Healing power from nature

It is hard to imagine kitchens and medicine cabinets without home-grown herbs. They are not only delicious accompaniments to many savoury and sweet dishes, when used correctly they are also beneficial to health and have healing properties.

Kitchen herbs, medicinal herbs and medicinal plants are characterised by their practicality in everyday life. Whether it's a cup of chamomile tea to calm you down before bed or a few leaves of mint to refresh you after a long day, herbs offer a variety of ways to enrich our daily lives. By using herbs in everyday life, we can not only improve our health, but also establish a deeper connection with nature and become more aware of our bodies and our environment.

The use of medicinal herbs is not only a good way to promote natural healing, but also a sustainable alternative to pharmaceutical products. To enjoy the full aroma and the best properties here are some tips for use: Herbs should be used fresh if possible, as dried herbs often lose aroma and active ingredients. The right dosage is also important: an overdose can have undesirable side effects, while a dose that is too low has no effect. In addition, you should make sure that the herbs are organically grown and free of harmful substances. Another tip is not to pour boiling water over herbs, as this can destroy the sensitive ingredients. Instead, it is advisable to let the water cool down to around 80 degrees and only then add the herbs.

The Assumption of Mary is celebrated in Austria on August, 15th. According to Catholic tradition, Mary was assumed into heaven by God after her death. This feast commemorates Mary's special role as the mother of Jesus and emphasises her exemplary function for the faithful.

On the same day, the traditional consecration of herbs is celebrated in many places in the Salzkammergut. Colourful bunches of herbs made of fragrant plants and flowers are brought to church to be blessed. The consecrated bouquets are hung in the houses as protection against illness and disaster, and their positive energy accompanies people throughout the year. The consecration of herbs in August establishes a connection between spirituality and closeness to nature - a custom that keeps the centuries-old tradition alive in the Salzkammergut.

Homemade herbal syrup is a delicious way to harness the healing properties of herbs and enjoy them in a variety of drinks and desserts.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh basil leaves (or other herbs of your choice).
• Zest of 1 organic lemon
• 1 cup of water
• 1 cup sugar (or honey)
• Optional: a piece of fresh ginger (about 1-2 cm), sliced.

Preparation:

1. Wash the basil leaves thoroughly and pat dry.
2. In a saucepan, combine the water, basil leaves, lemon zest and ginger (if using).
3. Bring the mixture to the boil and then reduce the heat. Simmer gently over a low heat for about 10-15 minutes.
4. Stir the sugar into the mixture until it is completely dissolved.
5. Simmer the mixture for another 5 minutes.
6. Remove the pan from the heat and allow the syrup to cool.
7. Strain the cooled syrup through a fine sieve or muslin cloth into a clean bottle or jar.
8. Store the herbal syrup in the sealed bottle or jar in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 2-3 weeks.