There are a variety of different herbs and spices you should be looking to add to your kitchen. Nature has provided us with a lot of options to bless the palate. In this article, I will be listing some herbs and spices that begin with the letter T.
Herbs
Tarragon
Tarragon is also known botanically as Artemisia dracunculus. It is a perennial herb that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the regions of Eurasia and North America.
The tree can grow up to 5 feet. It possesses green, glossy, lanceolate leaves with yellow or green flowers.
There are some, like the French tarragon, that neither produce flowers nor seeds. There are other species that contain sterile seeds.
Use:
- It’s used for cooking chicken, eggs, and sauces.
- Tarragon can be used to flavor vinegar.
- It is also used in cakes and pastries.
Health benefits
- Tarragon helps to lower blood sugar: It does this by increasing insulin sensitivity in the body, while reducing its resistance.
- Can provide better quality sleep: The tarragon plant contains active compounds with sedative and relaxing effects. They are quite natural and provide better alternatives to sleep medications that can lead to depression and abuse.
Where to buy tarragon
You can purchase this herb in places such as Walmart, WholeFoods Market, and Central Market.
Tansy
Tansy is botanically called Tanacetum vulgare. It is a member of the asteraceae family and is classified as a perennial herb belonging to the Tanacetum genus. It is native to temperate regions in Asia and Europe, specifically Europe and Asia.
It has established itself in other regions of the world, such as those of North America, and is now considered native there. It has earned a bad reputation as an invasive species in certain parts of the world. In addition, it is frequently referred to as “cow bitter,” “bitter buttons,” and “common tansy.”
It has yellow button-shaped flowers. It also possesses a stout, erect stem that can grow up to 59 inches in height. It has an aroma that is reminiscent of camphor with a tinge of rosemary.
Uses
- It was used to repel bugs and embalm in ancient cultures.
- It is used to delay spoilage in food.
- You can also use it to flavor omelets and puddings.
Health benefits
- Promotes digestive health: Tansy is an effective herb for digestive problems such as ulcers in the stomach and intestines. It can also help with issues such as irritable bowel syndrome, providing a soothing effect.
- Antimicrobial properties: Extract ls from the tansy plant are effective at killing bacteria, fungi, and other microbes that can cause harm to the human body.
Where to buy tansy
Tansy can be purchased at the following locations: Garden Center, Monterey Bay Center, and Annie’s Annuals and Perennials.
Tea Tree
Camellia sinensis, the scientific name for tea tree, is an evergreen shrub or small tree in the family Theaceae. Tea is made from the plant’s leaves and buds. Many plants in the genus Leptospermum are commonly referred to as “tea trees,” but these should not be confused with Melaleuca alternifolia, the plant from which tea tree oil is extracted.
Camellia sinensis is a plant that is originally from East Asia, the Indian Subcontinent, and Southeast Asia, but is now cultivated all over the world in tropical and subtropical climates. It’s a shrub that stays green all year. The blossoms are a creamy, pale yellow.
Uses
- The leaves of this plant are used for making tea.
Health benefits
- Promotes good skin health: Tea leaves contain epigallocatechin gallate, which can protect the skin from the effects of ultraviolet rays and reduce the risk of developing skin cancer.
- Prevents cancer: Another set of antioxidants, catechins, are present in tea leaves, which help to fight against cancer.
Where to buy tea trees.
Tea trees are available at the following locations: Charleston Tea Garden and Minto Island Tea Company.
Tribulus Terrestris
Tribulus terrestris is a plant that grows as an annual and is a member of the caltrop family (Zygophyllaceae). It is and may be found in many parts of the world. It is able to thrive in arid environments, even in places where very few other plant species can hold on to life.
Its natural habitats include tropical and warm-temperate zones in the southern parts of Africa and Eurasia. Tribulus terrestris has a small woody fruit possessing sharp spines that can easily penetrate surfaces. This has given it a notorious reputation as a noxious weed.
Uses
- The leaves and stems of this plant can be eaten.
- Tribulus terrestris stem can be used to thicken buttermilk.
Health benefits
- Taking extracts from the Tribulus terrestris plant has been proven to help lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
- Taking extracts from this plant can help boost libido and sexual drive.
Where to buy Tribulus terrestris
Tribulus terrestris can be purchased in Garden Center, Walmart Center and Eden Botanicals.
