The use of herbs can be very simple healing art. In fact, it has long been known as the "Art of Simpling". Herbs were known as 'simples' because a single herb could be used to treat a wide variety of maladies.

Herbs are leaves of low-growing shrubs. Examples are parsley, chives, marjoram, thyme, basil, caraway, dill, oregano, rosemary and celery leaves. These can be used fresh or dried.

Spices are parts of plants that are added to food in order to impart their taste or aroma. Spices are generally regarded as the more piquant or pungent flavourings. For example nutmeg, clove and pepper are clearly regarded as spices by everyone.

The Complete book of HERBS; a practical guide to cultivating, drying and enjoying more than 50 herbs, New Burlington Books, by Emma Callery; 1994.