs were harvested in the wild from their native habitats and then later they were domesticated to be grown in gardens.

So really , the secret to successful organic herb gardening, or organic gardening of any kind, is to understand how nature works and howthese plants grow in their natural setting. If we try to approximate the environment in which plants grow in the wild, we tend will have a healthier and more natural garden.


The Nature of Plants and HerbsWhen you look at your garden, consider that your herbs, trees, flowersand other plants all share common properties. They always try tomaintain equilibrium—the point of perfect balance. Water and nutrients are absorbed into the root system and pulled up through the stems into the leaves.

The plants then use Photosynthesis with the raw ingredients of water and energy from the sun to convert carbon dioxide into carbohydrates that plants use for growth and other plant functions.

Carbohydrates are stored in the branches and stems of herbs and other plants. These stored carbohydrates are used as reserve energy for the plant. When a crisis occurs, such as a broken stem or pathogenic attack, a plant can use these stored carbohydrates. Stored carbohydrates are also used in the spring to create new stems and foliage.


Soil organisms, from earthworms to fungi, provide needed nutrients to plant roots. A healthy root system allows herbs and other plants to create chemicals that repel pathogens and chemicals that attractbeneficial bacteria and other soil organisms. Yes, your herbs do have an immune system.

A pathogenic attack, whether it is white flies or a fungal infection, is always caused by the same problem—an imbalance in the plant. When herbs or other plants are near the point of perfect equilibrium,pathogens are less likely to attack them.

When your plants are sick, they are out of balance. If you find out the cause of the imbalance and fix it, the disease will generally go away.


The most frequent problem we see with herbs and other garden plants is with the soil. The fix-all for most soil problems is to add organic material to the soil. Composting and mulching is a great way to recycle organic waste material from you home and use it as hummus in your garden.

Other common problems that affect plant health are root damage, a build-up of chemical fertilizers or pesticides, over-pruning, and too much or too little water. A good way to prevent over or under watering is with a Soil Moisture Tester. Giving your plant too much or too little light can also affect their health.


One more important thing to look at is what other plants can be found in your garden and their compatibility with the herbs you wish to grow. Plants in the wild often grow close together because they share a mutually beneficial relationship.

You can duplicate these relationships at home. Many herbs will actually benefit the health of your garden, attracting beneficial insects of repelling pests with their strong scent.

However, some plants won’t get along together in your garden and are not recommended to plant together. This concept is known as companion planting.


Companion PlantsSimply put, some plants grow well together and some don’t. If you start to grow certain herbs in your flower or vegetable garden, the resulting combination of plants may help all the plants to be healthier. If you have a garden of strictly herbs, the addition of flowers or vegetables can also be beneficial for overall garden health.

A classic example of companion planting long known to Native Americans is the “Three Sisters” combination of corns, beans, and squash. The beans serve as nitrogen-fixers for the other plants, the beans climb the stalks of corn, and the squash shades the ground to hold in moisture.


Planning your Herb Garden -- Where to Begin?Your herb garden can take many forms—from a couple of potted herbs in your kitchen, to a large and diverse plot in your yard.

The most challenging part of growing herbs can actually be deciding which to plant! Answering the following questions may also be helpful:

Do you want herbs mostly for culinary, ornamental or medicinal purposes? How much room do you have to plant your herbs?


• Will you plant them with vegetables or flowers? If so, you may want to consider texture, height, color, fragrance, and any other factors that affect the appearance and attractiveness of your garden.

• Where do you plan or planting your herbs? Is it a sunny or shady place? Note that most herbs need at least six hours of light, and others like shade.

• Do you plan on growing herbs in containers or in the ground?

• Answering these questions may generate others that will help you plan out your garden. Writing out your ideas and making sketches is a great way to start visualizing your garden.


Creating your GardenYou can begin creating your herb, herb/vegetable, or herb/flowergarden now that you know the basics.

Adding a few herbs to your vegetable or flower garden is easy. Just pick some herbs out at the nursery and consider the issues of companion planting previously mentioned.

Experiment with the herbs to see what looks good with your existing plants and continue trying different combinations.


If you want to create a new plot, you will need to do a little more planning. A good sized kitchen garden will take up around 90 square feet. When you begin planning, take a look at your house and its colors and shapes, as well as existing lawns, driveways, walkways, etc.

