Herbs and spices have a lot of applications, from usage in the kitchen to being used as medicines. They are diverse. There are some wonderful condiments that are a must-have in your kitchen. We have put together a list of herbs and spices beginning with the letter F.
Can we dive right in?
Herbs
False unicorn
The false unicorn belongs to a group of flowering plants of the genus Chamaelirium. This genus has one species called luteum. It is known by other names such as helonia, fairies’ wand, and blazing-star.
It is a herbaceous perennial that is native to the United States. The false unicorn has six to fifteen leaves arranged in a rosette format at the base.
Uses:
- This herb has medicinal uses where it can be used as an emetic and diuretic.
- It can also be used for both exterior and interior decor.
Health benefits
- To treat menstrual issues: the false unicorn has been linked to dealing with menstrual issues such as a memorial and dysmenorrhea. It has been shown to relieve women of menstrual cramps.
- Treatment of ovarian cyst: Though there isn’t much evidence to support that the false unicorn helps to treat ovarian cysts, it has been used traditionally and in ancient times to deal with this condition.
- Helps to relieve morning sickness: extract of the false unicorn has been proven to help alleviate morning sickness and feelings of nausea in pregnant women.
Where to buy a false unicorn
The false unicorn can be purchased at Walmart and also ordered off of Amazon.
Feverfew
Feverfew is also known as Tanacetum parthenium. It belongs to the Asteraceae family, also known as the Daisy family. It has yellowish-green leaves that have a pungent scent. The flowers are ray shaped with inner tubular florets.
The herb has major medicinal uses.
Uses:
- Feverfew can be used in medicine to treat headaches.
- It is also used as a dietary supplement.
Health benefits
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Feverfew has an active compound called parthenolide. This compound plays an active role in inhibiting the actions of pro-inflammatory cytokines. It is also an inhibitor of the synthesis of prostaglandins. Inflammations in excess can lead to chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer.
- Antispasmodic effects: Leaf extracts from the feverfew plant have been proven and researched to inhibit spasms and uncontrollable contractions in smooth muscles. This is done by closing open potassium channels.
- Effective against arthritis and migraines. Extracts from feverfew are also very potent inhibitors of serotonin from platelets. This makes them effective in dealing with headaches and arthritis.
- Antimicrobial properties: the feverfew leaves have been proven to repeat the Grove of gram-positive bacteria and fungi. This makes them effective against certain bacterial infections in your body.
Where to buy Feverfew
This herb can be purchased at Walgreens, Healthy Planet, and HerbsPro.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek is an annual plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. Its botanical name is Trigonella foenum-graecum. This plant has oblong leaves. Fenugreek is native to the Indian subcontinent. It doubles as both an herb and a spice, as its leaves and seeds can be used for flavoring. The seeds of fenugreek are cuboid shaped with a yellow to amber coloration. Fenugreek has a maple-scented smell.
Its nutritional profile is also quite impressive. One tablespoon of fenugreek seeds yields:
- 6 g of carbs
- 3 g of fiber
- 3 g of protein
- 20% of the daily recommended intake of iron
Uses
- The leaves of this plant can be used in different curries.
- The seeds can be ground into powder and made into a paste for flavoring.
Health benefits
- Improves breast milk production: in studies conducted on breastfeeding mothers, the effects of fenugreek on breast milk production were noticed. The models were given a herbal tea made with fenugreek seeds. After the administration of this tea, breast milk production increased in volume much more than those who didn’t take it or even those on other conventional medications.
- Improve testosterone levels: In studies conducted on weight lifting men, it was discovered that fenugreek had a positive effect on their testosterone levels. Those who were administered with fenugreek supplements experienced an increase in their testosterone levels after weight lifting sessions, while there was a decrease in those who didn’t take these same supplements. In addition, men who took these supplements, experienced an increase in libido and sexual performance.
- Helps control diabetes and regulate blood sugar: fenugreek seeds have been linked to helping people suffering from type 1 and type 2 diabetes. In studies done on diabetics, subjects who consumed fenugreek supplements with a meal had a noticeable reduction in their sugar levels. They also experienced a reduction in bad cholesterol (low-density lipids). This is also evidence of the fact that fenugreek can keep your heart healthy.
Where to buy Fenugreek?