Tasmanian Pepper
Tasmannia lanceolata,, originally from the woodlands and cold temperate rainforest of south-east Australia, is a shrub widely known as Tasmanian pepperberry or mountain pepper. The height of the shrub is nonstandard, ranging from 2 to 10 m. The aromatic leaves range in shape from lanceolate to narrow-elliptic and are anywhere from 4-12 cm in length and 0.7-2.0 cm in width.
The color of the stems is predominantly red. Small cream or white flowers bloom in the summer, and by fall, the plant is covered in black, globose, two-lobed berries that are anywhere from 5 to 8 millimeters across.
The pepper contains polygodial, its main active compound that is responsible for its peppery taste.
Uses
- The berries and leaves of the plant can be used as spices.
- It can be added to curries and alcoholic beverages to flavor them.
- The dried forms of Tasmanian pepper can be used as food preservatives due to their antimicrobial activity.
Health benefits
- The Tasmanian pepper has a rich supply of antioxidants that are useful for treating stomach and colic disorders.
- It has high antimicrobial activity, which makes it effective against diseases.
Where to buy Tasmanian pepper.
Tasmanian pepper is available in these locations: Suraj Spices and Teas and La Boite.
Thyme
The genus Thymus, of which thyme is a part, is classified within the family Lamiaceae, which also includes mint. They are closely related to oregano, another plant that is indigenous to the Mediterranean region and a member of the mint family.
Use
- It has been used since ancient times for burning incense.
- Thyme has some essential oils which can be extracted and used in cooking.
- The thyme leaves can be used in a fresh or dried form in cooking.
Health benefits
- Essential oil from the thyme plant is useful for fighting acne.
- Thyme is also very effective as a cough remedy.
Where to buy Thyme
Thyme can be purchased at these stores: Fresh Thyme Market, Walmart, and Whole Foods Market.
Thyme Lemon
Thymus citriodorus, often known as lemon thyme, is a mat-forming perennial herb in the lamiaceae family that gets its name from its lemony aroma. There has been a lot of debate about the true identity of this plant and where it came from.
Since it was initially identified in 1811, DNA testing has shown that it is likely not a hybrid or cross but rather a separate species. T. citriodorus is a subshrub that can reach a maximum height of 0.1 m (3.9 in) and a width of 0.3 m (12 in).
Mid to late summer is when the pinkish to lavender-colored flowers open up to provide nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Uses
- It can be used in herbal teas.
- Thyme lemon leaves can be used in salads.
- Essential oils can be extracted from its leaves.
Health benefits
- It has decongestant properties that are useful for clearing up the respiratory tract of mucus and phlegm.
- It is rich in vitamin C, and as such, is a great immunity booster to help fight against infections.
Where to buy Thyme lemon
Thyme lemon can be purchased at Whole Foods Market, Fresh Thyme Market, and Whole Foods Market.
Tulsi
Tulsi, or holy basil according to its other common name, is a perennial herb belonging to the Lamiaceae family. This plant is native to India but may be found all throughout the tropical Southeast Asian regions where it is used as an agricultural crop.
In terms of plant size, the Tulsi plant falls in between a shrub and a subshrub. It can grow up to 24 inches in height and it has green or purple leaves that have ovate blades. It bears purplish flowers that are grouped into compact whorls.
Uses
- Dried Tulsi leaves have been used as insect repellents.
- Tulsi is used in herbal medicine for the treatment of diseases.
- It has also been used in water disinfection.
Health benefits
- Helps reduce stress and anxiety: Tulsi contains compounds which have been proven scientifically to reduce anxiety and stress. It has antidepressant properties that have been compared to conventional medications such as diazepam.
- Speeds up wound healing: Tulsi has antimicrobial properties. It is also rich in substances that promote your wound’s breaking strength and healing time.
- Helps to regulate blood sugar: All parts of the tulsi plant are effective at reducing blood sugar. Research has shown that Tulsi is effective at preventing symptoms of diabetes. It reduces insulin resistance and thus prevents sugar levels from rising in your blood.
Where to buy tulsi
Tulsi is available at these locations: Soulard Spice Shop, Walmart Center, and Whole Foods Market.