Keep colors and heights of the other plants in yard in mind as you plan. Also think about the possibility of adding raised beds, borders,walkways, benches, trellises, and other peripherals to the space you have to work with.


You can consider purchasing several samples of each of the herbs and other plants you are thinking of using and placing them in the appropriate locations in your mapped-out garden. You can take back the ones that aren’t quite right and purchase others.

After designing your plot, the next step is to start preparing your soil so that it’s ready to receive your plants. As mentioned above, one of the best things you can do to insure a healthy garden is to have healthy soil.


Soil Basics for Herb GardeningSoil is often divided into various categories, such as clay, sand, silt, loam, and peat, although there are actually an infinite number of soil varieties. Soil compositions vary in organic matter, large and small rocks, minerals, pH, and other factors.

Most gardeners consider soil that has a combination of sand, silt, clay, and organic matter to be good soil. Measuring the pH of your soil is also a good indicator of how your herbs will perform and will help you determine if you need to make changes to the soil composition.


pH and Herb GardeningpH is a scale used to measure the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14. Acidic substances have smaller pH numbers and more hydrogen ions.

Alkaline substances have larger pH numbers and fewer hydrogen ions. 0 is extremely acid; 7 is neutral; and 14 is extremely alkaline.Limestone is an example of a very alkaline mineral. Sulfur is anexample of a very acidic mineral. Note that arid regions tend to have alkaline soils and regions with heavy rainfall tend to have acidic soils.


Although the pH scale only has a 0 to 14 range, it is a logarithmic scale that is designed to measure vast differences. Think of the Ritcher Scale of earthquake magnitude as another example of a logarithmic scale. For example, a pH of 7 is neutral, but a pH of 6 is ten times more acid than a neutral 7. A pH of 5 is a hundred times more acid than a neutral 7, and a pH of 4 is a thousand times more acid than a neutral 7.

Likewise, a pH of 8 is ten times more alkaline than a neutral 7. A pH of 9 is a hundred times more alkaline than a neutral 7, and a pH of 10 is a thousand times more alkaline than a neutral 7.

A pH of 6.5 is considered the point where nitrogen, phosphorous,potassium and the trace minerals that plants need to grow are most easily available to your herbs.


Testing Your SoilTo test your soil, it is a good idea to dig out samples from several places to see what the soil is like. Soil that hasn’t been worked is seldom ready for new plantings. It may have too much clay, too much sand, tons of rocks, very little organic material, a high or low pH, or other issues that you’ll need to deal with before you plant.

A good way to test the texture of your soil is with the “Ribbon Test.” After you take a soil sample, roll it back and forth in your hand. If it sticks together easily, it is high in clay, if it simply falls apart, it is probably has a lot of sand.

Clay soils don’t drain well and are difficult for the roots to penetrate. Sandy soils drain well but don’t retain nutrients. Adding organic material will help both sandy and clay soilsYou can test the pH of your soil with a simple pH testing kit.


A good quality pH test kit is worth the extra expense because inexpensive ones are often inaccurate. Remember that most herbs grow well with a soil pH between 6 and 7, although a pH of 6.5 is ideal for most herbs.

The most accurate way to test the overall health of your soil is with a Garden Soil Testing Kit. These kits are relatively inexpensive and come in various styles.

You can even buy an electronic soil tester that will also test the pH, as well as fertility, how much light you are getting, and other aspects of herb gardening.


The Magic of HumusIf your soil is extremely acid, which can happen in an area with heavy rainfall, or with soil that has had overdoses of chemical N-P-K fertilizer, you may need to add limestone to ‘sweeten’ the soil.

Adding compost can also work wonders if your soil is out of the ideal pH range. This technique will also improve soil that is too sandy, has too much clay, or is low in the organic material that plants need to thrive. If you don’t know much about composting, don’t worry. You can find more information on composting at the Compost Guide.

Soil drainage is also critical to herb gardening. Mixing in compost is the best way to improve drainage. You can also try digging out a good quantity of the soil, around 16 inches deep, and placing a layer of fine gravel at the bottom.