Fenugreek can also be purchased at the following locations: Walmart, Trader Joe’s, and Costco.
Fever grass
Fever grass is also commonly known as lemon grass. Its botanical name is Cymbopogon citratus. It goes by other names such as citronella grass ,Malabar grass, and silky heads. This herb is native to Asia, Australia, and Africa. This herb is popular in these cultures for both their medicinal and culinary uses. The scent from the leaves of this grass is reminiscent of lemons, hence the name.
Uses:
- Citronella oil can be extracted from it and used as an insect repellent.
- The leaves can be infused in teas.
- The essential oil has a pheromone that attracts bees in beekeeping.
Health benefits
- Can help reduce pain and swelling: the fever grass or lemongrass is rich in antioxidant compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties that are important to treating conditions such as fever and headaches.
- Can treat stomach disorders: drinking tea made from fever grass extracts has proven effective against a range of stomach disorders such as ulcers, abdominal pain and gastritis.
Where to buy fever grass
Fever Grass is available at the following locations: The Spicez, La Boit, and Walmart.
Fingerroot
The fingerroot is known botanically as Boesenbergia rotunda. It is an herb that is used both in cuisine and for medicine. It is native to the regions of China and Southeast Asia. The name “fingerroot” came about as a result of its appearance. Its rhizomes resemble human fingers growing from a central piece.
Other names it goes by include lesser galangal, Chinese keys, or Chinese ginger.
The fingerroot is a species of ginger belonging to the Zingiberaceae family. It has rhizomes only in that they branch out from a central piece.
Uses
- The fingerroot can be used to make fermented soybean cake, a popular dish in Indonesia
- The rhizomes can be used in producing tonic mixtures.
- It can also be frozen and pickled.
Health benefits
- Treatment of stomach disorders: the fingerroot has been linked with the clearing of stomach disorders such as dyspepsia, ulcers, and gastritis. Helicobacter pylori is a bacteria that is involved in causing all these conditions listed above. Active compounds in the fingerroot can neutralize the action of this bacteria.
- Can prevent diarrhea: diarrhea can be caused by the amoeba Entamoeba histolytica. This organism can easily cause diarrhea in HIV patients. However, consuming extracts of the finger roots helps treat such conditions.
- Promotes oral health: the finger roots are effective at preventing tooth decay and the formation of cavities. It helps to neutralize the action of streptococcus mutans and lactobacillus, which are major causes of tooth decay and cavity formation. This is why extracts from fingerroot are added to mouthwashes and toothpastes
Where to buy fingerroot
Fingerroots can be purchased at Walmart, Costco, and Kroger. You can also order them from Amazon.
Fish mint
The fish mint is known scientifically as Houttuynia cordata. It is an herb that originates from southeastern Asia. It is quite common in Chinese and Vietnamese culture. It is also known as the chameleon plant, Chinese lizard tail rainbow plant, or fish wort.
The leaves of this herb are heart-shaped, bearing greenish yellow flowers. The leaves when consumed taste like fish, thus earning it the name “fish mint”.
Uses:
- It can be used in salads
- The roots of these plants can also be ground and mixed into chutneys and spreads.
- The leaves, when dried can be used to make herbal teas in Korea and Japan.
- It can also be used as a condiment in sauces.
Health benefits
- Boosts immunity: Fish mint is rich in antioxidants called polyphenols. These compounds stimulate the production of white blood cells. White blood cells act as your body’s defenses. This way your body can fight against infections and diseases.
- Improve production of red blood cells: Fish mint is rich in folate and iron. These two substances are important to the formation of red blood cells, which is a process called erythropoiesis. The formation of new red blood cells will help prevent anemia.
- Can help deal with respiratory issues: The extracts from the fish mint leaves can be used to deal with respiratory problems such as asthma cough and cold. The extracts contain active compounds that have bronchodilatory and antispasmodic effects. It can also help to eliminate sputum and phlegm from your respiratory tract.
Where to buy fish mints
Fish mint can be purchased at the following stores: Walmart, The Spicez, and La Boit.
Fo ti-
The fo-ti plant, known in English as tuber fleece flower, has the botanical
name of Reynoutria multiflora. It is a flowering plant that belongs to the Polygonaceae family, which is also known as the buckwheat family. This plant originates from the central and southern regions of China. It is a herbaceous vine with arrowhead-shaped leaves.
