Common Herb Substitutes
When you're cooking, it's frustrating when you realize that you're missing an ingredient, such as basil, in the middle of the process. Fortunately, you can replace basil with a number of other herbs and still have nearly the same flavor. You can also substitute herbs for other products to treat some ailments.
Cooking Herbs
You can almost use a number of Mediterranean herbs interchangeably. If a recipe calls for oregano, feel free to substitute marjoram, if that's all you have on hand. You can also use thyme in place of oregano or marjoram. Sage is a great substitute for thyme or rosemary when cooking, as is savory.
If a recipe calls for dill, try substituting tarragon in its place if you have no dill on hand. In place of basil, try using mint in a curry dish or cilantro in a pesto. You can swap out citrus flavored herbs, such as lemon verbena or bergamot, with lemon zest. Be cautious when substituting one herb for another and taste as you go to make sure you're getting the flavor you want.
Medicinal Herbs
Some people prefer to try herbal remedies in place of conventional medicine. If you suffer from indigestion or stomach pain, you may want to try drinking a cup of peppermint tea to soothe the pain. Chamomile can also help soothe indigestion as well as help you fall asleep. Sage can calm a cough or soothe the pain from a sore throat while willow bark can soothe head and body aches.
Rosemary may help hair grow, give you energy when you feel tired, and is thought to improve memory. Other herbs that help with memory problems include ginkgo and gotu kola. Since you may be taking a medication can interact with herbal substitutes, it's important to check with your doctor before using herbs for medicinal purposes!
