Bible Herbs, Spices, Fibers

Cumin

Cumin, Cuminum cyminum, is an annual herb native to the Mediterranean region. It has been cultivated since the time of Isaiah. Isaiah mentions that cumin is threshed with a rod instead of a wheel in Isaiah 28:23-29. The seeds were used in the unleavened bread eaten by the Israelites. Today it is an ingredient in chilli powder.

Dandelions

Some reading this are amazed to see the common weed, Dandelion, Taraxacum officinale, mentioned as a Bible plant. However, this plant originated in Europe and was widely cultivated during the time of Moses in the Holy Lands. It is used as a salad green, and probably was included in the bitter herbs (Exodus 12:8), used by the Israelites during the Passover meal. It is used as a herbal medicine. The roots are ground for use as a coffee substitute and in wine.

We'll continue learning about Herbs and other economically important plants from the Mediterranean region next week. Until then, good gardening to you!

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