The expanding popularity of the use of whole ingredients in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, as well as the renewed attention given to alternative forms of medical treatment, have fostered increased attention on the use of herbs. Used in a host of cuisines, as well as treatment for minor ailments and even disease, natural herbs have enjoyed a long and celebrated history.
For those looking to transform their lifestyle, the use of natural herbs in their diet and medicine cabinets, can be a momentous step in the right direction. While herbs can certainly be found in local grocery stores, farmers markets, and health food stores, many people are turning to herb gardening in order to have what they need at their fingertips at all times.
Herb gardening can be as simple as you make it and does not require a large amount of land to be successful. Many a gardening enthusiast has been able to achieve a beautiful and space efficient herb garden in pots that sit right outside their door. This can be enormously beneficial for those who live in the city and only have access to a fire escape or small outside facility.
Any plant supply store can easily show you the ins and outs of herb gardening in the ground or in pots, as well as help you choose a selection of herbs that meet your particular needs. The Internet is also a great resource for herb gardening on all levels. Be sure to research each specific herb to determine its optimum growing conditions.
Obviously, through the fair weather months, it is easy to simply snip some herbs from your garden for instant use. But herb gardening can be a year round project as you also have the opportunity to dry and store herbs for winter use.
This process actually begins in mid-summer when the leafy herbs are in mid flourish. Cut the tops of the leaves and wash them well under cold water. The leaves are then hung to dry and then bundled by type - stems tied together. Herbs should then be stored - leaves first - in a paper bag which is tied closed at the end. The bag should then be hung in a cool, dry place.
In a matter of weeks the herbs should be dry enough to leave the bag at which time they should be crumbled and dried in the oven at an extremely low temperature. Your goal is to remove any remaining moisture, not to cook the herbs. At this point, your herbs can be stored for a variety of uses.
Herb gardening can bring a lifetime of enjoyment and experimentation as you learn to discover what herbs work best for you.
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