Fri Sep 13 15:36:00 UTC 2024: ## Spice is Nice, But Too Much Can Be Tricky: Herbalist Warns of Overuse

**Moscow, Russia** – While many enjoy adding a generous helping of spices to their dishes, herbalist and medical blogger Borys Skachko cautions against overdoing it, particularly with strong-smelling spices like sage, rosemary, and bay leaf.

“The popular culinary principle of ‘more of what you like’ doesn’t work with spices,” says Skachko, a seventh-generation herbalist. He emphasizes that these potent herbs should be treated more like medicine than a flavor enhancer.

Skachko highlights the medicinal properties of sage, noting its antibiotic qualities. However, he points out that sage extracts are often used externally due to potential adverse effects on the liver, kidneys, and beneficial gut bacteria. He recommends using just half a leaf per half-kilogram portion of food, emphasizing the subtle flavor profile that can be achieved by using sage in accompaniments.

Rosemary, a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, is another spice that should be used sparingly, according to Skachko. While boasting numerous benefits, rosemary also contains resins that can negatively impact the body’s filtration systems. He advises individuals with kidney issues to avoid rosemary altogether. For those with healthy kidneys, he recommends using a rosemary sprig or bouquet for a brief period during cooking to avoid bitterness.

Bay leaves, once a widely available spice, continue to be a popular ingredient. However, Skachko reminds us of the cautionary words of the medieval physician Avicenna, who warned against the harmful effects of bay leaves on the kidneys. Skachko recommends using just one bay leaf per pot of borscht, adding it during meat boiling and removing it before adding vegetables.

Skachko’s advice emphasizes the importance of mindful spice usage, highlighting the delicate balance between flavor and potential health effects. He encourages consumers to treat strong-smelling spices like medicine, understanding that less is often more when it comes to reaping their benefits.

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