MulchIf you don’t have humus available from well composted material, you can help your garden through mulching. Mulching is nature’s way of composting. Forests provide a good example of nature’s mulching and composting system.

Forests are a complete growing community. Everything in a forest is related and works together. Leaves and dead branches fall from trees and other forest plants.

Bacteria, fungi, nematodes, earthworms, and other habitants of the soil help break down the leaves and other debris into humus. Humus is a natural living environment that benefits tree and plant roots.


To reproduce the mulch that forests naturally create, you can use garden waste from your home, such as shredded leaves, hay, shredded bark, or other similar substance.

By spreading the material over the top of your garden dirt, you are mimicking the decomposing leaves and branches that make up a forest floor.

Mulching helps to keep weeds from growing and facilitates moisture retention in the soil. Mulching also begins the process of natural composting. Between treatments, soil organisms help to decomposethe mulch that is closest to the ground.

Earthworms and other critters that live in the soil pull composted material into the ground and naturally feed your plant’s roots.


You should add a little more mulch each year to your garden to keep the process going. You can use mulch even when your soil is in excellent shape.

The mulch will keep the soil healthy and productive. You can further support your soil by adding a dose of organic fertilizer

Your mulch will work best when you add this natural fertilizer over the entire herb/flower/vegetable bed so that the whole area will gradually become healthier.


PLANTING YOUR HERB GARDEN

Tips for an outdoor herb gardenAn easy way to get started with your garden is to purchase starter plants from your local nursery and plant them in your garden in the spring. It can however be difficult to find a nursery that hasn’t already treated their starter plants with chemicals. Ask around to find a nursery dedicated to organic gardening. There are more and more popping up every day.

The best way to ensure that your garden starts out chemical free is to grow your own starter plants. Most herbs are easily grown from seed. Plant your seeds indoors in shallow containers a month or so before the start of spring.

Use a well-drained soil specifically designed for seedlings and make sure not to plant the seeds too deeply.


As a general rule, the bigger the seed, the deeper you should sow them. Some herbs such as coriander and fennel don’t transplant well so it’s best to sow them directly in your garden.

A light, well-drained soil is good for starting the seedlings indoors. Water with a fine mist sprayer to avoid uncovered the seeds with the force of the water. When your herbs have good growth and appear firmly rooted in the soil, transplant them to your garden and give them a good drink right after transplanting.

You can also grow some herbs through cuttings or divisions taken from other organically grown plants. Lavender is a good plant to growthrough cuttings. You can divide and replant some herbs that tend to spread out, like mint.

This is also a good way to keep mints, which spread easily, from taking over your garden.


A light, well-drained soil is good for starting the seedlings indoors. Water with a fine mist sprayer to avoid uncovered the seeds with the force of the water. When your herbs have good growth and appear firmly rooted in the soil, transplant them to your garden and give them a good drink right after transplanting.

You can also grow some herbs through cuttings or divisions taken from other organically grown plants. Lavender is a good plant to growthrough cuttings. You can divide and replant some herbs that tend to spread out, like mint. This is also a good way to keep mints, which spread easily, from taking over your garden.

As far as pests are concerned, there are only a few you need to worry about with most herbs. Be on the lookout for red spider mites and aphids particularly. If you plant mints, check periodically for rust. You can mix a little castile soap with water and use a fine sprayer to wash off your herbs periodically to prevent these common pests.


Tips for an indoor herb gardenAgain, soil is the key for growing herbs indoors. You can cut a standard potting soil with a little sand or gravel to ensure proper drainage.

You can quickly kill potted herbs by leaving their feet wet. A good way to avoid this problem is to use a mist sprayer to give your herbs just a taste of water every now and then without drowning them. This will allow you to give them a deep watering less frequently.

Placing your herbs by a south-facing window will insure that they get enough light. If you don’t have much light in your home or apartment, you may want to invest in a growing lamp, especially if you’re interested in growing a large number of herbs indoors.


You can place potted perennial herbs outdoors during the summer to give them a little extra light and fresh air, but annuals will do fine if they stay indoors. As your perennial herbs grow, keep an eye on the roots to make sure they don’t get root-bound.

This problem is easy to solve by repotting your plants in a larger container as they start to get bigger. It’s also a good idea to change out the soil from time to time even if your plants aren’t root-bound.