Spice
Tonka Beans
This beautiful tree bears flowers and is a member of the pea family, Fabaceae. Its scientific name is Dipteryx odorata. In addition to “kumaru,” Brazilian teak is another common name for this wood. The term “tonka bean” refers to the seed of this tree.
Originally, the tonka bean was grown in the Americas. They have a sweet fragrance that is similar to woodruff.
Uses.
- Tonka beans are used in French cuisine for stews and desserts.
- It is used in perfumes.
Health benefits
- Tonka beans have aphrodisiac properties.
- It aids digestion. Tonka beans have properties that can ease the digestion of food. It can soothe the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
Where to buy Tonka beans
Kowalski’s Market, St John’s Botanicals, and Walmart are locations to get them.
Turmeric
Turmeric (Curcuma longa), a flowering plant, belongs to the Zingiberaceae (the ginger family). Its rhizomes are utilized in culinary preparations. The perennial, rhizomatous, herbaceous plant is endemic to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, and it thrives best in warm, humid climates with an annual rainfall of at least 50 inches.
The rhizomes of many plants are collected annually for use in both food and propagation.
Uses
- Turmeric can be used in its powdered form to add flavor to pastries such as cakes.
- It is a major component of curry powder.
Health benefits
- Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties which can help reduce chronic inflammation and pain.
- Turmeric has antidepressant properties that are similar to those of conventional medications.
Where to buy turmeric
Turmeric Zone, Whole Foods Market, and Whole Foods Market are places to get turmeric.
Thai Chili
Thai chili is a type of chili pepper derived from the Mexican Capsicum annuum. It is widely utilized in many Asian cuisines and is cultivated all over Southeast Asia. It looks like the chili cultivar “siling labuyo,” which is actually a member of the
Capsicum frutescens genus. Capsicum frutescens fruits are often smaller and more elongated than those of other pepper species.
Uses
- Thai chili can be used in soups and sauces.
- They can be used in marinades and pastes.
Health benefits
- Thai chillies are very rich in vitamin C, which is very important for wound healing and immune function.
- It is so rich in capsanthin that it gives them their red color. This compound has anti-cancer properties.
Where to buy Thai chili
You can purchase Thai chili at these locations: Thai Chili 2 Go and Thai Chili Cuisine.
Trinidad Pepper
The Trinidad pepper, a subspecies of the Capsicum chinense species, ranks high on the Scoville scale, native only to the island nation of Trinidad and Tobago. After obtaining the seeds from their original source, Butch Taylor of Zydeco Farms in Woodville/Crosby, Mississippi, who runs a spicy sauce business, Neil Smith of The Hippy Seed Company gave the pepper its name.
The name “scorpion” peppers comes from the fact that their sharp tip looks like a scorpion’s stinger.
Uses
- It is used as a spice in soups and sauces.
- The pepper can be used in its dried or fresh form in vegetable stir fries.
- The powdered form can be used to marinate chicken.
Health benefits
- Consuming Trinidad peppers can help lower the levels of bad cholesterol in your blood. This helps to promote good heart health.
- The capsaicin content of the Trinidad peppers can help as pain relievers because they reduce the levels of the chemical P, a chemical responsible for transmitting pain signals to the brain.
Where to buy Trinidad peppers
The Pepper Palace and Puckerbett Pepper Co. are places where you can get Trinidad peppers.
Tandoori Masala
The tandoor, or clay oven, is an integral part of traditional Indian cooking, and the tandoori masala, or tandoori sauce, is a blend of spices designed for use with this method. Garam masala, garlic, ginger, onion, cayenne pepper, cardamom, and maybe other spices and additions are common, but the precise spices used can differ from region to region. A pestle and mortar are commonly used to grind the spices.
Uses
- This spice blend is used for cooking tandoori chicken.
Health benefits
- Promotes cardiovascular health: Tandoori masala is effective at promoting good heart health. Cardamom, a major component, is effective at reducing cholesterol levels in the blood and promoting blood circulation.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: This spice blend is rich in antioxidants. These antioxidants help prevent inflammation in your tissues and cells.
- Aids the digestive system: Adding this spice blend to food can help soothe digestive issues such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome and stomach cramps.
Where to buy Tandoori masala?
You can purchase tandoori masala at Swadeshi Plaza of Frisco and The Purest Food Market.
