Glass spice jars give Christmas flavor

By Kayla Holman


The Holidays wouldn't be the same without the aromas that depict this special time of year. I don't walk into a candle or lotion store at Christmastime to merely peruse the shelves; I walk in with the intent to be swept up in a winter wonderland of aromas - cinnamon, peppermint, ginger, sage and so many more. Each smell contributes to the magic of the season.

Spice up this holiday season by reading through our countdown of some of the most popular herbs and spices (based on the article, Top 10 Christmas Herbs and Spices) to use at Christmastime.

Rue - How many evergreen herbs can you name? I can't name many, but thanks to this countdown I now know that Rue falls into this category. Presented in both natural and dried forms, rue is commonly used in religious events. Rue is even known to ward off evil forces. So, in the case that you have a paranormal squatter, load a few glass spice jars with rue and get that ghost out of there!

Cinnamon - Cinnamon is the embodiment of winter; it's in every detail of the snowy season. Whether you're caroling about it in the frigid streets, sprinkling it on a sheet of cookies below a rack full of glass spice jars or simply sipping from a glass of cinnamon apple cider while gazing at a cinnamon centerpiece, it's everywhere you look. Be sure to keep your spice jars full of cinnamon this season.

Frankincense - Frankincense comes from the Boswellia tree and is often used in religious practices, specifically in baptismal oil. At a distant first glance I mistook glass spice jars full of frankincense as popcorn, don't let that happen to you, it's not a fun experience. I don't recall seeing frankincense in glass spice jars on my grandma's counter in memories of Christmases past, but I guess there's a first time for everything. This spice does have a claim to fame that is hard to beat. The story of Jesus' birth mentions that frankincense was offered as a gift to Him.

Ginger - What would Christmas be without ginger? It's in glass spice jars on the counter, ready to be used for sweet treats or other recipes. Without ginger we'd be unable to lead Candyland lives vicariously through gingerbread men and women. When the stress of the holiday season really gets to you, just pour a round of glass spice jars full of ginger into some ale and let the refreshment do the rest.

Sage - What is there to know about sage? Sagebrush isn't overly appealing, but there's got to be something more, right? Surprisingly enough, sage has some interesting roots. Known as the herb of immortality, sage is said to be responsible for saving the lives of Mary and baby Jesus, when they hid behind a sage bush from King Herod. Keep glass spice jars full of sage near and maybe you'll live longer!

While you're running to keep up with the holiday pace remember to treat yourself this season as well. So, what's on your holiday wish list this year? Be sure to include glass spice jars on the rundown, for all your holiday flavoring needs.




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