Tips for using your herbsHerbs can be used fresh or dried. Air and oven drying are two simple methods described below to prepare your herbs for future use.


You can also extract the essential oils of herbs by soaking the leaves, stems, roots, flowers, etc. in a bottle full of oil, such as olive oil. See below for details. Other methods of preparing your herbs include with salt or silica gel, but we recommend the above mentioned methodswhich are simple and effective.

It’s best to use your herbs before they flower for maximum potency. If you’re harvesting an annual, you can choose to use the entire plant, but if you’re using a perennial, prune off less than half of the plant to ensure that it will regrow.

After collecting the part you’re going to use, wash off any soil, and pat the herbs dry with a paper towel. Let the herbs air dry until the remaining moisture is gone.


Tie clusters of herbs together and hang them upside down in a dry, dark place that maintains a warm temperature. Check that the herbs are ready to use by testing to see if the leaves crumble, around two weeks of drying. If you decide to dry your herbs in the oven, use a low heat for a prolonged period of time. Try around 150 degrees Fahrenheit for three hours.

In the case that you’re harvesting seeds, place the seeds on a sheet of paper and let them dry out for a few days. Then, rub the seeds vigorously between your hands to remove the shells.


Dispose of the debris and continue to dry the seeds for a few more days before using.

As described above, you can extract the essential oils of herbs by soaking the fresh or dried herbs in a caped bottle of oil. A sterilized glass bottle that has been boiled in water for 10 minutes is recommended.

Olive oil works great as a base. Place the bottle in the sun for several days, and then strain the oil through cheesecloth, disposing of the used plant in your compost bin. The oil can be used for cooking, or in the case of medicinal plants, to make massage oils or salves.

GROWING HERBS ORGANICALLY

The best conditions for organic herbs are well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter (compost, shredded leaves, well-rotted straw, for example ), and plenty of room and sun. If you don't have a well-drained site, raised beds work great, as do containers.

Organic matter improves soil texture and drainage in clay soil and improves water-holding capacity in sandy soils. It also creates an ideal pH range of 6.5 to 7.

The organic matter should be added several months before planting to allow it to break down and mix with the soil. Of course, fine compost can be added and planted shortly thereafter. You can see that herbs require the same garden and soil conditions that vegetables and flowers prefer.


Once your herbs are in the soil, don't forget to mulch to reduceevaporation, wind damage, and to keep soil temperatures constant.

Organic mulches have the added benefit of breaking down and contributing organic matter to the soil. Herbs that spread by runners, such as thyme, pennyroyal or oregano, should be mulched lightly,because of their expansive nature.

Herbs that tolerate damp soils: Angelica, beebalm, boneset, meadowsweet, mints, lovage, and sweet flag (calamus).


Herbs that tolerate shady sites: Borage, chamomile, chervil, dill, evening primrose, goldenseal, lemon balm, oregano, parsley, pennyroyal, sweet cicely, sweet woodruff, valerian and violet .

Herbs for dry locations with lots of sunlight: Common oregano, hyssop rosemary, sage, thyme,and winter savory.

Herbs that tolerate poor dry soil: Rosemary, sage, sweet marjoram, thyme and winter savory.

BASIL

Basil is an annual herb that has delicate aromatic leaves, is very frost sensitive and is wonderful to eat when paired with tomatoes.

Plant basil in a sunny spot in well-drained soil. Basil does not like cool weather--so plant it once the weather has warmed up. Basil can be grown quite easily from seed, or you can buy plants at the nursery.

Removing any flowering shoots will ensure continued growth of fresh young leaves.

BASIL

you use basil to make pesto, you can freeze some in glass jars for later use. Or you can dry the leaves to use crumbled in pasta dishes, tomato sauces or on pizza.

Basil is native to India, Africa and Asia. It is a member of the mint family and basil tea is used to quell digestive upsets such as indigestion or stomach cramps, and to reduce headaches and nausea. The French call basil "herbe royale."

BAY LEAF

Wreaths of victory have historically been made of leaves from the bay laurel tree. It has long been considered a symbol of glory, honor and greatness.