Timut Pepper
Timut is a popular seasoning in traditional Sichuan dishes. Despite its name, Timut pepper is not closely linked to black pepper or chili peppers. Originally from China, it is harvested from the same family as citrus and rue trees—the Rutaceae—specifically the genus Zanthoxylum. Timut pepper is also known as mala pepper or Chinese prickly ash.
Uses
- The Timut pepper is used as a spice in cooking as it gives off a unique citrusy taste.
- The pepper can be infused in oil and used for cooking.
- In Chinese medicine, pepper can also be used as an herbal remedy.
Health benefits
- Helps prevents anemia: The Timut pepper has a rich supply of iron, which is an important factor in the production and circulation of blood. Iron is a component of hemoglobin, the red pigment that helps to transport oxygen around the body.
- Analgesic properties: Active compounds in Timut peppers can help reduce pain, occupying pain receptors. This can prevent the nervous system from transmitting pain.
- Boolstees immunity: Timut pepper is rich in zinc. Zinc is one mineral that helps strengthen your immune system. In addition, peppers are rich in antioxidants and other chemicals with strong antimicrobial activity that can help your body fight infections and diseases.
Where to buy Timut pepper
Timut pepper is available at Savory Spice Shop, Penzeys spices, and Spice-Topia.
Tara Gura
Tara Gura is a traditional non-centrifugal cane sugar consumed in the Indian Subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and Africa. It is commonly known as jaggery. It is a concentrated product of cane juice and often date or palm sap without separation of the molasses and crystals, and can vary from golden brown to dark brown in color.
It contains up to 50% sucrose, up to 20% invert sugars, and up to 20% moisture, with the remainder made up of other insoluble matter, such as wood ash, proteins, and bagasse fibres.[2] Jaggery is very similar to muscovado, an important sweetener in Portuguese, British, and French cuisine.
Uses
- It is used as a sweetener in lentil soups.
- Tara Gura is added to curries and vegetable sauces.
Health benefits
- Aids in weight loss. Tara Gura sugar is a complicated sweetener that is constructed of lengthy sucrose chains. Because it takes the body some time to digest sucrose, the energy that is derived from it is released slowly and over a longer period of time. This not only makes us feel fuller for longer, but it also has the effect of suppressing our appetite.
- Regulates blood pressure. Taragura’s potassium and sodium help maintain blood pressure and keep acid levels steady. Thus, blood pressure is maintained. Tara Gura relaxes blood vessel walls to reduce blood pressure and increase blood flow. Therefore, including it in one’s diet would be of tremendous aid to a person who battles with either high or low blood pressure.
Where to buy Tara Gura
Tara Gura is available at most grocery stores. Some include: Central Market and Walmart Center.
Til
Til is the Hindi name given to sesame seeds. The scientific name for this plant is Sesamum indicum. A species of the flowering plant genus Sesamum, til is also known as benne. Many of their closest relatives in the wild are home to many in Africa and India. It has become naturalized in many tropical areas and is grown for its pod-borne seeds.
The oil content of til is among the greatest of any seed kind. A long, illustrious history of agriculture dates back more than three thousand years. The cultivated variety is the drought-resistant species indicum, which originates in India.
Uses
- They are usually baked into bread and hamburgers.
- Special cookies could be made from til seeds.
- The seeds could also be used as a thickener in soups.
- Even the oil from til seeds could serve as a butter substitute while baking.
- The leaves from the Til plant could be used as a laxative.
Health benefits
- Rich in Antioxidants: Studies on both animals and humans suggest that eating til seeds can boost your blood’s antioxidant levels because of their high antioxidant content. Antioxidants like those found in til seeds can help you avoid the cell damage and disease risk associated with oxidative stress. In addition, gamma-tocopherol, a type of vitamin E, is present in sesame seeds; this antioxidant may provide additional protection against cardiovascular disease.
- Supports normal blood sugar levels by: Because of their rich protein and good fat content added to a low carbohydrate count, til seeds may help maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Furthermore, pinoresinol, a chemical found in these seeds, has been shown to suppress the action of the digestive enzyme maltase, which may contribute to better blood sugar regulation. The enzyme maltase is responsible for digesting the sugar maltose, which is found in several foods and beverages.
Where to buy Til seeds
Til seeds are available at these stores: Walmart Center and WholeFoods Market.