Uses:
- It is used in traditional Chinese medicine.
Health benefits
- It improves brain function: Extracts from this flower can protect the brain from cognitive and motor decline.
- Helps with sleeplessness: The fo-ti plant is used to deal with insomnia and sleeplessness. It can also help to improve moods and reduce depression.
Where to buy fo-ti
You can buy this wonderful herb on Amazon, Walmart, and Costco.
Fragrant olive
The fragrant olive belongs to the Osmanthus genus and is a member of the Oleceae family, which is the olive family. This species of flowering plants is native to the Asian region ranging from the Himalayas through Southern China, Taiwan, and even Cambodia.
The flowers have four tubular corollas with a strong fragrance. The scent of this fragrance is likened to peaches. It bears an olive fruit that contains a single seed.
Uses:
- It can be used to freshen up a room with their sweet smelling fragrances.
- The flowers can be used to make tea.
- Osmanthus wine can be made by steeping the flowers of this plant into rice wine to give it flavor.
Health benefits
- Taking tea made from the flowers of fragrant olives can boost your immunity. They are rich in antioxidants that help fight infections and diseases.
- Improves skin health: fragrance oil leaves are rich in vitamin B3 (niacin). This vitamin is an antioxidant that helps to keep the skin looking fresh and healthy.
Where to buy fragrant olives
You can get them at: Walmart, Costco, and Kroger.
Fragrant pandan
The Pandanus amaryllifolius, known commonly as fragrant pandan, is a screwpine that is native to regions of South-East Asia and Australia. It has fragrant plants that can be used for culinary and medicinal purposes.
The flowers grow in clusters and give off a unique scent.
Uses:
- Green juice from its leaves can be used as flavoring and food coloring.
- It is used in baking cakes and pastries.
- It can also be used to enhance the aroma of foods.
Health benefits
- Manages blood sugar: studies have shown that taking tea made from the pandan leaves could help reduce blood sugar and reduce insulin resistance.
- Helps alleviate arthritis symptoms: Extracts from the pandan flower applied topically on the joints of arthritis sufferers have been proven to help alleviate the arthritis symptoms such as pain. This was linked to the anti-inflammatory properties found in the pandan plant.
Where to buy fragrant pandan
This herb is available at Walmart, Costco, and Trader Joe’s.
French Jasmine
French Jasmine (Jasminum grandiflorum) is a vine that contains beautiful white flowers. It is native to Asia, the Arabian peninsula, and the regions of East and Northeast Africa. It is also commonly found in China.
The flower has five segments, and it gives off a nice, unique fragrance, making it very useful for making perfumes.
Uses:
The stems, leaves, and flowers can be used for different purposes.
- Extracts from the leaves can be used for herbal medicine.
- It is used as fragrance in cosmetics and essential oils.
- The flowers are used for ornamental purposes.
- Its flowers can also be used to make jasmine tea.
Health benefits
- Rich in antioxidants: the friend Jasmine is rich in antioxidants called polyphenols. One common one that it has is called catechins, which are vital to weight loss and better heart health.
- Promotes good oral health: the Jasmine leaves have compounds that have powerful antibacterial activity. This means that they can help prevent tooth decay and the formation of cavities.
Where to buy French Jasmine?
The French Jasmine can be purchased at Walmart, Amazon, and Etsy.
Spices
Fennel
Fennel is a flowering plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. such as carrots, parsley, and parsnips. Others of honorable mention are coriander and cumin. Fennel is a plant that was native to the Mediterranean shores.
However, it has now been exported and is widely cultivated around the world along shorelines and coastlines. The leaves of this herb are thread-like just like those of dill. The fruits are fused with the seeds, and as a result, they are often confused for one another.
Both the fennel seeds and leaves are used for different applications. A 100 g serving of the seeds yields:
- 345 calories
- 52 g of carbs.
- 40 g of fiber.
- 15.8 g of protein.
Uses:
- Fennel fruit is used in producing an alcoholic beverage called absinthe.
- The seeds are also used for their medical functions.
Health benefits
- Promotes a healthy heart: fennel is rich in potassium and folates. These are nutrients that are essential to the maintenance of the heart. Potassium in particular helps to regulate blood pressure by causing the excretion of excess sodium in the blood. It also helps to maintain the heart rhythm and the endothelial lining of blood vessels.
