Herbs

Basil

Called the “royal herb” by the ancient Greeks, this annual is a member of the mint family.

Chives

Chives were first used in China some 3,000 years ago. They belong to the same family as shallots, garlic and leeks and have a distinct onion taste.

Parsley

In ancient times parsley wreaths were used to ward off drunkenness – though proof of their efficacy in that capacity is scarce.

Thyme

There are several varieties of this mint-family member, a perennial herb native to Southern Europe and the Mediterranean. Garden thyme, the most often used variety, is a bush with grey-green leaves giving off a pungent minty, light-lemon aroma.