Herbs, Spices, and Flavoring Agents Part 5: Fusion of Herbs and Spices in the 19th-Century and Into the 21 st-CenturyNorth American Culture

摘要

Each plant has a story, one that reflects the distance traveled from its ancient geographical origins, from wild to domesticated forms, and ultimately to culinary, cultural, medical, and social uses in the 21st century. Herbs and spices have taken these winding historical paths, and the journeys reflect myriad uses by widely different cultures because they ultimately reach our kitchens, serving plates, and palates. This essay started by considering the geography, cultural uses, and descriptions of herbs and spices that evolved on separate continents of the Old and New Worlds. Then, we discussed the fusion of Old and New World herbs and spices when European and Native American cultures met, the encounters and exchanges by early European explorers, and the subsequent settlers in Virginia and New England. Next, we explored the use of herbs and spices in a variety of cultural themes through the late colonial, revolutionary, and early federal periods. In this final component of the essay, we examine how herbs and spices have become ingrained and infused with North American culture. Two appendices are also included: a comprehensive chronology summarizing herb and spice events mentioned in the essay and supplemental references for those who wish to pursue further the culture history and early medicinal and health roles of herbs and spices (Supplemental Digital Content 1, http://links.lww.com/NT/A17). HERBS AND SPICES AS NAMES FOR CHILDREN How and why do we name our children? Some cultures have a core set of names for boys and girls that reflect religious or royal affiliations (Mary and Michael; Fatima and Mohammed; Elizabeth and Charles). Other first names reflect occupations or professions (Archer, Cooper, Hunter, or Taylor). Then, there are first names that reflect elements of history or mythology (Daniel, Helen [of Troy], Joshua, or Noah). Who of us have not known boys or girls named after herbs and spices: Anise, Basil, Chili, Ginger, Herb, Kale, Pepper, Poppy, Rosemary, or Sage?