- Promotes good vision: fennel seeds are rich in beta-carotene. This is a substance that is converted to vitamin A. Vitamin A is an essential nutrient for the maintenance of your house. It helps prevent macular degeneration, which is a condition that can lead to blindness. Deficiency in vitamin A can lead to a disorder called night blindness, a condition whereby the sufferers cannot see in dim light.
- Rich in antioxidants: the fennel is rich in antioxidants such as quercetin. Quercetin is a flavor note that has anti-inflammatory properties. In addition to other flavonoids it can help prevent the onset of chronic diseases.
- Helps in erythropoiesis: fennel is rich in folates. Folates (vitamin B9) are substances that are crucial to the production of new red blood cells. This is especially important for those who are suffering from anemia. Adding fennel to your diet can both prevent and reduce the symptoms of anemia.
- Aids in weight loss: fennel has a rich supply of fiber and aids in weight loss. It is also low on the glycemic index. Hence adding it to your diet can aid in weight loss due to its high fiber content.
Where to buy fennel
Fennel can be purchased at Walmart, Costco, and Kroger.
Filé powder
Filé powder is a herb that is obtained from drying and grinding the leaves of the sassafras tree. The botanical name of this tree is Sassafras albidum. It is also called gumbo filé. This tree is native to North America.
Uses:
- It is used for making gumbo, a thick stew usually served with rice.
- It is used as a thickening agent in soups and sauces.
Health benefits
- It has anti-inflammatory properties: The filé powder has been credited with helping to reduce the symptoms of arthritis. It also helps to reduce inflammation and gout. This spice helps to reduce the presence of pro-inflammatory cytokines. It also inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandins.
- Helps to regulate blood pressure: The file powder has a rich abundance of potassium. This is crucial to the maintenance of healthy blood pressure. Potassium is needed in your diet to counteract excess sodium in the blood. When sodium is in excess in the blood, it can lead to high blood pressure. Therefore, potassium can help to excrete excess sodium and thus, lower the blood pressure.
- Promotes healthy skin: The file powder is rich in vitamin C and vitamin E. These are antioxidants that help to neutralize the effects of aging. Vitamin C in particular is important for the synthesis of collagen, a tissue that gives the skin firmness and elasticity. Consuming file powder will keep your skin younger and fresher.
Where to buy file powder
This spice is common in stores such as Kroger, Publix, and Walmart.
Frankincense
Frankincense is an aromatic plant that is famous for its usage in incense and perfumes. However, this isn’t its only use, as its essential oil can also be used for cooking. It belongs to the Boswellia genus. The tree is tapped for its resin every 8 to 10 years.
Uses
- Frankincense has been a part of many cultures from time immemorial.
- It was commonly used to mummify corpses in Ancient Egypt.
- In the Persian empire, it was used to treat diabetes and stomach disorders.
- It is commonly used in perfumes and incense.
Health benefits
- Helps in arthritis: Frankincense is rich in terpenes such as boswellic acid that can alleviate the symptoms of arthritis. This acid has anti-inflammatory properties that prevent the release of leukotrienes, which are responsible for inflammation. When applied topically and taken orally, Boswell weak acid had similar effects on alleviating arthritis symptoms. It helps to reduce the loss of cartilage and also the inflammation of the joint linings.
- Frankincense can help with stomach disorders: taking frankincense can help deal with stomach disorders such as bloating irritable bowel syndrome, and abdominal pain. This could be linked to its anti-inflammatory properties that could also help in a condition like ulcerative colitis.
- Treatment in asthma: from time immemorial, frankincense has been linked with the alleviation of asthma symptoms. It prevents the formation of leukotrienes. Leukotrienes are compounds that cause the muscles of the bronchus and bronchioles to contract, leading to asthmatic attacks. Frankincense also inhibits the Th2 cytokines, which can also cause inflammation in people suffering from asthma.
- Promotes oral health: frankincense has antibacterial properties. This can protect your gums and maintain good oral hygiene. The boswellic acid is effective against bacteria that can cause damage to your gums such as Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. Studies done on subjects who chewed gum containing frankincense showed that Frankincense lowered the level of microbes in their mouth as opposed to those who didn’t.
Where to Buy Frankincense
Frankincense can be purchased at Walmart or ordered online from Amazon.