Curry herb: Use in cooking and as a medicinal herb
Curry herb has been used since ancient times. It adds a special flavor to many dishes and is considered a herbal remedy. This article reveals exactly how the plant can be used as a spice in cooking and for health purposes.
The use of curry plant in cooking and seasoning
Originally native to southern and central Europe, curry plant (Helichrysum italicum) has many names. It is also known as Italian strawflower, immortelle, or curry bush. Although these plants, which belong to the Asteraceae family, smell and taste like curry, they have nothing to do with Indian curry. Nevertheless, the plant is in no way inferior to the spice mixture and is an enrichment for any kitchen.
- The flavor of curry herb goes particularly well with Asian and Mediterranean dishes. Rice and pasta dishes in particular can be refined with a hint of curry. The spice also goes well with meat and fish and enhances soups, salads, or homemade herb butter.
- The leaves of curry herb are particularly suitable for seasoning and refining dishes. They can be harvested all year round, but develop their most intense aroma in summer, before the flowering period begins.
- The leaves should be cooked before consumption. However, they should only be heated for a short time, as longer cooking times cause bitter substances to form and the aromatic flavor to be lost.
- A bitter aroma also develops when the leaves are chopped before cooking. It is therefore advisable to always heat whole shoots. Afterwards, individual leaves can be mixed into dishes without losing their delicate curry flavor. The shoots, on the other hand, are not suitable for consumption because they can cause stomach upset.
- The yellow flowers of curry plant can not only be used for decorative purposes on the dining table or as a colorful accent in salads, they are also suitable for consumption.
- Both fresh and dried curry leaves are suitable for cooking. When dried, using too much of this spice can result in a bitter taste.
Use as a herbal remedy
The Romans and Greeks attributed healing properties to curry plant, and it was also used to restore health in the Middle Ages. In addition to snake bites, it was also used to treat urinary tract disorders. The plant was also used to alleviate women’s ailments and repel annoying moths.
- Today, curry plant has a wide range of uses because its ingredients have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which promote wound healing. They also help to relax the body by relieving cramps. The application and dosage form of curry plant varies depending on the complaint.
- For colds and coughs, a tea can be made from the dried flowers of the curry plant. This helps to inhibit inflammation and has an antibacterial effect.
- Curry herb contains valuable essential oils and secondary plant substances with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and relaxing properties. The oil contained in curry herb can be extracted through distillation. It is known as immortelle oil and is used to treat bruises and sprains.
- Itchy, tight, and dry skin can be treated with an ointment made from curry plant. It can even be used to relieve sunburn. This is achieved on the one hand by the flavonoid components of the plants and on the other hand by the essential oils they contain.
- Traditionally, curry plant is also used to relieve flatulence and stomach problems. It aids digestion, especially of fatty foods.