In ancient Greece and Rome, laurel wreaths crowned kings, priests and revered poets, as well as the victors of battles and of scholarly contests. Garlands woven of laurel were given to the champions of the first Olympic games in 776BC.

Bay is indigenous to the Mediterranean area and Asia Minor.

Did you know?

Herbalists recommend using bay leaf oil for snakebites, wasp and bee stings, bruises, scrapes and many other ailments, including rheumatism.

Studies of the essential oils show it does contain properties that kill bacteria and fungi. An infusion of bay leaf is said to soothe an upset stomach and relieve gas pains.

The bay tree is evergreen and can grow ten feet tall or taller, in the ground. You can grow bay trees in areas with mild winters and warm summers.

If your climate includes harsh winters you will have to take extra precautions, such as planting the tree in a large container and moving it indoors in the winter.

Did you know?

Bay leaf is called for in many recipes for soups, stews, sauces and marinades. Some cooks add a rubbed bay leaf to lentils, beans, rice or other grains.

If you wonder why most recipes call for removing the bay leaves before serving, it's because a sharp-pointed leaf may get stuck in a diner's throat, which could be uncomfortable and painful!

Some people scatter bay leaves in drawers to repel cockroaches and other pests.

Why Buy Organic Seeds?

For Your Personal Health… Organic farming produces plants that are free of pesticides, herbicides and their residues.

For Your Children… Children receive four times the exposure of adults to at least eight widely-used cancer-causing pesticides in the food chain. The choice you make now will impact your child's health in the future.

For The Health Of Your Garden… Organic gardening encourages diverse plantings, works with crops that promote beneficial insects, and recycles nutrients with earthworms, composts and green manures.


For Healthier Farm Workers… A National Cancer Institute study found that farmers exposed to herbicides had a six time greater risk than non-farmers of contracting cancer. Farm worker health also is a serious problem in developing nations, where pesticide use can be poorly regulated.

For Small, Family Farmers… Although more large scale farms are making the conversion to organic practices, most organic farms are small independently owned and operated family farms of less than 100 acres. It's estimated that the US has lost more than 650,000 family farms in the past decade.


For Better Flavour… There's a good reason many chef's use organic foods in their recipes. They taste better. Organic farming starts with organic seeds in the nutrients of the soil which leads to the nourishment of the plant and ultimately our palates.

Build And Protect Top Soil… Soil is the organic farmer's most revered tool. Rather than relying on synthetic fertilizers, they build their soil through natural amenities, such as composted manure, and by planting diverse crops. Organic farmers respect the soil and view it as the foundation of the food chain.


Protect Water Quality… The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that pesticides have contaminate ground water in 38 states, polluting the primary source of drinking water for more than half the country's population.

Organic growers and processors use practices that eliminate polluting chemicals and nitrogen leaching, and thus protect and conserve precious water resources.


Preserve Biodiversity… Many organic growers have been collecting and using heirloom seed varieties for decades. On the other hand, many conventional farms still grow hybridized vegetables and fruits, bred for uniformity, ease of shipping and cosmetic appearance.

Such "modern" concerns have ignored the value of preserving a diversity of seed varieties, and therefore a more balanced ecosystem.


Represent A 'True' Economy… Current prices for conventionally grown foods do not reflect the costs of federal subsidies to conventional agriculture, the cost of contaminated drinking water, loss of wildlife habitat and soil erosion, or the cost of the disposal and clean up of hazardous wastes generated by the manufacturing of pesticides.

For The Health Of Our Planet… When you buy organically grown seeds, your dollars cast a vote for a more sustainable environment & healthier planet.

Indian Herbs

Indian herbs are renowned all over the world for their medicinalproperties. India is the second highest producer of medicinal herbs in the world after China. Himalayas, Aravalis, and Nilgiri mountains are the greatest reserves of medicinal herbs in India.

Ayurveda, the traditional Indian form of medicine, has been using herbs for thousand of years. These Ayurvedic herbs are very effective in increasing the body resistance and are used in the treatment of various diseases.

India –the land of spices

India grows over 50 different varieties of spices. Total production is around 2.7 million tonnes. Of this, about 0.25 million tonnes (8-10 per cent) is exported to more than 150 countries. The Indian share of the world trade in spices is 45-50 per cent by volume (25 per cent in value terms).

