All About Herbs
The loose definition of herb is any plant that is used for its culinary, medicinal, or fragrant properties. Herbs are such a diverse group of plants that it is very difficult to separate them into logical groups. Some disguise themselves as wildflowers, some are fragrant ground covers, and some are weeds that we try to eradicate from between the pavers in our driveways. Medicinal herbs have been used for centuries.

Different Types of Herbs

Companion Planting
In gardening, herbs are an important part of what is known as "Companion Planting." The purpose of companion planting is to enhance the yield for desirable plants, deter unwanted pests, or just make the available space encouraging for biological pest control. Companion planting is an interesting concept whereby you plant specific plants in close proximity to each other to reach a desired goal - such as better yields, bigger flowers, or even repelling insects. People are discovering more combinations all the time, and observation is the key. The mechanics of why certain plants are compatible and others are not isnt well understood. Also, what works in one garden may not work as well in another. Herbs are used in making herbal teas.

Herbal Teas
Herbs (and other plants) have merit in many aspects of life, and the most common use of herbs for both medicinal purposes and for enjoyment is undoubtedly the making of herbal teas. People have used herbal teas for centuries, first for medicinal use, and later for enjoyment as tasty and refreshing beverages. Not all herbs are suitable for making tea, so become informed on each particular herb before ingesting a tea made from it.

The steps involved in making both enjoyable beverages and medicinal teas are pretty much the same. The major difference is that when making medicinal teas, more attention should be paid to covering the water pot as much as possible to entrap the beneficial properties of the herb. While the aroma of the tea is part of the enjoyment for making beverages, there should be no aroma when making teas for medicinal uses.

Some Ideas for Herb Blends that can be used in Teas
Anise, Marjoram, Lemon verbana, Angelica, Clove, Orange Peel, Nutmeg, Elder berry, Lemon Balm, Spear Mint, Chamomile, Borage, BeeBalm, Ginger, Lemon Grass, Savory, Scented Germanium, Rosemary, Thyme, Hore Hound, Chicory, Ginseng, Cinnamon, Valerian, Basil, Pennyroyal, Peppermint, Apple mint.