SpiceRoute herbs - An ancient Indian tradition

Centuries ago, Indian sages established the fine art of treating illnesses and improving quality of life using spices and herbs. In fact the art and science of wholesome living -'ayurveda' is even today India's greatest medicinal practice and it uses many plants and herbs in its mixtures. Herbs have other fascinating applications too. Because of their aromatic and medicinal qualities, they are used in culinary flavourings, essential aromatic oils and blends.

What makes Spice Route herbs special?

Spice Route herbs are dried almost instantly after harvest. They undergo a unique process wherein the water content is removed and the distinct aroma and flavour of their volatile oils is maintained. This kind of drying helps the herbs to be in a 'concentrated form' of a fresh herb. It helps the herb infuse its character and impart full flavour and aroma into your cooking.

The Spice Route range of herbs are produced through a combination of scientific farming methods and innovative drying and processing techniques. They are grown with care at our herb farms in Idukki and Nilgiri districts in Southern India, an ideal location for herb farming with favourable climatic conditions.

That's why herbs grown in our farms come to you in their purest and most natural form possible, packed in tamper proof pet jars for instant and convenient usage in modern kitchens.

Our focus is to bring a whole range of culinary herbs right into your kitchen, in a convenient, ready to use form, to add a healthy flavour to your cooking. Spice Route presents the finest herbs growing tradition of India.

Rosemary - Rosemary has a long-standing reputation as a tonic, invigorating herb, imparting a zest for life that is to some degree reflected in its distinctive aromatic taste.

Bouquet Garni - The classic bouquet garni is a mixture of thyme, parsley and bay leaf. Our blend includes rosemary and celery to expand the richness of this classic herb blend. Bouquet garni is either tied with a string or wrapped in a cheesecloth bundle or bag, then removed before serving.

Tarragon - Tarragon is part of the fines herbs mix (along with chives, parsley, and chervil). There are two types of Tarragon, "French" and "Russian." Because it is savorier with a light anise-like flavor, "French" tarragon is more highly sought.

Thyme - Thyme is a member of the mint family, closely related to basil, oregano and marjoram. There are over 100 varieties of Thyme. Wild, garden, and lemon Thyme are the most commonly used.

Basil - Basil is a member of the mint family, and was known as the herb of kings in ancient times. In fact, its name may have been derived from the Greek word basileus meaning, "king". The ancient Greeks and Romans believed that you had to curse and yell while you were planting basil seeds, to get a good crop.

Sage - It was used in Crete in 1600 AD to clear throat inflammation, one of its most popular uses today. Its leaves are a well-known cold germ and flu fighter. It has a slightly warm, noticeably bitter and astringent taste.

Parsley - Parsley has the unusual ability of masking strong odors, that of garlic in particular (which is one of reason for the herb's frequent use as a garnish in cookery). Parsley root is more commonly prescribed than the seeds or leaves in herbal medicine.

Mint - Mint has a strong refreshing flavour, which adds an extra dimension to both sweet and savoury dishes. The Latin name 'mentha' comes from 'menthe', a charming nymph who was changed into the Mint plant by Proserpine, the wife of Pluto, in a fit of jealousy. Mint symbolises hospitality.

Oregano - In Greek 'Oregano' means 'Joy of the mountains' from where it is gathered. Its flavour is similar to Marjoram but stronger and the leaves are larger and darker. It will enhance many meat dishes and it is often added to salads, pizza and tomato based dishes.

Marjoram - Strongly antiseptic, it may be taken to treat respiratory conditions such as coughs, tonsillitis, bronchitis and asthma. The diluted oil can be applied to toothache or painful joints.