Organic cultivation

In recent years, organic agriculture has been gaining considerable importance. Many farmers today show interest in organic cultivation. Several of them have begun switching to this traditional method of cultivation as a means to produce safe foodstuffs and preserve the environment. The concept of sustainable farming has caught on inIndia.

World Demand for organic foods

The world demand for organically produced foods is growing rapidly in developed countries like Europe, USA, Japan and Australia.

The current estimated share of organic foods in these countries is approximately 1 to 1.5 per cent. Worldwide, food trends are changing with a marked health orientation.

Since organic foods are free from chemical contaminants, the demand for these products should steadily increase in the new millennium.


According to the ITC, UNCTAD/GAT, more than 130 countries produce certified organic foods. 100 of them are from Asia and Africa.

Internationally, there's a definite shift towards traditional / ethnic medicines. Since spices form part of many of these medicines, the demand for organically produced spices should grow.


Organic cultivation is nothing new to India. The country has always been practicing the traditional ways of using indigenous technologies and inputs mostly in line with modern organic farming principles.

The per capita consumption of fertilizers and pesticides in India is far below that of developed countries. Which means, it is very easy for Indian farmers to embrase organic spice farming in its true sense.

Spice Board of India has taken a major initiative in promoting the production and export of organic spices in a big way.

The Indian Initiative

Export of organic spices from India has started in right earnest. The country at present exports around 50 tones of different varieties of organic spices. Exports will get a significant boost in the coming years as more farmers switch to organic methods.

The Indian Initiative

Spices Board India has prepared a document on production of organic spices. It features the organic concepts, principles, basic standards, production guidelines, documentation, inspection and certification. The document has been published after approval by the National Standards Committee constituted by the members of IFOAM in India.

Research Programmes on organic cultivation of important spices have commenced. The work is carried out at the Spices Board's Indian Cardamom Research Institute at ldukki District in Kerala. Besides organizing demonstrations to educate and motivate prospective organic spice growers, the Board is simultaneously involved in training Programmes to existing spice growers on organic principles and practices.

Indian Herbs

Abrus PrecatoriusAloe VeraCinnamonBasilGuggalSafed MusliAshwagandhaLemongrassPiper LongumManjishthaSandalwood

Abrus PrecatoriusFamily Name: Fabaceae

Botanical Name(s): Abrus precatorius

Popular Name(s): Rosary Pea, Jequerity, Crab's Eye, Precatory Bean, Tento Muido, Cain Ghe, Graines Reglisse, Weesboontje, Rakat, Hint Meyankoku, Hung Tou, Jequerit, Liane Reglisse, Ma Liao Tou, Paratella, Paternoster.

Parts Used: Seeds, leaves

Habitat: Throughout Central India

Description & Uses

Abrus precatorius is a twining herb with delicate feathery leaves. Flowers are rose to purple growing at the end of a stalk. Fruits are short pods containing hard, shiny, scarlet and black seeds.

Abrus precatorius roots are used for gonorrhoea, jaundice and haemoglobinuric bile. The oil extracted from seeds is said to promote the growth of human hair. Abrus precatorius is also used as an abortifacient, laxative, sedative and aphrodisiac.

Manjishtha

Family Name: Rubiaceae

Botanical Name(s): Rubia Tinctoria

Popular Name(s): Indian Madder, Manjishtha, Manjit Gandari, Manchatti, Manjishta.

Parts Used: Root and Fruit

Habitat: This is a climbing plant found in the Himalayas and hill stations in India

Description & Uses

A very variable, prickly creeper or climber. The leaves are veryvariable. The flowers are small, white or greenish or in shades of red and yellow, sweet-scented in terminal panicles of cymes; the fruits, globose or slightly 2-lobed, dark-purplish or black, fleshy with 2 small seeds.

This herb is also used to cleanse and regulate liver, spleen, pancreas, and kidneys. The fruit is useful in hepatic obstructions. Root paste removes freckles, and discoloration of the skin. It helps in blood circulation and purification, cancer and diarrhea.

