A whole culture has grown up around herbs & spices & they have been purported through the ages to have many magical qualities. The actual properties of some herbs & spices play an important part in their use in cooking, as they can preserve food, help the digestion, or act as an antiseptic. This comprehensive guide to herbs & spices what are they?; their origin & geographical distribution; history; medicinal properties & uses; composition; effects on the human body; in folk medicine; in diet; growing & preparing; pick your own; storing; equipment; hints for herbalists; & mixed herbs, spices & condiments. Color plates with list of herbs & spices & their uses.
