Basil is also a popular herb in which to keep the heads of murdered men. It is said that Salome hid the head of John the Baptist in a pot of basil, and in Keats' poem, the young Isabelle keeps the head of her murdered lover in a pot of basil and waters it with her tears. Even today, self professed witches rely heavily on herbs for their armory of magic and potions. Even though herbs continue to have medicinal, and some say magical applications, they are most commonly thought of in terms of good dining. It is no less true today than in the time of the Pharaohs that the discrete use of herbs can add a great deal of zest and flavor to even the most simple of dishes.
Herbs always have more flavor when they are fresh.
Because it is often difficult to find them fresh in local markets, many find it pleasing and challenging to raise herbs at home. There is nothing daunting about raising herbs and many can be grown in window boxes or pots. My own favorites for growing at home are parsley, thyme, oregano, savory, tarragon, mint, chervil and sage. In addition to the satisfaction of using them in many dishes, the scent of even a small herb garden adds enormous charm to any balmy evening. The following glossary lists many of the herbs in common use.