Facts about Herbs: Definition, Types, Health Benefits and Medicinal Properties

For thousands of years, people have been using herbs as food and medicines. Out of five different types of plants, herbs are the small non-woody plants with fresh green leaves that are primarily used to enhance the flavour of our food. We consume these herbs daily in our tea, sauces, soups, curries and more. It is important for kids to know the names of these herbs and their health benefits. 

Table of Contents

• What are Herbs
• Types of Herbs
• Health Benefits and Medicinal Properties of Herbs

What are Herbs

Herbs are small plants with tender leaves that have a soft green stem. These aromatic and therapeutic plants also have many health benefits and medicinal uses ranging from curing cough to boosting immunity. We use some herbs daily such as basil and coriander. Some herbs like rosemary are used in cosmetics and beauty products such as creams, oils, fragrances and pastes to give skin nourishment. Let’s learn about different types of herbs with their names and health benefits.

Types of Herbs 

Depending on the usage, herbs can be classified into different types. Here are three different types of herbs: 

Culinary Herbs: Used as fresh or dried, culinary herbs are the type of herbs that enhance the flavour of food without adding salt, sugar or any other spice such as oregano. Some of the common culinary herbs are basil, cilantro, thyme, parsley and rosemary.

Medicinal and Wellness Herbs: Rich in anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory properties these herbs have been used for curing ailments and natural remedies for over centuries. They are also used for making soothing brews to calm the brain and nervous system. Some of the common examples of medicinal herbs include mint, lavender, tulsi and chamomile.

Aromatic Herbs: Used in oils, perfumes, creams and other beauty products aromatic herbs have a distinctive smell and nourishing properties. These herbs are primarily used in aromatherapy, skincare and hair care due to their natural fragrances and therapeutic properties. Some examples are lavender, hibiscus and saffron.

Health Benefits and Medicinal Properties of Herbs 

Here are the names of some common varieties of herbs, along with their health benefits and medicinal properties.

• Basil: It is one of the most famous culinary herbs used for over centuries in different ethnic cuisines. It is also used for medicinal purposes such as healing stomach infections and relieving indigestion. Basil has many nutritional benefits as it is rich in vitamins and minerals.

• Chamomile: Ancient Egyptian herb famously used in the past for curing fevers. It has a wide range of health benefits from promoting sleep to reducing skin inflammation. Camomile is usually consumed as a soothing hot beverage that gives relaxation to the body.

• Cilantro: Cultivated throughout the globe this herb is commonly used for enhancing food taste and to add flavour. Cilantro is originally from Asia and its seeds are also known as coriander. It has high antimicrobial properties that help fight bacterial, fungal and yeast infections.

• Oregano: Used in Mediterranean cuisine, this culinary herb is good for relieving inflammation and regulating digestive function of the body. It has many uses like relieving toothaches, menstrual cramps and respiratory problems.

• Mint: With a fresh and lemony fragrance this culinary herb is good for digestion and has a cooling effect that soothes stomach and nausea.