Piper Longum

Family Name: Piperaceae

Botanical Name(s): Piper Longum

Popular Name(s): Indian Long Pepper, Long Pepper, Dried Catkins, Pippali, Pipal, Tippli, Pihal

Parts Used: Fruit, Root and Stem

Habitat: Mostly deciduous to evergreen forests

Description & Uses

Piper Longum is a slender, aromatic, climber with perennial woody roots, creeping and jointed stems and fleshy fruits embedded in the spikes.

Piper Longum is most commonly used to treat respiratory infections such as stomachache, bronchitis and diseases of the spleen, cough, tumors and asthma.

Cinnamon

Family Name: Lauraceae

Botanical Name(s): Cinnamomum Zeylanicum

Popular Name(s): Cinnamon, Tvak, Dalchini, Daruchini Karuva, Vazhana, Tamalapatra

Parts Used: Bark

Habitat: This plant is indigenous to India and Sri Lanka.

Description & Uses

The cinnamon is an evergreen tree with light brown, papery bark and leathery leaves. The tree shows small, yellow-white clusters of flowers in summer, after which oval, purple berries appear.

Cinnamon is used internally to stop digestive problems - especially when accompanied by flatulence and cramping, as well as diarrhea, vomiting and gastroenteritis. Its warming action is used to treat cold and flu as well as arthritis and rheumatism.

Lemongrass

Family Name: Poaceae

Botanical Name(s): Cymbopogon Citratus, Cymbopogon Flexuosus

Popular Name(s): Lemongrass, Ginger Grass

Parts Used: Lemongrass leaves, lemongrass oil

Habitat: Cultivated in North India.

Description & Uses

Lemon grass is a long thick grass with leaves at the top and a solid portion several inches long at the root end. The lower portion is sliced or pounded.

As a medicinal plant, lemongrass has been considered a carminative and insect repellent. Lemongrass is used in herbal teas and other nonalcoholic beverages in baked goods, and in confections. Oil from lemongrass is widely used as a fragrance in perfumes and cosmetics.

Sandalwood

Family Name: Santalaceae

Botanical Name(s): Santalum Album

Popular Name(s): Sandalwood, Chandana, White sandalwood, Yellow Sandalwood, Chandan, Chandanam, Srigandha

Parts Used: Wood and Oil

Habitat: Sandalwood is a small tree that grows primarily in India.

Description & Uses

The wood of its stem grows from 20 to 30 feet high, is heavy andstraight-grained and varies in color. It is white when young and yellow and orange in color when it is old. Its oval leaves are covered with a whitish bloom; its small flowers are varying in color.

On the skin, sandalwood essential oil helps to moisturize and hydrate ageing, dry or flaky skin, relieving itching and inflammation and its astringent action balances oily skin conditions. It helps to clear up a dry cough and boosts the digestive system, especially helpful in diarrhea. It is used to treat general chest complaints.

Guggal

Family Name: Burseraceae

Botanical Name(s): Commiphora Mukul

Popular Name(s): Commiphora, Mukul, Guggul, Balsamodendrom Mukul, Indian Bdellium Tree, Moql, Moqle-arzagi

Parts Used: Whole Plant

Habitat: Rocky tracks of Western India and Eastern Himalayas.

Description & Uses

Guggul is a resin, which is produced by the stem of the commiphora mukul tree, a relatively small, thorny plant native to India. Historically Guggul has been used in connection with a wide variety of conditions, including rheumatism and obesity.

It is Carminative, Anti suppurative Gum resin used for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. It is a potent drug for cardiac disorders high cholesterol. It is an ingredient for over fifty compounds.

Ashwagandha

Family Name: Solanaceae

Botanical Name(s): Withania somnifera

Popular Name(s): Withania, Winter cherry, Indian winter cherry, Indian ginseng, Ashwagandha, Ashgandh, Achuvagandi Ashgandh.

Parts Used: Root and Leaves

Habitat: Cultivated throughout drier parts of India.

Description & Uses

Ashwagandha is an important herb used in Ayurveda. Ashwagandha is an erect branched shrub with greenish or lurid yellow flowers. Ashwagandha in India is akin to ginseng in other parts of the orient.

It is official Indian Pharmacopoeia. It is popularly known as Indian Ginseng. It gives vitality and vigor and helps in building greater endurance. It has been used in diseases such as rheumatism, leprosy and arthritis.

Education

Organic Herbs Gardening Manual