MEDICINAL HERBS

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXVI, 4 September 1934, Page 2

MEDICINAL HERBS

POSSIBLE NEW INDUSTRY FOR DOMINION SLOW DEVELOPMENT In a recent issue of “Tlie Dominion” a letter appeared from a correspondent, “Retail Chemist,” concerning the growing of medicinal herbs. It was contended that the land and climate in New Zealand were ideal for the growing of certain of these plants, and that the question should be investigated to discover if it would be worth while as a commercial proposition. When the matter was referred to the Department of Agriculture it was stated that medicinal herbs were still used for making tinctures, etc., and many of them were invaluable. “There was something of a boom in the cultivation of these herbs in England during the war, when the supply from Eastern Europe w r as cut off,” an officer of the department stated. “Belladonna, henbane and digitalis especially were in great demand and every encouragement was given to promote tlieir cultivation in Britain.

“The question of growing and collecting medicinal herbs in New Zealand is often raised, and doubtless something could be done in this way; but it should be understood the demand is limited and the trade would have to be built up gradually. The returns, to begin with at any rate, 'would be small and a supplementary means of increasing the annual income would doubtless be necessary while building up the business. “Culinary herbs form a not unimportant section.in most gardens of any size,” the ' officer continued. “Too often they are limited to sage, thyme and mint —an admirable selection which could, however, be extended to include many others which, in the hands of a discriminating cook, would add greatly to the palatability of many dishes and help to break down the charge commonly made against much of our cooking that it is monotonous. Cariander caraway, angelica, dill, aniseed, summer savory, sweet marjoram and tarragon are among those which would greatly help in making food more appetising and attractive when used with the necessary art.

“Lavender and rosemary are also commonly grown for their fragrance, but we have been content to use them in sachets. No attempt has yet been made here to distil the essential oils for wider use. It is very possible a fair market could be obtained for a reasonable quantity of. oil of lavender and peppermint if high yielding varieties were obtained and if they would retain their character under our conditions.”