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The word “botanicals” can evoke different associations depending on how it is understood and utilized in our lives. According to the dictionary, botanicals can be defined in three ways: relating to plants or botany, derived from plants, or pertaining to specific species such as tulips. However, Wikipedia goes further to define botanicals as plants or plant parts that possess medicinal or therapeutic properties, flavor, and/or scent. Each definition provides a distinct perspective. For instance, a scientist would likely relate botanicals to the study of plants, while a doctor or health enthusiast may think of botanicals in terms of their medicinal benefits. As an avid gardener, I personally align more with the third definition which highlights various plant species.

The use of plants for medicinal and health purposes has been prevalent since as early as 60,000 BC. During the Middle Ages, herb gardens and special chambers for crafting soothing and healthful beverages were common in castles, monasteries, and homes of prominent individuals. It was in the 16th and 17th centuries that the study of botany, including botanicals, gained significance. European universities established herb gardens to facilitate the examination of plants during formal botany courses.

In modern times, botanicals come in numerous forms such as tablets, liquids, fresh and dried products, and tea bags. For example, ginger can be found as both fresh root and in dried teabags. Additionally, various herbs like parsley, rosemary, and mint are frequently used in cooking. In the production of gin, juniper berries serve as the primary flavoring agent, while additional “secret” botanicals such as cinnamon, coriander, angelica root, and orange peel are often added to create a distinct taste. Medicinally, plants like Echinacea, garlic, and caraway are used holistically for health. Moreover, traditional medicine processes plants to extract numerous prescription drugs, including aspirin, digitalis, quinine, morphine, and codeine. The list of such pharmaceuticals is extensive.

When dried, the petals, leaves, berries, and fruits of herbs and flowers provide the components for making potpourri, which not only enhances decor but also offers a delightful fragrance. You can create your own unique potpourri by combining various flower shapes and colors, or you can purchase pre-made mixes. Adding a few drops of fragrance oil can further enhance the scent. However, if your mix already contains strongly aromatic botanicals like mint, sage, or thyme, additional fragrance may not be necessary. Regardless, botanical potpourri serves as a gentle and beautiful way to adorn your home or office.

Another notable historical use of botanicals was in the language of flowers, where different flowers and their colors held specific meanings. Before humanity grasped the cycle of changing seasons and its impact on plants, people understood that flora transformed and began assigning significance to different flowers and trees. This symbolic language originated in Persian poetry and reached Europe in the early 1700s. However, evidence suggests that flowers were employed as secret codes in art, architecture, and legends long before this period. The Victorian era saw a peak in the use of flowers to express sentiments. While fresh flowers were preferred, herbal intention bottles or Blessing Bottles made with combinations of dried flowers served as substitutes when fresh blooms were unavailable. The Victorians were highly skilled in communicating sentiments through flowers, as each flower held its own meaning, while combinations of flowers conveyed specific desires and emotions. However, it is worth noting that sometimes the meanings conveyed were not always pleasant.

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Ihab Salloum