Wake Forest’s Annual HerbFest is BACK (and 10 Fascinating Ways to Use Herbs)

Are you ready to get in on the action and purchase some of these amazing herbs?  It’s that THYME of the year again!  Wake Forest’s 22nd Annual HerbFest is returning to the historic Downtown Arts and Entertainment District this weekend and next weekend. 

 

Dates: April 30th through May 2nd and May 7th through 9th, 2021.

Hours: 9AM to 6AM on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10AM to 4PM on Sundays. 

Location:  310 South White Street, Wake Forest, NC 27587, next door to the Cotton Company.

 

HerbFest is a free event. The festivities will be held outdoors, rain or shine. Safety measures and CDC guidelines will be followed.  Visitors and volunteers alike must wear a face covering and practice social distancing at all times.

 

Fresh herbs are great to keep on hand and can really add some pizzazz and flavor to your favorite recipes.  As fun as it is to use herbs to enhance your culinary experiences, they have a plethora of other amazing uses too.  Here are 10 fascinating ways to use your favorite herbs…

 

  1. THYME can be used as a natural disinfectant and antiseptic.  This makes it a great additive for homemade cleaning agents.
  2. MINT can help keep mice away from your home.  Simply scatter crushed mint leaves around problem areas of your house to keep those pesky rodents away.
  3. PARSLEY can be added to beauty products because it’s an anti-inflammatory agent.  It is especially helpful at tightening the skin under the eyes and diminishing dark circles.
  4. TARRAGON has the ability to numb the mouth in a natural way. Next time you have a toothache, try reducing your pain with a little tarragon. 
  5. BASIL can treat infections because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Soak fresh basil leaves in hot water and use a cotton ball to apply.
  6. ROSEMARY helps repel mosquitoes and other insects.  Place rosemary in areas that you hope to reduce bugs and you should see fewer of the nuisances around.
  7. LAVENDER can be used to treat insomnia and has a calming effect on the body.
  8. MARJORAM leaves can be rubbed against wrists to perfume skin with a sweet, slightly floral scent. 
  9. MARIGOLD can help treat skin ailments ranging from dry, cracked feet to mild inflammation. It stimulates cell turnover and wound healing.
  10. SAGE can be applied directly to the skin for cold sores, a sore mouth, throat or tongue, and swollen nasal passages.