Monday, August 8, 2011

Herbs De Provence, Did You Know?

Did you know that Provençal herbs- Herbes de Provence is a fusion of dried herb? This is a traditional form of herbal mixture, which was invented in hilly regions of Southern France. This mixture is generally prepared during hot summers. Herbes de Provence can also include fresh herbs. The classic ingredients that are used in this mixture are basil, lavender flowers, fennel, thyme, and savory. Apart from these ingredients even herbs such as bay leaf, oregano, rosemary, mint, marjoram, chervil, and tarragon are also used in the mixture.

Sometimes orange flavor is added as substitute to lavender flowers. Usually, lavender flowers were added to attract the tourist. The field of lavender flowers was a center of attraction for tourist. According to them, the flowers of lavender represented it is as symbol for Provence region. Even though it was not traditionally recommended, lavender flowers add charm to the mixture. The proportion of herbs in the mixture varies with every manufacturer. Generally, thyme herb dominates the taste.

Herbes de Provence not only has a pleasant aroma, but also is rich in nutritional values. Every herb has some or other health benefits.
•Lavender flowers:
Relaxes stressed muscles, induces sound sleep, and improves nervous system
•Basil:
A Natural cleanser- possesses- antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial properties. It is highly valued for medicinal purpose.
•Thyme:
It possesses the properties of anti-septic and anti-biotic. An amazing remedy to cure bronchitis and sore throat
•Bay leaf:
A powerful astringent that is useful to treat upset stomach and fungal infection
•Mint:
traditionally used to cure upset stomach and chest pain. The consumption of this herb also relieves you from stomach cramps.
•Rosemary:
Rosemary herb is rich source of iron, vitamin B6, and calcium. The intake of this herb relieves you from excessive stress. It soothes your stressed nervous system.
•Fennel:
Due to carminative properties, it is an excellent herb for disturbed intestinal tract. It also improves your eye sight and effective remedy for cough.
•Chervil:
This herb is an excellent cleanser for skin. It also purifies blood and thus improves the blood circulation.

It is not essential to large bags of herbes de Provence. You can prepare this mixture even at home. In fact all these herbs can be very easily grown in our garden. Thus, you can easily get this herb. Dry them and mix them in proper proportion. Add them to your desired delicacies. Enjoy the nutritional food with amazing taste and aroma.

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