Herbs are grown to add piquancy to cooking, for fragrance and decoration, and in a limited way for medicinal use. From 1981 to 1991, the volume of basil sold in the United States increased 187 percent, and the amount of oregano sold increased by 75 percent. Competition in producing and marketing herbs is very intense.
Producers range from large corporations to small entrepreneurs and hobbyists.
This publication introduces the types of herbs which may be produced outdoors in North Dakota, describes methods of producing and marketing herbs, and provides example economic and cash flow budgets to help producers determine financial returns of raising herbs. Although herbs are not usually consumed in large quantities, some have measurable nutritional value. Parsley has a greater concentration of B-carotene than carrots. In ancient times, herbs were not only produced for their effect on the palate, but for their medicinal and ritual uses. Romans thought thyme was a cure for coughs and hangovers.